Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar Review: Historic Malecón Stay

The Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar is a 1957 high-rise on Havana’s Malecón, originally built as a mob-linked casino hotel and now a 352-room property managed by the Spanish chain. This review covers its history, current amenities, guest feedback across platforms, and how it fits into Havana’s luxury hotel scene, giving you the facts to decide if it’s your kind of stay. We draw on the hotel’s official profile, reputable travel platforms, and current reviews to keep this grounded.

Last checked: 2026-08-01

Location: Malecón waterfront, Vedado district, Havana · Built: 1957 by Meyer Lansky · Rooms: 352 on 20 floors · Notable: Historic casino resort, now under Iberostar management

Why is Iberostar pulling out of Cuba?

The question of Iberostar’s future in Cuba became pressing in 2024 when reports indicated the chain planned to exit its Cuban operations due to the threat of US sanctions. This directly impacts properties like the Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar, which the Spanish group has managed since 2017 (Diplomatic Times). The reported pullout affects a portfolio of twelve hotels in Cuba, though as of this writing, the Habana Riviera continues to operate under the Iberostar brand.

Impact of US sanctions on Iberostar’s Cuba operations

The sanctions, which penalize foreign companies doing business with the Cuban military, created a complex operating environment for international hotel chains. For a property like the Habana Riviera, this means potential changes in management and branding are on the horizon, though no confirmed timeline for a transition has been published.

The bottom line: The geopolitical context adds a layer of uncertainty, but for current guests, the Iberostar operation remains in place.

Where do celebrities stay in Havana?

Havana has a long tradition of hosting the famous, and the Habana Riviera is part of that story. Historic accounts note that figures like Salvador Allende, Johnny Weissmuller, and Ginger Rogers stayed at the hotel during its mid-century prime (Hotelsclick). This legacy is a key part of the property’s identity.

Iconic Hotel Nacional de Cuba

The other classic haunt is the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, which also dates from the 1950s and is known for its star-studded history, but the Riviera offers a distinct, more vertically oriented luxury feel with its high-rise design.

Historic Habana Riviera

The Riviera’s status as a former casino resort built by Meyer Lansky gives it a unique place in that narrative, attracting those interested in the city’s glamorous and sometimes illicit past (Umbrella Travel).

The pattern: For history-focused travelers, the Riviera offers a concrete connection to Havana’s star-studded and mob-laced past.

“The hotel was built by the mafia as a casino hotel, retaining much of that era’s style and a gloriously retro lobby.”

Tripexpert

What is the nicest hotel in Havana, Cuba?

For travelers seeking a historically significant address, the Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar consistently makes lists of top Havana hotels. Guest reviews on Trip.com rate the property around 8.7 out of 10 overall, with similar scores for location, amenities, service, and cleanliness (Trip.com).

Habana Riviera by Iberostar

Its direct position on the Malecón offers uninterrupted sea views that many reviewers mention as a standout feature. The hotel’s 1950s marble floors and period furniture in the public areas contribute to its unique character, as detailed by Umbrella Travel (Umbrella Travel).

Other luxury options in Vedado

Other luxury options in the Vedado area include the aforementioned Hotel Nacional, but the Riviera’s larger room count and modernized amenities under Iberostar make it a strong competitor for those who want historic charm with the backing of an international hotel group.

What this means: The Hotel Habana Riviera is a solid choice for travelers who prioritize oceanfront location and historic ambiance over newer, more modern builds.

“Expedia describes the property as a boardwalk/promenade hotel with two on-site restaurants, free breakfast buffet, poolside bar, coffee shop/café, and on-site shopping.”

Expedia

Which Iberostar in Cuba is the best?

Iberostar operates several properties in Cuba, from beach resorts in Varadero to urban hotels in Havana. The Habana Riviera by Iberostar is distinct because it’s an urban, beachfront property rather than a sprawling all-inclusive resort. Your choice depends on what kind of vacation you want.

Habana Riviera vs. other Iberostar resorts

If you want to be in the middle of a city, exploring historic streets and local culture, the Habana Riviera is the obvious pick. If you’d rather have a quieter, resort-style holiday with a beach and all-inclusive dining, a Varadero property might suit you better.

The trade-off: The Havana hotel offers urban energy and history, while the Varadero resorts offer sun, sand, and all-inclusive simplicity.

What is Havana famous for in Cuba?

Havana is celebrated for its Malecón boulevard, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar sits on the Malecón, putting guests at the heart of this iconic waterfront experience in the Vedado district.

Malecón

This famous seafront esplanade is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, especially at sunset. The hotel’s location means you can step outside and join the evening promenade, a quintessential Havana experience.

Vedado

The Vedado neighborhood is known for its mid-century buildings and tree-lined streets, holding a different character from the older, more colonial Old Havana. This area offers a more residential and modern (by Havana standards) feel.

Why this matters: Staying in Vedado on the Malecón places you in the heart of Havana’s 20th-century history, distinct from the colonial-era charm of Old Havana.

Is it safe to visit Cuba right now?

Cuba is generally considered safe for tourists, though standard travel precautions apply. The area around the Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar in Vedado is typically described as safe for visitors, which is reassuring for those wondering about security in the destination.

Safety tips for Havana visitors

Reviewers on Trip.com generally note positive experiences without mentioning major safety concerns, instead focusing on praise for the breakfast, lobby, and friendly service (Trip.com). As with any large city, staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night, is wise.

The bottom line: The hotel’s location and guest feedback indicate a secure environment for the typical tourist.

Specifications & Amenities

The Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar offers a range of amenities suited to both leisure and business travelers. Standard rooms come with air conditioning, satellite TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom (Hotelsclick). The hotel also features a gym, a garden, and a terrace overlooking the Malecón.

Pros & Cons: What Guests Say

To give you a balanced view, here are the most common points across guest reviews:

The pattern: Reviews suggest a historic property with charm, where the trade-off is some aging facilities that haven’t been fully updated.

Location & Getting There

The hotel is situated on the Malecón in the Vedado district, about a 30-minute drive from José Martí International Airport, depending on traffic. The hotel offers free self-parking for those with rental cars (Expedia).

Taxis are readily available in Havana, and the hotel’s location makes it a straightforward trip to Old Havana or other neighborhoods.

Alternatives in the Area

If you’re considering the Hotel Habana Riviera by Iberostar, you might also look at these nearby options:

• Hotel Nacional de Cuba – A historic rival on the Malecón, also dating from the 1950s, known for its celebrity clientele and grand public spaces. It’s a good alternative if you prioritize history over modern amenities.
• Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski – A luxury option in Old Havana with a modern rooftop pool, offering a different, more contemporary feel within a restored historic building.

Why this matters: These alternatives offer different trade-offs—Nacional has more historic grandeur, while Kempinski offers more modern luxury.

Our Pick: Who Should Stay Here

Timeline of the Hotel

• 1957: Hotel built and opened on December 10 as a casino hotel by Meyer Lansky.
• 1950s: Hosts celebrities like Ginger Rogers and Johnny Weissmuller during its prime.
• 2012: Designated a National Monument of Cuba.
• 2017: Iberostar Hotels & Resorts takes over management from Gran Caribe in January.
• 2019: Reports indicate Iberostar planned a €35 million renovation investment.
• 2024-2025: Announced withdrawal of Iberostar from Cuba due to US sanctions; as of this writing, the hotel continues to operate under the Iberostar brand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Reading

For more context on staying in Cuba or at other Iberostar properties, check these guides:

• Playa Coco Hotel Review: Beachfront All-Inclusive Cuba
• Iberostar Grand Bávaro Hotel Internet: Is It Free