European casinos

European Betting Sites

David Kane, Author at Bettingsite.cc

Written by:

David Kane,

Bookmakers reviewer

Last Updated: Sep 30, 2024

The European betting market is thriving, with 40 million punters and a staggering US$17.14 billion in revenue already tallied for 2024. Even more exciting, the industry is on track to grow by 4.97% each year through 2029, meaning there’s plenty of action ahead.
If you’re already placing bets or considering joining in, you’re always after the latest scoop. You want to be sure of everything, from staying on top of legalities to knowing the most popular sports, payment methods, and top bookies. We’ve pulled all that together in this guide, so keep reading to get up to speed.

Top 10 European Betting Sites

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Legal Sports Betting in Europe

Sports betting is a popular pastime in Europe dating back to centuries when people would bet on spectacles like animal fights and gladiator battles. Fast forward to today, the continent is a hotbed for sports betting, holding the largest slice of the world’s online gambling pie.
There are reasons for this, though. The continent hosts the most prestigious sporting events in the world, with football attracting the largest attention and betting volumes. Besides soccer, other popular sports European bettors bet on include volleyball, basketball, tennis and rugby.
The continent’s famous sports leagues and clubs make it no surprise that online betting is so lively. Regarding legislation, every country has the autonomy to decide what works for them. Most, however, sanction online betting through local authorities who licence and oversee sportsbook operations.
Certain regulators or authorities are held in high regard by the EU and the gambling community at large. This is because of their solid reputation and commitment to providing safe betting environments.
Bodies like the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), and the Gibraltar Gambling Commissioner are highly respected. Sportsbooks holding their licences are generally welcomed across Europe. These regulators are like VIP passes for smooth and trustworthy betting experiences.

Facts table.

Region Europe
Is betting legal? Yes in most countries/depends on the country
Popular betting regulators MGA, UKGC & Gibraltar. Every country has a betting regulator.
Acceptable currencies in sportsbooks Euro, RUB, CHF and SEK
Betting taxes Depends on the country
Popular sports to bet on Football, Basketball, Ice Hockey
Most popular payment methods Visa, Mastercard, Bitcoin and Paysafecard

Top Online Betting Sites in Europe

Based on odds, betting markets, sports coverage and promotions, here are the best bookmakers in Europe:

OneStep

Site Name OneStep
Min. Deposit €20
Deposit Methods Payz, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Neteller, Skrill, Paysafecard, Jeton, Trustly, Sofort, Neosurf
Min. Withdrawal €25
Withdrawal Methods Payz, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Neteller, Skrill, Jeton, Trustly, Sofort, Bank Transfer

OneStep sport bettingOperated by L.C.S Limited, OneStep is a top European betting site that debuted in 2022. It has a license from the Malta Gaming Authority.

The Indigo background matches well with a tinge of gold used. Overall, the bookie’s website is clean, looks modern, and there’s no congestion of features. We had an easy time getting around.

There are 35+ sports to bet on. You can choose your preferred event based on the leagues offered such as EPL, NFL, and WBL.

The bookmaker provides 30+ markets, including total, correct score, and double chance. Besides the main markets, you can wager on fast markets. A great example is “When will the first goal be scored in 10 minutes”.

There’s a Bet Builder feature, allowing you to form a cocktail of selections from one event. The bookie also provides early payout, allowing you to settle your selections early.

Odds are industry-standard, meaning you’ll get decent payouts. Plus, you can choose from 3 formats: decimal, fractional, and American.

OneStep accepts 15+ payment methods, including those with headquarters in European nations. They include Payz, Trustly, MiFinity, and MuchBetter. The operator doesn’t take cryptocurrencies.

The minimum deposit is €20. Meanwhile, the minimum withdrawal amount is €25. The maximum payout amount per month is €7000.

Zotabet

Site Name Zotabet
Min. Deposit €20
Deposit Methods Visa, Payz, Neteller, Jeton, MiFinity, Skrill, Mastercard, Neosurf, Crypto
Min. Withdrawal €20
Withdrawal Methods Visa, Payz, Neteller, Jeton, MiFinity, Skrill, Bank Transfer, Crypto

Zotabet betting sectionZotabet was established in 2017 and operates with a Curacao license. It is owned by Hollycorn N.V. and is popular in European countries.

The bookie has a simple website layout. It has a clean design that allows for easy navigation across desktop and mobile devices. There’s a mobile app for Android and iOS devices.

The sportsbook supports over 15 languages. We found 6 English dialects, 3 German dialects, Italian, and Norwegian languages. This makes it accessible for a wider European audience.

You can wager on a selection of over 30 sports. Popular options include football, basketball, and tennis. Additionally, there’s a comprehensive esports section.

The live betting section features over 5000 events each month. You can access various markets, including live totals and handicaps. In pre-match games, you’ll find standard bets such as correct score and 1×2.

Odds at Zotabet are generally competitive, averaging around 94%. Football odds can exceed 95% in top competitions. Multiple formats, including decimal and fractional, are available for user preference.

The sportsbook supports a wide variety of payment methods, including crypto. You can use popular options in Europe, such as Visa, Payz, MiFinity, and Jeton.

With most payment methods, the minimum deposit is €20. Withdrawals are capped at €1000 per day and €15,000 monthly. At Zotabet's discretion, VIP players may enjoy higher withdrawal limits.

BetsAmigo

Site Name BetsAmigo
Min. Deposit €10
Deposit Methods Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, MiFinity, Skrill, Paysafecard, Neosurf, Flexepin, Jeton, CASHlib
Min. Withdrawal €25
Withdrawal Methods Visa, Neteller, MiFinity, Skrill, Jeton, Bank Transfer

BetsAmigo Betting SectionLaunched in 2022, BetsAmigo is a European betting site operated by L.C.S. Limited. It has a license from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). The platform welcomes bettors from 30+ European countries, including Germany and Finland.

Navigating the BetsAmigo website is straightforward. Despite the absence of a downloadable mobile app, it performs well on hand-held devices. There are over 5 language options here: 2 English and French dialects, German and Spanish.

With over 30 sports available, BetsAmigo caters to diverse betting interests. The sportsbook covers popular options like football and basketball. You can also wager on esports and special events such as elections.

Live betting is a significant feature, with around 1000+ events per day. The average payout for live bets is 93%, ensuring competitive odds for players.

BetsAmigo offers various betting markets, including 1×2 and over/under. Besides the main markets, you can wager on “what will happen in the next minute”.

Features like Early Payout and Bet Builder are available. The bookie also provides live streaming options on live events. It also allows you to bet on in-play events.

Payment methods include VISA, Mastercard, and e-wallets like Skrill. Minimum deposits start at €10, while maximum withdrawals are capped at €7000 monthly.

Customer support is available via email and live chat 24/7. Support is provided in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, Norwegian, and Finnish.

30Bet

Site Name 30Bet
Min. Deposit €10
Deposit Methods Visa, Mastercard, Neteller, MiFinity, Skrill, Paysafecard, Flexepin, Jeton, CASHlib, Crypto
Min. Withdrawal €20
Withdrawal Methods Neteller, MiFinity, Skrill, Jeton, Bank Transfer, Crypto

30bet sports section30Bet is a Curacao-licensed European betting sportsbook owned and operated by Novatech Solutions The bookie supports slightly more than 5 languages. Finnish, German, and Norwegian are available. You can also switch to your preferred English dialect.

This European sports betting site covers over 40 sports, from football to esports. If you’re into politics, you’ll find it under the “specials” category.

The excitement is augmented by the live betting and streaming features. You’ll feel right in the thick of it, making those split decisions to bet as the events unfold.

There are over 300 betting markets, including both teams to score and handicaps. Additionally, the bookie boasts competitive odds with clear margins. The decimal odds format is the default.

You can deposit a minimum of €10 using all payment methods except crypto, whose cap is €25. The maximum deposit goes up to €10,000. Meanwhile, the minimum withdrawal amount is €25, and the maximum is €10,000 for all payment methods.

The customer care team operates around the clock. Support is available through live chat and email. There’s also a help center page with detailed FAQs across various topics.

Greatwin

Site Name GreatWin
Min. Deposit €10
Deposit Methods Visa, Mastercard, Jeton, Neteller, Skrill, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Crypto
Min. Withdrawal €10
Withdrawal Methods Jeton, Neteller, Skrill, MiFinity, MuchBetter, Bank Transfer, Crypto

GreatWin betting SectionRabidi N.V. founded Greatwin in 2022. This bookie operates with a license from Curacao, and accepts bettors from 100 countries.

Its layout is quite user-friendly. You’ll find your way around with minimal effort. There are over 20 language options, with several English, German, and Spanish dialects.

Greatwin covers more than 35 sports, from traditional ones such as soccer to modern-day esports. There’s a “specials” category where you can wager on elections and celebrity awards.

Live betting options are extensive, with over 4000 events every month. In addition to in-play betting, you can live stream events.

The sportsbook provides 250+ betting markets, including unique ones like Asian Handicaps. When compared to other sportsbooks, Greatwin offers more competitive odds.

Various payment options are available, including MiFinity which is headquartered in the UK. Besides e-wallets and credit cards, you can transact with bank transfer and cryptocurrencies. Greatwin accepts over 20 currencies, including the Euro.

Deposits start from €10 all the way to €5000 per transaction. These limits apply to withdrawals too.

The customer support team works around the clock, and you can reach out via email and live chat. There is no phone support.

B7 Casino

Site Name B7
Min. Deposit €15
Deposit Methods Visa, Mastercard, Skrill, Neteller, Astropay, Payz, Jeton, Neosurf, eZeeWallet, Crypto
Min. Withdrawal €50
Withdrawal Methods Skrill, Neteller, Jeton, MiFinity, Crypto

B7 Casino ReviewOperated by Flowerinas SRL, B7 is a European mobile betting site that opened in 2023. You can access it in German, English, Spanish, and Polish languages.

Apparently, it focuses more on its casino section. We say so because the homepage only features casino content. To access its sportsbook, you must navigate to the menu.

The bookie covers 40+ sports, including soccer, tennis, and basketball. You can also wager on special events such as elections. If you’re into esports, Dota 2, Valorant, and King of Glory are available.

Popular markets that you can bet on include Asian handicaps, double chance, and draw no bet. Besides wagering on pre-match events, live betting is possible. Instead of live streaming, the bookmaker offers a tracker that allows you to monitor the progress of an ongoing sport.

You can choose your preferred odd format from the 6: European, American, decimal (it’s the default), and Hong Kong.

B7 has a bet builder and quick bet features. When you activate the quick bet mode, a single click on your selection places your bets immediately. It’s ideal for live-game wagers.

The bookmaker accepts popular banking methods, such as Visa, Bitcoin and Skrill. It processes withdrawals in under 24 hours. You can request for payouts between €50 and €1000 per day.

Got questions? Reach out to the customer support team via email (support_cr@b7casino.com) or live chat.

How We Test and Review Europe Betting Sites

We usually take our time when reviewing and ranking European betting platforms. We don’t just skim the surface – we dive in deep with the goal of identifying true gems that are reliable and safe for betting. Here is what the process looks like and the key factors we consider.

1

Security and licensing

Our priority is security and licensing. We need to ensure we're dealing with legitimate and secure betting sites. At this stage, we examine each sportsbook's licensing status and security measures. Most EU betting sites make this easy by displaying their licensing information in the footer of their website.
We simply visit each site and scroll down to verify their licensing details. Betting sites without proper licences are eliminated at this point. Once licences are confirmed, we turn our attention to security. We favour sportsbooks with robust security measures, such as SSL encryption and stringent privacy policies, to ensure a safe betting environment.

2

Reputation

Next up is the reputation of each betting platform. We uncover the platform’s background, including its parent company, place of incorporation, sister sites and operational history. This thorough investigation helps us gain a clearer understanding of the platform’s credibility.
We also review any complaints and unresolved conflicts to ensure the platform is free from fraudulent activities. At this stage, we eliminate sportsbooks with unclear backgrounds or problematic histories, ensuring we move forward only with the most reputable options.

3

Betting markets and odds

At this point, our list is down to reputable, licensed, and secure European sports betting sites. Next, we focus on aligning these options with your betting preferences. You definitely want to play in a sportsbook with plenty of betting markets and competitive odds. We carefully review each sportsbook to ensure they meet these criteria, then drop those with limited betting options.

4

Payment methods

The best European sportsbooks offer a wide range of payment options. We carefully evaluate this aspect by reviewing each banking method available, as well as its limits, terms, and processing times. Our focus is on finding sportsbooks with multiple payment solutions, quick processing, and friendly payment terms. Sportsbooks accepting popular EU payment solutions like Visa, Mastercard, Trustly, iDeal and Paysafecard get the upper hand.

5

Promotions

We all love free bets, so they definitely factor into our evaluation. However, they’re not the sole reason we recommend a sportsbook. We test these offers to ensure they’re genuinely valuable and not just marketing hype. We also look at the terms to ensure they’re fair. In the end, we give our nod to betting sites with the most realistic bonuses and friendly rollover conditions.

6

Final endorsement

Of course, our evaluation goes beyond just a few factors. We sift through everything until we’re left with the most reliable, safe, and reputable European betting sites online. With that done, it’s simple. We recommend these top picks to our readers.

Popular Sports to Bet on in Europe

Europe’s sports betting scene is a treasure trove of options, but some sports reign supreme among punters. These fan favourites are woven into the fabric of European culture, drawing massive attention and, naturally, plenty of wagers. The deeper the roots, the higher the stakes. Below are some of these popular sports in Europe:

Football

Football bettingSoccer has been the most popular sport in Europe for ages. The continent boasts the most famous leagues and clubs on the planet, with a fan base so big it’s almost hard to imagine.

Naturally, football dominates the betting scene, too, offering punters a smorgasbord of choices. They can bet on English Premier League matches, La Liga, Champions League, Ligue 1 and many others.

Tennis

Tennis BettingBesides football, tennis is a huge favourite across Europe. The sport’s history goes way back to the 12th century when it was first recorded by ecclesiastical writers. Today, over 25 million Europeans are into tennis, with France having the largest share of players.

Tennis is adored for its exciting mix of skill, athleticism, and strategy. Many legendary players come from Europe, which explains why tennis is so cherished here. Just like football, tennis draws a lot of attention and, naturally, more wagers from sports bettors.

Basketball

Basketball bettingAnother popular sport in Europe is basketball. It was first introduced in Europe in the 19th century with the first basketball event taking place in 1919 in Joinville-le-Pont, Paris.

Later, the popularity of this sport tripled in Europe, leading to the formation of basketball teams and leagues across the continent. Today, there are over 10 basketball leagues in Europe, with the Euroleague being the most prominent and a favourite among punters.

Horse racing

Horse racing bettingEuropean bettors are drawn to the excitement and thrill of horse racing. This captivating sport has long been woven into European culture, with Italy historically leading the way in horse racing. Today, France has the highest number of racing venues, boasting over 250 hippodromes.

The UK also contributes to a significant number of venues and events, all of which are prominently featured by European sportsbooks. Punters eagerly take advantage of these events, aiming to make fortunes while relishing the adrenaline rush.

Common Types of Bets in European Sportsbooks

Types of betting sitesEuropean sportsbooks don’t constrain bettors to specific bet types. Instead,  they give you the autonomy to decide what works best for you, offering a wide range of betting options. Below are common betting types you can expect in most sportsbooks.

Moneyline

This is the most common betting type in sportsbooks. You are predicting the outcome of sports events. Pick who you think will win the match and put your money in line. If they win, you win. If they lose, you also lose. Pretty simple!

Parlays

Also referred to as accumulators, these are just multiple bets placed on a single bet slip. The objective here is to increase the odds and better the returns. Parlays are not constrained to a single event. As such punters are free to combine bets on different events and accumulate the best odds they can.

Handicap

Another popular bet type in European sportsbooks is Handicap. Here, you’re betting on an outcome where one team is given a head start to even things out. This head start is based on the perceived strength difference between the teams. It adds an extra layer of excitement by balancing the odds.

Totals betting

This is what many punters know as over/under. After moneyline and handicap, this is the third most popular betting market globally. You are betting on the total number of points or goals to be scored in an event.

For instance, Team A is playing Team B tonight. You are not certain which team wins, so instead of taking chances, you decide to bet on the total number of goals to be scored in the whole match.

Don’t worry. You don’t have to say the exact number of points to be scored. You could place bets on Over 1.5, meaning you anticipate at least 2 goals to be scored in the match. Or Under 1.5 meaning you expect not more than 1 goal/point to be scored in the event. The same analogy will apply to Over/Under 2.5.

3-way betting

Here you are betting on 3 outcomes. Team A Wins, Team B Wins or a Draw. Any of these outcomes will win your bet. In short, you are having a more nuanced approach to predicting the outcome of an event. Odds in this kind of bet are usually high compared to conventional Win or Lose wagers.

Odd Formats in European Bookmakers

How odds are working_Odds in European sportsbooks take 3 formats. We briefly discuss them below.

Decimal odds

This is the most common odd format in European sportsbooks. It shows the total payout you'll receive for each $1 you bet not just profits. The stake is already included, so there is no need for calculations. If the odds are 1.50 and you bet €100, a possible win will get you €100 x 1.50, which is €150. This includes the original €100 stake.

Fractional (UK odds)

Some sportsbooks, especially those in the UK, usually have fractional odds. These odds typically show the potential profit a punter can earn relative to their stake if their bet wins.

For instance, fractional odds of 2/1 mean the punter will win 2 units for every 1 unit they wager. The numerator stands for the total profit you are likely to win, while the denominator is the stake.

Here’s an example: an event with the odds of 2/1 happens and your bet was €100. Your profit will be 2/1 x €100, which is €200. Add the initial stake of €100 and you now have €300.

That means a 2/1 fraction odd is equivalent to 3.00 in decimal format.

American odds

Also called money lines, these odds have a – or + sign at the beginning. They also revolve around winning or losing €100. For instance, American odds of +150 would mean you could win $150 for every $100 bet you make. Negative 110 (-110), on the other hand, would mean you will need more, precisely a stake of €110, to win €$100.

In other words, American odds with a negative sign tell you how much you win to bet to win €100. Also, if a team has negative odds, that’s the favourite team.

Popular European Payment Methods

The most popular payment methods in Europe are debit cards, credit cards, digital wallets and cryptocurrencies. We briefly discuss them below:

Trustly

This is an open banking system that is quite popular in Europe. Trustly acts as an intermediary, working with banks to facilitate faster and smoother online transactions.

To use it, you must be a member of affiliated banks. Lucky you, Trustly works with almost all major banks in Europe. Don’t take chances though. Confirm this on Trustly’s official website or with your bank.

Trustly works for both deposits and withdrawals in European betting sites. Deposits are instantaneous. Within seconds, you should be inside analysing and making your bets. Withdrawals take not more than 12 hours and are paid to your local bank account.

The payment processor won’t charge you fees for transactions. However, the affiliated bank may do so. Make sure you confirm this to avoid inconvenience.

Visa

Visa cardsAnother popular payment method in Europe is Visa. It is globally available, facilitating convenient transactions of almost all kinds—be it paying in supermarkets, e-commerce sites, sportsbooks or service providers.

Visa debit or credit card perfectly fits any modern banking situation. Nearly all sportsbooks in Europe accept it. Deposits are instant while withdrawals take 2-3 days.

It’s not perfect for those looking for instant payouts.
Good thing, payouts are delivered to your local bank, so getting access to your money here should be seamless. A small fee applies, but considering how handy Visa cards are, this isn’t much of a concern.

Skrill

SkrillThere’s no way Skrill could be left off the list of Europe’s most popular payment methods. We came across it on nearly every betting site we explored. It’s an e-wallet that makes online transactions smooth and fast.

Punters love Skrill because of its convenience and reliability. It works for both deposits and withdrawals in European sportsbooks. Deposits reflect almost immediately, while cash-outs take a few minutes.

PayPal

Like Skrill, PayPal is another widely accepted digital wallet in European online sportsbooks. It facilitates quick transactions.

To use PayPal, create an account, verify it, and link it to a card or bank account. After that, fund your e-wallet account (using the card or account) and make transactions.

PayPal works for both deposits and withdrawals in sportsbooks. Deposits are free and instant, while withdrawals last a few minutes.

Bitcoin

BitcoinSeveral European sports betting sites are now embracing the future of finance. In that sense, they are accepting digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum and many others.

Punters who have used Bitcoin for transactions can tell you how convenient it is. No wonder they are gaining popularity across Europe every day.
You can use Bitcoin for both deposits and withdrawals in most European sportsbooks. Deposits are super fast, taking a few seconds, while withdrawals last not more than 15 minutes.

For most European bettors, using Bitcoin is fairly simple. You just need to set up a digital wallet, exchange your fiat currency for BTC, and have your assets ready for transactions.

Bonuses and Promotions in European Betting Sites

BonusesThey say there’s nothing like free lunch, but European online betting sites don’t buy that. They provide a series of freebies to all their members, whether new or regular. Common bonuses you can expect in European betting sites include:

Welcome bonus

This kind of offer is given to new bettors after signing up. A welcome bonus could be a deposit bonus (meaning you will need to deposit a certain amount to claim the bonus) or a no-deposit bonus. Whichever the case, this kind of bonus gives you a headstart. If it needs a qualifying deposit, you may need a code to unlock it.

Free bets

Why put your own money on the line when you’ve got free bets. This kind of bonus allows you to bet without using your funds and you get to keep the profits if you win. If you lose, there’s no risk or loss.

Don’t mistake it for free money. You cannot cashout free bets. You must make a qualified bet and see what that gets you.

For example, OneStep gives you a €100 free bet to use on EPL matches. You decide to bet the entire amount and win €300.

You don’t get to keep the €300 (win) and the €100 (stake). No! Only the win is credited to your account, pending rollover requirements.

Cashback offers

In European sportsbooks, cashbacks reimburse a certain percentage of money lost during your previous wagers (within the promotional period). It’s normally a percentage, say 10%.

If you lost €1000 during the promotional period and the bookmaker offers a 10% cashback, you get €100 back.

Loyalty bonus

Most European sports betting sites have loyalty programs designed to reward regular and consistent members. These schemes offer enticing perks, such as exclusive bonuses, dedicated account managers, expedited payouts, and much more.

Capitalise on these exclusive bonuses to make the most out of your wagers. Keep in mind that these bonuses are tied to specific terms and conditions.

New Betting Sites in Europe

New Betting SitesEurope's betting market is never short of newcomers, with new sportsbooks always bursting onto the scene each year. They promise everything from an extensive range of betting options to stellar odds and bonuses that make your wallet sing.

However, not every new site lives up to the hype. Some are just riding the buzz to attract punters, only to leave them feeling underwhelmed. Sorting through the flurry of new arrivals can be a bit of a maze.

So we did the heavy work for you and compiled a list of some of the most promising European sportsbooks. Take a look.

New Betting Sites in Europe
Casino name Rating Bonus License Min Deposit Min Withdrawal
Lucky Pays 4.0 100% Up to €777 + 77 Free Spins Costa Rica €20 €25
LegendPlay 4.0 100% Match up to €250 N/A €10 €10
GGBET 4.0 100% Match up to €500 Curacao €5 €20
Wildsino 4.1 100% up to EUR 100 Curacao €10 €10
Simple Casino 3.9 100% up to EUR 100 Kahnawake
Royal Fortune 4.0 100% Match up to €500 €20 €20
Wonaco 4.1 100% up to EUR 100 Curacao €10 €10
Slots Palace 4.0 100% up to EUR 100 Curacao €10 €10
Cazimbo 3.8 100% Match up to €100 N/A €10 €10
Boom Bet 4.1 100% up to EUR 500 Curacao €20 €40

European Betting Apps

Betting AppsNowadays, all betting sites in Europe are mobile-compatible. This is the new norm in modern online bookmakers, fitting on-the-go bettors’ lifestyles. Betting apps make this possible.
There are plenty of online betting apps, but not all are up to scratch. Some have slow loading times, poor graphics and pesky glitches, which can really cramp your experience. To save your ship, we compiled a list of some of the best European betting apps you can try in 2024.

Crypto-Friendly European Betting Sites

Crypto Betting SitesOnly a fool can ignore the buzz around cryptocurrencies in the world of finance. These digital assets are flipping the script on how we pay for just about everything, including betting.

The top dog in this crypto craze is Bitcoin. It’s the most popular cryptocurrency on European betting sites and seamlessly steps in where traditional currencies once ruled.

If you’ve ever dabbled in crypto, you pretty well know how fast and anonymous these coins are. It is because of these perks you are looking for reputable crypto-accepting betting sites to enjoy the drill. Europe’s packed with options, and we’ve gone ahead and handpicked the best just for you.

Popular Betting Regulators in Europe 

Every country in Europe has its own betting regulator, but certain authorities have earned a reputation that surpasses their official boundaries. Recognized by the EU, these regulators are widely accepted across Europe due to their dedication to safe gambling and a strong track record. We briefly discuss these regulators below.

MGA

The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is like the gold standard of betting regulators in Europe. As the official overseer of all things gambling in Malta, a proud EU member, the MGA has been running the show since 2001.

And guess what? It didn’t take long for this powerhouse regulator to gain a stellar reputation across Europe, making it the crown jewel of gaming licences.

Fast forward to today, the MGA licence is the most coveted one on the global stage. It’s not just operators who rave about it—punters love it too. Why? Considering the strict regulation and supervision, you are sure of maximum protection when betting with an MGA-licensed bookie.

For betting operators, snagging an MGA licence is a big deal, not just for the prestige but for the solid trust it commands across Europe.

UKGC

Another popular betting regulator in Europe is the UK Gambling Commission(UKGC). Set up by the UK government in 2007, the UKGC has made a name for itself across Europe as a force to be reckoned with when it comes to fairness.

Earning a UKGC licence is nerve-wracking for operators, but once you have it, you’re on top of the world. However, you must meet plenty of obligations to maintain your licensing.

Punters recognize the UK's commitment to ensuring safe betting practices. As such, UKGC-licensed sportsbooks are always in their books when wagering.

GRA (Gibraltar Regulatory Authority)

Gibraltar LogoThe Gibraltar Regulatory Authority is the official gambling regulator in Gibraltar, a disputed British overseas territory bordering Spain. This authoritative body was established in 2000 under the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority Act, which was later amended in 2013 to also cover online gambling.

Together with the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), these two bodies have hugely contributed to the creation of an international gambling standard that ensures fair and safe wagering.

Getting a GRA licence might be a smoother ride compared to the hoops operators jump through for the MGA or UKGC. But don’t let that fool you.

The GRA isn’t a soft touch. It’s one of the strictest regulators in the game. The rules? Tough. The obligations? No joke. But for punters, this means you’re betting in a fair, secure environment with top-notch protection.

Each European country has its regulatory body. These are just the most popular and reliable betting regulators in the region.

Tips & Tricks for Smart Sports Betting in Europe

Tips for safer bettingNew to European sports betting sites? The below expert tips & tricks will help you sail through smoothly.

Explore multiple bookies

The European sports betting market is packed with online bookmakers, so there’s really no reason to stick with just one when you can explore dozens of others. Just be cautious.

Not all these sites are reliable. A good starting point could be our list of the best betting sites in Europe. Joining most of these sportsbooks is super easy, with the registration process taking no more than two minutes.

Consider only licensed sites

Licensed sportsbooks play by the book ensuring a safe betting environment for punters. During your exploration, this should be the first thing to consider before signing up.

The most reliable sportsbooks in Europe hold valid licences issued by local or reputable authorities like the MGA, UKGC and the GRA.

Understand local gambling laws

Sports betting laws vary from one country to another in Europe. In your exploration, don’t take chances. Make sure you grasp the local betting guidelines and laws before indulging. Get to understand the betting restrictions, taxes and more.

Always analyse sporting events and betting markets

Betting isn’t just about luck. It also demands strategy and market insight. You can’t expect to win by making random bets. A well-thought-out analysis can always enhance your odds of making winning decisions.

Don’t shy away from bonuses

Most online sportsbooks in Europe offer amazing perks like welcome bonuses, free bets and many others. Capitalise on these bonuses to make the most out of your bets. While at it, make sure you read and clearly understand the terms and conditions.

Use safer betting tools

We all bet for fun, but sometimes things can easily get out of hand leading to addiction. This is the last thing you would wish to experience.

So, you better make good use of the available responsible betting tools in most European sportsbooks. Think of measures like deposit limits, loss limits and bet limits.

Pros and Cons of European Sports Betting Sites

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of sports betting sites in Europe:

Pros

  • Offer a wide range of betting markets
  • They offer competitive odds
  • Plenty of rewarding bonuses
  • Access to a wide range of payment methods
  • Some have rewarding loyalty programs
  • Many have designated mobile apps

Cons

  • Higher odds are sometimes risky
  • Tax implication
  • Monotonous KYC process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, sports betting is legal in most European countries. However, a few like Kosovo prohibit gambling at large, so you better get versed with gambling laws in your country.

Well, there are plenty of established online bookmakers targeting players in Europe. The best sportsbooks will often depend on your individual preference. That said, certain brands like OneStep, B7 and Greatwin stand out for their high quality services.

Some of the safest online bookmakers in Europe include Zotabet and BetsAmigo. Overall, any reliable. safe sportsbook in our books holds a valid gambling licence, has a solid reputation, and offers a wide range of betting markets. That makes it safe.

Football attracts the biggest attention among punters in Europe. Better yet, the most popular football leagues and clubs in the world are based in Europe. So, the popularity of football among bettors makes a lot of sense.

Absolutely. Most betting sites on our list offer perks like free bets, loyalty bonuses and many others. Just read and clearly understand the tied terms and conditions.

Different countries have distinct laws regarding betting taxes. Some subject bet winnings to taxes and others don’t. For example, Ireland, Germany and the UK don’t impose taxes on bettors’ winnings. Greece, however, taxes winnings above €100. So, it all boils down to your country’s legislation.

David Kane, Author at Bettingsite.cc

Bookmakers reviewer

David Kane

Expert opinion

David Kane is an expert content editor at BettingSite.cc, known for his detailed reviews of the newest bookmakers. His in-depth analyses and clear advice benefit both new and seasoned bettors, enhancing their betting experiences with reliable information.