Budget & Costs
What does Havana cost?
Cuba's currency system is complex. Since 2021, there is officially only the Cuban Peso (CUP), but in practice, many tourist facilities also accept USD and EUR. The official exchange rate and the black market rate differ significantly — check the current rate shortly before your trip.
Typical Prices (Guidelines 2025/2026, converted to EUR)
| Item | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Espresso (Cafecito) | 0.50–1.00 |
| Beer (Cristal/Bucanero, 0.33l) | 1.00–2.50 |
| Mojito (Bar/Restaurant) | 2.00–5.00 |
| Mojito (La Bodeguita del Medio) | 5.00–6.00 |
| Lunch at Paladar | 5–12 |
| Dinner at Paladar (upscale) | 10–25 |
| Street food (Pizza, Sandwich) | 0.50–2.00 |
| Casa Particular (double room with breakfast) | 25–50 |
| Hotel (mid-range) | 60–150 |
| Hotel (luxury, e.g., Nacional) | 150–350 |
| Vintage car tour (1 hour) | 30–50 |
| Vintage car tour (3 hours) | 80–120 |
| Taxi (within Havana) | 5–15 |
| Collectivo/Almendron | 0.50–1.00 |
| Cigar (Cohiba, official shop) | 5–25 per piece |
| Rum (Havana Club 7 años, bottle) | 8–15 |
| Museum entry | 2–5 |
Budget Levels
Backpacker / Budget (25–45€ per day)
Havana is an affordable travel destination if you use state offers. Casa Particular from 20€ (double room with breakfast), street food and simple Paladares, Collectivo taxis, rum from the store instead of the bar, free attractions like the Malecón and the plazas. Cuban everyday food — rice with black beans, fried bananas, pork — is filling and dirt cheap.
Mid-range (50–100€ per day)
Comfortable Casa Particular with rooftop terrace, good Paladares, a vintage car tour, cocktails in legendary bars, a Fado or Salsa evening with live music. Havana offers excellent value for money in the mid-range — you live like a king by European standards.
Comfort / Luxury (120–300€+ per day)
Hotel Nacional or Saratoga, upscale Paladares (Michelin level in historic villas), private vintage car tour with chauffeur, VIP seats at Tropicana, day trip to Viñales with a private driver. Cuba's luxury segment is still affordable by international standards.
Tipp
The biggest saving hack in Havana: Breakfast at the Casa Particular (often included, lavish with tropical fruits), lunch at a simple Paladar (5–8€ for a complete menu), street food or self-catering in the evening. This way, you can manage with 10–15€ per day for food.
Saving Tips & Currency Traps
Cuba's monetary system is a challenge for tourists — with these tips you can navigate safely:
- Cash is king: Credit cards work only to a limited extent in Cuba — American cards (Visa/Mastercard from US banks) not at all. Bring enough EUR in cash and exchange at official exchange offices (CADECA). Dollars have had a 10% penalty surcharge since 2020.
- Check the exchange rate: The official and unofficial rates can vary greatly. Check current travel forums shortly before departure. You often get better rates at the reception of your Casa Particular than at the CADECA.
- Collectivo instead of taxi: The Almendrones (shared vintage cars) run fixed routes through Havana for the equivalent of under 1€. Authentic, cheap, and an experience in itself.
- Avoid state restaurants: State restaurants are often poor and overpriced. Instead, go to Paladares (private restaurants) — the food is better and the price fairer.
- Buy cigars only in official shops: Street vendors constantly offer "real Cohibas" — almost always fakes. Buy only at Casa del Habano or stores with a hologram seal.
- Free experiences: The Malecón, the plazas, street music, Callejón de Hamel (Sundays), cannon shot at 9 PM at the Fortaleza de San Carlos — the best experiences in Havana cost nothing.
- Water: Tap water is NOT drinkable. 1.5l bottles cost the equivalent of 0.50–1€ in stores. Much more in restaurants — bring your own bottle.
Achtung
Bring enough cash in EUR! ATMs in Cuba are unreliable — often empty, with limits, or out of service. Plan for 50–80€ per day in cash. American credit cards do not work in Cuba.
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