There’s no shortage of options if you’re looking for Bitcoin access in Europe. The difference between platforms comes down to how much control you keep, how easily you can move money between your bank and the blockchain, and whether the app fits your preferences.
Some platforms are built for long-term saving and self-custody, while others focus on trading tools, liquidity, or bundling crypto with traditional investments.
This guide reviews five of the most widely used Bitcoin trading platforms in Europe so you can choose a platform that matches how you plan to hold, trade, or spend your BTC.
TL;DR
- Relai: A Bitcoin-only app, enabling simple and easy buying with self-custody and recurring savings, sending coins directly to your own wallet.
- Bitstamp: A long-running exchange with simple trading and strong euro banking support.
- Kraken: A platform for active traders who want deep liquidity, advanced order types, and staking options.
- Bitpanda: An investment platform that combines Bitcoin with stocks, ETFs, and metals in a single, easy-to-use investment app.
- Revolut: An all-in-one financial app offering international money transfers, virtual cards, and savings.
Relai
Relai offers a straightforward and secure way to buy and sell Bitcoin. The app is particularly well-suited for those in Europe seeking a user-friendly experience and self-custody of their digital assets.
Ease of Use
Relai strips away complexity to make Bitcoin investing straightforward for anybody. Users can download the app, complete a quick verification, and make their first Bitcoin purchase in minutes. This includes options for one-time buys or recurring auto-invest plans, which allow users to buy Bitcoin automatically weekly or monthly
Strong Security and Self-Custody
Users have full control over their Bitcoin, as Relai doesn’t hold funds. Instead, BTC goes directly into a wallet that only you can access. A recovery phrase is provided, meaning you can restore your wallet on any device. Furthermore, Relai operates under Swiss regulation and uses encrypted systems and regulated payment partners.
Comprehensive Services
Beyond individual investors, Relai caters to various needs:
- Relai app: For anyone looking to buy and sell Bitcoin starting from as little as 50 EUR/CHF
- Relai private: An exclusive service for investors trading large Bitcoin volumes (more than 100,000 CHF/EUR), offering personal service and expert guidance.
- Relai business: Designed for small to medium-sized businesses that want to integrate Bitcoin into their balance sheets, also with personal service and guidance.
Bitstamp
Bitstamp is a long-standing cryptocurrency exchange known for its reliable trading environment and a comprehensive suite of services that appeal to both individual and institutional clients.
Established Trust and Reliability
Operating since 2011, Bitstamp has a proven track record and is one of the oldest and most trusted exchanges globally.
Institutional-Grade Security
Security is a priority for Bitstamp’s operations. The exchange keeps most of its digital assets in cold storage, has highly encrypted protocols for personal data, and uses whitelisting and transaction confirmations to protect user funds.
User-Friendly Trading Experience
Bitstamp interface is intuitive and easy to use. It provides instant deposit options and allows users to cash out directly to their bank accounts. Their mobile app caters to different experience levels with a Basic mode for easy buying and selling and a Pro mode for advanced traders.
Kraken
Kraken provides a broad, diverse cryptocurrency trading platform for users looking for extensive asset support, strong security, and advanced trading features. It serves a global user base and has a strong presence in Europe.
Extensive Asset Support
Kraken supports hundreds of cryptocurrencies across major markets, enabling users to diversify their portfolios and invest in a broad selection of digital currencies.
User-Friendly Experience
Kraken prioritizes simplicity, allowing users to buy, sell, and trade crypto easily from their desktop or mobile devices. This accessibility is further enhanced by multiple funding options, including credit cards and wire transfers.
Opportunities to Earn Rewards
Kraken allows users to earn weekly rewards on their various crypto holdings through staking programs. These rewards are paid directly to user accounts, enabling passive income generation.
Bitpanda
Bitpanda is a European investment platform that allows users to diversify their portfolios beyond cryptocurrencies to include precious metals, fractional stocks, and ETFs, all within a regulated environment.
Broad Investment Portfolio
Bitpanda offers thousands of tradable assets, including several hundred cryptocurrencies, as well as stocks, ETFs, and metals. This diversification allows users to build a well-rounded portfolio within a single platform.
Strong Regulatory Framework and Security
As an Austria-based and European-regulated crypto and securities broker platform, Bitpanda prioritizes user safety and compliance as it is fully compliant with European data, IT, and money laundering standards.
User-Friendly Experience and Accessibility
Bitpanda emphasizes ease of use, enabling users to register, verify their identity, deposit funds, and start trading digital assets 24/7 in just a few minutes. The platform also supports various payment methods.
Revolut
Revolut is an intuitive app that offers a wide range of services designed to help users manage their money both locally and globally. The app provides an all-in-one platform for a range of financial needs.
Money Transfer and Currency Exchange
Revolut allows users to move freely between countries and currencies, enabling flexible money transfer options across different regions and currencies.
Salary and Spending Management
The app helps users spend smartly, send money quickly, and automatically sort their salary. It also features loyalty points on purchases through debit cards, which can be redeemed for rewards.
Stocks and Commodities Trading
Users can invest in stocks from major companies. Additionally, Revolut allows users to invest in commodities such as gold.
Final Thoughts
Europe’s digital assets market has matured with clearer regulation and better apps, making access easier than ever.
Relai offers a savings-first approach with long-term ownership and control of your keys, while Bitstamp and Kraken provide deep liquidity and established trading environments. Bitpanda includes Bitcoin alongside traditional investments, while Revolut is a banking app that also supports BTC trading.
The right choice comes down to whether you see BTC as something to save, trade, or use as part of your broader money management setup. Always do your own research and choose an app that fits your personal needs and preferences.