The euro is the official currency for a significant number of European nations, simplifying travel and trade within the continent. Specifically, 20 member states of the European Union have adopted the euro, forming what is commonly known as the Eurozone or euro area. These countries are at the heart of the economic and monetary union of Europe.
These core countries are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain. Across these nations, you can use euro banknotes and coins for all transactions. Furthermore, the euro extends its reach to numerous overseas territories associated with these countries. This includes regions like the Azores, Canary Islands, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Madeira, Martinique and Réunion, among others. Even in these territories, the euro is the standard currency.
Beyond the EU, the euro also holds official status in several microstates due to agreements with the EU. Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City have all adopted the euro as their national currency. Interestingly, the influence of the euro stretches further, acting as a de facto currency in places like Kosovo and Montenegro, where it is used in practice although not officially adopted by treaty.
When traveling within the Eurozone or making transactions in euro within the EU, it’s important to note regulations regarding payments. Card payments made in euro within the EU are subject to the same charges as domestic electronic payments. This rule applies even for euro transactions outside the Eurozone but within the EU, ensuring cost-effectiveness and transparency for users of the euro.
