Gambling has a long history on the European continent, and online casino Europe is its next step. What are the best online casinos in Europe? Which authorities regulating online gambling are the most trustworthy? What are the most popular online casino games in Europe? Read this article to find out!
Marie Günther
2025-05-19
Best Licensed Casinos Accepting EU Players in May 2025
18+
Terms and conditions apply
Advertising Policies
Online Casino
Rating
Bonus
Payment Methods
Play
Winshark
5
€2500 + 300 free spins
Boho
5
€2000 + 225 FREE SPINS
Rolling Slots
5
€3,000 + 300 FREE SPINS
20Bet
4.9
€120 + 120 FREE SPINS
Betalice
4.9
100% up to €500 + 200 FS + 1 Bonus Crab
Spellwin
4.9
300% up to €3000 + 300FS
Need For Spin
4.8
€1900 + 290 FS
Gamblezen
4.8
500% Bonus + 350 FS
Ivibet
4.8
UP TO €300 + 170 FS
DivaSpin
4.7
250% up to €3,000 + 350 FS
Slots Gem
4.7
€ 1450 + 225 FS
RoySpins
4.7
Cashback up to 25%
Glitch Spin
4.6
€3,000+ 515 FS
BookofBet
4.6
250% up to €12,000 + 200 FS
Jet4bet
4.6
2,000 € + 200 FS
DragonSlots
4.5
€3.000+ 515 FS
Lucky Dreams
4.5
500% bonus & 400 Free Spins
Ybets
4.5
500% Bonus und 400 FS
Kinbet
4.4
€3,000 + 350 FS + 1 BONUS CRAB
Just
4.4
4.000€ + 300 Free Spins
Hell Spin
4.4
400€ + 150 Free Spins
Casombie
4.3
€500 + 100 FREE SPINS
Leon
4.3
2.500 € + 100 FS
Lazybar
4.3
up to €450 + 250 Free Spins
Verde Casino
4.2
1.200 € + 220 FS
Gransino
4.2
€500 + 200 FS
Spinbetter
4.2
1500 EUR + 150 FS
Cosmic Slot
4.1
352% up to €2750 + 250 Free Spins
Best EU Casino Sites by Category
My colleagues and I have conducted a test to find the most reputable online casinos in Europe. The winners of our test offer more than just generous bonuses and a wide variety of online casino games. Here are the best EU casino sites by category:
Category
Provider
RTP
Bonus
🎯 Best Chances of Winning
Rolling Slots
96.95%
3000€ + 300 Free Spins
🎁 Best Welcome Bonus
Spellwin
96.20%
300% up to 3000€ + 300 Free Spins
👑 Top Bonuses for Loyal Players
20Bet
96.20%
120€ + 120 Free Spins
🏆 Best Casino for Tournaments
BetAlice
96.20%
100% up to 500€, 200 Free Spins + 1 Bonus Crab
📱 Top Mobile Casino
Winshark
96.00%
2500€ + 300 Free Spins
🎰 Best Free Spins Bonus
Boho Casino
96.00%
2000€ + 225 Free Spins
How ATHEME Rates EU Online Casinos
As I've already mentioned, European casino websites are on the rapid rise. In an ocean of possibilities, it's important to have a clear vision and know what to look for. Here are the criteria we used to find the top European online casinos:
Valid license: We only consider EU online casinos with a license from trusted regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) or the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). A gambling license is a guarantee for the casino's fairness.
Generous bonus offers: The best online casino sites offer great bonuses to lure new players and keep the existing ones happy. We also pay special attention to wagering requirements and transparency.
Popular payment methods: A good EU casino site should support trusted payment options like e-wallets, cryptocurrency, and credit cards. Short processing times are another priority of ours.
Popular casino games: We check for a wide range of games from the best European software providers, like NetEnt and Pragmatic Play. The bigger the selection, the better the casino.
Efficient customer support: Competent and reliable customer service should be available 24/7 via live chat or email. Multilingual support is a big plus for EU-wide accessibility.
Mobile compatibility: Top online casinos must run smoothly on smartphones and tablets. We look for responsive design and full feature access on mobile platforms.
What are European Casino Websites?
Online European casinos are gambling platforms that operate under licenses issued by regulatory authorities within Europe, such as the MGA or the UKGC. These casinos must follow strict EU laws and consumer protection rules, ensure secure payments, fair gaming, and responsible gambling practices. They typically support multiple languages, currencies, and popular payment methods to cater to players across different European countries.
Gambling Laws in Europe by Country
Each European country has their own set of rules and regulations when it comes to online gambling. The legality of online gambling sites is strongly related to the country where you're located. Here's an overview of the European gambling laws:
Country
Law
🇬🇧 UK
The UKGC keeps a close eye on all online gambling in the UK and is known for being one of the toughest regulators in Europe. Still, UK players also have access to many great casinos that aren’t licensed by the UKGC.
🇪🇸 Spain
People in Spain can legally gamble and place bets online. Any casino that wants to operate there needs a license from the Spanish National Gaming Commission. Offshore sites also welcome Spanish players.
🇩🇪 Germany
Online casino games in Germany are legal. Germany is currently one of Europe’s top gambling hubs, hosting some of the biggest casino names around. With new regulations on the way, the country’s iGaming scene is set to grow even more.
🇲🇹 Malta
The MGA is in charge of regulating all online gambling in Malta. A lot of EU casino sites use an MGA license to show they're legit.
🇮🇪 Ireland
Casino operators in Ireland can legally offer their services to European online casino players. One exception is the UK, where Irish casinos need to obtain a UKGC license to operate legally.
🇫🇷 France
Online casinos in France need a license from the ANJ to offer their games to French players. Various parts of the gambling scene are handled by different regulators.
🇮🇹 Italy
Online gambling is totally legal in Italy, and players have plenty of European casinos and betting sites to pick from.
Online Casino Site Licensing in Europe
To operate legally, European online casinos must hold a valid license from a recognized authority. The most reputable EU licenses include those from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and, previously, the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). While the UKGC is now mainly relevant in the UK, the MGA remains a trusted choice across Europe. Licenses fall into three categories: open licensing (e.g., Malta), restricted licensing (e.g., Belgium, Greece), and state-run monopolies (e.g., Sweden, Austria). Here's a direct comparison of licensed and unlicensed EU casinos:
Licensed Casinos
Unlicensed Casinos
These casinos are monitored by official regulators, which means they have to follow strict rules for fairness and player protection
These sites operate without oversight, so you're exposed to shady practices like rigged games, stalled payouts, or no payouts at all.
You get access to tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion, and support for problem gambling
They usually don't offer player protection tools or any kind of real support.
Games are powered by certified RNGs, so results can't be rigged
The games may not be tested for fairness, meaning you can't trust the outcomes.
If something goes wrong, you have legal backup and can escalate complaints to the authority
If there's a dispute, you're on your own – there's no regulator to help.
Your money is handled securely, and payouts are processed efficiently under strict financial guidelines
Worst case: your funds disappear if the casino shuts down or refuses to pay.
How to Choose the Best European Casino
I've already told you about how ATHEME finds the pearls on the European online casino scene, but as a player, you should also have a checklist ready. The first step to a great gambling experience is to choose a trusted online casino. Here are some points you should always keep in mind:
Valid gambling license:
Always check that the casino holds a license from a trusted authority like the MGA or a national EU regulator.
Fair and transparent terms:
Read the fine print on bonuses and withdrawals. Trustworthy platforms are upfront about their rules.
Wide selection of games:
Look for games from reputable developers like NetEnt or Play'n GO for quality and fairness.
Fast and flexible payments:
The best online European casinos support popular payment methods with quick deposits and withdrawals.
Mobile compatibility:
The platform should work seamlessly on smartphones and tablets without needing a separate app. This is especially important if you like to play on the go.
Reliable customer support:
Choose a site that offers 24/7 support via live chat or email and responds quickly.
Responsible gambling tools:
Top European online casinos provide tools for self-exclusion, deposit limits, and links to professional help.
Online Casino Europe Real Money : Popular Casino Games
Whatever your preferences might be, a great selection of real money casino games is a top priority for an interesting casino experience. The best European online casinos offer a wide range of games to suit all types of players, from casual ones to high-rollers. Here's a list of the most popular options:
Online slot games: Slots are the most played games in European casinos, offering everything from classic fruit machines to modern video slots with bonus features and jackpots.
Live dealer games: Casino games like live blackjack, live roulette games, and live baccarat bring the authentic casino atmosphere right to your screen. Live casino games are hosted by real dealers, and you can compete against other players in real time.
Table games: Classic options such as roulette, poker games, blackjack, and baccarat have millions of fans all over the world because they require strategic thinking and skill.
Crash games: A rising trend in crypto-friendly casinos, crash games let players cash out at any time before the multiplier "crashes". If you're looking for extra adrenaline, this is your pick.
Jackpot games: Progressive jackpots offer massive prizes that grow with every bet, often reaching millions. If you're patient enough, these games may bring you the best results.
Other casino games: Game shows, spinning wheels, sports betting, and deal or no deal are other options you will find in online casinos in Europe.
Bonuses Offered by EU Licensed Casinos
The right bonus offer may be a literal gold mine if you pick the right casino. There's a reason why everybody in the online casino industry is obsessed with these offers. Here's an overview of the ones you'll usually find at online casinos in Europe:
Bonus type
Description
Welcome bonus
A promotional offer for new players, typically consisting of a percentage match on the first deposit and a bunch of free spins (e.g., 300% up to 3000€ and 300 free spins)
No deposit bonus
A small bonus given without requiring a deposit, used to attract new players. This bonus is usually given away as part of a special promotion (e.g., 30 free spins).
Free spins
Free rounds on selected slot games. They usually come as part of the welcome package or ongoing promotions. Please keep an eye on the wagering requirements.
Reload bonus
The reload bonus offers a percentage match on deposits for existing players (e.g., 50% up to 100€).
Cashback bonus
A percentage of net losses returned to the player over a certain period, very useful during tough losing sreaks (e.g., 15% up to 200€).
Loyalty and VIP programs
Bonuses, gifts, and other perks given to frequent players. They often include comp points, exclusive promotions, faster withdrawals, and even personal VIP managers.
Tournaments and competitions
Prize-based events where players earn points by playing specific games and competing against each other. Winners receive cash, bonuses, or other rewards.
Popular Payment Methods at EU Online Casinos
Online casinos in Europe offer a broad selection of payment methods to suit various preferences, whether you prioritize speed, convenience, or privacy. From classic bank cards to modern crypto wallets, you can choose the most suitable option for yourself. Here's an overview of the most commonly used methods:
Payment method
Transaction speed
Deposit
Withdrawal
Fees
Credit/debit cards
1-3 business days
Yes
Yes
None
Bank transfers
2-5 business days
Yes
Yes
Depends on bank
E-wallets
Few hours
Yes
Yes
None
Prepaid cards (Paysafecard, etc.)
Instant
Yes
No
None
Mobile bill payment
Instant
Yes
No
None
Instant banking (Trustly, Klarna, etc.)
Up to 24h
Yes
Yes
None
Cryptocurrencies (BTC, USDT, etc.)
Instant
Yes
Yes
Depends on broker
How to Sign Up and Play at Top Online Casinos in Eruope
Signing up at a European online casino is easy and only takes a couple of minutes. Here's an exact step-by-step guide to get you playing as soon as possible:
Choose an online casino:
Pick a reputable online gambling platform from my list above.
Create an account:
Register using your email address and come up with a solid password.
Verify your email:
Click on the link you've just received in your inbox to confirm your email address.
Make the first deposit:
Pick a trusted payment method, type in how much you'd like to deposit, and confirm the payment.
Start playing:
You can now play casino games and win real money. Have fun!
Taxation on Winnings in European Countries
Taxation on gambling winnings in Europe depends heavily on national laws and gambling rules. Some countries treat winnings as taxable income, while others offer full tax exemptions. For example, in Sweden and Germany, frequent or professional gamblers may trigger income tax obligations. Spain and Italy also impose taxes on gambling and sports betting profits, especially when earnings surpass certain thresholds. On the other hand, countries like the UK, Malta, and Gibraltar don't tax winnings, making them more attractive for online gamblers. Because the laws vary so much, it's important to analyze your individual situation in your country before you start playing.
Responsible Practices in European Casinos for UK Players and others
Responsible gambling is essential for a safe and enjoyable online casino experience, especially in new European online casinos. Always set clear limits for your time and money, and stick to your budget to avoid unwanted consequences. European online casinos are required to provide self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and access to help to prevent gambling addiction. Reputable resources like the Gaming Regulators European Forum (GREF) and the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) offer guidance and support for players seeking help. Please keep in mind that even with these tools in place, your financial stability and mental health are your own responsibility.
Tips and Tricks for Playing on Gambling Sites Europe
The biggest online casinos, as well as land-based casinos across Europe, are all interested in maximizing player experience, but you can make it even better by following a few expert tips. Here are some of them to keep you safe and make the most out of your bankroll:
Check for a valid license: Always play at casinos licensed by reputable authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority or a national regulator.
Compare bonus offers: Look for welcome packages with fair wagering requirements and ongoing promotions that suit your playing style.
Use secure payment methods: Stick to trusted options like e-wallets or crypto for faster withdrawals and security.
Choose high RTP games: High RTP slot games, the roulette wheel, and European blackjack are your best bets (no pun intended). These games usually have the smallest house edge, which means you can win more over time.
Set limits and stick to them: Manage your bankroll wisely and never try to make up for your losses with higher bets.
Online casinos in Europe are great options if you're looking for a way to gamble online in 2025. Many online casinos around the continent provide generous bonuses, many games to choose from, and top-notch security. The online gambling market is expanding and won't slow down anytime soon, so get on the hype train as soon as you can and win big!
Best Online Casinos in Europe : FAQ
Can I Win Real Money at EU Casinos?
Yes, you can win real money at EU casinos. Before depositing, make sure you check if the casino holds a valid license and offers games by top developers like Evolution Gaming.
Is Gambling Online in Europe legal?
Yes, gambling online is legal in Europe. Make sure to check your local laws, as some countries may restrict casino sites without a domestic license.
Which Online Casino EU has the Best Payouts?
I can't tell you a single casino with the best payouts, because the RTP depends on the games the casino offers. Table games (incl. live dealer games) usually have the lowest house edge, as well as some slots, so stick to them if you want to win.
What Currencies Can I Use at European Online Casinos?
Most online casinos in Europe are international casinos that accept a multitude of currencies. Dollars, euros, pounds, Swiss francs, Swedish crowns and Polish zloty are accepted in most of them.
Do Online Casinos Europe Real Money Pay out Fast?
That depends on the specific casino and your payment method of choice. In my list above, I included only casinos that process transactions in under 24 hours. Make sure to pick a payment option like e-wallets or crypto to get your winnings as soon as possible.
This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse this website, you agree to this use. Learn more.