With over 10 years of experience researching and reviewing cryptocurrency exchanges, our team has developed an extensive methodology for evaluating trading platforms. We examine over 15 critical factors including fees, security, supported coins, reputation, and more.
The purpose of this guide is simple – to recommend the top crypto exchanges available to users in Europe.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know which platforms offer the best combination of low fees, high liquidity, stellar security, and easy usability for your unique needs. Let’s dive in!
Key Factors We Evaluate:
- Fees and discount structures
- Supported countries and payment methods
- Platform security and insurance
- Number of supported cryptocurrencies
- Ease of account setup and verification
- User interface and mobile app
- Customer service and reputation
- Available trading features and tools
- Liquidity and trading volumes
- Regional regulatory compliance
Max leverage | 2:1 CFD |
---|---|
Trading fees | Spread 1% |
Licences | FCA 7973792 + AFSL #491139 + CySEC 109/10, |
Cryptocurrencies | 79+ |
Payment methods | PayPal, debit and credit cards, Skrill, Neteller, SEPA, WebMoney |
Number of users | 25.000.000+ |
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Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
Max leverage | 20:1 |
---|---|
Deposit fees | By card 1,8%; minimum deposit 15 EUR |
Trading fees | 0.1% |
Licences | |
Cryptocurrencies | 650+ |
Payment methods | Crypto, Visa, MasterCard |
Number of users | 30.000.000+ |
Max leverage | 100:1 |
---|---|
Headquarters | Dubai |
Deposit fees | Card 2% |
Trading fees | 0,075% |
Cryptocurrencies | 370 |
Payment methods | Crypto, Visa, MasterCard |
Number of users | 3.000.000+ |
Max leverage | 10:1 |
---|---|
Deposit fees | Debit card 2-3% |
Trading fees | 0.145% - 0.2% |
Licenses | |
Cryptocurrencies | Payment methods | Crypto, debit and credit cards, bank transfer, Banxa, SEPA, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
Number of users | 10.000.000+ |
Max leverage | 125:1 |
---|---|
Deposit fees | Debit card 3-4%, crypto free |
Trading fees | 0.1% |
Licenses | |
Cryptocurrencies | 500+, including |
Payment methods | Crypto, debit and credit cards, bank transfer, SEPA |
Number of users | 2.000.000+ |
- Our Top 5 Picks for The Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe
- 1. eToro – Best Crypto Trading App for Beginners:
- 2. Binance – The Best Crypto Exchange for Advanced Traders:
- 3. Bybit: The Top Pick for Margin Trading:
- 4. Bitget: fast growing user friendly derivative exchange
- 5. Gate.io offers over 1400 cryptocurrencies
- Top Crypto Exchanges and Trading Platforms Reviews
- Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency Trading in Europe
- Our review process and methodology: uncovering the best of the best
- Best staking exchanges comparison
- Best trading platforms comparison
- Best crypto lending exchanges comparison
- Exchange Battles
- How to invest in crypto on a cryptocurrency exchange?
- Crypto Exchanges Regulations
- How to choose a safe Bitcoin exchange
- FAQ about the best crypto exchanges in Europe
Our Top 5 Picks for The Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe
Before making financial investments, it’s essential to understand the providers thoroughly. Since our engagement with cryptocurrencies began back in 2017, we’ve rigorously tested several cryptocurrency exchanges from Europe.
Based on our personal experiences and testing, here’s our ‘best-of-the-best’ list:
- eToro: The best choice for beginners and intermediates
- Binance: Ideal for advanced traders
- Bybit: The best for margin trading
- Bitget: Big selection of coins and copy trading
- Gate.io: Largest selection of coins
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these standout exchanges:
eToro stands out from the crowd with its high level of security, a mammoth-sized community of trusted users, and the distinction of being the world’s largest Bitcoin trading platform. Ideal for those who are just dipping their toes into crypto waters.
Binance is a heavyweight champion offering an impressive selection of cryptocurrencies. It goes beyond just buying and selling Bitcoin; you can also invest in startup projects with just a few clicks, right from the app! And their super low fees? Just the cherry on top.
If you’re a seasoned trader ready to embrace high risk, Bybit is your playground. With a margin reaching 100:1, if you buy Bitcoin for $10, you can trade a $1000 position.
To find out more about these top-notch exchanges and to decide which one is the perfect fit for you, continue on this journey with us. We’ll break down each platform based on rigorous tests and hands-on experiences.
1. eToro – Best Crypto Trading App for Beginners:
eToro the right cryptocurrency exchange for:
- Beginner cryptocurrency investors and traders
- You want to enter the world of crypto assets in the easiest and safest way
- Trading euros with cryptocurrencies and vice versa
eToro is the quintessential exchange for beginner crypto investors and traders looking to get into the world of crypto assets safely and straightforwardly. It’s renowned for its user-friendly copy trading platform where traders can replicate the strategies of experienced counterparts.
With over 3,000 trading symbols, including CFDs, forex and exchange-traded securities, eToro offers a complete trading and investment experience.
eToro was founded in 2007 and is regulated in two jurisdictions, making it a safe (low-risk) trading broker.
eToro is excellent for copy trading and cryptocurrency trading and is our top choice for both categories in 2023.
It is easy to use thanks to eToro’s web platform and mobile application, which is particularly useful for novice traders.
It offers liability insurance of up to EUR 1 million per customer in the EU, UK and Australia.
VIP privileges are available for club members and popular investors who achieve higher status.
eToro offers the widest variety of payment methods:
eToro is one of those cryptocurrency exchanges in the European market, regulated by a financial authority in Europe. User funds have higher protection comparing to other exchanges platforms. So if you are looking for a licensed exchange then this is one of your few options.
Pros
- Regulated for EU countries – CySEC licence
- Trading made social
- Wide choice of payment methods
- Cryptocurrency holdings may be transferred off the platform
- Comprehensive educational resources
Cons
- Not best if you want to trade digital assets using technical analysis
- No crypto-to-crypto trading pairs
- Not available in some US states
{etoroCFDrisk}% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest.
Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
2. Binance – The Best Crypto Exchange for Advanced Traders:
Binance is the right exchange platform for:
- Traders who already have some experience with cryptocurrencies
- Active traders
- A wide selection of cryptocurrencies
Binance is a crypto exchange based in Europe now but founded in 2017 in Hong Kong. It quickly became one of the largest crypto exchanges in the world in terms of trading volume. Today, Binance is a well-established exchange, offering more than 40 fiat currencies and more than 600 cryptocurrencies to customers around the world. The maximum transaction fees are 0.1 per cent.
Binance is a huge and growing entire crypto ecosystem. Over the years, it has expanded its influence worldwide, constantly expanding into new countries. It is also considered one of the safest and easiest exchanges to use, with different account types for different investors. One of its headquarters is situated in the European Union – Malta.
Binance offers low fees, supports transactions in fiat currencies as well as cryptocurrencies and has no maximum withdrawal limits for verified users.
Pros
- Crypto card with up to 8% cashback
- Wide selection of cryptocurrencies
- High level security team
- Low fees
- High liquidity
Cons
- Lack of extensive regulation approval
- Been hacked in the past
3. Bybit: The Top Pick for Margin Trading:
Margin on cryptocurrencies up to 100x
On Bybit you can trade cryptocurrencies with up to 100x leverage. This means that you can trade a $10,000 position by investing $100. Experienced traders can make high profits from trading with leverage, as this increases the potential profits of the trade. Consequently, the risk also increases proportionally.
Users can take long or short positions on the 15 available digital currencies (betting on rising or falling bitcoin prices respectively). Bybit offers a number of advanced trading options.
Technology and tools
Bybit claims to be able to process 100,000 transactions per second, much faster than its competitors. It does everything it can to avoid server downtime, a problem many other exchanges often face when market changes cause many people to start trading at the same time.
Chart analysis tools are popular with traders because they have many additional functions and capabilities. It is also possible to download data in different formats.
Pros
- Up to 100x margin
- Advanced tools backed by great technology
- A risk-free testing environment for learning and experimenting
- Educational Resources
Cons
- Crypto derivatives are extremely risky
- Not the best for spot trading
4. Bitget: fast growing user friendly derivative exchange
Looking for a platform that not only offers access to the rare gems of the crypto world but also equips you with the power of free copy trading? Well, Bitget is your answer! This Singapore-based platform rewards skilled traders for sharing their winning strategies, making it perfect for those looking to expand their trading horizons.
Bitget, led by CEO Sandra Lou and Chief Sales Officer Intae Song, offers a broad range of cryptocurrencies and tokens for spot and futures trading. With competitive fees, Bitget stands as a cost-effective choice.
Pros
- Wide range of products
- Derivatives trading
- Copy trading
Cons
- Limited fiat support
5. Gate.io offers over 1400 cryptocurrencies
Finally, we have Gate.io, a somewhat lesser-known platform in Europe, but certainly one worth considering. This exchange enables users to buy, sell, and trade a staggering variety of cryptocurrencies. It’s excellent for both newbies just starting their crypto journey and experienced traders seeking a secure platform with advanced trading tools.
Despite its myriad of features, Gate.io manages to maintain a simple user interface, making it super easy to navigate the world of cryptocurrencies. Moreover, its competitive fee structure makes it an attractive option for users who are mindful of trading costs.
The platform is designed to be convenient and accessible to a wide range of users, with a simple interface that makes it easy to buy, sell and trade cryptocurrencies. The platform’s low fees also make it an attractive option for users looking to minimize trading costs.
Pros
- 1400+ cryptocurrencies available
- Advanced trading features
- Competitive fee structure
Cons
- No fiat currency deposits
Top Crypto Exchanges and Trading Platforms Reviews
Discover the top selection of exchanges reviews, designed to guide you towards the perfect choice for your unique trading needs.
Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency Trading in Europe
During its development the European market for cryptocurrency trading has become the biggest hub of the cryptocurrency market in the world.
As European countries have some of the world’s wealthiest and technology-rich democracies, it’s not unusual that so many countries want to invest in Bitcoin.
Among those most convinced about bitcoin are nations such as Germany, Poland, Italy, Netherlands and Spain. Bit Flyer has released an update to its cryptocurrency trust index which aims to gauge public confidence in the Bitcoin ecosystem in general.
These results suggest that cryptocurrency has been slowly but steadily gaining popularity within the mainstream consciousness.
Our review process and methodology: uncovering the best of the best
We take our review process seriously, and we’re committed to providing you with accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive information. Here’s a glimpse into our meticulous methodology that ensures we deliver top-notch reviews and comparisons of the most popular crypto exchanges and trading platforms:
Research and selection: We start by compiling an extensive list of crypto exchanges and trading platforms, keeping an eye on the latest trends and players in the market. Our team carefully selects the most relevant and most popular crypto exchanges and options to make sure we’re covering the platforms that truly matter to you.
In-depth analysis: We don’t just scratch the surface. Our team of experts dives deep into each platform, signing up for accounts, navigating through their features, and getting a firsthand experience of what it’s like to be a user. We examine every aspect, including trading fees, supported cryptocurrencies, security measures, user interface, customer support, and more.
Comparisons and rankings: We don’t stop at individual evaluations. We take it a step further and compare the platforms against each other. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each option, we can create rankings and recommendations for specific use cases, such as beginners, low fees, or margin trading.
Continuous updates: The world of cryptocurrencies and trading platforms is constantly evolving. To ensure our reviews and comparisons remain accurate and up-to-date, we revisit our evaluations regularly, incorporating any new developments or changes that might impact our rankings.
Transparency and honesty: Above all, we value transparency and honesty in our reviews. We’re not affiliated with any of the platforms we review, which allows us to maintain our objectivity and provide you with genuine, unbiased insights.
Best staking exchanges comparison
Unleash Your Earning Potential
eToro |
Bitstamp |
Binance |
||
---|---|---|---|---|
Logo | ||||
Overview | ||||
Founded |
2007 |
2011 |
2017 |
|
Headquarters |
|
|
|
|
Deposit methods |
|
|
|
|
Number of users |
25.000.000+ |
4.000.000+ |
30.000.000+ |
|
Annual return |
5 - 6.25% |
5 - 6% |
5 - 6% |
|
Repayment period |
With the arrival of Ethereum 2.0 |
With the arrival of Ethereum 2.0 |
With the arrival of Ethereum 2.0 |
|
Minimum period |
Until the arrival of Etherеum 2.0 |
Until the arrival of Etherеum 2.0 |
Until the arrival of Etherеum 2.0 |
|
Payment in |
ETH 2 |
ETH2R |
BETH |
|
Automatic selection | ||||
More cryptocurrencies to stake | ||||
Annual return |
|
|
DeFi staking:BTC, ETH, BUSD, BNB, AAVE, DYDX, USDT, USDC, SXP, LINK, HARD, XVS, DAI 1-25% annually
|
|
Repayment period |
By the 14th day of the previous month |
Every day |
Every day |
|
Minimum period |
8-10 days |
No |
0-120 days |
|
Automatic selection | ||||
Risk disclaimer |
Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
|
|
Discover the power of passive income through staking by diving deeper into our comprehensive guide on the best staking exchanges. Learn about each platform’s unique features, rewards, and supported cryptocurrencies by visiting our dedicated page on Top Staking Exchanges. Don’t miss this opportunity to optimize your earnings and make the most of your crypto investments.
Best trading platforms comparison
Unlock the Ultimate Trading Experience
eToro |
AvaTrade |
Libertex |
||
---|---|---|---|---|
Logo | ||||
General overview | ||||
Founded |
2007 |
2006 |
1997 |
|
Licenses |
CySEC (EU), FCA |
Central Bank of Ireland (EU) |
CySEC (EU) |
|
Deposit methods |
|
|
|
|
Minimum deposit |
50 EUR |
100 EUR |
100 EUR |
|
Number of users |
25.000.000+ |
300.000+ |
2.200.000+ |
|
Trading platform details | ||||
Free demo account | ||||
Mobile App | ||||
Short and long positions | ||||
Trading hours |
24/7 |
24/7 |
24/7 |
|
Trading fees |
0,75 - 5% |
0,2 - 2% |
from 0,0003% |
|
Leverage |
2:1 |
2:1 |
2:1 |
|
Cryptocurrencies |
|
|
25+ crypto CFDs
|
|
Other instruments |
Stocks, Commodities, Cryptocurrencies |
Forex, ETF, Bonds, Stocks, Crypto,
Commodities, Options, Indices |
CFD Forex, CFD metal, CFD Indices, CFD Stocks |
|
Extras |
Copy Trading |
MetaTrader 5 |
Libertex Invest account |
|
To the platform | ||||
Risk disclaimer |
CFDs are complex instruments and carry with them the eLeverageto risk of losing money quickly due to Financial Leverage. {etoroCFDrisk}% of retail investors' accounts lose money when overtrading with CFDs with this provider. Don't invest unless you're prepared to lose all the money you invest. |
CFDs are complex instruments and carry a risk of losing money quickly due to financial leverage. 70.8% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You need to assess whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the eLeverageto risk of losing money. |
Maximize your trading potential by exploring our in-depth guide on the best trading platforms. Get all the details you need about each platform’s features, fees, and supported cryptocurrencies by visiting our comprehensive page on Top Crypto Trading Platforms.
Elevate your trading experience to new heights and make proper decisions in the ever-evolving crypto asset landscape.
Best crypto lending exchanges comparison
Empower Your Crypto: Earn, Borrow, and Grow.
Crypto.com |
Binance |
|||
---|---|---|---|---|
Logo | ||||
General overview | ||||
Founded |
2016 |
2017 |
||
Headquarters |
Hongkong, Bulgaria |
Malta, Hongkong |
||
Deposit methods |
|
|
Number of users |
10.000.000+ |
30.000.000+ |
Crypto lending | ||||
Cryptocurrencies for rent |
BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP, BNB, CRO, LINK, BAT, MKR, PAX, XLM, ATOM, XTZ, BCH, Stablecoins |
BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP, XLM, BCH, BNB, BUSD, EOS, ETC, LINK, TRX, USDT |
||
Interest |
4 - 14% |
0,22 - 15% |
||
Borrowing period |
Flexible, 30 days, 90 days |
Every day, 15 days, 30 days |
||
Compound interest | ||||
Minimum period |
no |
Up to 30 days |
||
Extras |
Interest rate up to 14.5% in USDC |
Savings |
||
Take full advantage of your digital assets by learning more about the best crypto lending exchanges. Delve into our detailed guide on each platform’s interest rates, loan terms, and collateral requirements by checking out our dedicated page on Top Crypto Lending Exchanges. Transform your own crypto assets and holdings into a powerful financial tool and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Exchange Battles
Explore our head-to-head comparisons of the leading crypto exchanges
How to invest in crypto on a cryptocurrency exchange?
If you want to buy and sell bitcoin or invest in cryptocurrencies, all you have to do is follow these steps.
- Step 1:
Choose the right exchange for you. Make sure you have good liquidity, low spreads and the right pairs to trade. Sometimes it can take more than one exchange to make an investment. - Step 2:
Open an account. The process is quick and easy, but varies slightly from exchange to exchange. Then choose a secure password and remember that you are trading with your own money: this data should not be on an unsecured computer. - Step 3:
Confirm the account. Some operators require a copy of your ID card and your last mobile phone bill to confirm your identity. If you do not do this, you will not be able to use the full range of features or invest fiat money. - Step 4:
Make a deposit. In the next step, you can transfer the appropriate exchange currency to your bitcoin exchange wallet to start trading. Many exchanges support US dollars, but it is always advisable to have an appropriate currency to trade with BTC or ETH. - Step 5:
Invest in cryptocurrencies. In the final step, you invest in the cryptocurrencies of your choice. All you have to do is enter a transaction with the appropriate pair and wait for it to be executed. Then make sure you transfer the cryptocurrency to your external wallet address.
Crypto Exchanges Regulations
When it comes to trading cryptocurrencies, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial for both your financial security and peace of mind. A regulated exchange operates under the watchful eye of financial authorities, ensuring that it adheres to strict guidelines and maintains high standards of operation. This often translates to better consumer protection for users, as these exchanges are required to implement robust security measures, adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) and know your customer (KYC) protocols, and maintain transparency in their dealings.
However, not all crypto exchanges in Europe are regulated, and that doesn’t necessarily mean they should be avoided altogether. While unregulated exchanges may pose higher risks, it’s possible to trade on such platforms as long as they are permitted to operate within Europe. The crucial factor here is to ensure the exchange is legally allowed to provide services in your jurisdiction.
That being said, your security and secure transactions ultimately lies in your own hands. Regardless of whether you choose a regulated or unregulated bitcoin exchange based here, it’s essential to take personal responsibility for safeguarding your digital assets. This means using strong, unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and storing your cryptocurrencies in a secure hardware wallet when not actively trading on other exchanges. By following these best practices, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the world of crypto exchanges and enjoy a more secure trading experience.
How to choose a safe Bitcoin exchange
When choosing an exchange, it is important to consider several key aspects to ensure the platform meets your needs and expectations. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
- Security: The most critical aspect of any exchange is its security measures. Check if the platform employs strong security protocols like two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage for assets, and encrypted communication.
- Reputation: Research the exchange’s reputation by reading reviews, user feedback, and news articles. An exchange with a solid reputation and positive user experiences is likely to be more trustworthy.
- Fees: Compare the fee structures of various exchanges, as they can differ significantly. These may include deposit fees, trading fees, and withdrawal fees. Low fees can lead to significant savings over time.
- Liquidity: High liquidity on an exchange ensures that you can trade cryptocurrencies easily without significant price slippage. Exchanges with higher trading volume typically have better liquidity.
- Supported cryptocurrencies: Make sure the exchange supports the cryptocurrencies you want to trade, as not all platforms support every coin. If you plan on trading multiple cryptocurrencies, it’s essential to find a platform that supports a wide range of tokens.
- User interface and experience: The ease of use and user interface of the platform are critical, especially for beginners. A platform with a clean, intuitive interface will make trading more accessible and enjoyable.
- Customer support: Responsive and helpful customer support can be invaluable in resolving issues and answering questions. Check reviews and forums to gauge the quality of customer support offered by the exchange.
- Regulatory compliance: Choose an exchange that complies with local regulations in your jurisdiction. Compliant exchanges are more likely to follow best practices and maintain a high level of security and transparency.
- Trading features: Advanced traders might need features like margin trading, futures, and options. Ensure the exchange you choose offers the trading tools and features you require.
- Fiat currency support: Some exchanges allow you to deposit, withdraw, and trade using fiat currencies (e.g., USD, EUR). If this is important to you, make sure the exchange supports the fiat currencies you want to use.
Remember to conduct thorough research and compare multiple exchanges before making a decision. Keep in mind that the best exchange for one person may not be the best for another, as individual needs and preferences may vary.
FAQ about the best crypto exchanges in Europe
How to choose through the best cryptocurrency exchanges in Europe?
To choose the best crypto exchange, consider factors such as fees, available cryptocurrencies, trading pairs, security measures, and user experience. It’s also important to ensure the exchange is available in your country and compliant with local regulations.
Are crypto exchanges regulated to operate in Europe?
Many crypto exchanges are regulated by financial authorities within the EU. To all bitcoin buyers – It’s essential to check the regulatory status of an exchange before using it to ensure compliance and security.
What is a cryptocurrency exchange?
A cryptocurrency exchange is a platform for trading digital assets like Bitcoin. These exchanges facilitate trade between cryptocurrencies, linking supply and demand while providing market liquidity. They charge transaction fees to finance operations. Registering on most exchanges is free and fast, with eToro and Binance being popular choices. After registration, user data verification helps prevent account misuse.
What fees are charged on crypto exchanges?
Exchanges typically charge fees when investing in digital assets. While registration is usually free, fees apply when purchasing cryptocurrencies, with commissions ranging from 0.1-2% depending on the platform. Additionally, exchanges may charge withdrawal fees, sometimes as low as 0.001 BTC. It’s essential for investors to consider these fees and plan their exit strategy accordingly.
Can I trade on a non-European crypto exchanges if I am from Europe?
Yes, you can trade on non-European crypto exchanges if you are from Europe, provided the exchange accepts European users. However, it is essential to check the exchange’s terms of service and any regional restrictions before signing up to ensure a seamless trading experience.
What is the fastest crypto exchange in Europe?
ByBit is the world’s fastest cryptocurrency exchange that is widely used by millions of people across the world. ByBit allows trading leverage of up to 100x.
How safe are crypto exchanges?
While cryptocurrency exchanges have improved in terms of security since incidents like the Mt. Gox bankruptcy, risks still exist. Users delegate control of their private keys to the platform, which can be exploited in case of security vulnerabilities. There are no specific regulations for exchanges to follow, so it’s crucial to choose a reputable exchange with strong security measures in place.
What payment methods can I use to buy crypto in Europe?
Crypto exchanges often support a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and popular e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. While some of them like gate-io support only crypto deposits.
How do I ensure the security of my funds on a European crypto exchange?
To ensure the security of your funds, choose an exchange with a strong reputation for safety, follow their recommended security practices, enable two-factor authentication, and store your assets in a secure wallet when not actively trading.
Gianluca Lombardi
Gianluca is the editor-in-chief of this site. A finance graduate, he is an active trader who has tested all trading platforms and knows all their secrets. Technology is his passion; he spends much of his free time in the metaverse. Gianluca loves learning new things, researching, discussing and writing about technology, especially when it comes to cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.