5 Best VPNs for Europe in 2023 for Privacy, Streaming & Speed

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). Plus, many websites, streaming platforms, and apps use geoblocks to restrict foreign users. This means your location limits the content you're able to access. Luckily, a VPN can help.

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 servers in Europe and worldwide to bypass global geoblocks.

ExpressVPN is my top choice for the region. It offers military-grade encryption to safeguard your data, and a high-speed global network to watch international content buffer-free. Plus, you get to try ExpressVPN with confidence, as it has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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The Best VPNs for Europe — Full Analysis (Updated in 2023)

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 access your favorite streaming platforms and websites from anywhere, too. 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

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.

Watching your favorite content is effortless too, with the vast network in 94 countries. I could easily watch Cobra Kai on my Netflix US account when I was in Europe. The VPN also has servers throughout Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. So, you can watch ARD, ORF, and other popular streaming services just as easily.

Speeds were lightning-fast throughout my tests. My connection clocked at 90 Mbps on the nearby German servers — only 25 Mbps is needed to view UHD content without buffering. I had no noticeable speed drops while on faraway on the US servers in Chicago and New York either. 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 $6.67/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 49% 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.

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2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers in Europe and Worldwide to Easily Stream Your Favorite Services

Access your favorite platforms with CyberGhost’s specialized streaming servers. Each streaming-optimized server is labeled with the platform it’s best at unblocking. I tested a couple of CyberGhost’s optimized servers and could access BBC iPlayer to watch Gentleman Jack with no problems.

It has excellent speeds too. My average connection on the fastest nearby server was 80 Mbps. Even the distant servers in the US and Australia allowed me to watch 4K videos without slowdowns. You can also download and share files without restrictions, thanks to uncapped bandwidth and P2P traffic support.

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 $2.19/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.

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

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’s servers in 84 countries give you access to content worldwide. I unblocked The Flight Attendant on my HBO Max account from Germany. Also, you can unblock local streaming services like ORF or Netflix UK when traveling.

Seeing the network has plenty of servers, there's little chance of congestion. I 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.

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.

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

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 lets you access global content, too, with 2,200 servers around the world. The OpenVPN Scramble option (obfuscation) helped me bypass VPN blocks and watch popular international platforms during my trip throughout Europe. For example, I could view Ozark on Netflix (US), as well as shows on BBC iPlayer, ZDF, and La 1.

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 $2.49/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.

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5. PrivateVPN — User-Friendly Interface for Easy Access to European and Global Content

PrivateVPN offers user-friendly applications available in multiple languages, including Swedish, enabling you to become proficient in no time. The VPN provides two operating modes to choose from: a simple mode that allows immediate usage and an advanced mode that grants full customization of settings. I personally started using the VPN right away with the simple mode. Additionally, PrivateVPN offers a remote setup service for desktop apps and features responsive online chat support, available 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, I got 48 Mbps while testing PrivateVPN servers in Europe. It 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 let you access popular services like ORF, TF1, and Telecinco. I also streamed Mrs. America on my Hulu (US) account from France without issues.

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.

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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 guard your privacy in Europe (and worldwide), and bypass global geoblocks. 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 effectively bypass any geo-restrictions. Plus, servers spread throughout Europe let you access local content while overseas.
• 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.

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FAQs on Using a VPN for Europe

How can I watch Netflix US while visiting Europe?

Choose a VPN with servers in the US. Next, connect to one of the US servers to get a US IP address. Afterward, you can log into your existing Netflix US account and stream your usual shows.

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.

Using a VPN also helps you access your favorite content from anywhere. The best services have global networks that can help you get around geoblocks. So, you get to enjoy European TV and international streaming platforms (like Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and HBO Max) 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.

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 watch my favorite European sports channels abroad on my TV?

Yes, a VPN with servers in Europe can let you watch local content (including UEFA games) abroad. Plus, a reliable VPN that supports smart TVs lets you watch European and international sports events on the big screen. You can even configure VPNs on your router, so you can bypass geoblocks on any connected smart device.

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 safely access geoblocked content at top speeds. 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 stream UHD content from popular platforms.

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The Bottom Line

You need a VPN for secure and unrestricted internet access 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 services, apps, and content from anywhere.

I recommend ExpressVPN; it’s the fastest and most secure VPN I tested and it has servers all over the world (including Europe). 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