Many people ask me whether Cuba is expensive to visit. The good news? It doesn’t have to be! With some smart planning, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip. Here are some tips for experiencing Cuba without breaking the bank.
1. Saving Money on Currency Exchanges
Cuba used to have two currencies, but since January 2021, there’s just one: the CUP, or peso. When you arrive, exchange some money at the airport’s CADECA (the official currency exchange). Remember to bring your passport, as you’ll need it to make exchanges.
Hard currencies like US dollars, Canadian dollars, and Euros are widely accepted. Only exchange enough to cover your taxi to your accommodation (about $30 USD to Havana), then exchange more in town where rates are usually better. Avoid banks and hotels for exchanges, as they often have worse rates.
If you’re a US citizen, be aware that credit cards from US banks aren’t accepted in Cuba, and ATMs won’t work for you. So, bring enough cash for your entire stay.
2. Budget Accommodation Options
For affordable lodging, look for a casa particular, which is a private home where locals rent out rooms. This is a great way to get an authentic Cuban experience. You can usually find a room for around $30 USD a night, and you’ll enjoy the personal touch of staying with a family.
Booking a casa is easy—sites like Airbnb offer options, but it’s wise to book your first night ahead of time. Once you’re in Cuba, you can find more casas by looking for the blue anchor sign and simply knocking on doors.
While hostels might seem cheaper, many casas offer similar rates, so you can enjoy local interaction without spending much more.
3. Affordable Dining in Cuba
For tasty, budget-friendly meals, check out paladares—privately-owned restaurants that range from upscale to cozy little spots. You’ll find classic dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) and ropa vieja (shredded beef) on their menus. Meals typically cost around $15–20 USD.
Street vendors are also everywhere, selling quick bites like sandwiches and pastries for $1-3 USD. While the food might not be gourmet, it’s an easy way to save money.
4. Getting Around on a Budget
Transportation can add up, so be sure to negotiate taxi fares before hopping in. For instance, when you ask a driver how much to your destination, offer a slightly lower amount to start the conversation.
Yellow taxis are government-run and usually pricier. You might also try coco-taxis (motorcycles with a covered seat) or bici-taxis (bicycle rickshaws) for cheaper rides. Another option is colectivo taxis, which are shared rides that cost about half a dollar for a short trip.
Buses are the most economical option but can be crowded and unreliable. While a fun way to see Havana is in a classic convertible, they’re not the best choice if you’re trying to save money.
5. Staying Connected
Internet access in Cuba can be tricky. The best bet is to buy an internet connection card from ETECSA, the local telecom office. These cards cost $1 per hour and are much cheaper than those sold at hotels, where prices can reach $7 per hour.
Once you have a card, you can find Wi-Fi in parks and around ETECSA offices. If you don’t use all your time, the remaining hours will stay on your card for later use.
Planning Your Trip
As a rough budget, aim for around $100 USD a day. This should give you some wiggle room for local souvenirs like cigars or rum.
When traveling outside Havana, you can reserve a taxi for door-to-door service, but that will cost more. A great budget option is the national bus service, which is air-conditioned and covers the entire country.
If you’re considering renting a car, keep in mind that roads outside Havana can be challenging. Public transportation, including buses, is often more convenient and cost-effective.
Before you go, US citizens should check the travel requirements, as ordinary tourism is not allowed. The most common category for travel is “Support for the Cuban People,” which you can choose when booking your flight.
Traveling in Cuba on a budget can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s absolutely worth it. The country’s charm, beauty, and the warmth of its people will draw you in and keep you coming back for more. Don’t miss the chance to experience it!
