Cuba
The island of Cuba was “discovered” and claimed for Spain by Christopher Columbus during his first voyage to the New World in 1492.
What draws people to the tropical Caribbean island of Cuba is much more than beaches and antique 1950’s cars, although there are plenty of those!
In Cuba, you can wander bustling city streets, go hiking in the mountains, learn about the history of tobacco, or simply soak up the country’s 1950’s time-warp appeal.
While Cuba can sometimes be a confusing and challenging place for many travellers, we invite you to give it a try and experience some Cuban magic for yourself.
Best Time To Visit
It’s pretty much summer all year long in Cuba, but some months are hotter, stickier, and more uncomfortable than others. The best time to visit Cuba is between November and April. These are not only Cuba’s driest months but also good bets for 70 degree (21c) blue sky days made for exploring cobblestone streets and lounging on secluded postcard-perfect beaches.
While December through February are Cuba’s coldest months, temperatures are usually in the 70s (21c). Lows might dip into the 60s (15c), but you’ll never need a coat, hat or gloves. Winter days are long, with nearly 11 hours of daylight even in December, and there are few better places to escape the winter back home than a Caribbean island nation where summer lasts all year long.
For a month by month look click here
What To Expect
Capital: Havana
Language: The official language of Cuba is Spanish. ‘Hello’ and ‘Thank You’ in Spanish: “Hola” and “Gracias”
Currency: The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP) . £1 GBP is equivalent to 29.95 CUP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: At the moment, no US credit or debit card can be used in Cuba. This also includes using a US debit card to try to get cash out of a Cuban ATM. However, if you are using a card from somewhere else, like Canada or Europe, it’s likely your card will work, but you will run into a 3% charge for every payment. Any other country-issued card will work just fine but again, expect a small fee.
Plugs: In Cuba, the power plugs are type A, B, C, and L, the standard voltage is 110 / 220 V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Cuba is generally safer than many other countries, with violent attacks being rare. Petty theft, especially at the beach or in hotel rooms, can be common. The same goes for pickpocketing. Just keep your wits about you!
Random useful tip: Bring Print outs of your documents! With internet roaming charges being high you will need to show them at the airport: boarding passes, vaccination certificates, visas, accommodation bookings, health insurance, and an onward flight booking. Keep these documents safe in case you need them during your stay and you can’t get to them online!
Dont’s: Do not drink tap water though it is drinkable. Drink bottled water to avoid tropical illnesses. Do not carry excessive amounts of cash. Bag snatching and pickpockets are common, especially in the area of Old Havana.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Cuba, reasons to visit Cuba, and how to travel Cuba on a budget.
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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Cuba
Havana Vieja, or Old Havana, is a captivating maze of cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and plazas echoing with tales from a bygone era. With pastel-coloured buildings and classic American cars lining the roads, the city feels like a step back in time. Wander the vibrant streets, exploring landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana and the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales. The rhythmic beats of rumba spill from corner bars, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Cuba’s rich musical tapestry.
As the birthplace of the son — the precursor to salsa — Santiago de Cuba pulsates with musical energy. This city, steeped in revolutionary history and Afro-Cuban culture, is best known for its annual Carnaval: a riotous celebration of dance, drums, and colourful parades. Visit the Casa de la Trova, where musicians gather to serenade visitors with traditional tunes, or delve into Cuba’s storied past at the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic coastal views.
Stretching over 20 kilometres along Cuba’s northern coast, Varadero offers one of the Caribbean’s best beachfronts. Its pristine white sands and crystalline waters are the very epitome of tropical paradise. Visitors can lounge under the shade of palm trees, indulge in water sports, or simply bask in the warm Cuban sun. The nearby Parque Josone, with its lush gardens and tranquil lake, provides a serene contrast to the beach’s vibrant energy.
4. Explore the Historical Depths of Trinidad
A jewel of colonial architecture, Trinidad is akin to an open-air museum, preserving the grandeur of 18th-century Spanish Cuba. Its cobbled streets, flanked by terracotta-roofed buildings and wrought-iron grilles, lead to bustling squares where local artisans peddle their wares. The Palacio Cantero, with its striking neoclassical architecture, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. As evening falls, the steps of the Plaza Mayor come alive with local musicians and dancers, reflecting Trinidad’s indomitable spirit.
Nestled in western Cuba, the Viñales Valley is a verdant landscape of limestone cliffs, traditional tobacco farms, and underground caves. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this region showcases Cuba’s agrarian roots, with farmers employing centuries-old methods to cultivate the tobacco used in the country’s famed cigars. Embark on a horseback ride through the valley, explore the depths of the Cueva del Indio, or simply soak in the panoramic views from the Mogote del Valle viewpoint, embracing the natural beauty of this Cuban gem.
Cuba Travel Costs
Accommodation
- Hostel Dorms – 500–1,500 CUP / £16–£48 / $20–$60 / €18–€55
- Casa Particulares (Private Homestay) – 1,500–3,000 CUP / £48–£96 / $60–$120 / €55–€110
- Budget Hotels – 3,000–6,000 CUP / £96–£192 / $120–$240 / €110–€220
- Mid-Range Hotels – 6,000–12,000 CUP / £192–£384 / $240–$480 / €220–€440
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts – 12,000+ CUP / £384+ / $480+ / €440+
Transportation
- Local Bus (Havana Metrobus) – 20–50 CUP / £0.65–£1.60 / $0.80–$2 / €0.75–€1.85
- Coco Taxi / Bicitaxi (Short Rides) – 250–500 CUP / £8–£16 / $10–$20 / €9–€18
- Classic Car Taxi (Tourist Rides) – 1,500–3,000 CUP / £48–£96 / $60–$120 / €55–€110
- Intercity Bus (Viazul Havana → Viñales) – 1,000–2,500 CUP / £32–£80 / $40–$100 / €37–€92
- Car Rental (per day) – 5,000–8,000 CUP / £160–£256 / $200–$320 / €185–€295
Food
- Street Food (Pizza, Sandwiches, Snacks) – 100–300 CUP / £3–£9 / $4–$12 / €3.50–€11
- Local Paladares (Private Restaurants) – 500–1,500 CUP / £16–£48 / $20–$60 / €18–€55
- Mid-Range Restaurant Meal – 1,500–3,500 CUP / £48–£112 / $60–$140 / €55–€130
- Coffee (Espresso or Cortadito) – 100–200 CUP / £3–£6.50 / $4–$8 / €3.50–€7.50
- Beer (Local Cristal/Bucanero) – 250–500 CUP / £8–£16 / $10–$20 / €9–€18
Activities
- Museum Entry (Revolution Museum, Hemingway House) – 250–500 CUP / £8–£16 / $10–$20 / €9–€18
- Guided Walking Tour (Havana, Trinidad, Cienfuegos) – 500–1,500 CUP / £16–£48 / $20–$60 / €18–€55
- Tobacco Farm Tour in Viñales – 1,500–3,000 CUP / £48–£96 / $60–$120 / €55–€110
- Classic Car Tour (1 hour in Havana) – 2,500–5,000 CUP / £80–£160 / $100–$200 / €92–€185
- Diving & Snorkeling in Playa Girón / Varadero – 3,000–6,000 CUP / £96–£192 / $120–$240 / €110–€220
- Salsa Dancing Classes (1 Hour Private Lesson) – 500–1,000 CUP / £16–£32 / $20–$40 / €18–€37
Cuba Suggested Budgets
Backpacker – 1,500–2,500 CUP per day
- USD: $60–$100
- EUR: €55–€92
- GBP: £48–£80
A backpacking budget allows you to stay in Casa Particulares (homestays), eat at local paladares, and use public buses or shared taxis for transportation. You can explore Havana’s old town on foot, visit beaches, or take free salsa dancing lessons.
If you plan to drink rum cocktails or take guided tours, add an extra 500–1,000 CUP per day. To save money, use local currency (CUP) instead of USD, as a 10% exchange fee applies to USD transactions.
Midrange – 3,500–6,000 CUP per day
- USD: $140–$240
- EUR: €130–€220
- GBP: £112–£192
A mid-range budget covers private accommodation in Casa Particulares, dining at nicer paladares, and enjoying cocktails, day trips, and museum visits.
This budget also allows for a classic car ride in Havana, intercity travel on Viazul buses, and short guided tours in cities like Trinidad or Viñales.
Upscale – 8,000+ CUP per day
- USD: $320+
- EUR: €295+
- GBP: £256+
A luxury budget ensures stays at five-star hotels or beachfront resorts, dining at fine restaurants, and exploring Cuba with private guides and drivers.
This budget allows for all-inclusive packages in Varadero, catamaran trips to Cayo Largo, private vintage car tours, and VIP experiences at Havana’s jazz clubs and cabarets.
Cuba Money-Saving Tips
Cuba can be a budget-friendly destination if you plan wisely. While some tourist services are overpriced, there are plenty of ways to cut costs without missing out on the authentic Cuban experience.
Bring a Water Bottle with a Filter – Tap water in Cuba is not safe to drink. Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter like LifeStraw or Grayl. This will save money and help reduce plastic waste.
Use Local Currency (CUP) – Always pay in Cuban Pesos (CUP) rather than USD, as USD transactions incur a 10% fee. Exchange your money into Euros or Canadian Dollars before arriving to get the best rate.
Stay in Casa Particulares – Instead of expensive hotels, stay in Casa Particulares (local homestays). They are cheaper, more authentic, and include homemade breakfast for a small extra fee. Use Hostelworld for Hostels and booking.com for Hotels.
Eat at Paladares & Local Cafeterias – Skip expensive hotel restaurants and tourist spots. Eat at local paladares (family-run restaurants) or peso cafeterias, where meals cost a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
Take Public Transport & Shared Taxis – Avoid tourist taxis as they are overpriced. Use local buses, shared taxis (colectivos), or Cuban peso taxis for cheaper transport. Viazul buses are a good option for intercity travel.
Haggle for Prices – Bargaining is common in Cuba, especially for taxis, souvenirs, and street markets. Always negotiate to get a better price rather than accepting the first offer.
Bring Everything You Need – Due to supply shortages, basic items like sunscreen, toiletries, and medicine are expensive and hard to find. Bring all your essentials from home to avoid overpaying.
Download Offline Maps – Wi-Fi is limited in Cuba, and mobile data is expensive. Download offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps) before you arrive to navigate without needing internet access.
Take Free Walking Tours – In cities like Havana and Trinidad, you can join free walking tours that offer great insights into Cuban history and culture. Just remember to tip your guide.
Travel During Low Season – Visiting Cuba between May and November (rainy season) means cheaper accommodations, fewer tourists, and better deals on tours. Prices for flights and hotels drop significantlycompared to peak season (December–April).
By following these budget-friendly travel tips, you can experience Cuba affordably while supporting locals and avoiding overpriced tourist traps!
How to Get Around in Cuba
Cuba has a unique transportation system, blending classic cars, local buses, and shared taxis. While public transport is available, tourist options tend to be pricier. Here’s how to navigate Cuba efficiently and affordably.
Walking
Cuban cities are best explored on foot. Places like Havana, Trinidad, and Cienfuegos have compact, walkable areas with colonial architecture, vibrant plazas, and seaside promenades. Just wear comfortable shoes, as streets can be uneven.
Public Transportation
Public buses (known as guaguas) are extremely cheap, with fares around 5 CUP (£0.15 / $0.20 / €0.18) per ride. However, they are crowded, slow, and not always reliable. Most tourists opt for alternative transport instead.
For intercity travel, Viazul buses are the most comfortable and reliable option for tourists. Prices vary depending on the route:
- Havana to Viñales – ~400 CUP / £13 / $16 / €15 (4–5 hours)
- Havana to Trinidad – ~500 CUP / £16 / $20 / €18 (6–7 hours)
- Varadero to Havana – ~300 CUP / £10 / $12 / €11 (2 hours)
Airport Transfers
- Havana José Martí International Airport to Old Havana: Taxis cost 600 CUP (£20 / $25 / €23) and take 30 minutes.
- Cheaper alternative: The P12 bus costs just 5 CUP (£0.15 / $0.20 / €0.18) but requires some Spanish to navigate.
Taxis & Colectivos (Shared Taxis)
Taxis in Cuba come in many forms:
- Classic Cars (Almendrones) – Iconic 1950s taxis, often found in Havana, charge around 800 CUP (£27 / $33 / €31) per hour for private tours.
- Colectivos (Shared Taxis) – Used for intercity travel and ride-sharing. Prices are negotiable, but a trip from Havana to Viñales costs around 600 CUP (£20 / $25 / €23) per person.
- Yellow Government Taxis – These use meters but are more expensive. Always agree on a price before getting in.
Buses & Intercity Travel
For long-distance travel, Viazul buses are the best option for tourists. They are affordable, air-conditioned, and reliable, though they require advanced booking.
An alternative is Astro buses, which are cheaper but mostly for locals and harder for tourists to access.
Car Rental
Renting a car in Cuba is expensive and complicated. Daily rental rates start at 2,500 CUP (£85 / $100 / €95), and fuel costs extra. The roads lack signage, and there are frequent police checkpoints. If renting, book in advance and be cautious of road conditions.
Hitchhiking
Cuba has a strong hitchhiking culture. Many locals hitchhike due to limited transportation options. While relatively safe, tourists should speak some Spanish and be prepared for long waits in rural areas.
Trains
Cuba’s train system is slow and unreliable, with frequent delays and breakdowns. The only notable train route is Havana to Santiago de Cuba, which takes over 15 hours and is not recommended unless you’re seeking an offbeat adventure.
Cycling
Cycling is a great way to explore Cuba’s rural areas, beaches, and countryside. Cities like Viñales, Cienfuegos, and Baracoa have bike rentals starting at 250 CUP (£8 / $10 / €9) per day. However, roads can be bumpy, and traffic in Havana is chaotic.
Final Tips for Getting Around Cuba
- Always carry cash, as public transport and taxis don’t accept cards.
- Book Viazul buses in advance, especially in peak season.
- Negotiate taxi fares before starting the ride to avoid tourist pricing.
- If renting a car, fill up whenever possible, as fuel shortages are common.
- Use offline maps, since Wi-Fi is limited in Cuba.
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