Europe Region’s Best VPNs: Fast, Reliable, and Secure
Looking for the best VPN for Europe? Look no further! Our list of 100% tested and safe VPNs will keep you secure and anonymous online.
The internet is largely borderless, allowing people all over the world to access the same content and services. However, geographic restrictions imposed by media companies, streaming services, and other content providers can limit access to certain websites, streaming catalogues, and broadcasting in different locations.
Using a VPN or virtual private network is a great way to bypass these restrictions and unblock websites that may be unavailable or censored in your location. There are many VPN services to choose from, but some are better suited for accessing European content than others. This blog post reviews a few of the top VPN services optimized for users in Europe.
What Makes a Good VPN for Europe?
- Speedy connections: Access high-speed European servers optimized for streaming, gaming, and torrenting. Top speeds for HD/4K streaming.
- Enhanced security: Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, secure protocols (IKEv2, OpenVPN), DNS/IPv6/WebRTC leak protection and a strict no-logs policy.
- Reliability and performance: Robust networks and infrastructure to provide consistent speeds and minimal connection drops across Europe.
- Powerful unblocking abilities: Unblock and access geo-restricted content from BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, ABC, HBO Max, YouTube, and more.
- Multiple device support: Secure all your devices, such as Windows PCs, Macs, Androids, iOS, Linux, routers, and more, under one account.
- Customer support: 24/7 live chat and email support in case you ever need help.
Benefits of Using a VPN in Europe
There are several key benefits to using a VPN in Europe:
Access Blocked Content
Many streaming services, such as BBC iPlayer, Hulu, HBO Max, ABC, Pandora, and Showtime, have geo-restrictions. A European VPN allows you to change your virtual location and easily access this blocked content from anywhere in Europe.
Bypass Internet Censorship
Some repressive regimes censor access to social media, news, political dissent, and other material deemed offensive. A VPN breaks these barriers by allowing you to access the internet.
Enhanced Privacy & Security
Europe has comprehensive data protection laws. A VPN provides an added layer of security by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address/location and online activities from prying eyes: including your ISP.
Avoid Bandwidth Throttling
Some ISPs throttle bandwidth speeds for torrenting, streaming large files, or accessing certain sites. A VPN masks this activity so you can avoid throttling.
Secure Public WiFi Access
Public Wi-Fis are notoriously unsafe and prone to man-in-the-middle attacks that steal sensitive data. A VPN secures your connection on public networks, preventing hacking.
Evade Government Surveillance
A VPN makes it much harder for governments to monitor your online activities and maintains digital privacy.
Access Blocked Websites
VPNs can help you bypass government censorship and access websites or services blocked in your country, such as Facebook, YouTube, or Skype.
Tips for Using a VPN in Europe Effectively
To maximize the benefits of your European VPN, follow these tips:
- Compare reviews: Don’t just go by the marketing claims. Read independent third-party reviews to gauge real-world speed tests and unblocking abilities.
- Check server locations. To get faster, more reliable connections, Look for VPNs that offer servers across major European countries.
- Use OpenVPN protocol: OpenVPN offers the best balance between speed and security for Europe. Choose this protocol if you don’t have specific requirements.
- Enable Kill Switch: The Kill Switch automatically blocks internet access if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly to prevent IP leaks.
- Setup VPN router: Install your VPN service on the router for secure connectivity on all WiFi-connected devices in your home.
- Use Multi-hop servers: Chaining your traffic through multiple servers boosts anonymity. It can reduce speeds considerably, however.
- Test for DNS/IPv6 leaks: Use sites like IPLeak.net and DNSLeakTest.com to verify your VPN has no leaks exposing your IP or DNS requests.
- Enable obfuscation: Obfuscation techniques like ‘Scramble’ help bypass VPN blocking in restrictive regions.
- Connect to optimal locations: Connect to VPN servers located close to your true location in Europe for better speeds.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a VPN for Europe
Here are the key criteria I evaluated when selecting the best VPNs suitable for European users:
Server Network in Europe
Look for VPNs that offer a sizeable network of servers spanning across Europe. This provides faster speeds and more reliable connections across the region.
Connection Speeds
Top speeds allow HD/4K streaming and fast downloads. I tested real-world VPN speeds using SpeedTest.net to verify they can deliver 75-90% of your true ISP speeds.
Advanced Encryption & Security
Military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, IKEv2/OpenVPN protocols, full IPv6, and DNS leak protection ensured my safest choice.
Zero Traffic Logging
I ensured that VPN services had a clear no-logs policy, with ideal servers located in privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland to prevent logging mandates.
Unblocks Streaming Services
The VPN had to consistently and reliably provide access to popular geo-restricted streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ Hotstar, and Amazon Prime Video.
Number of Simultaneous Connections
The top services allow securing anywhere from 5 to 10 devices under one subscription for better value.
Pricing and Plans
I looked for affordable pricing starting below $3/month for the longer plans, a free trial to test the service risk-free, and a money-back guarantee.
Customer Support
All the VPNs offer 24/7 live chat and email support in case you face any connection or troubleshooting issues.
Best VPN Service in Europe
- NordVPN: The Ultimate VPN for European Users
- Surfshark VPN: The Perfect VPN for Europe’s Digital Nomads
- ExpressVPN: The Best VPN Solution for Europe’s Online Privacy
NordVPN: The Ultimate VPN for European Users
After extensive testing, NordVPN emerged as the #1 VPN I recommend for Europe. It checks all the boxes in terms of speed, privacy, security, and unblocking abilities.
- Consistently delivered 85% of my 200 Mbps ISP speeds: fast enough for buffer-free 4K streaming.
- Access to all major streaming platforms like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Prime Video, and HBO Max.
- Military-grade AES-256 encryption and protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and NordLynx for air-tight security.
- Zero logs policy and servers in privacy-friendly Panama.
- Intuitive apps are available for all platforms, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux.
6300 servers
111 covered countries
30-Day Refund Policy
10 simultaneous connections
NordVPN is ideal for unblocking geo-restricted content anywhere in Europe and securely streaming or browsing the web at top VPN speeds. The quality of service provided makes it a worthwhile investment.
Surfshark VPN: The Perfect VPN for Europe’s Digital Nomads
Surfshark is a great VPN choice for digital nomads and travelers within Europe.
- Fast and stable European servers.
- Unlimited device connections. Secure all devices in your backpack with one account!
- Top security protections like multi-hop, kill switch, and private DNS.
- It unblocks Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other sites.
3000 servers
65 covered countries
30-Day Refund Policy
Unlimited connections
With its unlimited connections policy, Surfshark is especially suitable for digital nomads juggling multiple devices while traveling across Europe. The speeds are blazing fast, and it costs less than your daily cappuccino!
ExpressVPN: The Best VPN Solution for Europe’s Online Privacy
ExpressVPN is the gold standard for online privacy and security-focused users in Europe.
- Unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, and YouTube consistently across European servers.
- Enhanced security from AES-256 encryption, RAM-only servers, and perfect forward secrecy.
- Split tunneling allows assigning which apps use the VPN connection.
- It is useful for accessing US content, and its proprietary Lightway protocol powers ExpressVPN’s fast speeds.
- A 30-day money-back guarantee provides ample testing time for ExpressVPN’s exceptional service.
3000+ servers
105 covered countries
30-Day Refund Policy
8 simultaneous connections
Final Thoughts
A VPN is essential for enjoying safe, private, and unrestricted internet access across Europe. After carefully evaluating speed, security, and ease of use, I recommend NordVPN as the best VPN for Europe in 2022.
However, all 5 VPNs listed here have been vetted to offer robust privacy protections, fast streaming speeds, and the ability to unblock geo-restricted platforms. Ultimately, choose the VPN that best suits your specific needs and budget.
Take your time deciding: install the VPN apps and use the free trials to experience the performance yourself. Once you choose the best VPN for your needs, you can enjoy the internet freely and securely while traveling or living in Europe!
FAQs on Using a VPN in Europe
Is it legal to use a VPN in Europe?
Yes, it is perfectly legal to use a VPN service in European countries. There are no laws restricting VPN usage. Many locals use VPNs to access blocked content and secure public WiFi connections.
Will a VPN work in my European country?
The top VPNs work consistently across all European countries. They bypass geo-restrictions and provide fast, reliable connections by hosting servers within European data centers. A European server ensures your traffic stays within the region for better speeds and anonymity.
Does a European VPN hide my identity?
Yes, a VPN provides complete anonymity by masking your real IP address and encrypting your internet traffic. Your online activities are hidden from your ISP, government, hackers, and even the VPN provider itself.
Can I watch Netflix with a European VPN?
Absolutely. Top VPNs like NordVPN and ExpressVPN provide access to any Netflix library by letting you select the server location of your choice. You can unblock Netflix for American, British, Canadian, French, or German to access more movies and TV shows.
Will VPNs slow down my internet speed?
A minimal speed loss of 10-25% is typical when connected via VPN. However, with a fast VPN optimized for streaming and P2P usage, you can still enjoy buffer-free HD streaming and quick downloads even while using the VPN.
What is the best VPN protocol for Europe?
OpenVPN and IKEv2 are the most secure VPN protocols recommended for European users. OpenVPN offers the best balance between speed and security. IKEv2 is even faster if you connect from iOS or Android devices.
Is torrenting allowed on European VPN servers?
Most VPNs permit P2P traffic and torrent downloads on their European servers, which are located in torrent-friendly countries like the Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, and Romania. However, be sure to check the VPN’s policy before torrenting.
Can free VPNs be used in Europe?
While free VPNs are accessible, they often have data caps, slower speeds, fewer servers, and weaker privacy protections. Paid VPNs are recommended for the best speeds, features, and security when using the internet in Europe.
Verified A Professional Content Writer
Riha Mervana is a professional content writer at SearchVPN.org, with extensive experience crafting engaging and informative content. She has established herself as an expert in the VPN industry, creating content that educates readers on the importance of online privacy and security.
