Planning your holiday in Hurghada and wondering which currency you should bring? Don’t worry — Egypt is one of the easiest destinations when it comes to exchanging and using money during your trip.

At Get Your Tours Egypt⁠, we help travelers every day with tours, excursions, airport transfers, and local travel tips. Here’s everything you need to know about currencies in Hurghada before your holiday starts.

What Currency Does Egypt Use and Preparing for Your Trip Cash vs. Card

The Official Currency in Egypt

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), also known locally as “Geneh.”

You will find:
Banknotes in different values such as 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 EGP.

Coins and small notes for tips and small purchases
Most local shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, and traditional markets prefer payments in Egyptian Pounds.What currency does Egypt use today

Can You Use Euros or Dollars in Hurghada?
Yes — absolutely.
In tourist areas like Hurghada, many businesses accept:
Euros (€), US Dollars ($), British Pounds (£)
This is especially common in:
Hotels, Excursion companies, Gift shops, Diving centers, Marina restaurants and Tourist bazaars
However, paying in Egyptian Pounds is usually cheaper and gives you better value.

What Is the Best Currency to Bring?

Euros

Euros are widely accepted and easy to exchange in Hurghada. Many European tourists prefer bringing cash in Euros and exchanging small amounts during their stay.

US Dollars

US Dollars are also accepted almost everywhere in tourist areas. Make sure your bills are clean and newer versions, as damaged notes may be refused.

British Pounds

British Pounds can also be exchanged easily, especially in major exchange offices and banks.

Can you use us dollars in Egypt - Can you use euros in Egypt and Do Egyptians accept euros

Where Can You Exchange Money in Hurghada?

You can exchange currency at:

Banks, Official exchange offices, Airport exchange counters, ATM machines
ATMs are available across Hurghada and usually offer good exchange rates when withdrawing Egyptian Pounds directly with your bank card.

What Currency Does Egypt Use and Preparing for Your Trip Cash vs. Card

Can You Pay by Card?
Yes, many places in Hurghada accept:
Visa, Mastercard and Contactless payments. But it’s always smart to carry some cash for:
Tipping, Small shops, Taxi rides, Local cafés, Markets and bazaars


Is Tipping Common in Egypt?
Yes — tipping is part of Egyptian culture and is appreciated for good service.
Common tipping situations:, Hotel staff, Drivers, Boat crew, Tour guides and Restaurant workers.
Small amounts in Egyptian Pounds are usually preferred.
Helpful Money Tips for Tourists
Always carry small bills. Avoid exchanging money with unofficial street vendors and Check exchange rates before converting large amounts. Keep some cash with you during excursions.

Final Advice for Travelers Visiting Hurghada
The easiest option for most tourists is:
Bring Euros or Dollars, Exchange small amounts into Egyptian Pounds when needed, Use cards in larger places and cash for smaller expenses.
Hurghada is very tourist-friendly, and managing money during your stay is usually simple and stress-free.

If you are planning excursions, snorkeling trips, desert safaris, or private tours during your holiday, the team at Get Your Tours Egypt⁠ is always ready to help you enjoy the best of Egypt with professional service and local experience.