6 Best Crypto Exchanges and Trading Platforms in Europe

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When it comes to trading cryptocurrency in Europe, choosing the right exchange can significantly impact your success. With a crowded market of platforms claiming to offer the best features, low fees, and top-tier security, it's essential to cut through the noise and identify which ones truly deliver. Whether you're a day trader focused on speed and leverage or a long-term investor seeking passive income, this guide breaks down the top six crypto exchanges tailored for European users.

We’ve evaluated each platform based on key factors like trading fees, security measures, supported fiat currencies (especially EUR and GBP), leverage options, mobile accessibility, and compliance with EU regulations such as AMLD5. Our goal is to help you find a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective platform that aligns with your trading style.

Top Crypto Exchanges in Europe at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of the leading platforms:

These platforms stand out due to their combination of performance, user experience, and regional support.

👉 Discover a platform built for high-speed, low-cost trading in Europe.

Key Factors When Choosing a Crypto Exchange in Europe

Before diving into individual reviews, consider these critical aspects:

✅ Low Trading Fees

Frequent traders should prioritize platforms with competitive maker/taker fees. Even small differences—like 0.1% vs. 0.2%—can add up over time.

✅ Fast Execution Speeds

For scalpers and day traders, milliseconds matter. Look for exchanges with advanced matching engines and minimal slippage.

✅ EUR & SEPA Support

Ensure the platform supports Euro deposits and withdrawals via SEPA transfers for fast, low-cost banking integration.

✅ Security Features

Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, proof of reserves, and anti-phishing protections are non-negotiable.

✅ Leverage & Derivatives

If you trade futures or margin positions, check maximum leverage limits and funding rates.

✅ Regulatory Compliance

Reputable exchanges comply with EU anti-money laundering (AML) rules, including KYC verification where required.

1. BYDFi – Best for Active Traders

BYDFi has rapidly become one of the most popular crypto trading platforms in Europe, especially among active traders. It offers over 600 cryptocurrencies, spot and perpetual contract trading, and leverage up to 200x, making it ideal for scalping and short-term strategies.

The exchange boasts an ultra-fast order-matching engine capable of processing nearly 2 million transactions per second. This ensures minimal latency during volatile market conditions.

Notable Features:

While BYDFi doesn’t offer staking or an NFT marketplace, its focus on speed, low costs, and advanced tools makes it a top pick for serious traders.

👉 Start trading with high leverage and ultra-low fees today.

2. Phemex – Best All-Around Platform

Phemex strikes an excellent balance between beginner-friendliness and professional-grade tools. Based in Singapore but widely used across Europe, it supports EUR pairs and SEPA transfers in select countries.

With leverage up to 100x, fast execution, and a free demo account featuring $100,000 in virtual funds, Phemex is perfect for those learning the ropes or testing new strategies risk-free.

It also offers a robust "Earn" program where users can stake assets like USDT for up to 8.5% APY—a solid passive income option.

Why Traders Choose Phemex:

Phemex lacks an OTC desk and options trading, but its overall feature set is hard to beat.

3. Binance – Best for Altcoin Selection

As one of the largest crypto exchanges globally, Binance leads in liquidity and variety. With over 600 cryptocurrencies, including rare altcoins, it’s the go-to platform for diversification.

European users benefit from EUR trading pairs, SEPA support, multilingual customer service, and educational resources via Binance Academy.

Binance also offers futures with up to 125x leverage, staking products yielding up to 20% APY, and integrated tax reporting tools.

Key Advantages:

However, credit card purchases come with higher fees (~1.8%), and KYC is required for full functionality.

4. MEXC – Best for Low Fees & Anonymity

MEXC stands out for offering one of the lowest flat spot trading fees at 0.2%, making it highly attractive for frequent traders.

Unlike many EU-focused platforms, MEXC allows trading without KYC verification on basic accounts—ideal for privacy-conscious users.

With over 1,500 trading pairs and support for perpetual futures up to 125x leverage, MEXC combines breadth and efficiency.

Highlights:

While some withdrawal fees are relatively high and liquidity varies across exotic pairs, MEXC remains a powerful contender.

5. BTCC – Best for High Leverage

Founded in 2011, BTCC is one of the oldest exchanges still operating—and it’s now a favorite among European traders who use high-leverage strategies.

It offers up to 225x leverage on certain futures contracts, among the highest in the industry. This makes it particularly appealing for experienced traders aiming to maximize returns from small price movements.

BTCC also provides a clean interface, detailed order book visualization, and a sandbox environment for testing strategies.

What Makes BTCC Stand Out:

However, it lacks automated trading bots and DeFi integrations.

6. BingX – Best for Copy Trading

With over 10 million users worldwide, BingX has built a reputation as a leader in social and automated trading.

Its copy trading feature allows beginners to mirror successful traders’ moves automatically—a great way to learn while earning.

Additional tools include grid bots and “Shark Fin” principal-guaranteed wealth products. The platform supports more than 750 cryptocurrencies and offers up to 125x leverage.

BingX Benefits:

Downsides include no SEPA support and limited advanced order types.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I look for in a European crypto exchange?

Focus on low fees, EUR/SEPA support, fast execution, security features like 2FA, regulatory compliance, and whether the platform suits your trading style—whether that’s day trading, staking, or copy trading.

Which exchange has the lowest fees in Europe?

MEXC offers a flat 0.2% spot fee, while BYDFi starts at just 0.1%. For futures trading, both offer some of the lowest maker fees in the market.

Can I trade crypto without KYC in Europe?

Yes—platforms like MEXC, BYDFi, and BTCC allow limited trading without full KYC verification. However, most regulated exchanges require identity checks under AMLD5 rules.

Is leverage trading safe?

Leverage amplifies both gains and losses. While platforms like BTCC offer up to 225x leverage, even small price swings can lead to liquidation. Always use risk management tools like stop-loss orders.

Are crypto gains taxed in Europe?

Yes—most European countries treat crypto profits as capital gains subject to taxation. Rules vary by country, so consult local tax guidelines before filing.

Which platform is best for beginners?

Phemex and BYDFi are excellent starting points thanks to intuitive interfaces, demo accounts, educational content, and responsive customer support.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right crypto exchange in Europe depends on your goals: low fees (MEXC), maximum leverage (BTCC), altcoin variety (Binance), automation (BingX), or balanced performance (Phemex). For active traders who value speed and cost-efficiency, BYDFi emerges as a top overall choice.

Regardless of your strategy, always prioritize security, understand the risks of leverage, and ensure your chosen platform supports your local currency and banking methods.

👉 Find a secure, high-performance exchange designed for European traders.