Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe

Are you looking to dive into the world of cryptocurrency and need to know where to start? If you’re based in Europe, you’re in one of the best regions for crypto trading thanks to favorable regulations, reliable platforms, and robust security features across many exchanges. But with so many options available, it can be daunting to figure out which crypto exchange will best suit your needs.

Let’s cut through the noise and explore the top crypto exchanges in Europe for 2024, analyzing what makes them stand out, including their fees, security, user experience, available cryptocurrencies, and additional features. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a beginner, there’s something for everyone here.

1. Binance

Founded in 2017, Binance quickly rose to become the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, and it's a top choice for European traders. With its low trading fees (as low as 0.1%), advanced trading tools, and a vast selection of over 350 cryptocurrencies, Binance is perfect for both beginners and experienced traders.

Key features:

• Low fees: Binance charges some of the lowest trading fees in the market, especially if you use Binance Coin (BNB) to pay for them.
• Wide range of cryptocurrencies: Binance supports hundreds of coins and tokens, making it ideal for those who want access to a variety of assets.
• Advanced trading tools: With features like margin trading, futures, and staking, Binance appeals to experienced traders looking for more than simple spot trading.

However, some European countries have placed regulatory restrictions on Binance, so it’s crucial to check if your country allows full access to its services.

2. Kraken

Kraken is one of the most trusted names in the crypto world, having been established in 2011. It’s highly regarded for its security features and compliance with European regulations. Kraken offers a great variety of cryptocurrencies and trading pairs, along with advanced tools for professional traders. It’s also known for excellent customer support, which many users find superior to other platforms.

Key features:

• High security standards: Kraken uses multi-factor authentication and cold storage to protect users’ funds.
• EU-compliant: Kraken is fully regulated in Europe, making it a secure and legal choice for European traders.
• Low fees: Trading fees are competitive, ranging from 0% to 0.26%, depending on your trading volume.
• Pro trading platform: Kraken Pro offers advanced charting tools, making it a great option for seasoned traders.

3. Coinbase

Coinbase is often the go-to exchange for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and educational resources. Based in the United States, Coinbase is a fully licensed platform operating legally within Europe. It’s particularly known for its high liquidity and wide range of available cryptocurrencies.

Key features:

• Easy to use: Coinbase is incredibly intuitive, making it a favorite for first-time users.
• High liquidity: With one of the largest user bases in the world, Coinbase offers high liquidity, ensuring that users can buy and sell crypto quickly and at competitive prices.
• Staking services: Coinbase allows users to stake certain cryptocurrencies to earn passive income.
• Security: Coinbase is known for its strict security protocols, including insurance for digital assets held on the platform.

Downsides: Coinbase’s fees can be higher compared to other exchanges, especially for small transactions.

4. Bitstamp

Bitstamp is one of the oldest cryptocurrency exchanges, having been founded in 2011. Its reputation for reliability and security has made it a popular choice for European users. Bitstamp is known for being easy to use while offering low fees and a decent selection of major cryptocurrencies.

Key features:

• Regulated in the EU: Bitstamp is one of the most regulated exchanges in Europe, providing users with a sense of security and trust.
• Low fees: The platform offers competitive fees, starting at 0.5% and decreasing based on trading volume.
• Simple interface: While not as feature-rich as Binance or Kraken, Bitstamp offers a streamlined interface for users who want a straightforward experience.

While Bitstamp offers fewer cryptocurrencies than some competitors, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for the most reliable and secure options.

5. eToro

eToro is a unique exchange, blending traditional trading with cryptocurrency in a way that’s accessible to beginners and investors. It offers a social trading feature, where users can copy the trades of successful traders. eToro also provides an extensive range of assets beyond crypto, including stocks and commodities.

Key features:

• Social trading: eToro’s copy-trading feature allows beginners to follow and replicate the moves of professional traders.
• Multi-asset platform: Users can trade not only cryptocurrencies but also stocks, ETFs, and commodities on eToro.
• Regulated: eToro is fully regulated in Europe, making it a safe and legal platform to use.

The biggest downside is that withdrawal fees and trading fees can be higher compared to more crypto-focused exchanges like Binance and Kraken.

6. Bitpanda

Bitpanda is an Austrian-based cryptocurrency exchange designed with European users in mind. It supports a wide range of cryptocurrencies as well as precious metals, making it a versatile platform for traders.

Key features:

• Beginner-friendly: Bitpanda has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate.
• Bitpanda Pro: For more advanced users, Bitpanda Pro offers a comprehensive suite of tools and lower fees.
• Asset variety: Besides crypto, users can trade gold, silver, and other precious metals, providing a diversified trading experience.

Bitpanda is particularly attractive to those in the Eurozone, as it allows easy SEPA transfers and supports Euro as a fiat currency. However, its fees can be higher than some other exchanges if you're trading small amounts.

7. Crypto.com

Crypto.com is a fast-growing platform that offers a wide range of services, including an exchange, a crypto debit card, and a mobile app. It’s popular in Europe for its ease of use and wide array of available cryptocurrencies.

Key features:

• Crypto Visa card: Crypto.com’s Visa card allows users to spend their cryptocurrency like regular fiat currency, making it easier to use crypto in day-to-day life.
• Wide range of services: In addition to an exchange, Crypto.com offers staking, DeFi products, and more.
• Low fees: Trading fees are competitive, and users can reduce them further by staking Crypto.com's native token (CRO).

Crypto.com is also highly secure, employing multiple layers of protection, including cold storage and FDIC insurance for U.S.-based fiat accounts. It’s also compliant with European regulations, making it a safe option.

Conclusion

Each of these exchanges offers something unique for European crypto traders. Whether you're looking for low fees, a user-friendly experience, or advanced trading features, there’s an exchange that will meet your needs. Binance stands out for its low fees and wide selection, while Kraken is unmatched in terms of security and compliance. For beginners, Coinbase and Bitpanda offer simplicity and ease of use, while eToro introduces social trading to the mix.

As you navigate the crypto world, be sure to consider factors like regulation, fees, security, and available assets to find the exchange that best fits your trading style. Happy trading!