The euro (€) is the official currency of 20 European Union countries, forming what is known as the Eurozone. These countries have adopted the euro, replacing their previous national currencies for seamless economic integration and travel convenience. Let’s explore which countries are part of this monetary union and where you can use the euro.
The countries that officially use the euro are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
Beyond these Eurozone members, the euro is also accepted in several other territories and countries. This includes overseas territories associated with Eurozone countries, such as the Azores, Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Madeira, Martinique, Mayotte, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon. When travelling to these destinations, you can also use the euro for transactions.
Furthermore, due to agreements with the EU, the microstates of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City have also adopted the euro as their official currency. Interestingly, some countries outside the EU, like Kosovo and Montenegro, use the euro as their de facto currency, even without a formal agreement.
When travelling within the Eurozone or to these territories and countries, you can generally use cash and card payments in euro with ease. Regulations ensure that payments made in euro within the EU are charged no more than domestic electronic payments, promoting fair and transparent transactions for travelers and residents alike. This rule extends to euro transactions even outside the Eurozone area.
For more detailed information about the euro, exchange rates, and related topics, you can visit the official European Union website. They provide comprehensive resources and up-to-date information regarding the euro and its usage across Europe and beyond.
