Can I exchange euro currency in Havana to cuc?

by Sabrina
(Netherlands)

Or only US dollars?

ANSWER by Vic webmaster Havana-guide.com


First this: DON'T USE US DOLLARS in Cuba. Since 2004 the US Dollar is not accepted for normal
payments in Cuba, only in the Cuban (State) banks they will exchange dollars in CUC BUT there is an additional exchange tax of 10%. When you exchange 100 US dollar in Cuba, the exchange will be made starting from 90% USD, so you lose 10 USD plus the commercial margin for the exchange.
When travelling from Europe, the best you can do is to exchange Euro's and at this moment the Euro is considered as a hard currency that will give you extra benefits.
Take enough (Euro) cash with you, there are very few ATM's in Cuba and only credit cards that are not issued or processed by USA banks are accepted. You can use your Visa or Mastercard in banks only, there are no terminals in shops or restaurants. Don't exchange in hotels, the best exchange rates and a reliable service is given in the banks and the CADECA offices (Official Cuban State exchange offices). Read more about Cuban Currency

money in Havana and Cuba

You can also read the Dutch translation at: Geld in Havana Cuba
Have a nice trip!