The euro is the official currency for 20 member states of the European Union. These countries are collectively known as the Eurozone or euro area. Using the euro simplifies travel and trade within these nations, making it a significant currency in the global economy. Let’s explore exactly how many countries use the euro and where you can use it.
Currently, the euro is used by these 20 EU countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
These countries have adopted the euro as their national currency after meeting specific economic criteria set by the European Union. When traveling to any of these nations, you can conveniently use the euro for transactions, from daily expenses to larger purchases. You can discover more about the euro and its adoption by visiting the official European Union website.
Beyond the 20 Eurozone countries within the EU, the euro’s reach extends to several territories and microstates. You can also use the euro in a number of overseas territories associated with Eurozone countries. These include regions such as:
- The Azores (Portugal)
- The Canary Islands (Spain)
- Ceuta and Melilla (Spain)
- French Guiana (France)
- Guadeloupe (France)
- Madeira (Portugal)
- Martinique (France)
- Mayotte (France)
- Réunion (France)
- Saint Barthélemy (France)
- Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
Furthermore, due to agreements with the EU, four European microstates also officially use the euro:
- Andorra
- Monaco
- San Marino
- Vatican City
Interestingly, the euro is also used as a de facto currency in some territories outside of the EU framework. For example, Kosovo and Montenegro have adopted the euro as their practical currency, even without formal agreements with the EU. This means while they are not officially part of the Eurozone, the euro is widely accepted and used for most transactions.
When traveling within the Eurozone and these territories, handling finances becomes straightforward. While carrying cash is an option, debit and credit cards are widely accepted. For payments made in euro within the EU, the charges should be the same as domestic electronic payments. These regulations also apply to euro transactions, even those occurring in countries outside the euro area, ensuring consistent and transparent transaction costs. You can find more details about cross-border payments within the EU on the Your Europe website.
In conclusion, while 20 EU countries officially use the euro, its usage extends beyond these borders to various territories and microstates, and even as a de facto currency in some regions. This widespread adoption underscores the euro’s significance as a major global currency and its role in facilitating economic activity across Europe and beyond.
