Fuel prices across Europe have varied significantly in September 2024, with Spain and Portugal offering some of the most affordable rates compared to other European nations. These differences are influenced by local taxes, energy policies, and infrastructure, creating noticeable discrepancies in the cost of fuel across the continent.
While the European average for 95-octane petrol sits at €1.58 per litre, northern countries like Denmark and the Netherlands lead the list with the highest prices. Danish drivers pay around €1.99 per litre, while in the Netherlands, prices reach as high as €2.01 per litre. These elevated costs are largely driven by higher taxes and the countries’ ongoing energy transitions.
Eastern Europe: A refuelling haven
On the other end of the spectrum, central and eastern European countries boast much lower fuel prices. In Bulgaria, for example, 95-octane petrol is priced at just €1.30 per litre, making it one of the cheapest in Europe. Similarly, in Poland, prices hover around €1.48 per litre. Other countries with competitive fuel rates include Romania at €1.44 and Croatia at €1.52 per litre, making these regions increasingly attractive for drivers looking for cost-effective refuelling options.
Spain and Portugal below the average
Compared to these trends, Spain and Portugal also offer relatively lower fuel prices, although not as low as their eastern European counterparts. In Spain, petrol costs €1.44 per litre, while in Portugal, it is slightly higher at €1.53. These prices make both countries more affordable destinations for motorists compared to northern Europe.
Meanwhile, Mediterranean countries like Malta provide particularly low prices, with petrol costing just €1.34 per litre, among the lowest in the region.
Diesel prices following the same pattern
Diesel prices mirror the variability seen with petrol. Germany sees diesel at €1.57 per litre, while France’s diesel costs €1.72 per litre. In contrast, eastern European countries again offer cheaper options, reflecting broader trends of lower taxes and different energy policies.