Tips for travelers

Wardrobe

First and foremost, it is important to note that the weather in Cuba is generally warm throughout the year, so it is advisable to wear light and breathable clothing, preferably made of cotton or linen. Beachwear is also a great option if you plan to visit the beautiful beaches of Cuba. It is crucial to consider that some tourist places such as churches and museums have a more formal dress code, so it is recommended to wear slightly more elegant clothing such as long pants, collared shirts, dresses, and skirts. Additionally, avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing in public places, as conservative and respectful attire is appreciated in the local culture. Lastly, make sure to wear comfortable footwear, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical sun.

Currency exchange

There is only one currency in Cuba: the Cuban peso (CUP). So you will need to exchange currency when you arrive on the island.

The value of the Cuban peso varies according to the value of the US dollar. Likewise, the value with other currencies may fluctuate; For example, at the beginning of 2024, 1USD was equivalent to 290 CUP.

If you are a tourist and need to exchange currency, we recommend that you do so in CUP, the currency used by the country. You can exchange your money at official exchange houses or at banks. It is important to remember that not all stores, restaurants or hotels accept foreign credit cards. Therefore, it is advisable to carry enough cash for your daily needs.

It is advisable to have CUP to make day-to-day payments, such as restaurants, buses or buses within cities, street food stalls, ice cream parlors or basic stores that only accept pesos. It is suggested to bring low denomination bills (€5, €10 and €20) for daily expenses; many establishments do not have change for large bills.

In some cases, local stores will offer you to exchange Euro or USD currency for CUP at a better exchange rate than the official exchange houses. However, it is advisable to make these types of changes with people you trust (such as the private house where you are staying, a regular taxi driver, etc.) and never do it with strangers.

Finally, it is difficult to calculate exactly how much money to exchange at the beginning of the trip. If you have CUP left over at the end of your adventure in Cuba, it is recommended that you change them before arriving at the airport. Exchange offices at international airports do not exchange CUP in exchange for foreign currencies.