Introduction
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are essential tools for protecting online privacy and accessing region-restricted content. When choosing a VPN for use in Europe, factors like speed, security features, server distribution, and streaming capabilities need consideration.
This article explores the top five VPNs for European countries based on criteria important to European users. We evaluate server numbers in Europe, speed test results, privacy protections, and unblocking abilities for services like Netflix and BBC iPlayer. Keep reading to determine the right VPN for secure web browsing and content streaming while travelling or living in Europe.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN earns the title as the best overall VPN option across Europe. This Panama-based provider has over 5,400 servers across 60 countries worldwide. In Europe alone NordVPN maintains 2,000+ servers, outnumbering most competitors.
All servers provide impressive speeds for smooth streaming and rapid downloads. Independent tests confirm NordVPN as one of the fastest options in 2022 thanks to proprietary NordLynx protocol rolling out. Plus, NordVPN unblocks popular sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer that often get region-blocked in Europe.
For privacy and security, NordVPN ticks all the boxes as well. It operates under the jurisdiction of Panama to avoid overbearing government surveillance demands. NordVPN also has one of the strictest no-logging policies in the industry regarding customer data and online activity tracking.
Additional protections like CyberSec ad blocking, Double VPN, and Onion Over make NordVPN the most secure VPN accessible across Europe. The convenience of 6-device simultaneous connections per account adds further value for protecting all internet-connected gadgets while travelling abroad.
2. Surfshark
Those needing region flexibility for streaming services should consider Surfshark as the top VPN for accessing European libraries. This British Virgin Islands-based provider has over 3,200 servers in 65 countries to redirect IP addresses and bypass geo-blocks with ease.
What makes Surfshark unique is offering unlimited simultaneous device connections for one subscription cost. So digital nomads and travelling families stay protected across laptops, phones, tablets and more without paying extra fees. Surfshark also reliably unblocks Netflix, allowing binge watching shows from various European countries’ catalogues.
Surfshark is no slouch on speeds either based on independent testing metrics. Some specialized servers even optimize connections for streaming sites like Netflix and BBC iPlayer resulting in 4K video playback without buffering. For privacy, Surfshark operates outside intrusive surveillance alliances to preserve online anonymity.
3. ExpressVPN
Globetrotters wanting server diversity across Europe need to consider ExpressVPN. This VPN heavy-hitter has an astounding 3,000+ servers covering 160 locations worldwide. ExpressVPN maintains servers in 94 countries, exceeding nearly any rival.
Within Europe, ExpressVPN grants access to servers in 27 countries. So users get fine-tuned location targeting no matter where travels take them across the EU. Despite the expansive server network, ExpressVPN delivers fast and stable speeds ideal for HD streaming.
ExpressVPN also packs strong leak protection through Network Lock kill switch technology. The strict no-logging policy adds another layer for achieving digital anonymity in Europe’s heavily-monitored internet landscape. For unlocking geo-blocks, ExpressVPN reliably provides entry to Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime and more video streaming platforms.
The one drawback of ExpressVPN remains its higher subscription costs. But frequent deals help offset the pricing premium of increased access. Plus, the unlimited simultaneous connection allowances provide value for protecting every gadget in your arsenal while abroad.
4. CyberGhost
Savvy shoppers find the best VPN bargain for Europe comes courtesy of CyberGhost. This Romania-based provider manages 7,400+ servers in 90 countries while keeping costs low through efficient infrastructure strategies. Despite the savings, CyberGhost still brings performance – its network generates speeds up to 10-15% faster than costly counterparts.
CyberGhost smartly allocated servers where needed most in Europe, resulting in 380+ locations spread across 50 European countries. High-traffic sites like Germany, France, and the Netherlands have an abundance of servers while also covering less-visited spots like Lithuania and Bulgaria.
Like all top VPNs, CyberGhost incorporates 256-bit AES encryption for securing connections. The strict no-logging policy adds another barrier against customer data collection. For unlocking geo-restrictions, CyberGhost reliably grants access to libraries of Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus and other European streaming mainstays.
Bottom line, CyberGhost presents the best balance of affordability and capabilities for European connections. The generous 45-day money-back window also makes test driving this wallet-friendly VPN risk-free.
5. Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) stands out as the leading VPN solution for Europe in terms of customer privacy preservation. This provider bases operations out of the United States but still manages to keep no logs despite the unfavorable jurisdiction. PIA even underwent a court-ordered audit confirming it stores no user data that could compromise online identities.
PIA further boosts security through features like an advanced firewall, ad blocker, and split tunneling tools. The 10-simultaneous device allowance per account means all gadgets stay shielded when travelling abroad. PIA also reliably unblocks geo-restrictions, providing access to Netflix, BBC iPlayer libraries.
Speeds fall slightly below fastest-in-class ranges at peak times across PIA’s 3,300+ servers in 77 countries. But performance remains adequate for HD streaming and rapid file downloads. PIA accepts various anonymous payment options like gift cards and cryptocurrency for achieving complete transaction privacy as well.
So privacy purists uneasily browsing in Europe’s heavily-surveilled internet landscape can rest easier using PIA’s uncompromising protections. Just be aware speeds may occasionally throttle during peak congestion.
Conclusion
Determining the best VPN for Europe involves prioritizing capabilities like speed, security protections, privacy policies and streaming accessibility. NordVPN, Surfshark, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost and Private Internet Access each have strengths catering to European VPN needs.
Use this analysis highlighting servers numbers, network speeds, unblocking abilities and enhanced features to select your top VPN matching personal preferences. Any of these five VPNs provide reliable security and unlocking abilities elevating the European browsing experience.