The euro (€) is more than just a currency; it’s a symbol of European unity and integration. For travelers and businesses alike, understanding where the euro is accepted is essential. So, What Country Uses Euro Money? The answer is more nuanced than a simple list, encompassing not just European Union member states but also territories and special agreements.
Currently, the euro is the official currency in 20 out of the 27 countries that make up the European Union. These countries form what is commonly known as the eurozone or euro area. Adopting the euro is a significant step for EU members, aligning their economies and facilitating seamless trade and travel within the bloc.
Eurozone Countries: The Official Adopters
Here’s a list of the 20 EU countries where the euro is the official currency:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
Discover more about the euro and its impact on these nations. You can also find the latest exchange rates from the European Central Bank.
Beyond the Eurozone: Territories and Special Agreements
The reach of the euro extends beyond the 20 eurozone countries. It’s also legal tender in several territories associated with these nations, making it convenient for travelers exploring these regions:
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Overseas Territories of Eurozone Countries: This includes popular tourist destinations such as the Azores and Madeira (Portugal), the Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla (Spain), French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France). Using euro in these locations simplifies transactions for visitors from the eurozone and beyond.
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Microstates with Agreements: Four European microstates, while not part of the EU, have formal agreements to use the euro as their official currency: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City. These agreements highlight the euro’s widespread acceptance and integration into the European financial landscape.
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De Facto Euro Adoption: Interestingly, some countries and territories use the euro as their de facto currency without a formal agreement. Kosovo and Montenegro are notable examples. In these locations, while not officially adopted, the euro is widely accepted for transactions, offering stability and convenience in the absence of a strong national currency.
Cash and Card Payments in Euro Countries
Traveling in countries that use the euro offers significant convenience when it comes to payments. You can use the same euro banknotes and coins across all the countries that have adopted it, simplifying currency exchange and making budgeting easier.
Carry cash when you travel? While cash is widely accepted, debit and credit cards are also commonly used for day-to-day expenses. Within the EU, regulations ensure that payments made in euro using your card are charged no more than domestic electronic payments of the same value. This applies even to euro transactions in countries outside the euro area, ensuring fair and transparent transaction costs. Learn more about electronic payments within the EU.
EU Legislation and Further Assistance
The widespread use of the euro is underpinned by EU legislation designed to facilitate trade, travel, and economic stability within the union. This framework ensures consistent rules and protections for consumers and businesses operating within the eurozone and beyond.
Should you require support or advice regarding your rights as a consumer or traveler within the EU, several assistance services are available. You can get advice on your EU rights or solve problems through the EU’s dedicated portals. Additionally, the assistance service finder can direct you to the most appropriate help for your specific needs.
Last checked: 07/01/2025
