Travelling to Cuba?

Get the best rates for Cuban currency online

Enjoy exceptional pound to Cuban peso exchange rates and ensure more Cuban money in your wallet for an unforgettable trip.

Our fast and hassle-free online ordering process makes converting British pounds to Cuban pesos easy, saving you time and money.

With Manor FX, you can secure foreign currency delivery to your home or office. 

Or you can pick up your foreign currency at our bureau de change near Heathrow.

We’ll even convert leftover Cuban currency to GBP for you when you get back!

Cuban travel money

Let’s ensure you’re well-prepared with some valuable travel tips about cash and card payments and Cuba currency.

What currency is currently used in Cuba?

The currency currently used in Cuba is the Cuban Peso (CUP). It’s also called Moneda Nacional, which translates to “National Currency” in English. 

In Cuba, it refers to the Cuban Peso, which is the official currency used by locals for most everyday transactions. 

Where can I buy Cuban pesos?

Unlike major currencies, you won’t find Cuban pesos at your local bank or Post Office

But don’t worry! You can exchange money online and get the best Cuba currency exchange rate from trusted currency providers like us.  

Skip the trip to the expensive airport exchange bureau. Instead, have your Cuban travel money delivered straight to your doorstep before your journey begins.

Can I get Cuban currency in the UK?

Yes. Look no further than Manor FX. We’re the top Cuban currency converter 

We’ll provide you with a hassle-free currency exchange experience. So convert your pound sterling to Cuban pesos today!

We offer excellent rates, leaving you with more cash to make your Cuban adventure truly memorable. 

If you’re near Heathrow, you can also visit our bureau to buy Cuban currency. You’ll get the same fantastic exchange rate and personal service!

Keep us in mind when you return – we convert leftover Cuban pesos to British pounds!

Should I exchange money before I travel to Cuba?

Yes, it’s advisable to exchange some money before travelling to Cuba. 

While you can exchange currency in Cuba, it’s a good idea to have some Cuban pesos on hand when you arrive.

This ensures you have cash for immediate expenses like transportation and meals. Especially if you arrive late at night when exchange offices are closed.

What is the best currency to take to Cuba?

The Cuban peso is the best currency to take to Cuba from the UK. It’s the official currency and is widely accepted throughout the country. 

Other currencies to bring to Cuba

Additional currencies that you can bring to Cuba are euros (EUR) or Canadian dollars (CAD). 

These currencies are widely accepted for exchange in Cuba, often at better rates than the US Dollar (USD), which can incur an additional 10% exchange fee.

Should I bring USD or pesos to Cuba?

It’s best to bring Cuban pesos for day-to-day transactions in Cuba. 

While United States dollars may be accepted in some tourist areas, they often incur unfavourable exchange rates.

What peso is used in Cuba?

Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP). 

What are the two currencies in Cuba?

Cuba currently uses only one official currency. Cuba’s currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). 

The Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) was discontinued in 2021.

Can I use the Cuban convertible peso in Cuba? 

As of January 1, 2021, Cuba bid farewell to its dual currency system. 

Here’s how it used to work… The convertible peso was the currency of choice for tourists and foreign transactions. While the Cuban peso (CUP) was the currency locals used for everyday needs.

Now, Cuba has a single currency, the Cuban peso (CUP). Travellers must use Cuban pesos only, as convertible pesos are no longer accepted. 

Is the Cuban peso a closed currency?

Yes, the Cuban Peso (CUP) is a closed currency, meaning Cuba money is not available for exchange outside Cuban territory.

Can I use my bank card or credit card in Cuba? 

Cuba operates mainly on cash transactions. In popular tourist spots like Havana, Varadero, and Trinidad, you’ll find some vendors and international hotels accepting cards.

It’s important to note that any card issued by American banks won’t work in Cuba. VISA and, to a lesser extent, Mastercard are accepted credit/debit cards. American Express cards are not accepted in Cuba.

If you plan to use your card in Cuba, it’s essential to be aware of foreign exchange and currency conversion fees. Your bank’s exchange rate for converting Cuban pesos to GBP may not be favourable.

Before using bank cards for payments in Cuba, contacting your bank is a good idea.

This will prevent your card from becoming blocked becasue of international transactions that your bank may find suspicious.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Cuba?

To save on ATM fees during your trip to Cuba, consider the following tips:

• Use ATMs from major Cuban banks like Banco Nacional de Cuba for lower or no fees.
• Withdraw larger amounts to reduce the frequency of ATM visits.
• Check with your home bank for information on free ATM locations in Cuba.
• Exchange currency before your trip with Manor FX for great rates and doorstep delivery.
• Research local banks in Cuba with ties to your home bank for convenient options.

Interesting fact: Did you know that ATMs is short for automatic teller machines? 

Should I bring cash to Cuba?

Absolutely! It’s a great idea to bring cash when you travel to Cuba. Cuba primarily operates on a cash-based system, so having Cuban pesos on hand will ensure you’re well prepared.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Cuban cities. However, cash is essential for smaller vendors like taxi drivers and local markets that often only accept cash payments. 

How much cash should I take to Cuba?

If you’re staying in a hotel when visiting Cuba, most are all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks, and some activities. 

However, it’s a good practice to have around £30 per day for additional expenses, making it £140 to £210 per week, around 6,118.800 CUP.

Dining in Cuba offers various options. State-run tourist restaurants are affordable, with three-course meals ranging from £20, equivalent to 582.700 CUP. 

For an authentic experience, explore “paladars.” These are privately run restaurants in homes or gardens, where you can dine for around £6 per person or around 174.800 CUP.

Many attractions in Havana are free, including the UNESCO Old Centre and the cathedral. The Museo de la Ciudad is worth a visit, with entrance fees of around £4, equivalent to 116.500 CUP.

How does tipping work in Cuba?

Tipping in Cuba is a common and kind gesture. At restaurants, it’s customary to leave around 10% of the total bill. Hotels often receive tips, with 5,000 to 10,000 Cuban pesos being standard. 

Tipping allows you to express appreciation for excellent service. So, feel free to tip when you receive good service in Cuba.

Is Cuba a cheap country to visit?

Yes, Cuba is generally an affordable country to visit. 

Accommodations, meals, and transportation can be budget-friendly. Cuban coffee costs around 40p to 80p, which is around 23.300 CUP.

How does tipping work in Cuba?

Tipping is a common and kind gesture in Cuba. At restaurants, it’s customary to leave around 10% of the total bill. Hotels often receive tips, with 5,000 to 10,000 Cuban pesos being the standard. 

Tipping allows you to express appreciation for excellent service. So, feel free to tip when you receive good service in Cuba.

Cuban peso currency

Banknotes in Cuba

The Central Bank of Cuba issues Cuban peso notes. 

They come in various denominations and feature prominent figures from the country’s history, landscapes, and cultural symbols. Cuban peso denominations include 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 pesos. 

Cuban currency coins

Cuban coins range from 1 centavo to 1 peso. These coins display national symbols on one side and denote their denomination and year of minting on the other. 

Cuba’s currency import and export regulations

Currency import: When entering Cuba, you can bring in any amount of foreign currency you wish. However, you must declare amounts over 5,000 USD (or its equivalent in other currencies). 

Currency export: When leaving Cuba, you can take out up to 5,000 USD (or its equivalent in other foreign currencies) without any declaration. 

Amounts over this limit must be declared, and you’ll need proper documentation to prove the source of these funds.

Remember that currency regulations in Cuba can change, so it’s essential to stay updated before your trip.

Buying Cuban pesos online

Buy Cuban pesos online for fast and secure delivery to your home or office through Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. 

Alternatively, you can choose to buy your foreign currency and pick it up from our travel money shop located near Heathrow.  

Click here to convert your GBP to Cuban pesos online.

Selling back Cuban pesos

Need to change leftover Cuban pesos to pound sterling? If you’ve got Cuban pesos to exchange, simply follow this link to convert Cuban pesos to pounds. 

Click on ‘sell currency’ and choose ‘CUP Cuban peso’. We offer competitive rates for your unused Cuban currency to pounds conversion.

FAQs

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