5 Best VPNs for Europe in 2024: Private & Fast

Your online safety isn’t guaranteed when in Europe. Money-motivated cybercrime is increasing, and many countries are part of the citizen-monitoring 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance (including France, Spain, and Italy). That’s why many people turn to VPNs — to secure their online connections. However, many European (and global) websites, apps, and services block VPNs for a number of different reasons. For instance, streaming platforms do this to protect licensing agreements while banking apps block foreign IPs to prevent fraud.

My team and I tested over 90 VPNs to find the best ones for Europe. All services on this list have robust security features to protect you from hackers and tracking. On top of that, they have ample servers in Europe to deliver fast speeds that support smooth browsing and HD streaming from anywhere.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for the region. It offers military-grade encryption to safeguard your data and a high-speed global network for delay-free browsing. Plus, you get to try ExpressVPN with confidence, as it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

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Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Europe in 2024

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

The Best VPNs for Europe — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

Each VPN on this list provides sophisticated security features and a no-logs policy to hide your confidential data. You can use their worldwide networks to securely access global sites from anywhere. They also have fast speeds and uncapped bandwidth for smooth streaming, gaming, and torrenting.

Additionally, these services have intuitive apps for popular operating systems and offer multiple simultaneous connections. Even better, they come with trustworthy money-back guarantees so you can try them risk-free.

1. ExpressVPN — Outstanding Security Features to Maximize Your Protection in Europe

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested November 2024

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN stands out as the best VPN when it comes to online security. It’s based in the British Virgin Islands (outside the intelligence-sharing 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance) and maintains a strict no-logs policy. This means it doesn’t collect or share your data with anyone. Plus, the VPN uses RAM-only servers (TrustedServer technology) that erase your data on each server reboot. So, the provider doesn’t have any of your info to share (even if a European government requests it).

During my ExpressVPN tests, I didn’t detect any DNS or IP data leaks. The obfuscation technology disguises your VPN traffic as regular traffic for extra privacy (great for Netflix). I also found Network Lock (a kill switch) enabled by default. If the VPN suddenly gets disconnected, it cuts your internet session to prevent accidental data exposure.

Your traffic is safeguarded with military-grade encryption (AES 256-bit — the same standard used by the NSA). The VPN uses top-tier tunneling protocols, like mobile-friendly IKEv2, super-fast Lightway, and secure OpenVPN. There’s also perfect forward secrecy technology that changes your encryption keys each session. This means no one can decipher your information even if they steal one key.

The VPN has an extensive network of 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including many in Europe, for example in France, Germany, Italy, and Romania. These servers work with the most popular streaming platforms in Europe (and abroad). This makes it possible to stream safely from anywhere.

Speeds were lightning-fast throughout our tests. Our average download speed clocked at 90 Mbps. We tested its servers in Spain and watched 7 anos on Spanish Netflix in UHD buffer-free. P2P traffic is supported, and you get unlimited bandwidth for fast and unrestricted torrenting.

The VPN also has beginner-friendly apps for popular operating systems, and supports multiple languages (including French, Italian, German, and Russian). You can even install it on your router (with custom firmware), so all devices on your network are protected. If you need any help, the website is full of FAQs, tutorials, and guides. Moreover, it offers 24/7 live chat to answer any questions.

Plans start from $4.99/month, which is a bit pricier than other VPNs. However, you can make it more affordable by using ExpressVPN’s regular discounts and special offers. I got 82% off and 3 months of service for free when I signed up for the 12-month plan. In addition, you can pay for your subscription with Bitcoin for extra privacy.

I tested ExpressVPN's 30-day money-back policy and found it effortless. If you’re not satisfied with the VPN, simply contact support via live chat to request a refund. My conversation with the agent took only a few minutes, and my bank account was refunded within 2 days.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Safe and Reliable Access to Global Content

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost’s specialized servers make it possible to securely stream popular content in HD from anywhere. Each streaming-optimized server is labeled with the platform it’s best at working with. CyberGhost’s BBC iPlayer-optimized server works without issues according to our tests — we could watch Gentleman Jack in HD.

It also offers excellent speeds for gaming and streaming from anywhere without delays. When we tested its UK servers, our speeds dropped by only 9%. Its distant servers, including those in the US and Australia, support seamless large file downloads due to P2P compatibility on all servers. Additionally, there are no bandwidth limits to worry about.

This VPN protects your sensitive data with robust encryption (AES 256-bit) and tunneling protocols (namely L2TP-IPsec and OpenVPN). Plus, its HTTPS protection automatically redirects you to secure versions of web pages. “Block content” helps prevent troublesome trackers, ads, and pop-ups on websites. I also like the WiFi protection feature that launches the VPN on public networks for additional protection against hackers.

You can be sure CyberGhost won’t collect or share your personal information with third parties. It maintains a strict no-logs policy and is headquartered in privacy-friendly Romania. On top of that, its IPv6/DNS leak protection and kill switch keep your identity and location private. Privately-managed NoSpy servers are included with some plans for extra privacy.

I found CyberGhost super easy to use — there are multiple European language options (including French and Spanish). You can master its features in no time using the extensive knowledge base on the official website. This VPN also offers a 24/7 online chat for troubleshooting and consultations.

Although short-term plans are a bit expensive, long-term subscriptions are fairly cheap. You can get CyberGhost’s longest plan for just $2.03/month. Overall, the 3-year plan offers the best value.

It’s also possible to try CyberGhost for free with the 45-day money-back guarantee. Canceling the subscription is straightforward. I requested a refund via email, and the money was back in my PayPal account 3 days later.

3. Private Internet Access — Customizable Security Settings to Tailor Your VPN Protection in Europe

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

Private Internet Access (PIA) lets you customize your security settings based on your preference. For example, you can choose between high-level AES 256-bit encryption and the faster (but still secure) AES 128-bit encryption. It also offers several tunneling protocols, such as OpenVPN, L2TP/IPsec, PPTP, and WireGuard. I tested each of PIA’s security protocols and had no IP/DNS/WebRTC leaks or connection issues.

A trustworthy zero-logs policy prevents the VPN from sharing your confidential information. It also comes with an automatic kill switch to reduce the chances of data exposure if you lose a connection. You can even enable the MACE feature to block annoying trackers and ads (like CyberGhost).

PIA has servers in 91 countries to securely access international websites and content without issues. While testing PIA’s speeds, we got excellent results, especially on its nearby servers. We got a stable 67 Mbps when connected to the closest server. It also doesn’t limit your bandwidth and supports P2P sharing for reliable torrenting. We had a seamless HD experience with local streaming services like ORF and Netflix when connected to an Austrian server.

The apps may not seem particularly user-friendly due to the various customization options. However, the Windows and Mac versions have pre-configured profiles for streaming, torrenting, and gaming. The VPN also offers FAQs, European languages, and 24/7 live chat support. So, getting started is easy even for VPN newbies.

Subscriptions are fairly priced, and you can get PIA’s long-term plan for just $2.03/month. I suggest going for the 2-year option to save money.

In addition, I tested PIA’s 30-day guarantee and the process was quick and uncomplicated. My credit card was refunded 5 days after sending a request via the website’s web form.

4. IPVanish — Protect All Your Devices in Europe and Beyond with Unlimited Simultaneous Connections

Works With:

ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+ Netflix

Disney+ More

Try IPVanish VPN >

www.ipvanish.com

You can protect all your devices at the same time in Europe with IPVanish’s Unlimited device connections. There are apps for all major platforms and they’re all simple to use. My connection remained secure and stable when I tested IPVanish on 10 devices simultaneously (including Android phone, iPad, PC, and Amazon Fire Stick).

This VPN has 2,400 servers around the world to access websites and apps safely from anywhere. We used its US servers to shop online at Target, and its German servers worked seamlessly for accessing the news articles on Der Spiegel.

Additionally, with speeds reaching over 58 Mbps, IPVanish ensures seamless streaming, online gaming, and video conversations. All servers support P2P connections and impose no bandwidth restrictions, establishing IPVanish as an excellent option for torrenting.

Although the VPN is based in the US (part of the 5 Eyes Alliance), the strict zero-logs policy keeps your privacy intact. The provider also owns and maintains its network, so third parties can’t easily access your data. I didn’t detect any IP or DNS leaks during testing, either. My traffic was also protected with top-grade encryption (AES 256-bit), multiple tunneling protocols, and a kill switch.

The yearly plan is more affordable than the monthly subscription. All subscriptions offer the same features (including 24/7 support and European languages), so I recommend going for IPVanish’s long-term plan at $2.19/month.

A 30-day money-back policy means you can try IPVanish for free. I just had to select “I wish to cancel my subscription” on the website’s dashboard. In 5 days, my payment was back on my credit card.

5. PrivateVPN — User-Friendly Interface Which Is Great for VPN Beginners

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try PrivateVPN >

www.privatevpn.com

PrivateVPN presents user-friendly applications accessible in various languages, such as Swedish, ensuring swift familiarity. The VPN delivers two operational modes for your preference: a straightforward mode for instant use and an advanced mode that empowers complete customization of settings. I personally opted for the simple mode when I started using the VPN. Furthermore, PrivateVPN extends a remote setup service for desktop applications and features responsive online chat support, accessible round-the-clock for 22 hours a day.

The VPN isn’t as fast as ExpressVPN, but it lets you stream in 4K and game online without slowdowns. For example, We got 48 Mbps while testing its servers in Europe. PrivateVPN also has uncapped bandwidth and network-wide P2P traffic support for high-speed torrenting.

My IP address and online activities remained hidden at all times too. PrivateVPN offers industry-leading security features, like AES-256, a kill switch, and DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection. You can also disguise your VPN traffic using the Stealth VPN mode (obfuscation feature). Moreover, the VPN ensures your privacy with a reliable no-logs policy. As a bonus, you can pay with Bitcoin for added privacy.

The network is relatively small in comparison to other services. That said, there are plenty of servers across Europe to browse local news sites and safely access banking apps.

I was pleasantly surprised by the pricing for the 3-year plan. You can get a long-term PrivateVPN subscription for as low as $2/month.

Plus, PrivateVPN provides you with a tried-and-tested 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested the policy by requesting a refund on the website. The process was easy and I could withdraw the money from my bank account within a week.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Tips on How to Choose the Best VPN for Europe

All services had to meet my strict criteria to be included on my list of the best VPNs for Europe. Each of them guards your privacy in Europe (and worldwide) and delivers good speeds, allowing you to stream in HD from anywhere. If you want to do your own research, make sure the VPN you pick for Europe has the following:

• Global network (including Europe) — A service with a global network of servers allows you to secure your connection effectively in every European country. It also makes it possible to safely access content from anywhere.
• High-grade security and privacy features — VPNs with top-level encryption (AES 256-bit), a strict no-logs policy, and a kill switch safeguard your data online.
• Fast connection speeds — Look for ultra-fast speeds and unlimited bandwidth for UHD streaming and unrestricted torrenting.
• Easy to use — Choose a VPN with an intuitive interface, and a variety of European languages (e.g., English, French, German, Spanish). Responsive customer support via live chat can quickly solve any issues.
• Multiple device compatibility — Your VPN should support numerous operating systems, and provide multiple simultaneous device connections from a single account.
• Reliable money-back guarantee — This helps you test it and get your money back if it doesn’t meet your standards.

FAQs on Using a VPN for Europe

How can I watch Netflix while visiting Europe?

Netflix is available in Europe, so you can still watch it while visiting there. As long as you use a VPN with a reliable global server network, you can watch Netflix safely from anywhere.

Keep in mind that the content library varies from region to region, so you might not see the same titles as you’d see in another location. Netflix determines the titles you see based on your IP address — for instance, if you have a UK IP address, you’ll see the Netflix content that’s available for that region.

Why do I need a VPN for Europe?

You need a VPN for Europe to protect your privacy. Many European governments are part of the 5/9/14 Eyes Alliance. Thankfully, reliable providers with robust encryption (like the VPNs on this list) can safeguard your personal information on the web. That means you can safely access your bank accounts or use public WiFi in Europe without worrying about hackers. With a VPN offering global coverage, you can securely access your favorite streaming content and other accounts and services from anywhere.

Is it legal to use a VPN for European countries?

Yes, using a VPN is legal in most European countries. Many people rely on VPNs with high-grade encryption and no-logs policies to protect their data from hackers and snoops. Plus, services with global networks can help you access European and worldwide content safely from anywhere.

However, some countries (like China, Russia, and Belarus) ban or restrict VPN use. So, you should check your local laws before using a VPN.

Can I use a VPN to watch European sports on my TV?

Yes, it’s possible to safely access European sports channels on your TV from anywhere with a VPN. If you have a smart TV that doesn’t natively support VPN apps, you can usually set up the VPN via your router, or with a smart DNS feature (if the VPN offers this).

Another option is to subscribe to international sports packages offered by local cable or satellite providers. These packages often include a range of European sports channels. Additionally, some European broadcasters provide official online streaming services that can be accessed globally — these can be cast or connected to your TV if compatible.

Can I use a free VPN in Europe?

I strongly suggest avoiding free VPNs for Europe as they may not be safe. It’s much better to use premium VPNs with money-back guarantees to browse the web safely. Most free services lack robust encryption and no-logs policies, leaving you vulnerable to hackers and monitoring. They also tend to have small networks and subpar speeds, meaning you can’t torrent and game without interruptions.

The Bottom Line

You need a VPN for secure web browsing in Europe (and worldwide). A reliable service with top-tier security features and a no-logs policy can ensure your online safety. Additionally, VPNs with fast global networks let you access European and international sites, services, and apps securely from anywhere.

I recommend ExpressVPN; it’s the fastest and most secure VPN we’ve tested. Plus, it has servers all over the world that can safely access the most popular platforms. What’s more, you can try ExpressVPN risk-free and claim a refund if it doesn’t suit you (it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee).

To summarize, here are the best VPNs for Europe

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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