Jenny has 17+ of experience in the iGaming industry, having worked for some of the UK's leading brands. She is a recognised expert in bingo and slots.
Introduction
Bingo is a game loved right across the continent – and if you’re exploring bingo sites, you might be surprised how much they differ from country to country.
To celebrate a certain beloved singing contest, I've written this Eurovision-inspired guide that looks at the traditions, twists, and tech powering bingo across Europe!
Discover Bingo Across Europe with Jenny
Along the way, I’ll point out how you can try different formats using bingo bonuses, safely and smartly.
Sing Along and Dab at These Bingo Sites
If you’re feeling inspired to try out some fresh bingo formats, these trusted UK bingo sites offer standout games, seasonal rooms, and welcome offers to get you started:
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⚠️ Check the latest bonus terms before you sign up and always choose trusted, licensed platforms.
How Bingo Began in Britain – and Spread
Bingo as we know it in the UK – mainly 90-ball – has become the most recognisable format worldwide. But it wasn’t always this way. Here's how British bingo influenced the rest of Europe, especially through clubs, charity nights, and early online sites.
Italy 🇮🇹
Bingo’s Birthplace: Italy is often credited with inventing the roots of bingo through 16th-century lottery games.
Over time, "Lo Giuoco del Lotto d’Italia" evolved into something closer to the modern game.
Spain 🇪🇸
Lively Tombola Traditions: Tombola in Spain is full of social flair. Whether it’s played in a village hall or during Christmas festivities, the experience is highly communal.
France 🇫🇷
Le Lotto and Its Elite Roots: French bingo – or le lotto – was historically an aristocratic pastime. It uses fewer numbers than the UK version, and is still popular in schools and charity events.
Germany 🇩🇪
Educational Bingo Games: In Germany, bingo is often used for learning and social bonding. From school vocabulary games to senior centre activities, it’s more than just numbers.
Sweden & Scandinavia 🇸🇪
Brick Bingo and Beyond: Sweden’s TV-based Bingolotto is a national tradition. Every Sunday, players watch and mark cards at home, often for charitable prizes.
Ireland 🇮🇪
Between UK and US Traditions: Ireland blends both 90-ball and 75-ball styles, with many games tied to social clubs, pubs, and fundraisers.
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The Netherlands 🇳🇱
Bingo With a Dutch Twist: Dutch bingo often incorporates quirky local elements, including themed cards and charity events known as "kienen."
Portugal 🇵🇹
Bingo on the Coast: In Portugal, bingo halls are popular along tourist coastlines and in cities. The game is seen as both entertainment and a social activity.
Poland 🇵🇱
Bingo in a Budding Market: Bingo is relatively new to the Polish online gaming scene, but traditional formats are catching on.
Eurovision Bingo – A Real Thing?
Yes – and it’s becoming a fan favourite. Eurovision bingo cards feature clichés, costume tropes, and performance quirks.
You can find printable versions or make your own with online tools. It’s proof that bingo and shared celebration go hand in hand.
How to Try European Bingo Formats Online
Most UK bingo sites let you explore a mix of games inspired by different European formats. Look for:
🎲 Game filters (e.g. 75-ball vs 90-ball vs 80-ball)
🌍 Culturally themed rooms (Spanish, Irish, Swedish)
🎁 Introductory bingo bonuses to try something new without overspending
These give you a low-risk way to explore the continent’s bingo flavours – all from your sofa.
Final Thoughts
Bingo might have started in one corner of Europe, but today it belongs to everyone.
From Sweden’s TV draws to Spain’s community tombola, I love how each country has made it their own.
I've played bingo in a village hall in France, and keeping up with the complicated French numbers is tough if you're not fluent!
If you’ve played a unique version abroad, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
Written by Jenny Mason, and fact-checked by Sam Darkens.
FAQ
Bingo Goes Eurovision FAQs
Where did bingo originally come from?
Bingo has its roots in 16th-century Italy with a lottery-style game called “Il Gioco del Lotto d’Italia.” It spread through France and Germany before evolving into the British 90-ball format that shaped modern bingo worldwide.
Is tombola the same as bingo?
Tombola is a bingo-like game, especially popular in Spain and Italy, but it's usually more social and often played at family events or festivals. The core idea is similar: random numbers are drawn and matched against a card.
What is bingo like in Italy?
Italian bingo mixes tradition and modern tech. Players still enjoy classic paper cards at community centres, but digital bingo has grown too – with fast-paced games and lottery-style options regulated by the Italian gambling authority.
How do French people play bingo?
In France, bingo is known as le lotto. It often uses fewer numbers than the UK version and is still played in schools, retirement homes, and fundraisers.
Are there bingo games in Germany?
Yes – but they often have an educational or social angle. German bingo games might focus on vocabulary, history, or nature, and are used in schools or senior clubs. Online, the games tend to be straightforward and seasonal.
What is Swedish Bingolotto?
Bingolotto is Sweden’s famous TV bingo show, played at home with tickets bought in advance. It blends celebrity guests, live draws, and charity funding. It’s one of the most distinctive bingo traditions in Europe.
Can I play Spanish tombola online?
Yes – many Spanish bingo sites and international operators offer tombola-style games online. These often include animated number callers and themed cards, keeping the spirit of live events while embracing digital convenience.
What’s Eurovision bingo?
Eurovision bingo is a fun party game based on Eurovision clichés – think wind machines, key changes, or political voting. It's not a gambling game, but you can download or customise bingo cards to play along during the live show.
Do bingo rules differ across Europe?
Yes – formats, number counts, prize structures, and even how you shout “bingo!” can vary. That’s part of what makes exploring different countries’ versions of the game so enjoyable.
Is European bingo regulated like UK bingo?
Each country has its own regulator. For example, the UK has the UK Gambling Commission, while Italy and Portugal also have strict national oversight. Always check licensing before joining a site operating outside the UK.
