A detailed review outlining the top five cryptocurrency exchanges available in Europe. Learn about each platform’s fees, features, security, supported coins, and more to find the best option for your needs.
Summary of the 5 Best Crypto Exchanges in Europe
Experts advise European crypto investors to use locally regulated platforms for purchasing and trading digital assets. By depositing Euros via bank transfer, card, or other methods, individuals can legally buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrency.
For beginners embarking on their crypto ventures in Europe, we’ve assessed the top 5 trading platforms prevalent in the region:
- Binance – Best Overall Crypto Exchange in Europe
- Kraken – Best for Security Measures
- OKX – Ideal for Newbies [Easiest to Use]
- Coinbase – Top Choice for Institutional Investors
- Bybit – The Cheapest Exchange
Binance Overview
Rated as the one of the best crypto exchanges in Europe, Binance is known for its low trading fees, extensive selection of coins, and advanced trading features. Here are some key details about Binance:
- Supports over 500 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB, and more obscure altcoins.
- Trading fees as low as -10% for BNB holders.
- Allows euro deposits via SEPA transfer, card, and other payment methods.
- Minimum deposit is €50 for bank transfers. No minimum for crypto deposits.
- Maximum withdrawal depends on verification level, starts from 2 BTC per day.
- Offers margin trading up to 5x leverage and P2P trading services.
- Has mobile apps, futures, lending platforms, launch pads, and more.
- Stakes user assets in cold storage and has insurance fund.
Why we like it: A top choice for active traders thanks to low fees, hundreds of coins, and a suite of trading tools.
Key Metrics:
- 24 hour trading volume: $76 billion
- Registered users: 150 million
- Supported Cryptos: 350+
- Liquidity score: 950
Kraken Overview
Emerging as a security-focused crypto trading platform, Kraken is regulated in the UK and Lithuania. Here’s an overview:
- Supports over 100 cryptocurrencies including all major coins like BTC, ETH, XRP.
- Maker fees starting at 0.16%, taker fees at 0.26%. Very competitive.
- Accepts EUR deposits via SEPA and other methods.
- €10 minimum deposit for SEPA bank transfers.
- Max withdrawal of €2 million for tier 3 verified accounts.
- Has spot, margin trading up to 5x, futures, staking, and an OTC desk.
- Secures most assets in cold wallets with restricted access.
- 24/7 customer support via chat and ticket system.
Why we like it: A European pioneer in crypto trading with excellent security and support.
Key Metrics:
- 24 hour trading volume: $4 billion
- Registered users: 8 million
- Supported Cryptos: 200+
- Liquidity score: 650
OKX Overview
OKX offers a beginner-friendly interface, extensive educational resources, social trading, and phone support. Here are some details:
- Supports over 400 cryptocurrencies including niche altcoins.
- Maker fees 0.1%, taker fees 0.1%. Very low.
- Allows card, bank transfer, Apple Pay, and other deposits.
- Minimum deposit is 10 USDT for crypto funds.
- Max withdrawal of 100 BTC for unverified accounts.
- Access spot, futures, DeFi, NFT marketplace, and more.
- Secured with 2FA, fund passwords, and majority cold storage.
Why we like it: Ideal for new traders with the intuitive interface, trading tools, and helpful customer service.
Key Metrics:
- 24 hour trading volume: $2.9 billion
- Registered users: 20 million
- Supported Cryptos: 350+
- Liquidity score: 850
Coinbase Overview
Coinbase operates in over 30 European countries and is a trusted platform for institutions and retail traders. Here’s an overview:
- Supports over 100 cryptocurrencies including major coins.
- Maker fees 0.5%, taker fees 0.6%. Average for the industry.
- Accepts EUR deposits via SEPA, card, bank transfer, and more.
- Minimum deposit is €50 for SEPA bank transfers.
- Max withdrawal of €2 million for top tier verified accounts.
- Offers Coinbase Pro and Prime for advanced traders.
- Secured with insurance coverage and advanced compliance.
Why we like it: Reputable and secure crypto exchange suited for mainstream adoption.
Key Metrics:
- 24 hour trading volume: $1.7 billion (2022)
- Registered users: 73 million (2021)
- Supported Cryptos: 248+
- Liquidity score: 600
Bybit Overview
Bybit offers among the lowest trading fees at 0.1%, copy trading, and staking products with up to 17% APY. Here’s an overview:
- 400+ trading pairs including top coins like BTC, ETH, XRP.
- Maker and taker fees of just 0.1%. Extremely competitive.
- Allows EUR deposits through SEPA transfer.
- Minimum deposit of 0.0005 BTC. No minimum for crypto.
- Max withdrawal of 100 BTC for unverified accounts.
- Spot, perpetual futures, copy trading, and staking available.
Why we like it: Low trading fees and strong rewards program.
Key Metrics:
- 24 hour trading volume: $315 million (2022)
- Registered users: 2 million (2022)
- Supported Cryptos: 100+
- Liquidity score: 300
How to Buy Crypto in Europe
Follow this beginner’s guide to legally and securely purchase cryptocurrency across Europe:
- Select a Reliable Exchange: Choose a platform approved locally like those recommended above.
- Sign Up and Verify: Provide your email and docs to register and complete KYC procedures.
- Deposit Euros: Fund your account via bank transfer, card, PayPal, Neteller or other options.
- Buy Cryptocurrency: Pick your desired crypto coins and amounts then confirm your order.
- Withdraw to Wallet: Withdraw to a secure crypto wallet to enhance security of your assets.
Legality of Crypto Investing in Europe
Cryptocurrency investing is generally legal in the EU but regulations differ between countries. The EU classifies cryptocurrencies as “virtual currencies” and applies anti-money laundering rules. But each nation sets specific policies on exchanges, wallets, taxation, and more that investors should know before trading crypto.
Taxation also varies. Most EU countries treat crypto profits as capital gains subject to local income tax rates. Some charge additional VAT or wealth taxes on holdings. Check your country’s cryptocurrency tax laws before investing.
Conclusion
For European crypto investors, Binance, Kraken, and Coinbase stand out as the most well-rounded exchanges offering excellent liquidity, security, compliance, and a wide selection of coins. Use a trusted local platform to confidently buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrency across Europe while staying compliant with regulations.
FAQs
What is the most user-friendly crypto exchange in Europe?
Coinbase is widely considered the most beginner-friendly exchange in Europe with its simple interface, educational resources, and focus on major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Which Europe-based exchange has the lowest fees?
Binance offers some of the cheapest trading fees in Europe, starting at just 0.1%. It also gives fee discounts for using BNB and referring friends.
Can I deposit Euros on European crypto exchanges?
Yes, most leading European exchanges accept euro deposits through SEPA transfers, debit/credit cards, PayPal, or other convenient payment methods.
Is crypto taxed in Europe?
Yes, cryptocurrency profits are subject to capital gains taxes in most European countries at varying rates. Always check your country’s specific crypto tax policies.
