Overview
Cuba is unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean — or the world. Classic American cars from the 1950s cruise past crumbling colonial mansions, salsa and rumba pulse from every corner, and a complex political history adds depth that beach resorts simply cannot match. Havana’s Malecon waterfront, Trinidad’s perfectly preserved colonial streets, and the tobacco fields of Vinales Valley offer a Caribbean experience that goes far beyond sun and sand.
The Cuban peso (CUP) is the local currency. Cuba is moderately priced but requires planning: international credit and debit cards (especially US-issued) often do not work, so bring sufficient cash in euros or Canadian dollars to exchange. US travelers must travel under specific OFAC license categories — check current regulations before booking. Casas particulares (private homestays) and paladares (private restaurants) are the backbone of Cuba’s independent tourism economy.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($40-$70/day): Stay in casas particulares ($20-$40/night), eat at paladares and street food stalls ($5-$10/day), share colectivo taxis between cities ($10-$20), and explore free plazas, music venues, and the Malecon.
Mid-Range ($75-$140/day): Book upscale casas or small hotels ($50-$100/night), dine at top paladares ($12-$25/day), take Viazul buses or taxis between cities ($15-$30), and add salsa lessons, cigar factory tours, and classic car experiences ($15-$50).
Luxury ($180-$350+/day): Reserve luxury hotels like Hotel Nacional or Gran Hotel Manzana ($120-$350+/night), enjoy fine dining ($30-$60/day), book private classic car tours ($40-$80), and arrange exclusive music and cultural experiences ($50-$150).
How to Save Money in Cuba
- Stay in casas particulares — private homestays that cost $20-$40/night with breakfast, often better than state hotels.
- Eat at paladares (private restaurants) where a full meal costs $5-$10 — far better quality than state-run restaurants.
- Share colectivo taxis between cities — cheaper than Viazul buses and often faster.
- Bring cash in euros or Canadian dollars — ATMs are unreliable and US cards rarely work.
- Buy rum at local stores for $3-$8 per bottle rather than $8-$15 at tourist bars.
Worth the Splurge
- A classic car convertible ride along Havana’s Malecon at sunset — the most iconic Cuba experience ($25-$50 for 1-2 hours).
- Live music at a Havana jazz club or Casa de la Musica — world-class musicians performing nightly ($5-$15 cover).
- A visit to a tobacco farm in Vinales Valley to see how Cuban cigars are made ($10-$20 tour).
- Trinidad at sunset — the colonial town glows golden as music fills the cobblestoned plazas (free to wander).