Discover the Best Online Casinos in Europe for 2024: Your Ultimate Guide
A brief overview of online gambling history in Europe takes us back to the mid-1990s when the internet was just beginning to take the world by storm. The advent of online casinos revolutionised the gambling industry as it brought about convenience, accessibility, and a wide array of games.
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The European online gambling market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the increasing popularity of online gambling and the rise of mobile gaming. As a result, the market is highly competitive, with many operators vying for a share. Regulation is a key factor in the dynamics, and we will dive into this later on.
Current Trends in European Online Gambling
We read the EGBA report (https://www.egba.eu/eu-market/) about the Europe’s Gambling Market Revenue 2019-2022, and these are some insights:
- Continued Growth of Online Gambling: With countries like Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and the UK showing high online gambling activity, it’s likely that other European nations will follow suit, leading to a continued growth in online gambling across the continent.
- Regulatory Changes: The differences in online gambling shares across various countries may lead to new regulations and policies to either promote or control online gambling, depending on individual country perspectives.
- Technological Advancements: The rise in online gambling may drive innovation in technology, including mobile apps, virtual reality, and enhanced security measures, to provide a more engaging experience for users.
- Market Diversification: The varied approach to online gambling across different European countries may lead to a more diverse and competitive market, with new players entering the field and existing ones expanding their offerings.
- Consumer Behavior Shift: The trend towards online gambling may continue to shift consumer behavior, with more people preferring online platforms over traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. This could lead to a reevaluation of marketing strategies and business models within the industry.
Quick Facts about European Online Gambling
- In 2020, the online gambling market in Europe was worth €22.2 billion.
- The United Kingdom is the largest online gambling market in Europe, with a market share of 34%.
- In 2020, the sports betting segment accounted for 41.4% of the European online gambling market.
- In 2020, the mobile gambling segment accounted for 52.2% of the European online gambling market.
Legal Aspects of Online Gambling in Europe
Europe, with its diverse set of countries and jurisdictions, offers a complex landscape when it comes to the legal aspects of online gambling. The continent has seen a surge in online casinos and gambling platforms, each operating under varied legislation depending on their geographical location. As a result, understanding the legal framework for online gambling in Europe can be somewhat intricate. In this section, we will delve deeper into the legislation that governs online casinos across the European continent.
A review of gambling laws and regulations in Europe
- There is no specific and uniform legislation in the EU governing the field of gambling services. EU member states are autonomous and free to regulate their gambling services, as long as they comply with the fundamental freedoms and general provisions established under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU).
- Most EU countries allow at least some games to be offered online, and a growing number of EU countries have established licensing systems that allow more than one operator to offer services on the market.
- The UK is not an EU member, but it is worth noting that both online and land-based gambling is 100% legal as long as the provider is licensed by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission as per the provisions of the Gambling Act of 2005. The UKGC licence is an integral part of the online casino industry in Europe.
- The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) has ruled on the compliance of national regulatory frameworks with EU law. In a number of judgments, the CJEU has found that national regulatory frameworks that restrict the provision of gambling services may be justified on the grounds of public interest objectives, such as consumer protection and the prevention of fraud and crime,
- Gambling services are subject to a number of EU acts, and in other cases, gambling services have been addressed in the context of broader initiatives aimed at preventing money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism.
- The European Commission supports EU countries’ efforts to improve statistics on online gambling services and foster understanding of technological and market developments.
The following is a list of some of the most significant broad regulations that impact European online gambling sector:
- EU Directive 2005/29/EC (Unfair Commercial Practices Directive): This Directive prohibits online casinos from engaging in aggressive or misleading marketing practices.
- EU Directive 2015/2366 (Payment Services Directive 2 – PSD2): This regulation aims to make online payments more secure, foster innovation and competition among payment service providers.
- EU Directive 2007/64/EC (Payment Services Directive – PSD): This Directive lays down rules for electronic payment services to increase their efficiency, competitiveness, and trust among users.
- EU Directives on Anti-Money Laundering: The EU Directive 2014/47/EU (Fourth Anti-Money Laundering Directive) requires online casinos to implement measures to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Further tightening these measures, the EU Directive 2018/843 (Fifth Anti-Money Laundering Directive) introduces new rules for online casinos relating to customer due diligence and transaction monitoring.
Note: It is important for online casinos to adhere to these regulations not only to maintain their license but also to ensure fair and safe gambling for their customers.
Main Licensing Authorities in European Online Gambling
The choice of licensing authority depends on the specific needs of the online gambling operator.
Three main licensing authorities in European online gambling are:
- Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) – The MGA is one of the most popular licensing authorities in Europe, and it is responsible for regulating and licensing online gambling sites in Malta. Malta is a member of the European Union, and the MGA is recognized as one of the most reputable licensing authorities in the world.
- United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC) – The UKGC is responsible for regulating and licensing online gambling sites in the United Kingdom. The UKGC is known for being one of the strictest gambling bodies.
- Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA) – The GRA is responsible for regulating and licensing online gambling sites in Gibraltar. Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, and obtaining the GRA licence is slightly easier that one from UKGC or MGA.
In-depth Reviews of Top 10 Online Casinos in Europe for 2024
| Casino | Advantage | Welcome Bonus | Live Casino | Payment Methods | Min. Deposit | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LeoVegas | 🦁 Award-winning mobile casino platform | 💰 Up to €1000 + 200 Free Spins | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, E-wallets | €10 | 📱 Yes |
| 888 Casino | 🎰 Diverse selection of high-quality casino games | 💰 Up to $200 Welcome Bonus | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | $20 | 📱 Yes |
| 20Bet Casino | 🏆 Sports betting and casino options combined | 💰 Up to $120 Welcome Bonus | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, E-wallets, Bank Transfer | $10 | 📱 Yes |
| Betway | 🃏 Sports betting options integrated with casino | 💳 Up to $1000 Welcome Bonus | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, E-wallets, Bank Transfer | $10 | 📱 Yes |
| Mr Green Casino | 🍃 Environmentally friendly gaming experience | 💰 Up to €100 Welcome Bonus | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | €10 | 📱 Yes |
| FunCasino | 🎉 Entertaining selection of casino games | 💰 Up to $123 Welcome Bonus | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | $10 | 📱 Yes |
| DreamVegas | 🎩 Luxurious and immersive gaming experience | 💰 Up to $7000 + 120 Free Spins | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, E-wallets, Bank Transfer | $20 | 📱 Yes |
| MrPlay Casino | 👨✈️ Exclusive VIP program and high-stakes gaming | 💰 Up to $200 + 100 Free Spins | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | $10 | 📱 Yes |
| Playjango | 🎲 Exciting selection of games and user-friendly interface | 💰 Up to €100 + 25 Free Spins | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | €10 | 📱 Yes |
| Netbet Casino | 🎉 Wide range of casino games and betting options | 💰 Up to $200 + 10 Free Spins | 🎲 Yes | Visa & Mastercard, PayPal, Bank Transfer | $10 | 📱 Yes |
For those on the quest for an enjoyable and balanced platform for games of chance, the list of Top 10 European Online Casinos could be helpful. This is an opportunity to become familiar with reputable and diverse platforms such as LeoVegas, 888 Casino, and 20bet Casino.
LeoVegas: A Comprehensive Review
LeoVegas offers a wide selection of slots and live games for you to enjoy. With 1397 slots and a variety of games such as Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and Baccarat, you will have plenty of options to choose from. The casino also provides excellent mobile gaming, allowing you to play your favorite games on the go.
One of the pros of LeoVegas is the welcome bonus of 50 Free Spins Plus Up To £100. Additionally, the casino offers other bonuses for deposits and Free Spins giveaways, giving you more chances to win. The payment methods available include Maestro, MasterCard, Neteller, Paysafe Card, and Visa, providing convenient options for making deposits and withdrawals.
However, one drawback is that the bonus offered by LeoVegas is only available for select countries.
Overall, LeoVegas provides a wide selection of games, excellent mobile gaming, and attractive bonuses. However, the limited availability of the bonus and the absence of phone support may be considered as cons.
Pros:
- Wide selection of slots and live games
- Excellent mobile gaming
- Attractive bonuses
Cons:
- Bonus offered for select countries
- No phone support
Support:
– Live chat
– Email: [email protected]
888 Casino: A Comprehensive Review
The 888casino offers a variety of payment methods for players to choose from. You can use Visa/Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, and ecoPayz to make deposits and withdrawals. This gives you flexibility and convenience when it comes to managing your funds.
888casino has over 4,000 slots, which means you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Additionally, they offer exclusive games that you won’t find at other casinos. The VIP Club is also a great feature, providing extra benefits and rewards for loyal players.
On the downside, the casino does not offer Sic Bo or Dice games, which may be disappointing for some players. Additionally, the variety of other games, such as Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and Baccarat, could be more extensive.
In terms of support, the casino provides live-chat assistance and an email contact form on their website. While these options are convenient, some players may prefer a phone support option for more immediate assistance.
Pros:
- Wide range of payment methods
- Over 4,000 slots
- Exclusive games
Cons:
- No Sic Bo or Dice games
- Limited variety in other table games
- Absence of phone support
Support Specs:
– Live-chat assistance
– Email contact form on website
20bet Casino: A Comprehensive Review
20bet Casino offers a diverse range of games and a user-friendly platform. With over 7,700 slots and a great live casino offering, you’ll never run out of options for entertainment. The casino also offers popular games like Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and Baccarat, ensuring that there is something for everyone. In terms of payment methods, 20bet Casino accepts Visa/MasterCard, Skrill, Neteller, Jeton, and ecoPayz, providing convenient options for deposits and withdrawals.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The verification process at 20bet Casino can be quite lengthy, which may delay your access to the games and winnings. Additionally, there are limits on the payout of winnings, which can be frustrating.
Overall, bet Casino is a solid option for those looking for a wide variety of games and a user-friendly platform. The casino offers a generous welcome bonus of 100% up to €120 + 120 Free Spins, along with other bonuses like deposit bonuses and a VIP program.
Pros:
- Over 7,700 slots
- Great live casino offering
- Diverse range of games
Cons:
- Long verification process
- Limits on payout of winnings
Support Specs:
– Live chat
– Email: [email protected]
Betway: A Comprehensive Review
Betway offers a wide variety of payment methods, including Visa/Mastercard, Trustly, Vyne, and Direct Bank Transfer. With such a diverse range of options, you can easily find a payment method that suits your needs.
One of the pros of Betway is their great selection of games at the live casino. Whether you enjoy roulette, blackjack, poker, baccarat, or other popular table games, you will find a wide variety of options to choose from. You will never run out of exciting games to play.
However, one of the cons of Betway is that they only offer about 600 slots. While this is still a decent selection, many players may prefer a casino with a larger variety of slot games. Additionally, Betway does not offer a filter by provider, which may make it difficult to find specific games from your preferred developer.
With a generous welcome bonus of up to €200, as well as a loyalty program for ongoing rewards, Betway ensures that players are well taken care of. While they may have a smaller number of slots and lack a filter by provider, the overall experience at Betway is enjoyable and reliable.
Pros:
- Wide variety of payment methods
- Great selection of live casino games
- Generous welcome bonus and loyalty program
Cons:
- Smaller number of slots compared to other casinos
- Lack of filter by provider for easier game selection
Support:
– Live chat available for immediate assistance
– Email support at [email protected] for any inquiries or issues
Mr Green Casino: A Comprehensive Review
Mr Green Casino offers a loyalty program for you to enjoy ongoing rewards and benefits. The offer allows you to earn points for every wager you make, which can then be redeemed for cash bonuses, free spins, and other exclusive perks. This program is a great way for you to maximize your playing experience.
In addition to the loyalty program, Mr Green Casino also offers a wide variety of games for you to choose from. With over 2000+ slot games and popular table games like roulette, blackjack, poker, and baccarat, there is something for everyone. The casino also provides mobile apps, allowing you to play your favorite games on the go.
However, one drawback of Mr Green Casino is the small welcome bonus compared to other online casinos. The welcome bonus consists of 200 free spins and a 100% bonus up to €100.
Pros:
- Loyalty program for ongoing rewards and benefits
- Wide variety of games, including slots and table games
- Mobile apps for playing on the go
Cons:
- Small welcome bonus compared to other casinos
Support Specs:
– 24/7 customer support available, even on public holidays
FunCasino: A Comprehensive Review
FunCasino offers a wide variety of payment methods, making it convenient for players to deposit and withdraw funds. With options such as Visa, MasterCard, Neteller, Skrill, Payz, Sofort, Giropay, and Paysafecard, you have plenty of choices to suit your preferences. Furthermore, FunCasino boasts a bright website interface that is visually appealing and easy to navigate.
In terms of bonuses, FunCasino may not offer as many as some other casinos. However, they do provide a welcome bonus of 100% up to €123, giving you a boost to start your gaming journey. Additionally, they have tournaments and deposit bonuses on Fridays, allowing you to earn extra rewards while playing your favorite games.
One of the key factors that distinguish FunCasino from others is its excellent customer support service. They place a high priority on ensuring that their users can have a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience. This includes responding quickly to any concerns or queries, and providing solutions in a timely and efficient manner. Their support team is available 24/7 and can be reached via live chat, email, or telephone. Games variety information not provided
Pros:
- Wide variety of payment methods
- Bright and user-friendly website interface
- Welcome bonus and additional bonuses available
Cons:
- Limited number of bonuses compared to other casinos
- Limited to specific games or game types
Support:
– Available 24/7
– Phone: +356 2034 1659
– Live chat
– Email: [email protected]
DreamVegas: A Comprehensive Review
DreamVegas offers a wide range of slots, with over 3,000 options to choose from. The casino holds licenses from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGC) and the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), ensuring that it operates within the legal framework and adheres to strict regulations. With these licenses in place, players can feel confident in the fairness and security of the games.
One drawback of DreamVegas is the potentially lengthy pending times for withdrawals, which can take up to 48 hours.
DreamVegas accepts a wide range of payment methods, including VISA, MasterCard, Maestro, ApplePay, Trustly, Neteller, MuchBetter, PayPal, BankTransfer, Klarna, Paysafe Card, and Rapid. This ensures that players have plenty of options when it comes to depositing and withdrawing funds. The casino also offers a generous welcome bonus of up to €7000 and 120 free spins, as well as other bonuses, tournaments, and a VIP program to reward loyal players.
Pros:
- Wide range of slots available
- VIP Club
- Holds MGC and UKGC licenses
Cons:
- Up to 48-hour pending times for withdrawals
- Lack of information on games variety
Support Specs:
– Available 24/7
– Live chat support
– Email: [email protected]
MrPlay Casino: A Comprehensive Review
Located in the United Kingdom, MrPlay Casino offers a variety of payment methods for players to deposit and withdraw funds. With options like Visa/Mastercard, Trustly, PayPal, Skrill, paysafecard, and Neteller, players have plenty of choices to suit their preferences.
The customer support can be slow, which can be frustrating if you have any issues or questions. Additionally, there have been reports of bugs on the website’s mobile version. It’s important to weigh these factors before deciding to play at MrPlay Casino.
Pros:
- Loyalty program
- Scratch Cards available
- Accepts sports betting
Cons:
- Slow customer support
- Bugs on the website’s mobile version
- Games Variety: N/A
Support:
– Support available 7 days a week from 08:00 CET to 00:00 CET
– Email support available through the form on the website.
Playjango: A Comprehensive Review
If you’re looking for a casino with a wide variety of payment methods and a loyalty program, Playjango is worth considering. Playjango offers players the convenience of multiple payment options, including VISA, Master Card, PayPal, Instant Bank Transfer, and Apple Pay. By participating in their loyalty program, you can enjoy exclusive perks and bonuses that enhance your overall gaming experience.
However, it’s important to note that Playjango does have some drawbacks. The lack of useful filters for game search can make it difficult to find specific titles, and the inactive account fee may be an inconvenience for some players.
Pros:
- Holds a UKGC licence, ensuring a safe and regulated gaming environment.
- Offers tournaments for all players, adding an extra level of excitement to the gaming experience.
- Supports responsible gambling principles, promoting a healthy and responsible approach to gaming.
Cons:
- Lacks useful filters for game search, making it challenging to find specific titles.
- Imposes an inactive account fee, which may be off-putting for some players.
Support:
– Live chat available from 06:00 to 00:00 GMT.
– Email support available at [email protected].
Netbet Casino: A Comprehensive Review
Now let’s move on to another popular online casino – Netbet Casino. As a player, you will have access to a Players Club Loyalty Program, which offers various rewards and benefits based on your level of play. Netbet Casino boasts about 50 game providers, ensuring a wide range of options for you to choose from. Additionally, they offer a decent selection of tier-2 live casino games.
Despite its merits, certain aspects warrant caution. For instance, Netbet Casino’s payout rate in 2022 stood at a mere 94.76%, a figure that pales in comparison to the rates offered by several of its online counterparts.
In terms of payment methods, Netbet Casino supports popular options such as VISA, Master Card, PayPal, Neteller, Paysafecard, Skrill, Sofort, Trustly, Payz, and ApplePay. They also provide a welcome bonus of up to €200 and 10 free spins, along with other bonuses like deposit bonuses, prize giveaways, and a loyalty program.
Pros:
- Players Club Loyalty Program.
- About 50 game providers.
- Lots of tier-2 live casino games.
Cons:
- 94.76% Payout rate in 2022.
- – Slots Number: 4500.
- Games Variety: N/A.
Support:
– Live Chat from 08:00 to 22:00 GMT.
– Email support via website form.
Guide to Start Gambling at European Online Casinos
In this section, we provide a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the landscape of European online casinos.
A step-by-step guide to online gambling in Europe
Before we start, remember to gamble responsibly and never bet more than you can afford to lose. So, here is a 5-step guide to start online gambling in Europe and make your first spin:
- Find a reputable online casino: look for a trustworthy online casino with MGA or UKGC licence that offers the games you want to play.
- Create an account: you will need to provide your personal details and choose a username and password.
- Make a deposit: To start playing, you will need to make a deposit using one of the available payment methods. We recommend a debit card so that you will be sure to receive a casino welcome bonus.
- Choose a game: Browse the online casino’s game library and choose the game you want to play. Most online casinos offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer games.
- Place your bet and spin: if you win, your winnings will be credited to your account balance. Be careful to withdraw, as your welcome bonus can be forfeited.
Tips for new European online gamblers
Engaging with online casinos can be an exciting experience, however, it’s important to approach this environment with the right mindset and preparation. Here are five essential tips for anyone looking to get the most out of their online casino experience:
- Set a Budget and Stick to It: Decide on a budget before you begin playing, and stick to that budget regardless of wins or losses. Online casinos can be addictive, and without proper financial control, you can easily spend more than you can afford. Never gamble with money that you cannot afford to lose.
- Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions: Many online casinos offer welcome bonuses, free spins, and other promotions to new players. Utilize these to extend your playing time and potentially increase your winnings.
- Understand the Rules and Strategies of the Games: Take the time to learn and understand the rules. This is especially true if you’re playing games that require skill and strategy. Familiarize yourself with game tactics, watch tutorials, and practice in free or demo modes to sharpen your skills.
- Ensure a Secure Connection: Only play at reputable and licensed online casinos that offer secure connections. Your personal and financial information needs to be protected.
- Monitor Your Play Time: It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re immersed in an online casino. Set time limits for your play sessions to prevent gambling from interfering with other responsibilities.
- Know When to Stop: It can be tempting to chase losses or continue playing after a big win, but knowing when to stop is crucial. Set win and loss limits, and stick to them. If you find that you’re struggling to control your gambling behavior, seek professional help.
- Stay Informed About Local Regulations: Laws related to online gambling vary by jurisdiction. It is essential to be aware of the legal status of online gambling in your area and adhere to all local regulations.
Commonly Asked Questions about European Online Casinos
European casinos offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games like Roulette, Blackjack, Poker, and Baccarat, live dealer games, and sometimes sports betting and scratch cards.
The main licensing authorities in Europe include the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC), and the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority (GRA). These bodies ensure that online casinos operate within legal frameworks and adhere to strict regulations.
Look for online casinos that are licensed by reputable authorities such as the MGA or UKGC. These licenses ensure that the casino operates legally and follows strict guidelines for fairness, security, and responsible gambling.
Yes, there are several EU Directives that impact the online gambling sector, including EU Directive 2005/29/EC (Unfair Commercial Practices Directive), EU Directive 2015/2366 (Payment Services Directive 2 – PSD2), and EU Directives on Anti-Money Laundering, such as the Fourth and Fifth Anti-Money Laundering Directives.
Yes, many European online casinos offer mobile gaming options. Some provide mobile apps, while others have mobile-friendly websites that allow you to play your favorite games on the go.
Closing Thoughts on Online Gambling in Europe
The European online gambling landscape is a dynamic and multifaceted industry, marked by technological advancements, regulatory changes, and a diverse market. With the growth of online gambling across the continent, players have access to a wide array of games, platforms, and experiences.
From understanding the legal aspects and regulations to exploring top online casinos and their offerings, this overview provides a thorough examination of the European online gambling scene. As the market continues to evolve, players and stakeholders must stay informed, responsible, and engaged to make the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.
