Layered HNbMoO6 was found to function as a strong solid acid catalyst, exceeding the activity of zeolites and ion-exchange resins for Friedel-Crafts alkylation. HNbMoO6 also exhibited high catalytic activity for esterification of hydrocarboxylic acid and hydration. The catalytic performance of layered HNbMoO6 is attributed to the intercalation of reactants into the interlayer and the development of strong acidity.