Money at Havana–José Martí International (HAV)
Currency, tipping and cash-vs-card for arrivals at Cuba, Cuba.
Arriving at Havana–José Martí International (HAV): expected airport→city taxi fare is roughly US$25–US$35. Carry small local notes and use bank ATMs inside the terminal rather than airport exchange kiosks.
Airport currency kiosks quote rates 5–15% worse than any bank ATM inside the terminal. If you need cash on landing, use an in-terminal bank ATM — not the "0% commission" kiosks (the margin is in the rate).
Frequently asked
Q.What currency is used at Havana–José Martí International (HAV)?
Cuba's local currency is what you'll need at HAV. Use a bank ATM inside the terminal rather than the exchange kiosks — the rate is materially better.
Q.How much should a taxi from HAV to the city cost?
Expected fare on the HAV → Habana Vieja route is roughly US$25–US$35. Around US$50+ is already high, and US$70+ private car is a scam quote — confirm the meter or a printed rate before you get in.
Q.Do I tip taxi drivers at HAV?
Tipping norms vary. In most countries outside North America, taxi drivers are not tipped — rounding up is enough. Pay the metered fare first, then decide.
Q.Cash or card for a taxi at HAV?
Carry small local notes as backup. "Card machine broken" is the most common excuse to force a cash overpay at airport taxi ranks.
Q.Should I change money at HAV?
Only if you need $10–20 of local currency to cover a taxi or a SIM card. Airport exchange kiosks quote 5–15% worse than a bank ATM in the same terminal. If your card has no FX fee, just pay by card and skip cash entirely.
Every transport option ranked, fare tiers, first-30-minute checklist and reported scams.