Planning a European holiday on a budget? You might want to look beyond the Eurozone. With the euro still strong in many countries, UK travellers can often stretch their pound further in European destinations that use their currencies. In this guide, we’ll list which European countries do not use the euro as of 2025, compare currencies, and highlight some great value destinations. You’ll also find out why non-euro countries can offer better bang for your buck, from favourable exchange rates to lower local prices and unique cultural experiences. Let’s dive in!
Euro vs. Non-Euro Countries: The 2025 Breakdown
Europe’s currency map is a patchwork. Out of 51 independent European countries, just under half use the euro as their official currency. The euro is shared by 20 EU member states (the “Eurozone”), including popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and (newly added in 2023) Croatia. The remaining European nations maintain their currencies, including 7 EU members that haven’t adopted the euro yet. Notably, Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Sweden, and Denmark (which has an opt-out) still use their national currencies, though Bulgaria plans to join the euro in January 2026.
Beyond the EU, many other European countries also don’t use the euro, from the UK and Switzerland to budget-friendly Balkan states. (A few small states like Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City do use the euro via formal agreements, and places like Montenegro and Kosovo have adopted the euro unilaterally. But our focus here is on countries with their own money, where you might snag a better exchange rate advantage!)
Table: Eurozone vs. Non‑Euro Currencies in Europe (2025) (EU members in bold)
| Euro-Using Countries (Eurozone) – official currency: Euro (€) | Non‑Euro European Countries – Official currency (code) |
| Austria | Bulgaria, lev (BGN) |
| Belgium | Czech Republic (Czechia), koruna (CZK) |
| Croatia (joined € in 2023) | Denmark, krone (DKK) |
| Cyprus | Hungary, forint (HUF) |
| Estonia | Poland, złoty (PLN) |
| Finland | Romania, leu (RON) |
| France | Sweden, krona (SEK) |
| Germany | United Kingdom, pound sterling (GBP) |
| Greece | Norway, krone (NOK) |
| Ireland | Switzerland, Swiss franc (CHF) |
| Italy | Iceland, krona (ISK) |
| Latvia | Liechtenstein, Swiss franc (CHF) |
| Lithuania | Albania, lek (ALL) |
| Luxembourg | Bosnia & Herzegovina, convertible mark (BAM) |
| Malta | North Macedonia, denar (MKD) |
| Netherlands | Serbia, dinar (RSD) |
| Portugal | Turkey, lira (TRY) (partially in Europe) |
| Slovakia | Moldova, leu (MDL) |
| Slovenia | Ukraine, hryvnia (UAH) |
| Spain | Belarus, ruble (BYN) |
| (Microstates using euro: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican ) | Russia, ruble (RUB) (partially in Europe) |
| Armenia, dram (AMD) | |
| Georgia, lari (GEL) (transcontinental Caucasus) | |
| Kazakhstan, tenge (KZT) (partially in Europe) |
Note: Countries italicised in the Euro column are EU members. Some non-EU territories also use the euro (e.g. Akrotiri and Dhekelia in Cyprus, Canary Islands in Spain) due to political ties. Also, British Crown Dependencies like the Channel Islands and Isle of Man use local pounds (pegged 1:1 to GBP), UK pounds work there, but their local banknotes aren’t legal tender back in Britain.
As you can see, there’s a wide range of currencies in Europe. This means UK travellers need to plan for currency exchange in many destinations. The good news is that this diversity creates opportunities for better value, which we’ll explore next!
Why Travel Outside the Eurozone? More Value for Your Money
Choosing a non-euro country can often save you money on travel costs. The reasons are twofold: favourable exchange rates and lower local prices. In 2025, the pound sterling is relatively strong against many European currencies, which makes your holiday budget go further. In fact, 23 of the Post Office’s 30 most popular foreign currencies have weakened against the pound compared to last year. That means when you swap sterling for, say, Hungarian forints or Turkish lira, you’ll get more local cash than before, effectively a built-in discount on everything you buy abroad.
Local price differences also play a huge role. Many non-euro countries have a lower cost of living than Western Europe, so things like dining, accommodation, and activities are cheaper for visitors. For example, Turkey stands out as a bargain: thanks to a sharply depreciated lira, your money buys over twice as many goods and services in Türkiye as it would in Germany (and similarly far more than in the UK). In Poland, one euro’s worth of zloty buys what would cost €1.52 in Germany, roughly a 50% boost in purchasing power. And Hungary isn’t far behind, offering around 40% more bang for your buck compared to prices in Western Europe. In short, Eastern European countries that kept their own currencies often allow you to eat, stay and play for much less.
Even within the EU, those seven countries that haven’t adopted the euro can be easier on the wallet. Travellers opting for a long weekend in Prague, Budapest or Kraków often find daily expenses noticeably lower than in Paris or Rome. In fact, Prague (Czech Republic) jumped back into the top 10 cheapest destinations for 2025 after local prices fell over 20%, it now ranks as the 8th best-value spot worldwide in the Holiday Money Report. And outside the EU, resort prices in places like Turkey and Bulgaria beat most Eurozone beach hubs. The Black Sea resort of Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, was named one of the cheapest European destinations in 2025, with a basket of typical tourist costs (meals, drinks, sun cream, etc.) totalling just about £71, that is lower than the Costa del Sol in Spain. No wonder Bulgaria consistently tops lists of budget-friendly holidays.
What about Eurozone bargains? It’s true that not all euro-using countries are expensive, for example, Portugal’s Algarve region actually came out cheapest in the 2025 Post Office survey (local prices there are very low). Popular Eurozone spots like Spain, Greece and Portugal can still offer good value, especially with package deals. However, many of the biggest savings right now are found outside the euro. By avoiding peak-priced cities and resorts that charge in euros, you sidestep the exchange rate premium that comes with the common currency. And if the euro strengthens further, non-euro countries become even more attractive for bargain hunters.
Finally, choosing non-euro destinations isn’t just about saving money, it’s also a chance to experience unique cultures and sights that are a bit off the typical tourist trail. From the Ottoman influences in the Balkans to the Soviet-era heritage in parts of Eastern Europe, these countries offer rich history and authentic experiences often at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. Imagine trading a pricey Parisian café for a hip coffee house in Sofia, or swapping a costly Swiss ski trip for the budget-friendly slopes of Bulgaria’s Bansko. You’ll still get unforgettable memories, and your travel budget will thank you.
Travel Tip: To maximise your savings, plan your currency needs ahead of time. Exchange some money before you travel or use a fee-free travel card, so you’re not stuck with poor rates at airports or ATMs. By shopping around for the best exchange rates and carrying the right currency, you can make your holiday money go further. A little prep work means more gelato/řevani/beer (insert local treat of choice) for you!
(Keep in mind that not every non-euro country is a bargain. High-income nations like Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway may have their currencies, but they also have high prices, you could pay 10–20% more than in mainland Europe for the same expenses in Scandinavia, and Switzerland is pricier still. Our focus here is on the value destinations.)
Top Budget-Friendly European Destinations (Non-Euro)
If you’re looking for trip ideas where you can maximise value, consider these popular and up-and-coming European destinations outside the Eurozone. Each offers something special and won’t break the bank.
- Bulgaria, Affordable Beach Resorts and Ski Getaways: Bulgaria consistently ranks as one of Europe’s cheapest holiday spots. Sunny Beach on the Black Sea is famed for its bargain prices (it’s one of the cheapest resort destinations surveyed in 2025), with inexpensive dining and nightlife. In the capital Sofia, you’ll find outstanding value on everything from museum tickets to pints of local beer. Even skiing is cheap, winter travellers hit Bansko or Borovets for a fraction of what Alpine resorts charge. The Bulgarian lev offers great exchange value, so your pound stretches far here.
- Türkiye (Turkey), Your Pound Goes Twice As Far: Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers incredible value due to the weak lira. In tourist havens like Antalya, Marmaris or Izmir, Brits relish all-inclusive beach resorts and bazaars where prices seem shockingly low. Case in point: in Turkey, you can get more than double the goods for your money compared to Eurozone countries, thanks to currency differences. Istanbul, with its stunning mosques and markets, is a major city where you can still dine well for a few pounds. From cappuccinos to kebabs, you’ll find Turkey hard to beat on cost, and rich in culture and scenery to boot.
- Albania, The Mediterranean’s Budget Beach Paradise: Albania is quickly emerging as a favourite for savvy travellers. This Balkan gem has paradise-like beaches, affordable food, and low-cost stays, often compared to Croatia or Greece but at a fraction of the price. The Albanian lek makes everyday costs delightfully cheap. Tirana, the capital, was even named Europe’s best budget city break for 2025 by Time Out, thanks to its brilliant value (think £3 beers and £40/night hotels). Beyond the city, the Albanian Riviera offers turquoise waters and uncrowded sands for a song. Go now, before the secret gets out completely!
- Poland, History, Hospitality and Low Prices: From storybook old towns to vibrant modern cities, Poland gives you a lot for a little. Kraków, with its medieval square and castle, is not only beautiful but very affordable; accommodations and restaurant bills come much lower than in Western Europe. Warsaw and Gdańsk offer great value city breaks as well. The Polish złoty has remained weaker against Western currencies, so UK visitors find that meals, beers, and transit are cheap. Poland’s mix of World War II history, museums, and hearty cuisine (try pierogis and Żubrówka vodka) makes it a rewarding, budget-friendly destination.
- Hungary, Spa City Luxury on a Budget: Hungary’s forint may not make mental math easy, but it will make your wallet happy. Budapest, famed for its thermal baths and stunning Parliament building, is one of the best-value capitals in Europe. You can soak in an ornate spa, enjoy a ruin pub crawl, and feast on goulash all in a day without splurging. According to surveys, prices in Hungary are around 40% lower than in Western Europe in many categories. Beyond Budapest, explore Debrecen or Lake Balaton for even more local prices. It’s Old World charm at New World prices.
- Romania, Europe’s Hidden Bargain: Romania flies under the radar, but offers immense value for those who venture here. The Romanian leu goes far: whether you’re sipping coffee in a trendy Bucharest cafe or touring Transylvanian castles, you’ll notice how inexpensive everything is. Bucharest, nicknamed “Paris of the East” in its heyday, has elegant French-inspired architecture and a rapidly developing culinary scene, yet remains bargain-priced for travellers. Don’t miss charming Brasov and Sighișoara in Transylvania for fairytale vibes on a budget. Romania’s unique mix of Balkan, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences, plus cheap wine and hearty food, makes it a fantastic, frugal adventure.
(Other notable mentions: Serbia (check out cool, low-cost Belgrade nightlife), Bosnia & Herzegovina (Sarajevo’s cafes and history are both rich and affordable), Georgia (for the more intrepid, the Georgian lari buys a fantastic Caucasus experience at low cost), and Montenegro’s beautiful landscapes, though Montenegro uses the euro, it still tends to be cheaper than its Eurozone neighbors.)
Smart Travel Planning for Non-Euro Trips
Exploring Europe’s non-euro destinations can significantly cut your holiday costs while exposing you to new cultures and sights. To make the most of it, remember to plan your currency needs: obtain some local cash in advance or upon arrival (major currencies like GBP exchange easily in these countries), and use a credit/debit card with no foreign fees when possible. Always pay in the local currency, many tourist spots might accept euros or pounds, but you’ll get a poor rate back. By being currency-savvy, you avoid hidden charges and can enjoy the true cost advantage.
When planning your trip, remember that the savings don’t have to stop at your destination. You can also cut costs before you fly by booking your airport parking with APH. As the UK’s long-stay airport parking specialist, APH offers secure, convenient, and great-value parking options at all major airports. Booking in advance guarantees you the best price and one less thing to worry about on departure day.
In 2025, with the pound riding high against many European currencies and inflation easing in several countries, it’s an ideal time to venture beyond the Eurozone. Whether you’re hunting for the cheapest beach beer or just an authentic experience at a good price, Europe’s non-euro destinations have you covered. With a bit of research and an open mind, you’ll find incredible value-for-money holidays that don’t compromise on fun. Happy travels (and happy savings)!
FAQs: European Countries That Don’t Use the Euro (2025)
As of 2025, 20 EU countries use the euro, while 7 EU members (Bulgaria, Czechia, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden) and many non-EU countries (like the UK, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, Albania, and Serbia) still keep their currencies. Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro in 2026.
There are different reasons. Some countries, like Denmark, have an official opt-out agreement. Others, such as Sweden, haven’t met or chosen not to meet euro-adoption criteria. Non-EU countries (e.g., the UK, Switzerland, Norway) are simply outside the Eurozone and prefer to keep their monetary policies.
Often, yes. Many non-euro destinations, such as Turkey, Bulgaria, Albania, and Hungary, are cheaper thanks to weaker local currencies and lower living costs. That said, some non-euro countries (like Switzerland and Norway) are expensive, so travellers should research prices before booking.
Some tourist areas (especially in Eastern Europe and the Balkans) may accept euros, but you’ll usually get a poor exchange rate. It’s best to pay in the local currency for maximum value. Always carry some cash in the official currency and use a fee-free travel card when possible.
Top picks include:
Bulgaria – cheap Black Sea resorts and ski holidays
Turkey – great value all-inclusive packages, cultural cities, and beaches
Albania – up-and-coming Mediterranean hotspot with low prices
Poland – affordable city breaks with rich history
Hungary – spa culture and vibrant Budapest at bargain rates
The Euro is a dangerous currency. It is a stepping stone to a world currency, thus, a very oppressive world government.
There should be an open democratic process, that gives people a chance to use it, or not.
Turkey isn’t a European country
Acctually, that’s not true. Turkey is in BOTH asia and europe. so if you lived there, you could say you live in asia AND europe.
Turkey is a European country. 95% of turkey is in Europe and remaining 5% in Asia.
Wrong! It’s the other way around. Look at the geographical map. Majority part of Istanbul is in Europe but 95% of Turkey is Asia. Istanbul is a straddle city. I was there, I even crossed the Bosphorus bridge connecting Asia & Europe.
Maybe Poland Norway and Sweden will use it someday. Who knows.
You need to update this list. These Countries now use the Euro
Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania & Andorra. You also missed San Marino & Vatican City who also have used the euro for quite some time.
We’re on this one. Thanks for pointing it out.