The Complete Guide to Shopping in Egypt: What to Buy, Where to Go

Egypt offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from historic markets where bargaining is part of the culture:

Where Are the Best Places to Shop in Cairo?

If you’re searching for the ultimate guide to shopping in Egypt, Cairo is where most visitors start, a city that offers everything from centuries-old souks to massive modern malls. Here’s exactly where to shop in Cairo, what to buy, and how to do it like a local.

1.Khan El Khalili: Historic Bazaar & Gold Souk

After multiple trips to Khan El Khalili, we’ve learned which purchases are worth the suitcase space and which are pure tourist traps. This isn’t a postcard description; it’s the real shopping intel you need.

When you explore Khan El Khalili, you’re stepping into one of the oldest markets in the world. In this guide to shopping in Egypt, it’s our first stop because this is Cairo’s most famous market, operating since the 14th century, and it’s still the heart of traditional shopping in Egypt.

Best things to buy here:

1.Spices: Fresh cumin, hibiscus (karkadeh), and za’atar. Check color and aroma; the good stuff smells rich and fresh.

2. Essential Oils & Perfumes: Lotus, jasmine, and sandalwood. Always test on your skin first; pure oils last longer than alcohol-based blends.

3.Handmade Jewelry: Silver with turquoise, gold cartouches with your name in hieroglyphs. Look for hallmark stamps on precious metals.

4.Papyrus Art: Go for certified workshops; real papyrus is textured and won’t tear easily.

5.Copper & Brassware: Lanterns, teapots, trays. Higher quality feels heavier and has clean, even cuts.

6.Textiles & Scarves: Egyptian cotton or hand-embroidered fabrics. Check stitching and edges.

7.Alabaster Statues: Real alabaster is cool to the touch and slightly translucent when held to light.

8.Traditional Galabeyas: Comfortable, airy robes with handmade embroidery.

9.Egyptian Cotton Products: Sheets and towels are worth the investment for their durability and feel.

10.Antique Replicas: Fun for décor, but don’t mistake them for museum-grade artifacts.

11.Leather Goods: Camel leather bags and belts; expect handmade charm over designer precision.

12.Herbal Remedies: Hibiscus tea, herbal blends; confirm contents and usage before buying.

13.Oriental Rugs: Wool or silk; prices depend on knot count and craftsmanship.

Local tips:

• Always start bargaining at about 50–60% of the first price offered. Vendors expect it.

• The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday tourist rush.

• If buying gold, compare prices with the official daily gold rate in Egypt before you go.

2.El Hussein Area: Cultural & Religious Shopping

If you want a shopping experience that blends faith, history, and craftsmanship, the El Hussein area in Cairo is unmatched. This district is a magnet for those seeking authentic Egyptian souvenirs with strong cultural roots. Here’s what to buy and how to shop like a local.

Right next to Khan El Khalili, El Hussein is popular with locals for religious goods and specialty items.

Best things to buy here:

1. Incense (Oud, Bokhor, & Blends)

The scent of oud incense is deeply tied to Egypt’s religious and social traditions. Locals burn it at home for blessings, during prayers, and to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests.

What to Look For:

• Original oud powder: dark, rich aroma, sold in small quantities because of its value.

• Bokhor sticks: good for travel, cheaper but less potent than pure oud.

2. Bastet & Scarab Replicas

These symbols are more than décor; Bastet statues represent protection, while scarabs stand for rebirth and good fortune.

3. Fez (Tarboosh)

Once the mark of sophistication, the Egyptian fez is now a cultural keepsake.

4. Wooden Jewelry Boxes with Mother-of-Pearl

An El Hussein specialty, these boxes are hand-inlaid with mother-of-pearl or seashell.

5. Oriental Sweets

Shops in the El Hussein area sell top-quality baklava, basbousa, and stuffed dates, perfect for gifts if packed properly.

6. Islamic Souvenirs

​​The streets around the mosque are filled with stalls selling:

• Qur’ans and Islamic calligraphy art

• Prayer rugs (handwoven options available)

• Modest clothing, abayas, and headscarves

7. Cotton Robes and Vail “Jilbab & Burqa”

Egypt’s cotton is world-famous, and El Hussein’s textile shops offer jilbab and veils made from lightweight, breathable fabrics ideal for hot climates.

8. Belly Dancing Costume

For something more theatrical, seek out the heavily beaded and sequined belly dance outfits; they make for a unique, high-impact souvenir or gift.

9. Egyptian Musical Instruments

Shops here sell small-scale ouds, tabla drums, and even traditional sagat (finger cymbals), perfect for display or musicians.

10. Kilim Carpets

Colorful, flat-woven kilims are a staple of Egyptian décor. Bargain respectfully, and ask about the origin; some sellers offer kilims woven in small Nile Delta villages using traditional methods.

Best Time to Visit El Hussein for Shopping:

• Early morning (9–11 AM) for quiet browsing.

• Evenings during Ramadan are for a festive atmosphere, but expect crowds.

Local tips:

• Fridays are busiest after midday prayers; for quieter shopping, go in the morning.

• Many shops here have fixed prices, especially for religious books.

Best Time to Visit El Hussein for Shopping:

• Early morning (9–11 AM) for quiet browsing.

• Evenings during Ramadan are for a festive atmosphere, but expect crowds.

3.Zamalek: Art, Antiques & Boutique Fashion

An island district on the Nile, Zamalek is known for its cultural feel, leafy streets, and upscale boutiques.

Best things to buy here:

• Egyptian contemporary art from galleries like Zamalek Art Gallery

• Antique furniture and decorative items

• Jewelry from independent Egyptian designers

• High-quality papyrus art and framed photography of Egypt

Local tips:

• Zamalek prices are higher than bazaars, but the quality is far better.

• Galleries here often host monthly exhibitions, which are great for finding one-off pieces.

4.Maadi Boutiques: Hidden Fashion & Décor Gems

Maadi is known for its leafy streets and community feel, making it a great place to find unique products.

What to Buy:

• Custom-made leather bags from local artisans.

• Bohemian clothing from independent designers.

• Home accessories with a rustic, Egyptian twist.

Local Tip: These boutiques rarely advertise; word of mouth and strolling the streets are the best ways to discover them.

2. Where to Shop in Alexandria?

Alexandria offers a mix of Mediterranean charm, historic souks, and modern malls. While Cairo is Egypt’s retail capital, Alexandria’s shopping scene is more relaxed, with a focus on antiques, specialty goods, and seaside leisure.

1.San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall: Luxury Shopping on the Corniche

This upscale mall, attached to the Four Seasons Hotel, is Alexandria’s go-to destination for luxury brands and fine dining.

Best things to buy here:

• High-end fashion and accessories from brands like Lacoste and Armani Exchange

• Fine jewelry from certified gold and diamond retailers

• Premium perfumes and cosmetics

2.Souk El Attarine: Alexandria’s Antique & Perfume Market

One of the oldest markets in Alexandria, Souk El Attarine is famous for antiques, collectibles, and traditional perfumery.

Best things to buy here:

• Antique furniture, brassware, and vintage home décor

• Essential oils and attar perfumes in ornate glass bottles

• Old coins, stamps, and Egyptian memorabilia

Local tips:

• Bargaining is expected; start at around 60% of the first price.

• Take your time and explore side alleys; many hidden shops are tucked away from the main street.

• If buying antiques, ask for export clearance to avoid issues at customs.

3. Where to Shop in Luxor?

Luxor is one of the best places in Egypt for shopping if you want items tied directly to ancient Egyptian history. Most markets cater to tourists, but with a little knowledge, you can find authentic, well-made products.

1.Luxor Souk: Spices, Textiles & Genuine Alabaster

Stretching through the heart of the city, the Luxor Souk is a sensory overload of color, scent, and sound. Stalls overflow with handcrafted goods, and vendors are eager to share the stories behind their products.

Best things to buy here:

• Spices: Saffron threads, cinnamon sticks, dried hibiscus (karkadeh), cumin, and black seed. Many are sourced locally, and the freshness is unmatched compared to Cairo’s touristy markets.

• Alabaster carvings: Vases, bowls, and statues made from Egyptian alabaster quarried in the nearby mountains.

• Lightweight scarves & galabeyas: Perfect for Upper Egypt’s warm climate.

• Silver jewelry: Especially pieces with Nubian or ancient Egyptian motifs.

Local tips:

• Genuine alabaster is cool to the touch, slightly translucent, and heavier than imitations made of resin or gypsum.

• Step away from the main tourist entrances; prices drop in the inner stalls.

• Always bargain with a smile; the process is part of the cultural exchange.

2.Art Galleries: Modern & Traditional Egyptian Art

Luxor’s art galleries offer more than paintings; they’re cultural hubs where local and emerging artists display original work. Many pieces draw inspiration from Pharaonic iconography, rural life, or desert landscapes.

What to buy:

• Hand-painted papyrus artworks (from certified studios, not street sellers).

• Contemporary paintings with Nubian influences.

• Sculptures carved from limestone or granite in modern interpretations of ancient styles.

3.Sekhmet Alabaster: The Real Deal in Stone Carving

For serious buyers, Sekhmet Alabaster is one of the most trusted workshops in Luxor. Here, artisans still carve using traditional techniques passed down for generations.

What to buy:

• Authentic alabaster, limestone, and granite statues.

• Museum-quality replicas of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

• Custom-made pieces, you can even watch the carving process.

Local tip: If you want an item shipped home, arrange it directly with the workshop; they’re experienced in safe international packaging.

4. Where to Shop in Aswan?

Aswan is famous for its Nubian culture, which brings unique styles, colors, and craftsmanship to the market scene. Shopping here feels more personal, with many items handmade by local families.

1.Aswan Souk: Nubian Goods & Exotic Spices

Located in the city center, this vibrant market is a feast for the senses with bold colors, fragrant spices, and handmade goods.

Best things to buy here:

• Nubian silver jewelry: Look for chunky bracelets, engraved pendants, and filigree earrings inspired by tribal motifs. Many silversmiths work on-site, so you can watch your piece being made.

• Handwoven baskets & mats: Crafted from palm fronds, these are lightweight, durable, and perfect for home décor.

• Natural spices & herbs: Stock up on dried hibiscus flowers (karkade), golden turmeric, earthy fenugreek, and warm cardamom. Prices are fair, and quality is unmatched.

• Traditional Nubian clothing: Brightly colored tunics, embroidered galabeyas, and scarves that make for unique wearable souvenirs.

• Local art & beadwork: beaded necklaces, painted gourd lamps, and hand-carved figurines.

Local tips:

• Go early: The souk is cooler and less crowded in the morning, making it easier to browse and negotiate.

• Buy from the maker: Artisans who craft on-site often offer better prices and higher quality than middlemen.

• Stock up on spices here: Aswan is considered one of the best places in Egypt for fresh, aromatic spices at honest prices.

• Bring cash: While some shops accept cards, haggling is smoother in cash, especially Egyptian pounds.

2. Nubian Village Markets

• Location: On Elephantine Island and in the colorful Nubian villages across the Nile from Aswan.

• Atmosphere: Small open-air stalls, often set up outside homes or along sandy lanes, selling hand-embroidered fabrics, beaded jewelry, pottery, and paintings.

• Why tourists love it:

• Everything is made by local artisans, so the money supports the community directly.

• You can often watch women weaving or painting as you shop.

• Prices are more negotiable, and items are more unique than in the city souk.

5. Where to Shop in the Red Sea?

Resort areas like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh offer a mix of beach-town souvenir shops, artisan markets, and upscale boutiques catering to international tourists. While prices can be higher than in Cairo, the convenience and curated selection make them worth exploring.

1.Hurghada Marina Boulevard: Souvenirs by the Sea

A scenic promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés, perfect for an evening stroll after a day at the beach.

Best things to buy here:

• Beachwear and resort fashion from local and imported brands

• Handmade jewelry, often with Red Sea-inspired designs

• Seashell crafts and coral-inspired décor (ensure it’s sustainably sourced)

• Egyptian cotton towels and beach accessories

Local tips:

• Prices are higher here than in downtown Hurghada; you’re paying for location.

• Many shops accept credit cards, but cash (EGP or EUR) can help you negotiate discounts.

• Evening is the best time to shop, with cooler temperatures and a more lively atmosphere.

2.Sharm El Sheikh’s SOHO Square: Boutique Shopping & Nightlife

SOHO Square combines boutique shops with restaurants, entertainment venues, and live shows, making it ideal for travelers who want an evening out with shopping.

Best things to buy here:

• Hand-blown glass perfume bottles

• Silver jewelry and gemstone accessories

• Decorative lanterns and home accents

• Artisanal spices in decorative packaging

Local tips:

• SOHO Square caters to resort guests, so expect higher prices than in inland markets.

• Great place to find high-quality gift packaging for souvenirs.

• Shopping is most enjoyable after sunset when the square is lit up.

6. Where to Shop in Siwa?

Siwa Oasis offers one of Egypt’s most authentic market scenes, far from mass tourism. Shopping here is deeply tied to local Berber culture, with many items produced in small family workshops.

Siwa Open Market: Handcrafted Desert Treasures

Located in the town center, this market is best visited in the morning when traders bring in fresh produce and handmade goods.

Best things to buy here:

• Siwan dates: Sweet, soft, and often organically grown

• Olive oil & olive soap: Produced from the oasis’s groves

• Traditional Siwan clothing: Embroidered garments with geometric designs

• Silver jewelry: Heavy, intricate pieces with Berber motifs

• Salt lamps & candle holders: Made from local salt rock, believed to purify air

Local tips:

• Quality here is generally high, but prices can vary; ask a few vendors before buying.

• The best olive oil is sold in plain plastic bottles for home use; look beyond the decorative tourist packaging.

• Siwa is cash-based; bring small bills in Egyptian pounds.

1.Citystars Mall: Luxury & International Brands

One of the largest shopping centers in the Middle East, Citystars Mall blends global fashion with top-tier Egyptian retailers. It’s the go-to place in Cairo for travelers who want everything under one roof, from high-end clothing to fine dining.

Best things to buy here:

• International fashion brands

• Designer accessories

• Egyptian luxury cotton clothing

• High-end perfumes from both local and global brands

2.Mall of Egypt – Fashion, Entertainment & Ski Egypt

Located in 6th of October City, Mall of Egypt is known for its upscale shopping, massive entertainment area, and being home to Ski Egypt, the country’s only indoor snow park.

Best things to buy here:

• High-end fashion from brands like Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Hugo Boss

• Sportswear and outdoor gear from brands such as Adidas and The North Face

• Premium cosmetics and skincare

• Winter clothing, surprisingly, it’s one of the few places in Egypt with a good selection.

Local tips: If you’re buying sports or outdoor gear, check local Egyptian brands; quality is high, and prices are better than imports.

3.Cairo Festival City Mall: Lifestyle Shopping & Dining

A popular destination in New Cairo, this mall combines big retail names with a large outdoor promenade for dining and entertainment.

Best things to buy here:

• Designer home décor and furniture (especially from local Egyptian designers)

• Stylish Egyptian fashion brands offering modern takes on traditional designs

• Tech gadgets and electronics from official Apple, Samsung, and Huawei stores

Local tips: The outdoor dining area is perfect for an evening break during your shopping day.

4.City Centre Almaza: Family-Friendly Shopping

Close to Heliopolis, Almaza is a mid-sized mall ideal for a relaxed shopping day without the overwhelming scale of Cairo’s mega malls.

Best things to buy here:

• Mid-range fashion brands like H&M and Mango

• Children’s clothing and toys from both local and international stores

• Egyptian-made kitchenware and home items

Local tips:

• It’s less crowded than Citystars, making it a good option if you prefer a calmer atmosphere.

• Several local boutiques here offer better pricing than the same brands in larger malls.

5.City Centre Maadi: Convenient Shopping for Expats & Locals

Located in the heart of Maadi, this shopping center is popular among the expat community.

Best things to buy here:

• Imported supermarket goods are rarely found elsewhere in Cairo

• Niche beauty brands and specialty health foods

• Casual wear and footwear for daily use

Local tips: Good for quick, targeted shopping rather than full-day browsing.

Whether you’re in a Cairo bazaar, a Nubian village, or a Red Sea boutique, the best purchases are those that tell a story and hold their value. Here’s what seasoned travelers, local artisans, and Egyptologists agree you shouldn’t leave without.

1 Traditional & Cultural Items

Papyrus Artwork:

Egypt’s oldest writing surface, still handmade in workshops today.

• What to Look For: Smooth, flexible texture without cracks; natural color, not bleached white.

• Pro Tip: Buy from certified workshops where you can see the papyrus being made; street versions are often banana leaf imitations.

Hand-Painted Cartouches

A cartouche with your name in hieroglyphs is a personal, symbolic keepsake.

• Where to Find: Jewelry shops in Khan el Khalili, Luxor, and Aswan.

• Pro Tip: Gold prices are fixed daily in Egypt; check the official rate before buying.

Egyptian Cotton Clothing & Linens

Egyptian cotton is globally renowned for its softness and durability.

Scarves & Shawls

Egypt’s markets overflow with scarves in every imaginable color and fabric, thanks to their role in daily life. Women use them as head coverings, men as stylish accessories, and travelers as multi-purpose garments.

• Best Picks: Egyptian cotton scarves for softness and breathability; handwoven Aswan shawls for intricate craftsmanship.

• Authenticity Tip: Look for a slightly irregular weave; it’s a sign of handwork, not mass production.

Galabeyas, Jilbabs & Burqas

These flowing robes are as functional as they are beautiful. Men’s galabeyas are loose and collarless; women’s versions are often fitted with embroidery or coins.

• Rarity: Authentic Bedouin burqas with yashmak (gold nose jewelry) are now mostly found in remote desert areas, but you might spot them in Khan El Khalili.

2. Jewelry

Gold & Silver Jewelry

From Pharaonic-inspired designs to modern settings, Egypt’s jewelry scene blends history with fashion.

• Pro Tip: Ask for a stamped hallmark and weigh gold/silver before negotiating.

• Authenticity Check: Real gold will be 18k or higher; silver is usually marked “925.”

Nubian Silver Jewelry

Distinctive, chunky designs often set with turquoise or coral.

• Where to Find: Nubian villages near Aswan or at Aswan Market.

Precious & Semi-Precious Stones: Lapis lazuli, carnelian, and turquoise have been worn in Egypt since ancient times.

• Pro Tip: Buy stones from reputable gem traders; avoid deep discounts that often signal imitations.

3 Handicrafts & Art

Miniature Pyramids & Pharaoh Carvings:

Tourist staples, but quality varies; hand-carved stone lasts longer than resin molds.

Khayamiya Textiles:

Colorful appliqué textiles traditionally used for tents are now sold as wall hangings and cushion covers.

• Where to Buy: Cairo’s Street of the Tentmakers (Sharia Khayamiya).

​​Rugs & Carpets

While Egypt isn’t a carpet giant like Persia, its camel wool rugs are unique. Camel hair is lanolin-rich, dust-resistant, and stronger than merino.

• Where to Look: Saqqara for earthy tones, Aswan for Nubian-inspired bright patterns.

• Tip: Fold, don’t roll, for easier luggage storage.

Pottery, Alabaster & Stone Carvings

Luxor and Aswan artisans produce alabaster vases, pharaonic statues, and stoneware with the same techniques used for temple decorations. Real alabaster is slightly translucent and cold to the touch.

Hand-Blown Glass Perfume Bottles

Made in Cairo and Luxor workshops, each one is a unique piece of art.

• Buying Tip: Inspect for smooth edges and balanced shape; cheaper ones may tip over easily.

4 Perfumes & Oils

Essential Oils

Egypt produces some of the world’s finest jasmine, lotus, and sandalwood oils.

• Pro Tip: Pure oils are non-alcoholic and won’t evaporate quickly.

5 Food & Spices

Egyptian Tea & Hibiscus (Karkadeh)

• Hibiscus brews into a deep red tea, served hot or cold, with a tangy taste beloved across Egypt.

Egyptian Spices

Markets in Luxor and Aswan are intoxicating with the scent of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and hibiscus (karkadeh).

• Tip: Buy vacuum-sealed packs to preserve freshness.

Dates & Nuts

Egypt’s Siwa dates are among the world’s finest, often stuffed with almonds or coated in chocolate.

Oriental Sweets

Baklava, basbousa, and stuffed dates make elegant gifts; just pack them in airtight containers for travel.

6 Specialty Items

• Leather Goods Egyptian leather, especially camel leather, wears beautifully over time. Look for hand-stitched bags and sandals in Cairo’s workshops.

• Musical Instruments The oud (lute) and darbuka (goblet drum) are more than souvenirs; they’re playable links to Egyptian folk music.

• Cosmetics & Kohl Ancient Egyptians used kohl not just for beauty but for sun and infection protection. Today, both powder and cream kohl are sold: “Bared” for cosmetics and “Hami” for medicinal use.

If you want the Guide to Shopping in Egypt to truly work for you, you need more than a list of places; you need the skills, etiquette, and insider strategies locals use every day. Shopping here is as much about skill as it is about choice. Learn these rules and you’ll not only get fair prices but also earn respect from local shopkeepers.

1.Bargaining Rules & Cultural Etiquette

In Egypt, bargaining is expected in most markets, antique shops, and souvenir stalls. Fixed prices are the exception, not the rule.

• Start Low, Stay Polite: Open with an offer around 40–50% of the asking price, then work upward.

• Use Humor & Patience: Egyptians appreciate friendly banter; a smile gets better results than aggression.

• Know When to Stop: If you reach a price you’re happy with, don’t push further; it’s bad form.

• Tip from Locals: Walk away slowly if the price is too high; many shopkeepers will call you back with a better offer.

2.Payment Methods & Currency Tips

• Cash is King: Most small shops prefer Egyptian Pounds (EGP). Carry small denominations for easier bargaining.

• Foreign Currency: Some vendors in tourist areas accept USD or EUR, but expect a poor exchange rate.

• Credit Cards: Common in malls, hotels, and large stores; rare in street markets.

• Pro Tip: Use official currency exchange offices or bank ATMs; avoid changing money with street vendors.

3.Language Phrases for Shopping

Even a few Arabic words can change the tone of your negotiation.

• “Bikam?”: How much?

• “Ghali awi”: Too expensive.

• “Akhir Kalam?”: Final price?

• “Shokran”: Thank you.

• “La, shokran”: No, thank you.

4.Quality vs. Tourist Traps

Egypt is famous for papyrus, gold, and perfumes, but fakes are common in tourist-heavy areas.

• Papyrus: Genuine papyrus has a textured weave and doesn’t crack when rolled; fake papyrus often feels like smooth cardboard.

• Gold: Always buy from reputable jewelers with proper hallmarks (Egypt uses 18k and 21k standards).

• Perfumes: High-quality perfume oils leave no greasy residue and last for hours without fading.

Local Hack: Ask your guide or hotel concierge for trusted sellers; they know which shops deliver real quality.

One thing the Guide to Shopping in Egypt can’t fully prepare you for is the way the experience feels, the colors, the sounds, and the bargaining energy. That’s why we’ve gathered real advice from travelers who’ve navigated Cairo’s souks, Luxor’s markets, and the boutiques of Aswan and the Red Sea.

1. Get Ready to Be Overwhelmed

“Your first five minutes in Khan El Khalili will make your senses explode, in a good way. The trick is not to buy from the first shop you see. Take a full lap first.” Maria, Spain

Crowded alleys, endless shop windows, and sellers calling out their offers can feel intense. Slow down, breathe, and enjoy the theater of it all.

2. All That Glitters Is Not Gold

“I almost bought a ‘gold’ cartouche for a great price; it turned out it was brass. Ask for the hallmark stamp.” Thomas, UK

In tourist markets, jewelry should be verified by weight and purity marks. Never skip this step.

3. Snack While You Shop

“A fresh glass of sugarcane juice in the Luxor market gave me the energy to keep bargaining for another hour.” Claire, Canada

Local snacks are part of the fun. Try fresh dates, hibiscus tea, or Egyptian falafel between shops to keep your energy up.

4. Pay for Good Quality

“I bought two papyrus paintings; the cheap one faded in months; the real one still looks amazing years later.” Ahmed, UAE

Sometimes the cheapest souvenir costs more in the long run when it doesn’t last.

5. Get Into the Spirit of Things

“I started my trip afraid to haggle. By the last day, I was joking with sellers like a pro, and they respected it.” Sophie, France

Bargaining isn’t confrontation here; it’s a friendly ritual. Smile, joke, and enjoy it.

6. Haggling Is Part of the Fun

“If they start at 500 EGP, I usually offer 200 and settle around 300. It works like magic.” Raj, India

Start lower than you expect to pay and meet in the middle.

7. Don’t Be a Pushover

“One seller followed me for 10 minutes; I just kept saying ‘la, shukran’ (no, thank you) until he gave up.” Lucy, USA

Polite firmness works better than ignoring or arguing.

8. Know What to Buy

“I wasted time looking at souvenirs I didn’t care about. A quick list before shopping would’ve saved me hours.” Pablo, Argentina

Research items in advance; this Guide to Shopping in Egypt is a good starting point.

9. Check the Currency

“Some shops gave me prices in USD, others in EGP. Always convert in your head so you know the real cost.” Elena, Italy

A currency conversion app is your best friend when hopping between markets.

If you want more than a quick market stop, Traviio can guide you to Egypt’s best shopping spots, from the hidden workshops only locals know to the iconic souks and high-end boutiques worth your time. Our expert-led tours help you:

• Spot genuine craftsmanship and avoid tourist traps

• Bargain with confidence and cultural respect

• Discover unique items you won’t find in regular tourist shops

This guide to shopping in Egypt has shown you where to go, what to buy, and how to shop like a local. With Traviio, you can turn it into an unforgettable travel experience.