Algeria
Money in Algeria: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use cash, preferably euros exchanged to Algerian dinars, for most purchases; ATMs and card acceptance are limited, especially outside major cities. Tip about 5–10% in restaurants and cafés. This is the safest way to pay in Algeria.
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GuideAlgeria
Key facts
- Currency
- Algerian dinar (DZD)
- Card acceptance
- Rare, especially outside Algiers and Oran
- ATMs
- Often reject foreign cards; limited to major banks
- Recommended cash
- Bring euros, exchange to DZD at banks or hotel bureaux
- Tipping norm
- 5–10% of bill in restaurants, cafés, and for guides
Quick answer
Algeria uses the Algerian dinar (DZD). Cards are seldom accepted; bring euros, exchange to dinars, and keep cash for the whole trip, especially for Sahara tours.
Cash, ATMs and cards
Banks in Algiers, Oran and Constantine have ATMs that may accept Visa or MasterCard, but many reject foreign cards. Outside these cities ATMs are scarce and often out of service. Exchange offices at airports, banks and hotel bureaux will convert euros to dinars at the official rate; avoid unofficial changers as they are illegal and risky. Plan enough cash for the Sahara block before leaving the north, as services are limited there.
- Bring €200–€300 in cash for a two‑week trip (adjust to length).
- Exchange at banks or hotel bureaux; keep receipts for possible refunds.
- Carry a small amount of USD as backup, but expect similar acceptance issues.
Tipping in Algeria
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants and cafés leave 5–10% of the bill, rounding up if service was good. For hotel staff, a small tip (DZD 20–50) for porters is appreciated. Guides and drivers typically receive DZD 200–500 per day, depending on service level.
- Restaurants/cafés: 5–10% of total.
- Hotel porters: DZD 20–50 per bag.
- Guides/drivers: DZD 200–500 per day.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Algeria?
Algeria uses the Algerian dinar (DZD).
Should I use cash or a card in Algeria?
Cash is preferred; bring euros, exchange to dinars, and use cards only in major cities where ATMs accept them.
How much should I tip in Algeria?
Tip about 5–10% in restaurants and cafés; DZD 20–50 for hotel porters; DZD 200–500 per day for guides or drivers.
Can I withdraw dinars with a foreign card in Algiers?
Some ATMs in Algiers accept Visa or MasterCard, but many reject foreign cards; try bank branches first.
Is it legal to use unofficial currency exchangers?
No, unofficial changers operate in a parallel market and are illegal; use banks or hotel bureaux.
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Algeria guide
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