If you’re heading to Egypt, you’re in for a treat. From the ancient pyramids and temples to the coral reefs of the Red Sea, it’s a country that offers history, adventure, and relaxation all in one. But before you dive into bazaars, book Nile cruises, or visit the Valley of the Kings, it helps to understand what currency you’ll be using.
Knowing how to pay, where to get your cash, and what things cost will make your trip much easier. Here’s everything you need to know about Egyptian currency, how to manage your travel money, and some useful local tips to help you spend wisely.
What Is the Currency in Egypt?
Egypt’s official currency is the Egyptian pound, written as EGP in international banking and often shown locally as LE or ج.م (short for Livre Égyptienne, from French).
You’ll see prices written in various ways: 100 EGP, 100 LE, or ج.م 100 — they all mean the same thing.
The Egyptian pound is divided into 100 piastres, though piastres are rarely used for larger purchases.
Egyptian Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 pounds
Egyptian Coins: 25 and 50 piastres, plus 1-pound coins
There are also smaller coins (5 and 10 piastres), but they’re almost never used. Most everyday prices in Egyptian currency are rounded to the nearest pound.
A Quick Look at the Currency’s History
The Egyptian pound was introduced in the 1830s, replacing the piastre as the country’s main currency unit. Its name comes from the British pound, as Egypt was under British influence at the time.
Over the years, Egypt’s currency has gone through periods of change, particularly with economic reforms and shifts in exchange rates. In 2016, Egypt moved to a floating exchange rate, which means the pound’s value is determined by the market rather than fixed by the government.
For travellers, the key takeaway is that the Egyptian pound can fluctuate against other currencies, including the British pound. Exchange rates can vary depending on where you change your money, so it pays to be aware and plan ahead.
Why Egypt Uses the Pound
Many travellers are surprised to find that Egypt also uses “pound” as its currency name. This is because the Egyptian pound has historical ties to both British and French monetary systems. Today, it’s a completely independent currency used only within Egypt.
So, while the name sounds familiar, the value is entirely different. You can’t use British pounds in Egypt, and Egyptian pounds have no use back home, so it’s worth exchanging what’s left before you leave.
Can You Use US Dollars, Euros, or Pounds in Egypt?
Egypt’s economy is very much cash-based, and while some hotels and tour operators may accept US dollars, euros, or even GBP, the vast majority of day-to-day spending must be done in Egyptian pounds.
In large tourist resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, you might occasionally see prices in foreign currencies, but this is the exception rather than the rule. You’ll usually get a better deal paying in the local currency.
For markets, cafés, taxis, and local shops, Egyptian pounds are essential. Always carry cash in small denominations, as change can be difficult to get for larger notes.
Exchanging Money: When and Where
You have several options for getting Egyptian pounds:
Before You Go
You can order Egyptian pounds in advance from our website or collect them from a TravelCash location. This lets you lock in an amazing exchange rate before travelling, avoid paying commission, and arrive with some local currency ready for taxis, tips, or food on your first day.
At the Airport
There are exchange counters at major airports in Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh, but rates are often less favourable than from TravelCash or in the city. If you do have to change money there, just get enough for your immediate needs.
In Egypt
Currency exchange offices are common in city centres and tourist areas, and rates are usually better than at airports. Look for official bureaux de change or banks, and always keep your receipt in case you want to change any leftover pounds back at the end of your trip.
Avoid changing money through street vendors, as this is both risky and illegal.
Using ATMs in Egypt
ATMs are widely available in cities and resort areas, and they’re one of the easiest ways to get Egyptian pounds. You’ll find machines from major banks such as Banque Misr, National Bank of Egypt, and HSBC.
Most ATMs give you the option to use English on-screen, and you can withdraw pounds directly using your UK debit or credit card. Just check with your bank before you travel to confirm international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to use ATMs located inside bank branches or shopping centres rather than on the street, as they tend to be safer and better maintained.
Paying by Card
While card payments are becoming more common in Egypt, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, cash is still king. In smaller towns and local markets, many places will only accept cash, and sometimes the card machine “isn’t working” even if it’s there.
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards. American Express is accepted in some hotels but much less common.
If you plan to use your card regularly, make sure it doesn’t charge high foreign transaction fees. Travel cards or fee-free debit cards can help you save on charges.
Budgeting: What Things Cost
Egypt is known for being good value for money, especially compared with Western Europe. Here’s a rough guide to typical prices (as of 2025):
Bottle of water: 5–10 EGP
Coffee or soft drink: 20–40 EGP
Meal at a local café: 50–100 EGP
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: 150–300 EGP per person
Taxi within a city: 50–100 EGP
Museum or attraction entry: 100–300 EGP
SIM card with data: 200–300 EGP
Prices can vary depending on location and season. Tourist areas like Sharm El Sheikh tend to be slightly more expensive than local spots in Cairo or Luxor.
Small Denominations Are Handy
One of the most common frustrations for travellers in Egypt is getting change. Many shops and taxis struggle to break large notes, especially 100 or 200 EGP bills. Whenever you make a purchase, try to hold onto smaller notes and coins.
If you’re planning to tip (and you will be, as tipping is part of everyday life in Egypt), having small change is essential.
Tipping Culture in Egypt
Tipping, known locally as baksheesh, is a normal part of life in Egypt. It’s seen as a small token of appreciation rather than a formal charge, and it’s expected in many situations.
Here’s a quick guide:
Hotel staff: 10–20 EGP per service (for example, luggage or housekeeping)
Restaurants: Around 10% is standard if service isn’t included
Taxi drivers: Round up the fare
Tour guides: 50–100 EGP per day depending on the trip
While it may feel unusual at first, tipping is appreciated and helps support local workers.
Cash or Card? Finding the Right Balance
Most travellers find that a mix of cash and card works best in Egypt. Use cash for smaller purchases, local transport, and tipping, and keep your card available for hotels, excursions, or larger payments.
If you’re visiting a resort where prices are quoted in euros or dollars, it’s still often cheaper to pay in local currency once converted, as direct foreign currency prices tend to include a small mark-up.
Safety and Common Scams
As with any busy tourist destination, it pays to be cautious with money in Egypt. Here are a few practical tips:
Use trusted exchange services: Avoid street money changers who offer unusually good rates.
Check your notes: Make sure you’re given genuine currency and correct change.
Keep cash secure: Use a money belt or zipped pocket, especially in crowded areas.
Watch for inflated prices: In markets and bazaars, prices are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to bargain politely.
Overall, Egypt is safe and welcoming for travellers, but being money-smart helps everything go smoothly.
How to Get the Best Exchange Rate
To make your travel money go further:
Compare rates before you buy. Ordering online or visiting a TravelCash store always gives better value than last-minute exchanges at the airport.
Avoid dynamic currency conversion. If you pay by card and the machine asks whether to charge in pounds or Egyptian pounds, always choose the local currency.
Bring a travel card. Prepaid or multi-currency cards can lock in exchange rates and help manage spending.
Withdraw larger amounts less often. This reduces bank fees if your card charges per transaction.
A little preparation can save you quite a bit over the course of your holiday.
Digital Payments and Mobile Apps
Mobile payments are starting to appear in major Egyptian cities, but they’re not yet widespread. Most locals still prefer cash. Some ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem allow in-app card payments, which can be more convenient if you want to avoid carrying too much cash.
If you do plan to rely on digital payments, make sure your phone and apps are set up before you go, as mobile networks and verification texts can be unpredictable once abroad.
Returning Home: What to Do with Leftover Currency
It’s a good idea to use up your Egyptian pounds before flying home. While exchanging currency back to GBP is easy and we will provide you a great rate, this may not always be worth doing, for example if you only have small change.
Spending any remaining cash on souvenirs, snacks, or airport refreshments is often a better option than holding onto it.
Egypt offers some of the most unforgettable travel experiences on earth, from the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the beaches of the Red Sea. Understanding how its currency works helps you spend with confidence and enjoy every moment without worrying about the practicalities.
If you're interested in exchanging currency for a trip to Egypt with a great exchange rate and 0% commission, use our locations page to find your local currency exchange.
