5 Best Free VPNs for Europe — Tested and Working in 2025
Many free VPNs for Europe have limitations, like data caps and poor speed performance.Some have even been caught downloading malware onto users’ devices and recording their browsing activity.
After my team and I tested dozens of free VPNs, I shortlisted the most reliable European options. They’re all secure and user-friendly for desktop or mobile devices. However, even the best free VPN has some trade-offs, such as small server networks and the inability to reliably access popular streaming platforms, like BBC iPlayer and Netflix UK.
My top pick for Europe is ExpressVPN. It's not 100% free, but it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee*, so you can try it without risk. Thanks to ExpressVPN's fast and vast server network, it's possible to access European streaming services, like RAI Play and Eurosport, from anywhere and watch content in HD.
Best Free VPNs for Europe — Full Analysis (Updated 2025)
1. ExpressVPN — Impressive Speed To Watch European Content in HD From Anywhere
| Best Feature | Proprietary Lightway protocol offers top speeds across EU servers |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, and more |
| Works With | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, France TV, Max, Amazon Prime Video, ARD Mediathek, DAZN, and more |
| Data Cap | Unlimited data |
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
ExpressVPN consistently delivers the fastest speeds on European servers for uninterrupted streaming, gaming, and torrenting from anywhere. In our latest tests, we measured 190.6Mbps on servers in France and 168.4Mbps in London. Its Lightway protocol uses fewer lines of code, so it can run faster while using less battery. With a vast EU network, it's possible to access BBC iPlayer, DAZN, or France TV without buffering. We also played Warhammerwithout lag.
Apps are easy to use, and you can install them in a few clicks on all popular devices. Use the search bar to find your preferred server and click the large power button to connect. I recommend activating its ad and tracker blocker (Threat Protection) to avoid unnecessary data and battery usage. This is also easy; simply click Options > Advanced Protection.
Your data is secured with advanced security features, including military-grade encryption and IP/DNS leak protection. Automatic obfuscation also makes your VPN traffic appear as regular internet traffic, allowing you to use it in countries like Turkey or Russia that have restrictive internet policies. Your data and activity aren’t stored or shared — ExpressVPN runs exclusively on RAM-only TrustedServer technology that wipes all data after each reboot.
While ExpressVPN isn't free, you can try it confidently with its 30-day money-back guarantee and use it on up to 8 devices simultaneously. After testing the service extensively, I contacted support via 24/7 live chat to request a refund. I had my money back in my account within 3 business days.
Useful Features
- Split tunneling. Route only specific apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection. This can improve speeds since not all traffic gets encrypted.
- MediaStreamer. This Smart DNS feature enables you to use the VPN on devices that don't normally support VPNs, like gaming consoles and older smart TVs. It works with UK and US content.
- Network Lock. When enabled, this kill switch immediately stops all internet traffic if your VPN connection drops, preventing accidental data exposure.
30 days for first-time customers
24/7 Live Chat Support
ExpressVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
- One of the fastest VPNs
- Works with top streaming sites
- A proven no-logs policy
- Limited customization
- Smart Location isn't always the fastest
2. PrivadoVPN — Free Servers Work With Top European Streaming Platforms
https://privadovpn.com/
| Best Feature | Reliable free servers in the UK, France, the Netherlands, and Germany |
|---|---|
| Server Network | Free servers in 13+ locations to safely access popular streaming platforms from anywhere |
| Works With | Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, Max, Channel 4, and more |
| Data Cap | 10GB of data per month |
PrivadoVPN's free tier allows secure access to popular streaming platforms in and outside Europe, including Netflix US, BBC iPlayer, and Max. This is great since free VPNs are rarely suitable for streaming. Plus, we measured up to 156.8Mbps on local servers during testing, almost as fast as ExpressVPN, which is surprising for a 100% free plan. It’s among the few free VPNs that can stream without interruptions and proxy errors.
It provides servers in 9 European countries, including the UK, France, Germany, and Switzerland. These servers are secured with AES-256 encryption, and our leak tests confirmed that PrivadoVPN effectively masks your real IP address while browsing European websites.
Free apps come with minimal but functional features. For example, you can sort servers by latency to quickly find the fastest one in Europe. I also like how much customization its kill switch offers — you can choose specific apps that will only work if the VPN is connected, which can be great for remote work.
The free plan only gives you a 10GB monthly data allowance, approximately 10 hours of standard-definition streaming. Unlike other free VPNs that cut your connection entirely after reaching the data limit, PrivadoVPN reduces your speed to 1Mbps but allows you to continue browsing. The premium version of Privado removes all limitations and is one of the cheapest options available.
Useful Features
- Automatic protocol selection. The VPN routes your traffic through the best protocol for your connection.
- SmartRoute. Route only specific apps through the VPN while others use your regular connection for better speed management.
- P2P support. All servers enable secure and private torrenting in and outside Europe.
PrivadoVPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
- Free servers in 13 locations
- Full suite of security features
- Simple one-click activation
- Restricted to 10GB per month
- No browser extensions
- Only one device connection
3. TunnelBear — Free Option With Premium-Level Security Tools
| Best Feature | AES 256-bit encryption and state-of-the-art protocols to keep you safe online |
|---|---|
| Server Network | Free option provides access to its entire network of 8,000 servers in 47 countries |
| Works With | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and more |
| Data Cap | 2GB of data per month |
With the free plan, you get access to all security features,including GhostBear, which makes it possible to use it on restrictive networks, such as work and school. It's also straightforward to use, with each feature offering a brief explanation next to it, so beginners can easily customize their connection to enhance speeds or security. The VPN can also automatically connect you to the best protocol, which includes trusted options like WireGuard and OpenVPN.
During testing, we recorded solid speeds on European servers, nearly as fast as its premium version. Long-distance speeds are slower, but we could browse without interruptions. We even played CS: GO matches using the free plan.
TunnelBear gives you access to all its servers on the free plan. While it has a smaller network than ExpressVPN, this is still impressive for a free VPN. This wide coverage can help you find fast nearby connections wherever you are in Europe. It covers key European locations like the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and many others.
The major limitation is its 2GB monthly data cap, which restricts longer streaming sessions. However,you can get an extra 1GB by tweeting about the service. Additionally, if you’re in a country where the internet is censored, like Russia, Belarus, or Turkey, TunnelBear may automatically give you a 10GB bonus each month.
Useful Features
- VigilantBear kill switch. This feature blocks your internet if the VPN disconnects, preventing data leaks.
- Entertaining interface. I love the bear-themed app with adorable puns, and the free app looks the same as the premium version.
- SplitBear split tunneling. Route specific apps through your regular connection (like food delivery apps) while protecting others with the VPN.
TunnelBear VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
- Free servers in 47 countries
- Works with some streaming platforms
- Fun, quirky app design
- Only 2GB of monthly data
- Doesn't offer apps for some devices
- Not router compatible
4. Proton VPN — No Data Caps For Unlimited Browsing in and Outside Europe
| Best Feature | Unlimited free data with zero restrictions for browsing |
|---|---|
| Server Network | Over 100 free servers in 6 countries |
| Works With | Netflix Originals, YouTube, and some local European platforms |
| Data Cap | Unlimited data |
Proton VPN's free plan gives you unlimited data for browsing in Europe without monthly restrictions. Unlike other free VPNs that limit your usage, you can use Proton VPN continuously while traveling through Europe without worrying about running out of data. We used over 50GB monthly during tests without noticing any additional slowdowns.
Its Swiss jurisdiction means strong privacy protections, and its no-logs policy has been independently audited. I also like that Proton VPN uses RAM-only servers that automatically wipe all data. Like ExpressVPN, it also prevents DNS leaks, which I verified through multiple leak tests.
You can connect to three EU countries — the Netherlands, Poland, and Romania — and it also has servers in Japan and the US. However, you can't manually choose specific servers. The VPN connects you to the fastest one available based on your location. However, speeds are decent even on the free tier, especially using the WireGuard protocol.
The VPN is easy to use across all major devices.I installed it on my Windows laptop in less than 2 minutes. You can also try Proton VPN's premium features with its 7-day free trial.
Useful Features
- Alternative routing. Automatically finds the fastest path to European servers if your regular connection is blocked or unstable.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy. Changes encryption keys frequently so your past VPN sessions stay private even if future ones are compromised.
- Stealth protocol. Helps access restrictive networks by masking VPN traffic.
Proton VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
- Unlimited monthly data
- Reputable privacy practices and features
- Fast speeds near and far
- Only nearby server connection
- No P2P support
5. Avira Phantom VPN — Great Mobile VPN With Easy Server Access Across Europe
| Best Feature | Simple-to-use mobile apps with many European servers |
|---|---|
| Server Network | 45+ mobile server locations, including many in Europe |
| Works With | YouTube, Spotify, Facebook, Instagram, and more |
| Data Cap | 500MB per month (an extra 500MB if you provide your email) |
Avira Phantom VPN’s mobile apps are great for beginners and offer plenty of European server locations.I found it extremely easy to use — switching to a server in Paris took just two taps during testing. In contrast, the desktop version only supports a Nearest Location option, so I recommend using Avira on Android or iOS for the best experience and full server access.
I was disappointed that Avira doesn't include a kill switch on the free tier. Luckily, my connection remained safe throughout testing, so there was no need for it. While not as secure as ExpressVPN,Avira also uses strong AES-256 encryption and secure protocols to protect your data.
The free version limits you to 500MB of data per month, and you can get an extra 500GB by registering with your email. This gave us about 20 hours of basic web browsing, enough for checking social media or quick browsing sessions on public WiFi in European cafes.
Useful Features
- Smart Scan function. This built-in tool checks your network for vulnerabilities and adjusts VPN settings automatically for better protection.
- Malware blocker. It stops potentially dangerous files and websites from harming your device while browsing European sites.
- DNS leak prevention. Your DNS queries stay encrypted and private, preventing your ISP from seeing which European websites you visit.
Avira Phantom VPN Pros, Cons, and Needed Improvements
- Unlimited simultaneous devices
- Access to 36 countries on mobile
- No signup required
- Max 1GB monthly data (with email signup)
- No kill switch
Quick Comparison Table: Free Europe VPN Features
We've tested dozens of free VPNs to find the best ones for Europe. The table below highlights the most important features you need to consider when choosing a free VPN for use in Europe, including European server coverage, streaming capabilities, and data limitations.
| Free Option | European Servers | Speed | Data Per Month | Works With | Device Connections | |
| 🥇ExpressVPN | 30-day money-back guarantee & 7-day free trial for iOS and Android | 30+ EU locations | Very fast | Unlimited | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more | 8 |
| 🥈PrivadoVPN | Free plan | 12 EU locations | Fast | 10GB | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, ZDF, and more | 1 |
| 🥉TunnelBear | Free plan | All servers | Average | 2GB | Limited streaming | Unlimited |
| Proton VPN | Free plan | 3 EU locations | Fast | Unlimited | Limited streaming | 1 |
| Avira Phantom | Free plan | 8 EU locations | Average | 500MB (1GB with email) | Limited streaming | Unlimited |
Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.
Our Methodology for Testing Free VPNs for Europe
We tested over 30 free VPNs to find the most reliable options across Europe. First, we checked if their EU servers offered consistently fast speeds for streaming, browsing, and remote work. We also measured how much usage time you get before hitting data caps. As importantly, we reviewed each VPN’s privacy track record, including how they handle user data. You can use these same criteria to evaluate any free VPN yourself.
Expert Tip: Most Free VPNs for Europe Aren't Safe
When choosing a free VPN in Europe, it's crucial to pick a trustworthy provider. The ones I recommend here have solid security track records — unlike many others that can put your privacy at risk.
Key risks with unreliable free VPNs:
- Data exposure. Some track and store your activity, violating GDPR rules, and may sell your information to third parties. Always read the privacy policy carefully.
- Weak security. Many lack encryption or leak protection. For instance, Super VPN logs user data, and Hola VPN’s P2P model can expose your IP to misuse.
- Malware threats. Free VPNs like Turbo VPN, Hot VPN, and Snap VPN (owned by Chinese firms) have been found to carry malware, especially risky when using public networks in Europe.
The VPNs I recommend avoid these issues. They’ve been audited, follow strict privacy policies, and rely on optional paid plans, not your data, for revenue, making them far safer for use in Europe.
Looking for a VPN to use in a specific EU country? Here are the most popular options:
- The best VPNs for France. These VPNs offer secure servers in and outside France that can access Hulu, Canal+, France TV, and TF1 safely from anywhere.
- The best VPNs for the UK. Suitable for securely streaming BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and other UK-based services from anywhere.
- The best VPNs for Italy. Provides excellent speeds for watching RaiPlay, Mediaset Infinity, and Now TV in HD.
Quick Guide: How To Use a VPN for Europe in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because it offers extensive European server coverage, fast speeds for streaming content, and strong security features.
- Connect to a server. Pick a server close to your location for the fastest speeds when streaming or browsing.
- Start browsing. Your connection is now encrypted, making it possible to access content across Europe safely.
FAQs on Free VPNs For Europe
Are free VPNs legal in all European countries?
VPN use is legal throughout most of Europe, except Russia and Belarus. There’s no distinction between free and paid services. VPNs are legitimate tools for enhancing your online security and privacy. While the EU has strong data protection laws like GDPR, these complement VPN usage by supporting digital privacy rights.
However, using a VPN for illegal activities remains unlawful. It’s always recommended to check local regulations, as some countries may have specific restrictions around VPN use. For example, Turkey requires VPN providers to store user data, which impacts privacy.
Can I use a free VPN to connect to India from Europe?
It’s unlikely you'll find a free VPN to connect to India from Europe. Most free and paid VPNs have removed servers in India due to local data collection laws, and those that haven’t can be slow or unreliable. For stable access or better security, a paid VPN with virtual Indian servers is a more reliable option.
Free plans also often have data limits, slower speeds, and weaker privacy protections. They may work for basic browsing, but are generally unsuitable for streaming, torrenting, or sensitive tasks.
Which free VPN has the most European server locations?
TunnelBear's free VPN plan provides access to servers in numerous European countriessuch as the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and others. However, TunnelBear’s free tier has a 2GB monthly data limit, which may not suffice for heavy usage like streaming or large downloads. A premium VPN has none of the limitations of free VPNs.
Can a free VPN access US Netflix in Europe?
Netflix blocks most free VPNs. While some free VPNs occasionally work, they’re typically inconsistent and lack the speed needed for HD streaming. The limited server networks and outdated IP addresses make maintaining stable access to US Netflix content challenging.
Should I use a free VPN or a proxy for Europe?
A free VPN is generally better than a proxy for privacy and security while browsing in Europe. VPNs are also easier to set up than a proxy. They encrypt your internet traffic and hide your IP address, making them suitable for safe access to online content, using public WiFi, or protecting your data.
Proxies, on the other hand, only mask your IP address and don’t encrypt traffic, so they’re less secure. They may work for basic tasks, but aren’t reliable for streaming or private browsing.
Get the Best Free VPN for Europe
Most free VPNs struggle to provide safe access to European content while maintaining good speeds. While I found some trustworthy options, they all come with limitations like data caps, reduced speeds, or restricted server access that can impact your streaming and browsing experience.
I recommend ExpressVPN for Europe. With fast servers worldwide, including almost every EU country, it can access local platforms in HD from anywhere. While not free, it backs every purchase with a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you time to test all its European servers risk-free.