European Betting Sites – Valentina’s Reviews of EU Sportsbooks

Written by:

Valentina Lopez

Fact checked by:

Rebeca Jimenez

Published:

March 15, 2025

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Table of Contents

Welcome to the Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina Lopez, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.

For the past month, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Europe, soaking up all the Old Continent has to offer.

Along the way, I’ve had drinks in local pubs and attended matches (not games :p), talking to locals to find the best EU betting sites.

These were my favorite picks overall.

Top European Sportsbooks

Topped up with tips from locals in the UK, Italy, and Spain, I decided to spend a few days exploring the best EU betting sites during my Europe trip.

What I really loved were the live betting opportunities.

They really amped up already epic experiences as I took in matches at historic stadiums like Stamford Bridge in London and the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

With a €500 budget and a keen eye for picking winners (or not), I set out to explore what the EU has to offer.

Below, I’ll share my hands-on experiences with a comparison of European sportsbooks along with my personal recommendations.

That said, before we get into the reviews (feel free to skip ahead if you’re in a rush), let me tell you a bit about my European adventure.

In the UK, I soaked up the buzz of football culture, including a stop at a lively pub for a classic pint before a match at Stamford Bridge. In Italy, I indulged in a mix of Roman history and Serie A action, with some incredible pasta cacio e pepe fueling my stadium experience.

And in Spain, it was all about tapas, El Prado, and the Bernabéu.

Ready to see how Europe’s top sportsbooks stack up?

Let’s go!

When it comes to gambling meccas, it’s Vegas or Monaco that probably come to mind – not cities like London, Rome, or Barcelona.

That said, in the UK, I heard football fans debating their accumulators (that’s parlays to us) at pubs, and there’s a betting shop on almost every corner – for better or for worse.

In Italy, the buzz around Serie A bets was palpable at nearly every Punto Snai, the betting points at local coffee and tobacco shops.

And in Spain? La Liga matches practically come with a side of live betting commentary.

Since traditional brick-and-mortar sportsbooks in other languages were confusing for me, locals were happy to point me to some recommended EU sportsbooks.

I love placing bets even if I’m on the road, and I think I found some new favorites here.

Allow me to break down my review process.

For each of the top European sportsbooks I tried during my trip, I tracked every wager, every promotion claimed, and, of course, how my bets fared once the games finished.

Did I hit big with a few savvy plays, or did I take a hit on some overambitious accumulators?

See, I’m already quick with the lingo.

Let’s keep reading to find out.

One thing’s for sure, though – after trying them all, there’s one sportsbook that stood out from the rest: MyStake.

First EU Sportsbook I Tried: MyStake

• Sports I bet on: Premiership soccer
• Hours spent testing: 2.5
• Bonus I claimed: 120% up to €600
• How I did: Won €128

A gentleman that I met at The Butcher’s Hook in Fulham, which really couldn’t be any closer to Stamford Bridge without serving pints inside, told me about MyStake.

“If you’re backing United though,” he said with a grin. “Don’t do it on my site!”.

Fair enough, though unbeknownst to him I kind of was.

I was planning on betting a Chelsea/Man U draw for the game across the street – sacrilege around those parts, though nobody had to know.

A quick glance at the MyStake sportsbook right from my phone at the pub looked promising – heck, getting fidgety at the prospect of playing I almost put some blind money down on Icelandic women’s soccer first.

Signing up for MyStake was a breeze, taking about a minute.

I deposited €150 to claim their 120% deposit match, which gave me plenty to play with.

I tested the waters with my draw bet for the evening’s game, plus a €5.00 long-shot parlay on some NBA action.

The draw came through. The parlay though? Well, like most, it didn’t quite make it.

Feeling lucky, I got a tip and placed a cheeky €25.00 wager on James Maddison as an anytime goalscorer in next week’s fixture.

When it came in, I had a profit booked for my test! An appreciated rarity.

Between the global reputation, generous bonuses, and an incredible range of sports betting options, this online EU sportsbook has secured its spot in my rotation.

Safe to say, I’ll be back for more.

What I liked: 

It’s basically true that most EU sportsbooks have the same kind of sports variety, so I’m always looking to be impressed elsewhere.

And MyStake got its hooks in me with its standout promotions.

It’s rare to see a sportsbook go all-in on creative bonuses, but I love their unique spin on the standard 3 + 1 free bet promo: every 4th ticket is a gift.

Even better? Their build-your-own-market function allows you to combine multiple bets from the same game – up to 10 different bets to be exact.

This same game parlay option is just something you never see at offshore sportsbooks.

Beyond this, the platform itself is a dream to navigate.

Everything is laid out intuitively, making it easy to jump between markets and explore the endless betting options. I found all the American sports favorites as well – this isn’t just for European-preferred lines.

The betslip is also a standout feature, instantly updating odds as I tweaked my selections for a parlay.

What I didn’t like: 

There’s no debating that MyStake gets a ton right.

That said, there are a couple of drawbacks that might stand out for some players.

First off, the lack of a dedicated mobile app might be annoying for players accustomed to having their own downloaded versions of a platform.

Not to fear though: the desktop version runs smoothly, and it’s super easy to locate and scroll through key features like betting markets or account settings.

Another downside? The restricted countries list.

First off, most Europeans are fine here so no need to panic – but keep in mind if you’re based in more obscure regions (no offence, Dutch West Indies), you won’t be able to access the site.

Check out MyStake for yourself

Second European Sportsbook I Tried: Seven.Casino

• Sports I bet on: Serie A
• Hours spent testing: 1.5
• Bonus claimed: 200% up to €250
• How I did: Lost €65

Drinking in a cozy Trastevere bar, I asked an AS Roma fan about where to play and he couldn’t stop raving about Seven.Casino.

“Every weekend I play there,” he said with a grin. “And not just the soccer, I play the NBA too and it’s the best odds I ever find.”

Intrigued by Marco’s enthusiastic attempt at selling me his favorite site in English, I decided I’d give Seven.Casino a spin later that evening.

Again, it shouldn’t surprise anybody that if it’s in my top three – it’s a well-rounded sportsbook menu that has everything under the sun.

From Serie A matchups to NBA, NFL, and NHL, their range of options left little to be desired.

The live betting section, in particular, impressed me with its fast updates and a plethora of markets, making it perfect for in-play action.

This European online sports betting site is the one I’ll be coming back to.

What I liked: 

When I logged into Seven Casino, I found myself instantly drawn to their live betting platform, locked and loaded for the Roma-Atalanta game at Stadio Olimpico.

It’s sleek, intuitive, and packed with features that make tracking and placing bets in real-time an absolute breeze.

I placed a Paul Dybala anytime goalscorer bet which didn’t come in, but such is life.

Whether it’s soccer or an NFL game coming down to the wire, their live odds updated seamlessly, and the platform’s layout made it simple to jump in on the action in a flash.

Another thing that stood out was their esports section.

I’ve dabbled in esports betting before, but Seven Casino’s offerings made me want to dive deeper. They cover everything from eFighting and eTennis to the standard FIFA and NBA2k options.

I found detailed match stats and tons of betting markets including obscure leagues in Kuwait, so it’s really the ultimate destination for fans of competitive gaming in general.

In all, I’d anoint this the perfect place for both traditional sports fans and gamers.

What I didn’t like: 

There’s one area I think could use some attention: the lack of sports-specific bonuses.

You won’t find free bets, bet boosts, or league-specific promotions here, which some competitors include to sweeten the deal for bettors.

For me, this isn’t a huge issue as I’m not someone who chases bonuses, especially since the rollover requirements on many of them can feel like an anchor tied to your leg.

That said, as I mentioned before I’m a fan of unique promotions especially those related to parlays. It would’ve been nice to have the option.

For newer players or those who love squeezing extra value out of promotions, this is something to keep in mind.

That said, the absence of specific sports bonuses doesn’t overshadow the high-quality betting experience they offer, but if promo perks are a priority for you I’d go for MyStake.

Still, for someone like me who values straightforward play, Seven Casino gets plenty right where it counts.

See the difference at Seven.Casino for yourself

Last on My List: FreshBet

• Sports I bet on: NBA
• Hours spent testing: 1.25
• Bonus I claimed: 100% up to €500
• How I did: Lost €220

A confession: even after all my years in the betting game, I’d still never heard of Freshbet before deciding to give it a go myself.

I didn’t tell that to Lucas, an American visitor I met during a stadium tour of the Bernabéu.

Apparently, he’d been using the site for over a year now and swore by it.

Their 100% welcome bonus on sports betting up to €500 gave my initial deposit a nice little boost, even if it probably wasn’t worth it in the end – more on that later.

With my bankroll set up, I decided to bet yet another goal prop for Real Madrid’s match that evening. It’s sick being in the stadium when these hit, and I greedily wanted to double down on what should’ve already been a legendary evening.

This time, I bet on Vinícius Jr. to find the back of the net, and dammit, if they didn’t score four goals and he wasn’t one of them!

Result aside, Freshbet’s mix of real-time betting features, promos, and clean interface made it clear why Lucas was such a fan.

I’ll definitely be giving it another go.

What I liked:

While Freshbet doesn’t bombard you with an overwhelming list of promotions, it shines where it truly matters: value for long-term players.

Their VIP program is one of the best I’ve come across, even at the lower tiers.

Starting with 10% cashback on losses and increased deposit and withdrawal limits, it’s clear Freshbet prioritizes loyalty from the get-go.

For high rollers or committed bettors, the top VIP levels are where it really gets exciting. You can earn up to a €5,000 “appreciation chip” with just a 1x rollover.

For European soccer fans, the football cashback program on the top 5 leagues (Premier League, Ligue 1, La Liga, Bundesliga, and Serie A) was a standout for me.

Freshbet may not dazzle with an amazing design, but its focus on rewarding loyalty and offering tailored value makes it ideal for players who want a long-term betting experience.

It also has over 40 sports to bet on, which is way bigger than some of my American sportsbook counterparts.

If you need to squeeze off some bets on squash, water polo, or even sumo wrestling, then this is a perfect shout.

What I didn’t like: 

One minor issue I noticed while using Freshbet is the welcome bonus rollover, which comes in higher than average at 20x.

While the bonus itself is generous, some bettors might find it harder to unlock, especially since bets on tennis and baseball don’t count toward the rollover.

If you’re a frequent player in either of those markets, you should be forfeiting the bonus.

Another small gripe for me is that the sheer volume of sports offered (40+ categories) can make the homepage feel a bit cluttered at first glance.

While the variety is ultimately a positive – catering to niche bettors as well as mainstream sports fans – it can feel overwhelming if you’re just trying to focus on your favorite leagues.

My recommendation? Customize the ‘My Favorites’ section to clean up the interface and streamline your betting experience.

That said, FreshBet is in my top three for a reason: these aren’t deal-breakers by any stretch.

Check out FreshBet for yourself

My Verdict: Comparing the Three European Sportsbooks I Tried

While I (obviously) didn’t get a chance to try every European bookmaker, I feel like I’ve got a solid sense of the scene after exploring a few standouts during my recent travels.

From conversations with locals in the UK, Italy, and Spain to placing my own bets, it’s clear that some of the best online betting sites in the EU go above and beyond to cater to both casual and experienced punters.

Whether it’s unique features like live-streaming matches, generous promos, or niche betting markets, certain sportsbooks set themselves apart.

After all, I’ve been through over my weeks of tests, here’s how I’d rank my top European sportsbook picks based on variety, ease of use, and standout promotions:

Best Sportsbook in the EU Overall: MyStake

When it comes to European sports betting, MyStake stands out as the ultimate sportsbook for promos.

While many platforms offer similar betting markets, this European online bookmaker goes above and beyond with innovative bonuses and features that truly elevate the experience.

What impressed me most was their creative approach to promotions.

The standout? Their 3+1 free bet deal: every fourth ticket you place is completely free.

They also shine with their build-your-own-market feature, allowing you to combine up to 10 bets from the same game for an ultra-customizable parlay.

It’s a dream for bettors who like to get creative and maximize their odds.

I was also super impressed with their clean, intuitive design that makes jumping between markets effortless.

Best for Live Betting: Seven Casino

If you’re looking for a sportsbook that truly shines in live betting, Seven Casino is in a league of its own.

From the moment I logged in to catch a live Serie A match, I was won over by their sleek, responsive, and feature-heavy live betting platform.

Even though I didn’t win, it made tracking and placing wagers in real time a joy.

Even better, they even feature lesser-known leagues and tournaments, giving sports fans a reason to stick around.

I made a few other small ball bets along the way, and a couple ended up hitting so I got to get my head around their payout system.

Being paid out my winnings as quickly as any other betting site I’ve been on added to the experience – live bettors know you wanna get in and out ASAP, and you can here.

Best Sportsbooks for VIPs and Cashback: FreshBet

From the moment you sign up, Freshbet’s VIP program starts delivering serious value, even at the entry-level.

10% cashback on losses and expanded deposit and withdrawal limits are just the start.

For the more educated players, the perks only get better.

At the top VIP tiers, Freshbet really goes the extra mile with standout benefits like a €5,000 “appreciation chip” that comes with an incredibly low 1x rollover.

Yes, you read that right.

Freshbet’s football cashback program was another highlight for me.

Covering Europe’s top leagues – including the Premier League, La Liga, Ligue 1, Serie A, and Bundesliga – it’s a dream for soccer fans who love consistent value on their wagers.

This is perfect for those following European matches or planning to back their favorite team throughout the season.

Top EU Betting Sites: Comparing the Data

As I say in all my reviews, I’ve shared my personal thoughts on the top sportsbooks I explored during my trip, but it really doesn’t mean anything without some hard data to back it up.

That’s why I went back to research how these European sportsbooks performed in key areas like sports availability, promotions and bonuses, and customer service.

I wanted to see if the stats aligned with my impressions of these online betting sites and whether my favorite features stood out for good reason.

Here’s how they stacked up across the board.

Game Selection Comparison

When it comes to betting options, each European sportsbook brings something unique to the table, catering to a variety of bettor preferences.

For sheer variety, FreshBet takes the lead with 40 sports markets, covering everything from football and tennis to niche options like handball and even sumo wrestling.

Their expansive range also includes eSports and categories like entertainment, offering plenty of creative betting opportunities.

MyStake isn’t far behind with 38 markets, featuring a robust mix of mainstream sports and eSports. Their entertainment betting adds another layer of excitement, making it an excellent choice for players who enjoy wagering on things beyond the usual matches and tournaments.

Seven.Casino holds its own with 32 markets, delivering a solid lineup of European sports betting options alongside eSports and entertainment categories.

While slightly more streamlined, it still provides enough variety to keep most bettors engaged.

Bonuses and Promotions Comparison

MyStake shines here with a 120% match bonus up to €600 and a low 10x rollover requirement, making it a standout option for players who want a larger bonus that’s relatively easy to unlock.

With a minimum deposit of just €20, it’s an accessible choice for both casual players and those looking to stretch their initial bankroll.

Seven.Casino turns heads with its 200% match bonus up to €250, also featuring a low 10x rollover.

While the maximum bonus amount is the same as MyStake’s, the double-your-money match rate is perfect for smaller depositors who want even more money to play with

FreshBet, on the other hand, offers a solid 100% match bonus up to €500.

Again, I find the 20x rollover to be way too high, so this bonus is ideal for more experienced players who are used to higher wagering requirements and want a straightforward bonus.

Customer Support Comparison

When it comes to customer support, MyStake, Seven.Casino, and FreshBet all play it safe, offering the essentials: email support, FAQs, and live chat.

While none go above and beyond with innovative support options like X account managers, they all provide a solid, reliable experience.

In my experience, the live chat services on all three European betting sites stood out as efficient and professional. I consistently received responses within 2-3 minutes, and the agents were not only polite but well-informed.

It was refreshing to avoid long waits or dealing with unhelpful, scripted responses.

That said, all of them start you off with an AI bot that tries to answer your query without a real, live agent.

This is annoying, but it’s amazing how many times the answer is right there in their FAQs. To get my response times I simply clicked through “no” until they put me through to a real person.

Obviously, there’s a missed opportunity here with the absence of community-driven support options like forums or social media-based help, but it’s not a deal breaker.

How to Bet on Sports: European Sportsbooks Guide

You’ve heard the chatter at local pubs or seen the odds on the big match scrolling on a friend’s phone – and now you want in. Here’s a bite-sized guide to get you started with European sports betting.

Step 1: Choose a European Sports Betting Site

• Pick a sportsbook that offers the leagues and markets you’re most interested in (think Premier League, Serie A, or even niche sports like handball).
• Look for user-friendly layouts and fast live EU betting sites – something that won’t make you scroll endlessly.
• Check the licensing: reputable European betting sites usually have MGA or UKGC credentials to keep things on the level.

Step 2: Create Your Account

• Sign up using accurate personal details (name, address, contact info).
• Verify your identity early by uploading a clear photo of your ID and a current utility bill – this speeds up any future withdrawals.
• Keep an eye out for sign-up bonuses and promotions – some sites offer free bets or deposit matches that give your bankroll a nice bump.

Step 3: Make a Deposit

• Choose your payment method (credit card, e-wallet, or even crypto if you want faster payouts).
• Decide how much to deposit – if you’re a newbie, start small and build up as you go.
• Confirm any bonus codes at this stage to grab extra rewards right from the get-go.

Step 4: Explore the Markets

• Browse your favorite sports – whether it’s football, tennis, or even eSports, there’s a wager waiting.
• Use filters or a ‘Favorites’ section to streamline your experience and avoid getting lost in 40+ sports categories.
• Live betting? Keep an eye on those real-time odds and be ready to jump in when a good opportunity shows itself.

Step 5: Start Sports Betting in Europe

• Place your bets in a variety of ways: singles, parlays, or even same-game combos to dial up the fun.
• Remember to set limits so you don’t go overboard. Many sites let you cap daily or weekly deposits.
• Win or lose, have fun. Betting is meant to make your sports experience even more fun, not replace the action on the pitch.

New To Betting Sites in Europe? Here’s My Advice

If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of online sports betting in the EU, it can feel like navigating a maze of leagues, odds, and promotions.

To help you avoid rookie mistakes and enjoy your betting experience, here are my tried-and-tested tips.

Be Prepared with the Right Info

EU sportsbooks and European casino sites are generally straightforward when it comes to registration, but you’ll still need to provide accurate personal details.

Expect to submit your name, address, and contact details, as well as proof of identity when withdrawing.

Completing your verification (KYC) process at top betting sites early ensures faster access to your winnings.

Verify Your Identity Early

The best betting sites in Europe will require identity verification before processing withdrawals.

This usually involves uploading a government-issued ID and proof of address, such as a utility bill or bank statement. Ensure your documents are clear and within the acceptable date range (usually no older than 90 days).

Blurry or cropped images can delay the process and your payouts.

Know What You Want to Bet On

With so many sports on offer in the EU – from football and rugby to handball and cricket – having a clear idea of your interests will make browsing much easier.

European sportsbooks can sometimes be overwhelming, especially with niche sports like darts or cycling.

Use the sportsbook’s filters to prioritize your favorite sports and events.

Set Betting Limits

It’s easy to get carried away when betting, especially during live matches.

I learned this firsthand during a Champions League game when a few small bets quickly turned into a string of wagers.

Many EU sportsbooks allow you to set deposit and spending limits. Take advantage of these tools to keep your betting enjoyable and responsible.

Choosing a sportsbook that supports both gives you maximum flexibility.

Know the Banking Options Before Signing Up

European sportsbooks offer a range of payment methods, from Visa and Mastercard to PayPal, Skrill, and cryptocurrency.

Each method has different processing times and fees. Reading the fine print for deposit/withdrawal limits and fees can save you money and time.

Take Advantage of the Promotions

From deposit bonuses and odds boosts to free bets on the Champions League, there’s no shortage of ways to stretch your bankroll at European sportsbooks.

Look for sportsbooks offering low rollover requirements on bonuses. This ensures you can cash out your winnings without placing endless bets to meet conditions.

Best European Sports Betting Sites: Crypto or Fiat Currency?

A common question I hear from European bettors is whether crypto or fiat is the better option for sports betting.

Having used both, it really depends on your preferences, budget, and tolerance for fees.

Let’s break it down.

Crypto Sportsbooks: Pros and Cons

• Availability: Crypto-friendly European bookmakers often operate in more regions, bypassing traditional banking restrictions. They’re great for travelers or anyone betting across borders. However, in countries with strict crypto regulations, availability can be limited.
• Bonuses and promotions: Crypto betting sites in Europe tend to offer generous bonuses. Think 150% deposit matches or unique incentives like parlay tournaments or even luxury rewards.
• Faster payouts: Speed is a big advantage. Crypto withdrawals are processed in minutes or hours, unlike traditional methods, which can take days.
• Innovative betting options: Many crypto sportsbooks offer features like custom bet builders or niche markets such as esports, appealing to tech-savvy and creative bettors.

Why Some Bettors Stick to Fiat

• Ease of use: Using a debit or credit card feels intuitive and straightforward for most players.
• Stability: Unlike crypto, fiat currencies don’t fluctuate wildly in value, offering more predictability for bankroll management.
• Traditional feel: Some players prefer the tried-and-true experience of fiat sportsbooks, with fewer steps involved compared to setting up and managing crypto wallets.

My Verdict: Flexibility Wins

The best sportsbooks in Europe are the ones that allow you to choose between crypto and fiat.

Offering both options caters to a wide range of preferences and ensures maximum flexibility.

The best sports betting sites in Europe like MyStake and Freshbet excel in providing both options, making them a great pick for versatile bettors.

Mobile Sports Betting in Europe

One of the best things about living in or visiting Europe? You can bet on the go. Waiting in line for a quick bite in Barcelona, riding the Tube in London, or sipping a cappuccino in Rome – you’re never more than a few taps away from placing a quick wager on tonight’s match.

Mobile sports betting apps keep you connected to real-time odds, live betting markets, and instant notifications, so you’ll never miss that potential game-winning bet.

The setup is simple: download the sportsbook’s app (or hop onto the mobile-friendly site), log in, and you’re good to go. With up-to-date encryption, two-factor authentication, and licensing from authorities like the UKGC or MGA, you can wager confidently from the palm of your hand.

Even better, deposits and withdrawals are typically speedy on mobile – especially if you’re using an e-wallet or crypto.

Whether you’re wandering through city streets or simply too cozy on the couch to reach for your laptop, mobile betting in Europe puts the action right at your fingertips.

My Final Thoughts on European Sports Betting Sites

Sports betting in Europe is not just a pastime – it has become part of the culture.

From La Liga and the Bundesliga to niche leagues in Scandinavia, there’s a sport for every kind of bettor.

I loved the convenience of live European sports betting sites, especially when placing a cheeky accumulator during a Premier League match. Even with some small losses, the excitement of being part of the action is unbeatable.

That said, keep in mind that the sheer variety of options can feel overwhelming at first, and responsible betting is key.

Best European Betting Sites – FAQs

What Is the Best Online Sportsbook in Europe?

The best sportsbook in Europe is MyStake, which stands out for its creative promotions, flawless live betting platform, and worldwide reputation.

Do EU Sportsbooks Offer Free Bets?

Yes, most sportsbooks in Europe offer free bets as part of their welcome bonuses or ongoing promotions. Just be sure to check the terms, as some free bets come with specific conditions, such as minimum odds requirements.

Which Payment Methods Are Accepted at Online Sportsbooks?

Popular payment methods in Europe include credit cards, e-wallets like Skrill and PayPal, and cryptocurrency. Some of the best European betting sites also accept prepaid cards or bank transfers.

Are Online Sportsbooks in Europe Safe?

Yes, as long as you stick to licensed and regulated European betting sites: always verify that a sportsbook holds a license from a trusted authority such as the MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) or UKGC (UK Gambling Commission).

Can I Bet on European Sports?

Yes, EU sportsbooks offer comprehensive markets on European sports, from football and rugby to cycling, handball, and more. Many also feature live betting options for these sports.

Got a suggestion for where Valentina should travel next, or what she should do on her next adventure? Reach out to her at [email protected] — she’s always looking for something new to try!