What Is the Currency of Cairo?

Cairo is the largest city in Egypt and the capital city of the country. It is also a major financial, political, and cultural hub of the Middle East. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and has been inhabited since the 10th century BC. As such, it is no surprise that Cairo has its own currency.

The official currency of Cairo is the Egyptian Pound, commonly referred to as LE or EGP. The Egyptian Pound has been the official currency of Egypt since 1834, when it replaced the Mamluk Pound used in the Ottoman Empire. It was initially pegged to a number of foreign currencies, such as the French Franc, the British Pound Sterling, and the French Indochinese Piastre.

The current LE is subdivided into 100 qirsh (or piastres); however, coins denominated in qirsh are no longer in circulation as they have been replaced by coins of five, ten and twenty piastres. The Egyptian Banknote Company prints banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 pounds.

Because Cairo is such a major financial hub, many places throughout the city accept other international currencies such as Euros, Dollars and Pounds sterling in addition to local Egyptian pound. This makes it easier for tourists who intend to travel to Egypt and reside in Cairo to use their local currency while they are in the city.

Although shops in Cairo do often accept foreign currencies, it is important to note that these currencies are first converted into Egyptian pounds before any exchange rate is applied. This means that tourists often lose a bit of money when exchanging their currency for Egyptian Pounds at such shops.

Exchanging foreign currencies for Egyptian pounds at banks or specialized financial centers is the best way to ensure a fair exchange rate when travelling to Cairo. For example, Thomas Exchange Global in Heathrow Airport offers a variety of currencies in addition to Egyptian pounds, with commission free exchange for up to £2,500 per customer per day.

Using sites such as XE Currency Converter enables travellers to keep up-to-date with exchange rates between their own currency and Egyptian pounds. This ensures that they do not get ripped off when exchanging their money while in Cairo.

Overall, knowing and understanding the currency of Cairo can help potential visitors save money while they are travelling to and within Egypt. Although foreign currency is accepted by some places Cambridge, the exchange rate is often not as good as that offered by banks and financial centers. Therefore, using those sources to exchange currency is always recommended for those travelling to Cairo.

Insider’s Guide to Cairo

If you are planning to visit Cairo and wondering about the currency, the official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Egypt being an attractive tourist destination is known for its remarkable landmarks and captivating history. It is one of the cities in the world with a long history and an extraordinary culture. Cairo is a hub of ancient pyramids, scenic desert landscapes, delicious cuisines, and friendly locals.

Top Attractions in Cairo

Cairo is a city filled with history and culture, and it offers several attractions for tourists to explore. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins or want to experience the delicious Egyptian cuisine, Cairo has it all. Here are some of the top attractions in Cairo:

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the most striking and important landmarks in the world. It is a must-visit destination while in Cairo. The pyramids are over 4,500 years old and are the only ancient wonder of the world that still stands today.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is a repository of Egypt’s rich history and culture, and it is one of the most important museums in the world. It is home to over 120,000 artifacts, including the renowned treasures of King Tutankhamen.

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of the most beautiful mosques in Cairo. The mosque offers breathtaking views of the city, and its design and architecture are stunning.

Dining in Cairo

Cairo offers a plethora of dining options, ranging from traditional Egyptian cuisine to international favorites. Here are some must-try dining spots in Cairo:

Abou El Sid

Abou El Sid is a popular restaurant in downtown Cairo that offers traditional Egyptian cuisine. The atmosphere of the restaurant is cozy and authentic, and the food is mouth-watering.

Birdcage

Birdcage is a rooftop restaurant located in the Maadi neighborhood of Cairo. It offers breathtaking views of the Nile River and delicious fusion cuisine.

Cultural Experiences in Cairo

Cairo offers several cultural experiences that allow you to appreciate the history and traditions of Egypt. Here are some of the cultural experiences you should not miss:

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Khan El Khalili Bazaar is one of the largest markets in the Middle East, and it is filled with shops and vendors selling traditional Egyptian products and souvenirs.

The Nubian Village

The Nubian Village is a small community located on the banks of the Nile River in Aswan, southern Egypt. It is known for its colorful houses and vibrant culture.

Local History

Cairo is a city steeped in history, and there are several historical sites to explore during your visit. Here are some of the top historical sites in Cairo:

The Citadel of Salah El-Din

The Citadel of Salah El-Din, also known as the Citadel of Cairo, is a medieval Islamic fortress that dominates the skyline of Cairo. It was built in the 12th century to protect the city from foreign invaders.

The Hanging Church

The Hanging Church is one of the oldest churches in Cairo, and it is believed to have been built in the 3rd century AD. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning wall frescoes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore some lesser-known destinations in Cairo, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

The Al-Azhar Park

The Al-Azhar Park is a beautiful park that offers breathtaking views of Cairo. It is one of the largest parks in the city and a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.

The Cave Church

The Cave Church, also known as the Monastery of St Simon, is a Coptic Christian church located in the Mokattam Mountain in Cairo. The church is carved out of the rocks and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.

In conclusion, Cairo is an enchanting city known for its ancient ruins, delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. A visit to Cairo is a journey back in time, and it is an experience that you will never forget.