Hotel Telégrafo
Colonial-meets-contemporary boutique. Lively, inclusive, and proudly queer-friendly. Think drag shows on the rooftop, mojitos at the sky bar, and original 19th-century brickwork two floors below. Not a hushed, refined experience — this place has energy.
Book 45 days in advance to unlock the 25% early bird discount directly on axelhotels.com
Why It Matters
The oldest hotel in Cuba, dating to 1860. In 1914 it was already installing in-room phones for local and international calls — a genuine novelty at the time. After falling into severe disrepair, it was rescued and is now Havana's only adults-only LGBTQ+ hotel. The hotel restoration won the City of Havana Architecture and Engineering Prize in 2003.
Cuba's oldest hotel — founded in 1860, completely rebuilt in 1911, and extensively renovated in 2021 under new management by Spain's Axel Hotels. The blue-and-white neoclassical facade on Paseo del Prado faces Parque Central directly. Inside, the old arcade brickwork and a majestic ceramic mural in the interior courtyard sit alongside sharp modern design. It's now Havana's first and only LGBTQ+-welcoming hotel, though all adults 18 and over are welcome.
Where You'll Stay
4 room types available
Axel Double Standard
The entry-level room comes in two flavors: interior-facing rooms look out over the colonial courtyard, while exterior rooms face Parque Central or Calle Neptuno. First-floor exterior rooms can have a balcony (subject to availability). Warm color palette, modern furnishings, and large windows that let in a lot of light. Bed configuration is twin, queen, or king — request at booking.
Axel Junior Suite
Characterized by space and functionality with courtyard-facing views. Two bathrooms (both with showers), king-size bed, and a quieter orientation toward the patio rather than the busy street. A good pick if you want extra room without the street noise.
Axel Premium
A step up in space and light from the Standard. Interior options overlook the courtyard; exterior rooms get fabulous Parque Central views, and some come with a balcony. Same amenity set as the Standard but the room itself is noticeably larger and brighter.
Axel Suite
The largest rooms in the hotel with exclusive views over Calle Neptuno. Two bathrooms (both with showers), a king-size bed, and more overall space make this the best option for travelers who want to spread out. Still modern and clean-lined rather than lavishly decorated.
The Property
Eat & Drink
3 venues on property
Restaurant
Spa & Wellness
Treatment Menu
On Property
How you'll actually spend your days.
The hotel's tour desk can arrange city tours, historical walking routes, and excursions around Havana and beyond. Car rental is also available at the desk.
The Groundbar courtyard hosts live music most evenings — son, guaracha, and other Cuban rhythms. Schedule varies; check at reception on arrival.
A full drag show on the rooftop Skybar every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening at 20:30. One of the most visible expressions of the hotel's LGBTQ+-inclusive identity and a genuine spectacle worth planning around.
The rooftop pool sits on top of the hotel with open views over central Havana. Shared with the Skybar, open from 11am. Guests report it can get busy and is occasionally not as well-maintained as the rest of the property — manage expectations accordingly.
Amenities & Practical Info
The details that matter for planning.
At least one standard room adapted for guests with reduced mobility.
Free wifi included in rooms — a genuine amenity advantage in Cuba where connectivity has historically been costly and limited.
The hotel itself does not have on-site parking but a paid lot is located adjacent to the property.
Rooftop pool on the Skybar level with panoramic Havana views. Fee applies (not complimentary for all guests).
On-site gift shop in the lobby for souvenirs and forgotten essentials.
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