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Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe

Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe

Explore our expert analysis of the top crypto exchanges in Europe, focusing on regulation, asset diversity, and user experience.

Summary: In Europe, the best strategy for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrency investments involves using exchanges that comply with local or EU financial regulations. These platforms allow deposits in Euros (EUR) and other currencies and support preferred payment options like SEPA, bank transfers and credit or debit cards.

We've identified the top 5 exchanges for investors, focusing on security and reliability. These platforms are ideal for Europeans looking to engage with digital assets in a safe and informed environment.

  1. eToro - Best Crypto Exchange in Europe
  2. Bybit - Best Derivatives Exchange in Europe
  3. Uphold - Best Exchange for Beginners
  4. Bitpanda - Best Overall Alternative
  5. Kraken - Best for Institutional Investors
Best Crypto Exchange in Europe
5.0 out of 5.0 by Datawallet.
eToro stands out as Europe's best cryptocurrency platform due to its vast asset selection, robust regulatory compliance, low fees, user-friendly interface, and innovative social trading features.
Euro (EUR) Deposit Methods
SEPA, Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card and more.
Supported Assets
4,500 Cryptos, Stocks, ETFs, Commodities and more.
Licensing & Regulation
The FCA, CySEC and other tier-1 regulatory authorities.

Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.

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Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges Europe

Our detailed examination of more than 20 cryptocurrency platforms identifies the top five for European investors, emphasizing compliance with the regulatory norms of European countries and relevant EU directives. Our focus includes a variety of digital currencies, user-friendly interfaces, European currency transaction support, and clear pricing strategies. For investors seeking a platform aligned with their investment needs, our guide below is essential.

Exchange
Cryptocurrencies
Trading Fees
Deposit Methods
Key Features
eToro
4,500+ (Crypto, Stocks & ETFs)
0% Fees and Variable Spread (1% Average)
Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card & More
Staking, Multiple Asset Classes, Most Regulated & More
Bybit
1,000+
Maker Fees 0.01% and Taker Fees 0.06%
Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card & More
Staking, Futures, Options, Lending & More
Uphold
250+
1% Fee and 1% Spread
Debit Card, Credit Card, Apple Pay & Google Pay
Staking and Precious Metals Investing
Bitpanda
3,000+ (Crypto, Stocks & ETFs)
0.2% Fees and 1% Spread
Bank Transfer, Debit Card & Credit Card
Staking, Multiple Asset Classes & More
Kraken
250+
Maker Fees 0.016% and Taker Fees 0.26%
Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card & More
Futures, Staking, Margin Trading & More

1. eToro

As Europe's premier investment platform, eToro stands out with its extensive portfolio of over 4,500 financial instruments, including leading cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, alongside highly sought-after crypto stocks, like Coinbase. eToro also brings to the table exclusive Bitcoin ETFs by prominent firms like iShares by Blackrock, offering investors diverse avenues to expand their investment portfolios.

Tailored for effortless user experience, eToro offers a streamlined Euro (EUR) deposit process that meets the stringent regulatory frameworks across Europe. The platform caters to various investment strategies by accepting multiple deposit options, including SEPA, bank transfers, and credit/debit cards. With its competitive pricing structure and attractive spreads, eToro is recognized as the top choice for cryptocurrency and ETF investments throughout Europe.

  • Fees: eToro utilizes a variable spread fee model, generally around 1%.
  • Supported Assets: eToro's diverse offering includes over 4,500 assets, featuring key cryptocurrencies, innovative ETFs, and an extensive selection of stocks.
  • Regulatory & Licensing: eToro is in compliance with the regulatory standards set by leading European financial authorities.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Includes support for bank transfers, SEPA, debit/credit cards, and other widely used European payment methods.
Best Crypto Exchange Europe is eToro

2. Bybit

Bybit occupies the second-ranking position among Europe's leading cryptocurrency exchanges, especially favored by derivatives traders. Known for its extensive asset range and user-centric features, Bybit is an ideal platform for beginners and institutional investors. A notable feature is its efficient and complimentary SEPA deposit options, greatly benefiting clients transacting in Euros (EUR). The platform boasts a selection of over 1,000 digital assets, appealing to a broad range of investment preferences.

Beyond its diverse altcoin assortment, Bybit stands out in futures trading, offering leverage up to 25x, and includes staking options, thereby enhancing investment opportunities in Europe. Its competitive fee structure, with a maker fee of 0.01% and a taker fee of 0.06%, along with robust security measures, cements Bybit's status as a superior choice for European investors. With over 10 million users globally, Bybit is celebrated for its dependable service and comprehensive offerings.

  • Fees: Competitive fees including a maker fee of 0.01% and a taker fee of 0.06%.
  • Supported Cryptocurrencies: A vast range of over 1,000 digital assets.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Compliant with European regulations, licensed by top-tier regulators including CySEC, and widely accessible across Europe.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: A variety of options including instant and free SEPA deposits, debit and credit cards, bank transfers, Wise, and more.
Bybit Europe

3. Uphold

Uphold claims its place as the third-best cryptocurrency exchange in Europe, showcasing a diverse portfolio of over 260 digital assets available for trading and staking. Upheld by strict regulatory oversight from tier-1 authorities, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), it provides a securely regulated environment for European users. A standout feature of Uphold is its user-friendly staking services, offering investors the chance to earn up to 25% APY on selected assets.

Uphold's reputation is further reinforced by its unwavering commitment to transparency and security. Notably, it is one of the few exchanges providing an audited proof-of-reserves. This feature gives users real-time confidence in the safety of their funds and assurance that assets are fully backed on a 1:1 basis at all times. Such commitment to openness and reliability positions Uphold as a highly credible and dependable choice in the European market.

  • Fees: Reasonable, with a 1% trading fee and a 1% spread fee.
  • Supported Assets: A robust selection of 260 cryptocurrencies and 4 precious metals.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Uphold operates under the watchful eye of leading authorities like the FCA, ensuring compliance in the European market.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: A variety of options including SEPA, Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Card, and modern methods like Google Pay and Apple Pay.

4. Bitpanda

Bitpanda proudly holds the fourth position as a leading exchange in Europe, recognized for its licensing by tier-1 authorities like the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) and Germany's BaFin. Located in Vienna, Bitpanda presents an extensive suite of services, encompassing the trading of over 2,500 cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and more. It is particularly acclaimed for its staking services in cryptocurrencies, supporting a range of assets, including Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cosmos (ATOM), and other proof-of-stake coins.

Bitpanda ensures smooth and free Euro (EUR) deposit processes from European banks and supports diverse payment options, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. The platform is distinguished for its strict regulatory compliance, holding licenses from top-tier authorities like the FMA and BaFin, underscoring its commitment to security and trustworthiness for users.

  • Fees: Competitive with trading fees at 0.2% and spread fees at 1%.
  • Supported Assets: Over 2,500 cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, precious metals, and robust staking options for crypto assets.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Licensed by tier-1 authorities, including the FMA and BaFin, ensuring compliance and reliability across Europe.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Broad range including bank transfer, debit/credit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and more.
Bitpanda

5. Kraken

Kraken ranks as the fifth-leading cryptocurrency exchange in Europe, particularly noted for its proficiency in catering to institutional and retail crypto markets. Demonstrating its substantial reach, Kraken boasts impressive quarterly trading volumes that surpass $207 billion, marking its widespread popularity across the continent. The platform enables trading and staking in over 250 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and various emerging tokens.

European investors, especially those from the institutional sector, value Kraken for its commitment to an exceptional user experience, as evidenced by its highly-rated mobile applications on both the App Store and Google Play. Kraken's staking services are noteworthy, offering up to 25% annual rewards (APY). Specifically designed for professional and institutional investors, Kraken Pro delivers competitive spreads, substantial liquidity, and high deposit limits, reinforcing Kraken's reputation as a reliable and efficient exchange for sophisticated investors.

  • Fees: Competitive, with Maker Orders at 0.01% and Taker Orders at 0.02%.
  • Supported Assets: Extensive, encompassing over 250 spot markets and more than 100 margin trading markets.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Licensed by tier-1 authorities in Europe like CySEC, the FCA, the OAM and many others.
  • EUR Deposit Methods: Diverse options, including SEPA Transfer, SWIFT, Bank Transfers, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and others.
Kraken Europe

Is Crypto Regulated in Europe?

Cryptocurrency investing is legal in Europe, with the European Union (EU) and its member states allowing digital currencies. The regulatory landscape is evolving, particularly with the introduction of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation by the European Council in October 2022. Set to be effective in 2024, MiCA aims to enhance investor protection and set high regulatory standards for exchanges, without stifling innovation in digital assets.

MiCA mandates that companies offering crypto services in the EU obtain authorization from national financial regulators and publish comprehensive white papers for public crypto offerings. This regulation adapts traditional EU securities trading rules to the unique characteristics of cryptocurrencies, including measures against market abuse and insider dealing. It also rigorously addresses stablecoins, demanding robust reserves and governance, especially for widely circulated tokens.

While MiCA ensures legal certainty and encourages traditional finance sectors to engage with cryptocurrencies, it also imposes strict compliance requirements, with significant penalties for noncompliance. The regulation’s impact extends beyond Europe, potentially setting international standards and influencing regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions.

Is Cryptocurrency Taxed in Europe?

Cryptocurrency taxation in Europe varies significantly among European Union (EU) member states, as each country has its own set of rules and regulations. Generally, crypto assets are subject to capital gains tax, income tax, or both, depending on how they are used and the specific laws of each jurisdiction.

For instance, in Germany, the Federal Central Tax Office (Bundeszentralamt für Steuern) treats cryptocurrencies as private money, and long-term capital gains from crypto investments held for over a year are tax-exempt. In contrast, the General Directorate of Public Finances (Direction Générale des Finances Publiques) in France imposes a flat tax rate on crypto capital gains, while income generated from professional trading activities is subject to income tax.

It's important for investors to consult their local tax authorities or seek professional advice to understand the specific tax implications of cryptocurrency transactions in their respective EU countries.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, our review highlights the paramount importance of choosing cryptocurrency exchanges in Europe that prioritize security, reliability, and adherence to both local and EU regulations. By focusing on platforms like eToro, Bybit, Uphold, Bitpanda, and Kraken, European investors are equipped with the resources to make informed decisions in the dynamic digital asset landscape. These exchanges not only offer a broad spectrum of digital currencies and intuitive trading experiences but also ensure that transactions can be conducted in Euros and other European currencies, supported by familiar payment methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

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