Cuba Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Cuba: All the Tips for Planning a great Trip 

Organizing a trip to Cuba is fairly simple, but there are some things to keep in mind before departure. 
There are still 1950s-style signs, horse-drawn coaches, Chevrolets racing through the island. 
Many everyday products are not readily available. For example, shampoo and other hygiene products are considered luxury items! 

Documents Required to Enter Cuba: The Visa 

(as of May 2024) 

To enter Cuba, you need a visa to get at the Cuban Embassies and costs around for €25. You’ll need your personal data and flight details. In addition to the tourist card, a passport valid for more than 6 months and travel health insurance covering the entire stay are required. 

Paying in Cuba: Are Credit Cards Accepted? 

Since January 1, 2021, Cuba has only one official currency: the Cuban Peso (CUP). The Convertible Peso (CUC) has been abolished. The official rate is 1 USD = 24 CUP, but due to the CUP’s depreciation, locals prefer dollars or alternatively in cash. You can exchange money at CADECA offices or banks, but always count your money immediately—some scams have been reported, especially at the airport. 

Credit cards are accepted in luxury hotels and some businesses. However, American cards (e.g., American Express, Diners Club) are not accepted. Only Visa works at ATMs. It's best to bring cash from home and use a credit card as a backup at banks. 

Best Time to Visit Cuba 

Cuba has a tropical climate with two seasons: 

September and October are more prone to hurricanes, but risks exist from June to November. Temperatures rarely drop below 20–25°C (68–77°F), even in the dry season. Peak tourist seasons are mid-December to mid-March and July–August. 

Getting Around Cuba 

Viazul Buses - https://viazul.wetransp.com/ 

Reliable, air-conditioned buses for most tourist routes. Book in person at the Viazul terminal in Havana (Avenida 26 y Zoologico, Nuevo Vedado). Online reservations often appear full—don’t trust that. Be at the station 30 minutes early on travel day. 

Long-Distance Taxis 

You’ll find drivers at bus stations or city centers offering rides in classic 1950s cars. They can carry 5 passengers + driver, drop you at your door, and allow stops. Negotiating the price helps. 

Where to Sleep: Casas Particulares 

These are private guesthouses that offer rooms with private bathrooms, similar to B&Bs. Clean and comfortable, they usually include: 

Average cost: $15–35 per room. Breakfast: $5. Dinner: $10–25. Booking is now easy via Airbnb. Outside of peak season, you can travel freely and book as you go. 

If arriving by bus, expect jineteros (intermediaries) to recommend accommodations—ignore them or follow your instincts. In Varadero, consider all-inclusive resorts instead. 

Where to Eat 

This has improved a lot! Back in 2003, meals were repetitive (chicken or fish, black beans, rice, avocado, mango...). Now, restaurants are plentiful, affordable, and varied. 

Internet in Cuba 

Previously non-existent, now available via ETECSA, the state provider. 

What to Bring to Cuba 

Pack essentials, as many items are hard to find: 

Is Cuba Safe? 

Yes, especially for personal safety. Tourist police are everywhere and tourists are generally respected. That said, don’t leave valuables in the open. Use safes when available. 

Be cautious of: 

Don’t engage and they’ll leave you alone. 

Health & Luggage Insurance for Cuba 

Always get travel medical and luggage insurance.