Santa Clara, the capital city of Villa Clara, is the 5th largest Cuban city by population.
It is centrally located in the island nation and has nearly a quarter million residents. Santa Clara is home to a mausoleum which houses the remains of Che Guevara and sixteen of his fellow combatants killed in 1967 during the Bolivia campaign. There is also a reconstruction of Guevara derailing a train during the Battle of Santa Clara.
Santa Clara has several hotels and a lot of private B&Bs (in Cuba there are called casa particlares). Here are three options to consider if you plan to visit the bucolic town of Santa Clara.
Hotel America – Calle Mujica @ Colon y Maceo
Originally built in the 50’s, the Hotel América is a landmark building in the city center across from the iconic Coppelia ice cream parlor. Thanks to a recent renovation, everything is bright, fresh, and clean. 27 standard rooms.
Rates are about $50/night depending on time of year and room type. The Cuba Journal has not found a reliable method of booking this hotel. The restaurant is good and inexpensive.
Bed & Breakfast – owned by Jose & Ines Marante: Calle Colon 271
Contact: ines1960@nauta.cu, call 42294148
This is a small B&B with very nice Cuban owners. Rates are about $35/night including breakfast.
Ask Jose and Ines to book a massage for you. She was great!
Bed & Breakfast – Florida Center: Maestra Nicolás No. 56 e/ Colon y Maceo
Contact:angel.floridacenter@yahoo.com, call 0142208161.
This is a larger B&B with several buildings and a great restaurant. Book on Airbnb. Highly rated.
