Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport serves Havana, Cuba’s capital city. Located about ten miles from downtown, it handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal features basic amenities like ticket counters, baggage claim areas and a few shops or cafes for travelers to use before or after their trips. Many visitors arrive here when flying into the country, making it an important gateway for tourism and business alike. The airport reflects Cuba’s ongoing efforts to improve travel connections while maintaining its unique cultural atmosphere.
| Power Grid: |
110 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Cuban Peso (CUP) £1 ≈ CUP 31.96 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 2/5
Cashless payments are not widely accepted in Cuba, and credit cards from U.S. banks do not work. Cash is essential. Most transactions are done in Cuban Pesos (CUP); the Convertible Peso (CUC) was abolished in 2021.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is common in Cuba, especially in restaurants, with a typical tip ranging from 5-10%. It is also appreciated by hotel staff and tour guides. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally not allowed in Cuba, particularly in areas like streets and parks, though alcohol is served in licensed venues like bars and restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces like restaurants and public transport, but smoking is allowed in designated outdoor areas. |
| Liberation Day (1 January) |
National holiday celebrating the triumph of the 1959 revolution |
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| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and local festivities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 106 (Police), 104 (Ambulance), 105 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber (limited availability in some areas) |
| Other: | Cuba is famous for its history, culture, and natural beauty, including pristine beaches and colonial architecture. While the country is still developing, it remains a popular destination for travellers. |
Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport is situated approximately 28 kilometers from Varadero town center. It features a compact terminal with basic amenities including cafés, currency exchange and car rental services, focusing on tourist arrivals heading to the resort.
The airport handles numerous seasonal charters and scheduled flights primarily from North America, Europe and Latin America. Facilities are functional but somewhat limited in variety, with simple dining and retail options. Peak seasons can bring crowds and slower processing times.
Passengers should be aware that transport from the airport is mainly by taxis or pre-arranged shuttles; public transportation options are minimal. Prices should be negotiated or booked ahead to avoid mix-ups. English is spoken but frequently less than in larger international airports.
The airport’s proximity to pristine beaches and resorts makes it a relaxed yet essential entry for travelers eager to explore Cuba's natural beauty and vibrant tourism scene.
Most visitors opt to stay in Varadero, where accommodation ranges from luxury all-inclusive resorts to budget-friendly hotels. The proximity to the airport makes transfers quick, with many hotels offering shuttle services.
To Varadero Town:
Located about 28 km from the airport, Varadero can be reached by taxi or hotel shuttle in approximately 30-40 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from CUP 25 – 35 (£0.78 – 1.09), and pre-booked transfers are popular. Public transport options are scarce and not recommended for tourists unfamiliar with the area.
To Matanzas:
Matanzas city is roughly 90 km away and accessible by taxi or private vehicle from Varadero. Travel takes about 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Matanzas offers cultural and historical attractions for interested visitors.
To Havana:
About 140 km west, Havana is reachable via road transport from Varadero. Car hire, intercity buses, and private transfers are common modes, with travel times averaging 2-3 hours.
