Budget & Costs
Cuba's pricing structure is unique and confusing. Since the currency reform in 2021, there is officially only the Cuban Peso (CUP), but in practice, a complex parallel system with unofficial exchange rates exists.
Understanding Currency
The official rate is about 1 EUR = 120 CUP (bank rate). On the black market (which is practically used by almost everyone, including Casas Particulares), the rate is 1 EUR = 250–350 CUP (as of early 2026, fluctuates greatly). This means: Those who exchange at the official rate effectively pay twice as much. Tourist facilities often charge directly in EUR.
Daily Budget per Person
| Style | EUR/Day | Accommodation | Food | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | 25–40 € | Casa Particular (Dormitory) | Street stalls + 1× Casa | Colectivo |
| Budget | 40–65 € | Casa Particular (Double Room) | 2× Casa Kitchen | Viazul Bus |
| Mid-range | 65–110 € | Good Casa / 3★ Hotel | Paladares + Casa | Taxi / Bus |
| Comfort | 110–200 € | Boutique Hotel | Good Paladares | Private Taxi |
| Luxury | 200 €+ | 5★ Hotel (Saratoga, Nacional) | Fine Dining | Private Classic Car + Guide |
Example Prices (in EUR, informal rate)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Casa Particular (Double Room) | 25–45 €/Night |
| Dinner in Casa Kitchen | 8–15 € (Lobster: 12–18 €) |
| Paladar (Private Restaurant) | 12–30 €/Person |
| State Restaurant | 5–15 €/Person |
| Mojito in Bar | 2–4 € |
| Beer (Cristal/Bucanero) | 1–2 € |
| Viazul Bus Havana→Trinidad | 25 € |
| Colectivo Havana→Viñales | 15–20 €/Person |
| Classic Car Tour Havana (1 hr) | 30–50 € |
| Cigar (Good Quality) | 3–10 € |
| Bottle of Havana Club 3 Años | 4–7 € |
| SIM Card / ETECSA Card (1h WiFi) | 1–2 € |
💡 Tipp
Bring enough EUR or USD in cash! ATMs are unreliable and often do not accept European cards. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) only work in large hotels and state-run stores — never in Casas Particulares or Paladares.
Achtung
Cards from US banks (even if you just have an account there) are generally NOT accepted in Cuba. This also applies to credit cards processed by US banks. Check your card before traveling!
