Algeria, with its sweeping desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a unique travel experience – but understanding money in Algeria and how currency works is essential for a smooth trip. Whether you’re sipping mint tea in Algiers, exploring Roman ruins in Timgad, or shopping in traditional souks, knowing how to pay makes all the difference. This guide covers what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Algeria (Algerian Dinar – DZD), cash safety tips, and key dos and don’ts. With these insights, you can avoid hidden fees and explore Algeria with confidence.
How to pay in Algeria – cash or card?
In Algeria, cash remains the overwhelmingly dominant method of payment, though efforts to modernize the system are underway. As of mid-2025, over 98% of transactions are still cash-based, with card and digital payments in early stages of adoption. A government push aims to increase electronic payment infrastructure, but widespread use remains limited. In rural areas and smaller towns, card acceptance is rare.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Buses, taxis, and intercity transport services generally only accept cash.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Souks, roadside stalls, and traditional markets are cash-based.
- Small Businesses: Family-run shops, cafés, and eateries often operate on cash payments.
- Hostels and Budget Lodging: Many small hotels, guesthouses, and hostels require payment in cash.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is usually done in cash for restaurant staff, hotel porters, and guides.
- Rural Purchases: In smaller towns and villages, cash is essential due to limited card facilities.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Higher-end hotels and international chains in major cities accept credit and debit cards.
- Restaurants: A few mid-range or upscale restaurants in big cities may take card payments.
- Retail Stores: Selected supermarkets and branded shops in urban areas accept cards.
- Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies often accept cards for bookings.
- Online Bookings: Some travel and accommodation websites support card payments, though availability can be limited.
What’s the best currency to take to Algeria?
Algerian Dinar (DZD) is the best currency to take if you’re traveling to Algeria. Paying or withdrawing money in local currency comes with the least amount of fees, and you’ll get better value overall.
While some tourist hotspots or upscale hotels might accept Euros, you’ll almost always lose out on the exchange rate if you pay in anything other than Dinar. USD and GBP are not commonly accepted either.
So, stick to DZD for all your expenses. Either bring a small amount with you or withdraw from ATMs upon arrival, which are widely available in major cities. Pay in Dinar, not in Euros – unless you enjoy getting ripped off.
Where to get currency in Algeria?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Algeria. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Algeria
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Algeria
If you’re withdrawing money in Algeria from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa and Mastercards. Some of them also accept Plus and Cirrus cards. Only some accept CUP, Discover, Diners cards. Others like American Express and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Algeria?
It’s a good idea to bring a small amount of Algerian Dinar (DZD) before traveling for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small snacks. However, most foreign banks do not stock DZD, and exchange rates outside Algeria are usually unfavorable.
A more practical approach is to withdraw DZD from ATMs upon arrival. ATMs are available in major cities, airports, and tourist areas, and most accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Plus cards. Be sure to check your bank’s international withdrawal fees and notify them of your travel plans.
If you plan to exchange foreign currency, it’s best to do so at licensed exchange bureaus or banks in the city for better rates. Airport exchange counters may be convenient, but they tend to charge higher fees. USD, EUR, and GBP are the most widely accepted currencies for exchange.
Where to withdraw money in Algeria
You can withdraw money in Algeria at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Algeria are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Banque de Développement Local (BDL),
- Banque Nationale d’Algérie (BNL),
- Société Générale, and
- BNP Paribas.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Algeria.
Where to exchange currency in Algeria
Common places to exchange currency in Algeria are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency exchange in Algeria is strictly regulated, and it’s important to use official channels. While there’s a black market for foreign exchange, travelers are strongly advised to avoid it due to legal risks and poor security.
Exchange Offices:
Licensed currency exchange bureaus exist but are limited. You’ll find official exchanges mostly at international airports, in major hotels, and occasionally in tourist-heavy areas of Algiers.
Banks Offering Currency Exchange Services are:
Banque Nationale d’Algérie (BNA)
Banque Extérieure d’Algérie (BEA)
Société Générale Algérie
Most banks are open from Sunday to Thursday, typically from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Tip: Carry Euros or US Dollars, which are the most accepted foreign currencies for exchange.
You can find good currency exchanges in Algeria using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Algeria. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Download ATM Fee Saver now.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Is carrying cash in Algeria safe?
Carrying a large amount of money in Algeria is not recommended, particularly in crowded areas where pickpocketing and petty theft can occur. While many places accept cash as the primary form of payment, especially in markets and smaller towns, it’s best to carry only what you need for the day and keep the rest secured.
To keep your cash safe in Algeria:
- Distribute your cash across multiple pockets, wallets, or bags.
- Use a money belt or concealed pouch, especially when using public transportation or visiting busy souks.
- Avoid displaying large sums of money in public or while making purchases.
- Be discreet when handling money in crowded areas like Algiers’ Casbah or local markets.
- Keep your wallet in your front pocket or use a zippered crossbody bag.
- Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable hotels rather than on the street.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Algeria
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
