Melia San Carlos : Cienfuegos

The Hotel Melia San Carlos is situated right in the heart of the old part of the city and underwent a full renovation and opened to international visitors  in 2018. Although originally the San Carlos  first opened in 1925 and was one of the  the city’s main hotels throughout the first half of the 20th century.

The hotel also features a stylish and contemporary lobby, which contrasts to some of the original architectural features including the eclectic façade, looking out onto the main commercial street in Cienfuegos. The lobby is a focal point for the well heeled to escape the Caribbean sun and enjoy coffee and lunch at the San Carlos. Inner courtyards, a restaurant and bar were all added during the renovation, all maintaining the hotel’s modern décor.

As a sister hotel of the neighbouring Hotel Union, which is located just around the corner, guests of the Melia San Carlos can use the pool and other facilities of the Union without extra charge. The distance between the two hotels is literally a minute or two, thus making a cooling swim at the Union a  added  opportunity.

The impressive roof terrace offers some great views across the city and there is a restaurant and bar here with regular live music in the evenings from leading local bands and singers  that can certainly  attract a crowd. Our last visit was certainly a great evening enjoying very authentic Cuban music with both local music lovers  and other guests

All the rooms at the San Carlos are very modern in their design,  with light airy colours and offering a contrasting style to the colonial style rooms at the Hotel Union. The Classic rooms have either a city or  inner courtyard view , are air conditioned and have a modern bathroom, safe and TV. Upgrade to a Classic City View Room for enhanced  views across Cienfuegos from a small  balcony and there are also Suites that are more spacious and offer a small living / dining area.