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Cuban currency secrets: 10 facts for UK travellers

Travelling to Cuba? 

Then Cuba’s currency is one of those things you’ll want to understand before your plane touches down in Havana.  

With dual currency confusion, limited card use, and strict exchange rules, it’s no surprise travellers get caught out.

But fear not, we’ve rounded up the 10 most essential (and interesting!) facts about Cuban money, including how to get the best rates, what to pack, and which coins aren’t even used by Cubans themselves. 

Whether you’re heading to the beach or the backstreets, this guide will give you the full picture.

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1. Cuba’s currency system is unique

Once upon a time, Cuba had a dual currency system. 

Locals used the Cuban Peso (CUP), while tourists were encouraged to spend the Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC).

But since 2021, the government ditched the Cuban convertible peso (CUC) and the dual currency system completely.  

The CUP is now the official currency for everyone, including tourists. That said, confusion still lingers, especially online.  

Although the Cuban convertible peso (CUC) may no longer be an official currency, some older sites or tour companies still mention it.  

Ignore them: your Cuban holiday money should be in CUP, Cuban pesos.

Colorful street in Old Havana city with the Presidential Palace on the background

2. The CUP is Cuba’s official currency

The Cuban Peso (CUP), sometimes called the peso cubano or moneda nacional, is now the national currency.  

This is the only cash you’ll use for buses, street food, taxis, and entrance fees. 

It’s issued by the Central Bank of Cuba (Banco Central de Cuba) and comes in notes and coins.

The code CUP and Cuban peso symbol ($) can be confusing; prices are often written with just a $ sign, so check whether it’s in USD or CUP to avoid overpaying

3. Cuban banknotes come in unusual denominations

Get ready for a wallet full of quirky bills. CUP banknotes are available in 50, 100, 200, and 500 denominations, though you’ll also find smaller ones like 1, 3, 5, 10, and 20.

The Cuban peso notes are often old, worn, and feel quite different from UK money.  

Cuban peso coins also exist, but they’re rarely used in tourist areas. 

If you’re handed change in small coins, it might be better spent in local markets than saved as souvenirs.

The Old Square, Plaza Vieja in Spanish, at twilight, Old Havana, Cuba.

4. You can get Cuban currency in the UK if you know where to look

Most websites will tell you it’s impossible to buy Cuban currency outside Cuba, as it’s a closed currency

And that’s almost true, but Manor FX isn’t like most websites.

Thanks to our sister company, Leftover Currency, we can offer Cuban pesos right here in the UK. 

Leftover Currency acquires foreign currency through: 

  • Donations from airline passengers and charity globes in airports
  • Trusted international suppliers
  • Direct postal submissions from customers

Through this currency exchange network, Manor FX can offer Cuban peso CUP notes to UK travellers,  a service that major high street providers simply can’t match.

Can I get Cuban currency in the UK?

Yes, you can, and Manor FX makes it easy.

5. British pounds are accepted, sometimes

If you’ve not exchanged your travel money before you travel, you’ll likely need to exchange your British pounds for Cuban pesos. 

Cuba doesn’t accept GBP directly for payments, but many exchange houses will convert it.

You can also bring euros or United States dollars to exchange in Cuba, but British pounds are often the easiest and best-value option.  

Some currencies are less widely accepted at official exchange points,  and the exchange rate you’ll get can vary significantly between official channels and the black market. 

If you need to exchange money in Cuba, make sure to use official and trusted banks or exchange houses for peace of mind and predictable rates.

To get the best value, it’s still wise to convert only what you’ll realistically spend, but if you do return with leftover Cuban pesos, Manor FX can exchange them back into British pounds when you’re home.

Cuban bank notes laid out on a table

6. The exchange rate can vary a lot

The Central Bank of Cuba sets the official exchange rate, which you’ll get at government-approved exchange houses, hotels, and banks.

However, Cuba also has a widespread informal exchange market, where rates can be significantly better. This means you might get more CUP per GBP if you spend cash directly on things like private taxis, restaurants, or local services.

That said, trading currency outside official channels is technically illegal and carries risks, including counterfeit notes or being overcharged. 

It’s safest to stick to official exchanges or arrive with CUP already in hand from Manor FX, which eliminates guesswork.

7. Debit and credit cards: Tricky territory

Are credit cards accepted in Cuba? 

Only some, and debit cards are just as hit and miss. 

Cards issued by American international services (like anything tied to US banks) don’t work. 

Some automatic teller machines (ATMs) exist in cities but often run out of cash. 

Visa is the most reliable, though not guaranteed. 

Always bring a backup card and plenty of cash.

Group of multicultural friends having fun in Havana with American cars.

8. The CUP has low value, but high impact

The Cuban peso (CUP) has a much lower value than the British pound. At the time of writing, the official exchange rate set by the Central Bank of Cuba is around 1 GBP = 30 CUP, though this rate can fluctuate.

It might feel like monopoly money when you first see the denominations, but don’t be fooled: for locals, every peso counts.

 Knowing the typical costs of everyday items, like 100 pesos for a juice or 500 pesos for a decent local meal, helps you pay fairly and avoid being overcharged in tourist hotspots.

9. You can’t use CUC or the Cuban convertible pesos anymore

Let’s clear this up: Cuban convertible pesos (CUCs) are no longer accepted. 

They were phased out years ago and now hold no legal tender status.

Still, you may come across references to convertible pesos online, especially on travel blogs written pre-2021. 

Ignore them. Focus on CUP only, and look for the note with “Peso Cubano” printed clearly.

Buy your pesos now

10. How to get Cuban travel money the easy way

You don’t need to land in Havana empty-handed. 

At Manor FX, we can sell you foreign currency before you fly, giving you peace of mind, better budgeting, and a shorter airport queue. 

Want to skip the airport fees?

Order your Cuban pesos now via Manor FX, with tracked delivery, fair rates, and service that goes the extra mile.

Manor FX travel money wallet

Buy Cuban pesos (CUP) in the UK with Manor FX

Buying Cuban pesos online might sound tricky, after all, most providers won’t even offer them. But at Manor FX, we make it easy.

Thanks to our unique setup with Leftover Currency, we can supply CUP banknotes safely and securely right here in the UK.

Whether you’re off on holiday or need Cuban money for another reason, here’s how to get it sorted in just a few steps:

Step 1: Find Cuban pesos on our currency list

Start by heading to our exchange rate page and selecting Cuban Peso (CUP) from our available currencies. 

Although it’s listed alongside dozens of others, you can quickly find it by typing “Cuba” in the search bar.

You can enter either the amount of CUP you want to receive or how much you’d like to spend in British pounds. We’ll do the maths instantly.

Step 2: Choose your delivery method

Next, tell us how you’d like to receive your cash. You can:

  • Get it delivered straight to your home (secure and insured)
  • Or choose collection from our London office if you prefer in-person pickup

We’ll handle everything discreetly and reliably, whichever suits you best.

Step 3: Review your Cuban peso exchange rate

We’ll show you a real-time, locked-in rate for Cuban currency to GBP. 

No surprises, no shady fees. 

You’ll see the exact cost, any delivery charges, and how many pesos you’ll receive before you commit.

Step 4: Provide a few quick details

We’ll ask for some basic info to help us process your order. 

This includes your full name, date of birth, contact details, and address (if you’re opting for delivery).

This keeps everything compliant, secure, and above board.

Step 5: Set your delivery or collection day

Want your Cuban pesos ASAP? 

Choose the date that works for you, we even offer next-working-day delivery if you order and pay before 2 p.m. on a weekday.

Step 6: Choose how to pay

Pay securely by card or by bank transfer before the deadline. 

If you’re collecting in person, you’ll have additional options depending on availability.

The confirmation email will include everything you need, including our bank details and your reference.

Step 7: Final checks and place your order

Before you finish, you’ll be asked to confirm our T&Cs and privacy policy.

Once you click “Place Order,” your exchange is locked in, and your Cuban pesos are on their way to you.

Step 8: Confirmation and peace of mind

You’ll get a confirmation email with a full summary as soon as your order goes through. 

If you chose bank transfer, don’t forget to send the funds before 2 p.m. for the fastest turnaround.

Then just sit back,  we’ve got the rest covered.

valley of Vinales

Final takeaway: Know before you go

Cuban money might seem confusing at first, but with a little preparation, it’s easy to manage. 

The important thing to remember is that the CUP is the only legal tender, the CUC is no longer in use, and you can get Cuban pesos in the UK before you travel by ordering from Manor FX.

By understanding how official rates work, what things cost in CUP, and how to pay while you’re there, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a smoother trip. 

Whether you’re buying fresh juice from a market stall or tipping at a local restaurant, having the right money in your pocket makes all the difference.

So skip the hassle at the airport, get your Cuban pesos sorted in advance, and enjoy Cuba with confidence. ¡Buen viaje!

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