The Saratoga's the coolest. Its elegant facade overlooks all the other nineteenth century architectural splendours along the Paseo del Prado, including Havana's exquisite opera house. It's got a mudejar-inspired restaurant, a Maugham-ish courtyard bar, the city's best rooftop pool and fabulous rooms, many of which have long cushioned window seats from which to watch the frenetic local street life in air-conditioned bliss. The mountain murals behind the bar with their multicoloured light display are the last word in trendy urban kitsch.

Great for business trips and guests who want everything to work. It is located just outside the boundary of the historical part of Old Havana on one side of the always bustling Parque Central. This is a large, polished establishment with good service and food, big comfortable rooms, a charming air conditioned lobby bar/restaurant area and an excellent (and mercifully quiet) rooftop pool, which offers a fabulous view. It is the perfect place to recuperate after long, hot working days in Havana.

A good option which has improved significantly since it was refurbished in 2003 under the management of the French chain Accor which now manages the hotel. The impressive Spanish-Moorish façade gives a great feeling walking in. The Roof Garden restaurant is a real highlight; otherwise while not 5 star it does offer a relaxing and comfortable location.

The Telégrafo was reopened in 2001, to a contemporary design with a very modern lobby and bar giving the place a good feel. The 63 rooms are adequate and nicely decorated.

A real ‘could be so nice’ hotel. This is Cuba’s oldest hotel which was founded in 1875 and its age is unfortunately a little too apparent. The outside café is great for people watching and a pre or post ballet drink, while the rooftop bar is pleasant but unpolished. Do admire the crystal chandeliers and ornate ceilings and hope that you get one of the 83 rooms with a nice view.

While the lobby is pleasant and lively the actual rooms vary from a little tatty to downright poor, so be careful what you sign up for unless the rate you get is really special.

The Park View has recently been restored to if not its former glory as a top of the line establishment than at least to a modern, clean and pleasant place which offers good value for money.

Pretty basic but clean and functional; this is not a bad budget option.