If you want to be in the heart of Havana with real sights, sounds and smells, this will definitely be the place for you. The ladies and gentlemen who work... read more here are warm, kind and always willing to offer advice and guidance about Havana and what you can expect. We would definitely recommend Tony's walking tour as he has a wealth of knowledge, and he is keen to be asked questions. After years of restrictions, the property is a little tired in places, but it does retain all its old-world charm and if the owners could get the roof top bar re-vamped, there would be an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The only cautionary tale is the very steep stairs from the street up to either the first or second floor. If you have mobility issues this would probably no be the most ideal choice. The highlight is probably sitting on the balconies at breakfast watching the world go by and experiencing how the real people of Havana start their day. All the tourist spots are well within walking distance and we both felt totally safe walking through the streets.

  my wife and I stayed here for 5 nights (first booked in 2019, cancelled and rescheduled twice due to Covid, Richard was always in contact via email, WhatsApp and messenger... read more while we waited to travel and honoured the room price from 2021 and upgraded us to biggest room). We had a huge bedroom and a big lounge area, lots of space. Balcones is a wonderful restored colonial building in the heart of Havana Vieja minutes from Plaza Vieja and lots of restaurants and cafes. Richard and all his staff are amazing and go out of their way to ensure a good stay. Breakfast is excellent (fruit, bread, vegetables, eggs) and the 3 course dinner we had here (€35 for 2) was very good. They have a lovely dining/bar area where you can sit and relax with a drink. No problems booking city tour or collectivo taxi on to Vinales. As Balcones is an old building in an old part of Havana there were some issues, the water pressure was poor in the shower, our bed was not the most comfortable. It is certainly the attention and hospitality shown by the staff that make Balcones a great place to stay in Havana More

  Hostal Balcones Muralla is a wonderful and authentic place to stay in Old Havana. My room (‘Maurice & Carlos’) was beautiful and I loved the original tiles and sensitivity executed... read more renovations. The bar is fantastic, full of antiques and looking out onto Muralla and Aguacate. The breakfasts were the best food I had in Cuba. Every day you get bread, jam, coffee, fresh juice, an always beautiful vegetable dish, eggs cooked however you want, and even dessert! What makes this place so good is the owners and the staff who really care about what they do. Before I left for Cuba I was having WhatsApp chats with the owner who was advising me on how money works in Cuba (which is unique), getting to the hotel from the airport (they can arrange a taxi), and things I might want to do while I was there. The staff were all great and were very helpful in arranging transport for me around the country, advising on where to go and when, and even talking with me about the incredible history of Cuba and Havana. I was there over Xmas and New Year and on NYE they cooked a fantastic evening meal which we ate on the rooftop. The hostel is super central. You can easily get to anywhere in the old town by foot. Other sights and venues are a longer walk or a short taxi ride away. I would highly recommend... Hostal Balcones Muralla is a wonderful and authentic place to stay in Old Havana. My room (‘Maurice & Carlos’) was beautiful and I loved the original tiles and sensitivity executed renovations. The bar is fantastic, full of antiques and looking out onto Muralla and Aguacate. The breakfasts were the best food I had in Cuba. Every day you get bread, jam, coffee, fresh juice, an always beautiful vegetable dish, eggs cooked however you want, and even dessert! What makes this place so good is the owners and the staff who really care about what they do. Before I left for Cuba I was having WhatsApp chats with the owner who was advising me on how money works in Cuba (which is unique), getting to the hotel from the airport (they can arrange a taxi), and things I might want to do while I was there. The staff were all great and were very helpful in arranging transport for me around the country, advising on where to go and when, and even talking with me about the incredible history of Cuba and Havana. I was there over Xmas and New Year and on NYE they cooked a fantastic evening meal which we ate on the rooftop. The hostel is super central. You can easily get to anywhere in the old town by foot. Other sights and venues are a longer walk or a short taxi ride away. I would highly recommend and when I go back to Havana I will be staying here again. More

  First off, ring the doorbell if the door is locked. Once inside and settled, you will enjoy a free beverage while you take in the surroundings of the amazing balcony.... read more Inside their are beautiful vintage decorations - from the china used, the artwork, and the other assorted memorabilia.
The room had it's unique charm - again viewing Havana street scene from your balcony in the room. The furnishings made the stay feel special.
We were pleasantly surprised by the breakfast served. Four courses, delicious, and presented by Rolando with flair. Juana was also there cooking up the deliciousness and with a sweet smile. We even got dancing lessons and enjoyed a special moment with Rolanda and Juana upon our departure.
Special thanks to Aramis who welcomed us with a cheerful disposition.
We could not recommend a better place to stay in Havana Viejo. Amazing stay.
Thank you so much, hope to see you again for a few days more next time:)