Money & Currency
The currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP, LE — from Livre Égyptienne). 1 LE = 100 Piasters. Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 LE. Coins: 25, 50 Piasters and 1 LE (barely in circulation).
Exchange Rate
The rate fluctuates significantly. As of 2026: 1 € ≈ 50–55 LE. The Egyptian economy has experienced several devaluations — the rate can change quickly. Check the current rate before your trip.
Withdrawing & Exchanging Money
- ATMs: Widely available in cities and tourist areas. CIB and Banque Misr have the most reliable machines. Withdraw in LE — limit often 5,000–8,000 LE per transaction. Fees: 0–50 LE per withdrawal, plus your bank's foreign fee.
- Credit cards: Accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and large stores (Visa, Mastercard). At the bazaar, in taxis, and for street food: cash only!
- Exchange offices: Better rate than at the airport or in hotels. Many exchange offices in Cairo Downtown and at the bazaar.
- Black market: There is a black market for foreign currency — STAY AWAY! It is illegal and you risk being scammed.
💡 Tipp
The best travel credit card for Egypt: One without foreign transaction fees (e.g., DKB Visa Debit Card, Barclays Visa). This allows you to withdraw cash free of charge at CIB ATMs. Do NOT exchange money at the airport — the rate is always bad there.