Egypt is one of the best-value destinations in the world, but money works differently here than at home. You will pay in Egyptian pounds, tip almost everyone who helps you, and bargain in markets where the first price is rarely the real one. I’ve guided travelers through Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, and the same money questions come up every time: Which currency do I need? Can I use my card? How much should I tip? Am I being overcharged?
This guide answers all of them, so you can focus on the pyramids and not on your wallet. If you are still choosing your itinerary, you can browse our Egypt tours 2026 to see what is already included in the price.
Quick Answer: How Does Money Work in Egypt?
The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Pay in pounds everywhere. Use ATMs and banks for the best exchange rates, carry plenty of small notes for tips and taxis, and use cards only in hotels, malls and bigger restaurants. Bargain in bazaars and with unmetered taxis, but not in supermarkets or fixed-price shops.
What Is the Currency in Egypt?
The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), also written LE or E£. One pound is divided into 100 piastres.
| Type | Common values |
|---|---|
| Banknotes | 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 EGP |
| Coins | 1 pound, 50 piastres |
The exchange rate moves often. During 2026 the dollar has traded at roughly 48 to 52 pounds, and the Central Bank of Egypt publishes daily buying and selling rates. Check the live rate before you travel, because any number printed in an article goes out of date quickly.
What to Expect When You Handle Money in Egypt
Expect a cash-first country. Hotels, airlines, malls and upscale restaurants take cards without trouble. Almost everything else runs on cash: street food, local cafés, taxis, bazaars, small museums, felucca rides and every tip.
Prices for foreigners can be higher at some attractions and shops, which is normal. Cash in small denominations makes every transaction smoother, because many sellers “have no change” for a 200-pound note.
Practical Information
Where to Exchange Money
| Option | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ATMs | Usually good | Convenient, but fees apply |
| Banks | Good | Bring your passport, expect queues |
| Official exchange offices | Good | Compare two or three before changing |
| Airport counters | Average | Fine for a small amount on arrival |
| Hotels | Weaker | Use only in a pinch |
| Street changers | Risky | Avoid completely |
You do not need to change all your money at the airport. Change about $50 to $100 for the taxi and first-day expenses, then use ATMs or a bank in the city.
Using ATMs in Egypt
- ATMs are easy to find in cities, airports, hotels and tourist areas, and much harder to find in small villages.
- Withdrawal limits per transaction depend on the bank, so you may need to withdraw twice for a larger amount.
- Two fees can apply: one from the Egyptian bank and one from your home bank. Check yours before you leave.
- Choose a machine inside a bank branch or hotel lobby, and cover the keypad when you enter your PIN.
- If the ATM offers to convert the amount into your home currency, decline and choose to be charged in Egyptian pounds. Dynamic currency conversion usually costs you more.
Using Cards
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. American Express is less common. Tell your bank you are traveling so your card is not blocked, and carry a backup card in a different place from your main one.
Tipping (Baksheesh)
Tipping is part of everyday life in Egypt and a real part of many workers’ income. These are rough guides, so adjust them to the current exchange rate:
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurants (if no service charge) | 10-15% |
| Tour guide | About $5-10 per person per day |
| Driver | About $3-5 per person per day |
| Hotel porter | A few pounds per bag |
| Bathroom attendant | A few pounds |
On a Nile cruise, tips for the crew are usually pooled and given at the end of the trip. If you are choosing between boats, see our Nile river cruises for what is included on each one.
Expert Tips
- Break your big notes early. Change 200-pound notes at a hotel or supermarket so you always have 5, 10 and 20 EGP notes.
- Keep tip money in a separate pocket. You will be tipping dozens of times a day, and digging through your wallet is a signal to sellers.
- Agree on prices before you start. This applies to camel rides, felucca trips, photos with a performer and unmetered taxis. Ask “How much, total?” first.
- Use ride-hailing apps in cities. Apps like Uber and Careem show the fare in advance and remove the taxi argument.
- Count your change. Not out of suspicion, but because mistakes happen in busy shops.
- Carry a small amount of US dollars or euros as backup. You will still pay in pounds, but spare foreign cash can help in an emergency.
How to Bargain in Egypt (Without Feeling Awkward)
Bargaining is expected in bazaars such as Khan El Khalili, in souvenir shops and with unmetered taxis. It is usually friendly, and it is not rude to walk away.
- Know roughly what you want to pay before you ask the price.
- Counter the first price with about half. Then move up slowly.
- Stay relaxed and smile. Humor works better than pressure.
- Be ready to walk away. Often the seller calls you back with a better offer.
- Never bargain if you do not intend to buy. Once you agree on a price, the deal is done.
- Do not bargain in supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants with printed menus or shops with fixed prices.
For ideas on what to buy and what is fair to pay, read our guide to Egypt souvenirs and our guide to the best time to visit Egypt.
Real Traveler Insight
I found it much easier to use Egyptian pounds for everyday expenses during my trip. Having local cash made paying for small purchases and tips much simpler, and I quickly realized that I shouldn’t rely on my card everywhere
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Changing money on the street. You risk counterfeit notes or a trick with the count.
- Paying in your home currency. Always choose Egyptian pounds at a card machine or ATM.
- Carrying only large notes. You will struggle to pay for small things.
- Forgetting to tip. Tips are expected, so keep some cash ready every day.
- Bargaining everywhere. Bargaining at a fixed-price shop is awkward and pointless.
- Taking a taxi without agreeing on the fare. Ask for the price first or use an app.
- Carrying all your money in one place. Split cash and cards between your bag and your hotel safe.
Suggested Budget Day (Mid-Range Traveler)
| Item | Approx. spend |
|---|---|
| Breakfast and lunch at local places | Low |
| Dinner at a mid-range restaurant | Moderate |
| Taxi or app rides in the city | Low |
| Tips for guide, driver, staff | Small but steady |
| Souvenirs | Optional |
Budgets depend heavily on whether your hotel, transfers and entrance fees are already included, which is why many travelers pick an all-inclusive package.
FAQ
What currency should I take to Egypt?
Bring any major currency (USD, EUR or GBP) for backup, but pay for everyday things in Egyptian pounds. Withdraw pounds from an ATM after you arrive.
Can I pay with US dollars in Egypt?
Some hotels and tour operators quote in dollars, but most shops, taxis and restaurants want pounds. Paying in dollars often gives you a poor rate.
Are ATMs safe to use in Egypt?
Yes, if you use machines inside banks, hotels and malls, cover your PIN and check your statement afterward.
Do I need cash in Egypt, or are cards enough?
Carry both. Cards work at hotels and bigger venues, while cash is needed for markets, taxis, small cafés and tips.
How much should I tip in Egypt?
Tip 10-15% at restaurants without a service charge, plus a daily tip for your guide and driver. Keep small notes ready for porters and attendants.
Is bargaining expected in Egypt?
Yes, in bazaars, souvenir shops and with unmetered taxis. Do not bargain in supermarkets or at fixed-price stores.
Can I bring Egyptian pounds home?
Rules and limits on carrying currency change, so check the current customs regulations before you travel, and spend your remaining pounds before leaving.
Sources and Citations
Verify these official sources before publishing, since rules and rates change:
- Central Bank of Egypt, exchange rates and banking information
- Egyptian Customs Authority, rules on carrying currency
- Your own bank’s travel and foreign-transaction fee page
Conclusion
Money in Egypt is simple once you know the basics: use Egyptian pounds, withdraw from ATMs, carry small notes, tip generously and bargain with a smile. If you want to skip most of the daily money decisions, a guided package covers entrance fees, transfers and meals in advance. See our Egypt tours 2026 or relax on the water with one of our Nile river cruises.
Ready to plan your trip? Contact us and our team will help you build an itinerary that fits your budget.
