7 European countries not using euro currency + 1 non-EU that does

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There are 7 European countries not using euro currency and one that is outside the EU that does. Traveler tips and more…

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, it’s important to know which countries use the euro as their official currency. Of the 27 EU member states, 20 use the euro as their currency, while the remaining seven have yet to adopt it.

This region is known as the Eurozone, and it is governed by the rules and regulations set forth in the Maastricht Treaty. Do not get this confused the Schengen zone, these are two separate entities.

While most countries that join the EU are required to adopt the euro as part of their membership, there are some exceptions.

These non-eurozone European countries not using euro currency and each have their own reasons for not using the euro, which we will explore in this article.

And more surprising — there are some non-EU countries that have adopted the euro as their official currency, which we will also cover.

Key Takeaways

  • The Eurozone consists of 20 EU member states that use the euro as their official currency.
  • Seven EU member states have yet to adopt the euro due to not meeting requirements, except Denmark which is legally exempt.
  • There are non-EU countries that have adopted the euro as their official currency such as Montenegro.

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European countries not using euro currency

7 EU countries that don’t use the euro

Here are the EU countries that have not adopted the euro as their official currency:

1. Romania

Romania’s official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). One RON is equivalent to 17.60 INR.

2. Czech Republic

The official currency of the Czech Republic is the Czech Koruna (CZK).

3. Denmark (Outlier)

Denmark’s official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Denmark is legally exempt from ever adopting the euro, despite meeting all requirements.

4. Sweden

Sweden’s official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK).

5. Hungary

Hungary’s official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF).

6. Poland

Poland’s official currency is the Polish Zloty (PLN).

7. Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

These countries have their own currencies and are not part of the Eurozone. However, some of these countries are obliged to adopt the euro in the future under certain conditions.

Each of these countries has its own unique attractions and cultural experiences to offer, making them great destinations for travelers. From the stunning natural landscapes of Romania to the historic castles of the Czech Republic, there is something for everyone in these countries.

If you plan to visit any of these countries, it is important to familiarize yourself with their currencies and exchange rates. You may also need to exchange your currency before traveling, or withdraw local currency from ATMs upon arrival.

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Non EU, but uses Euro

Montenegro

European countries not using euro currency montenegro

Montenegro is a small country located in the Balkans, which is not a member of the European Union, but it uses the euro as its official currency.

The country adopted the euro in 2002, replacing the German mark as its official currency. Montenegro’s decision to use the euro was mainly due to its close economic ties with the Eurozone countries and the desire to attract foreign investment.

However, Montenegro does not have the power to mint its own euro coins, and it relies on other countries to supply them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What European countries not using euro currency?

There are seven European countries that do not use the euro as their currency. These countries are Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

How many European Union countries do not use the euro?

Out of the 27 European Union countries, there are six countries that do not use the euro as their currency. These countries are Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Romania.

Why does Denmark not use the euro?

Denmark is not a member of the eurozone because it has opted out of using the euro as its currency. The country held a referendum in 2000, where the majority of the population voted against adopting the euro.

Denmark has its own currency, the Danish krone, which has been in use since 1873.

What is the currency used in Croatia?

The official currency used in Croatia is the euro as of 2022.

What is the currency used in Sweden?

The official currency used in Sweden is the Swedish krona. One krona is divided into 100 öre, though öre coins are no longer in circulation.

What are the advantages of not using the euro as a currency in Europe?

There are several advantages of not using the euro as a currency in Europe. One of the advantages is that countries can have more control over their monetary policies. Countries can adjust their interest rates and exchange rates to suit their own economic needs.

Additionally, countries that do not use the euro can avoid the risks associated with being part of a larger currency union, such as the risk of a financial crisis affecting the entire region.



This guide provides valuable information on European countries not using the euro currency. We hope that this information will be helpful in planning your trip to Europe.

Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.