Bitcoin merchant adoption: Where can you spend BTC?

While holding Bitcoin is one thing, spending it is the next frontier. Some regions are rapidly embracing BTC as a payment method, both online and offline.

• United States: Bitcoin is making serious inroads in retail and online commerce. Starbucks accepts Bitcoin via apps like Bakkt and Fold, while platforms like Shopify and PayPal enable thousands of merchants to accept crypto payments. Major retailers like Overstock and Newegg have long embraced Bitcoin, and BitPay now supports payments for brands like AMC Theatres and Microsoft.
• EU member states: Bitcoin usage is rising across Germany, the Netherlands and Portugal, particularly in hospitality, tourism and e-commerce. For example, Berlin has a growing number of cafes and hotels accepting BTC, while Lisbon’s crypto-friendly environment makes it a hub for Bitcoin payments in co-working spaces, restaurants and local services.
• Crypto tourism hotspots: Destinations like Thailand, Portugal and Bali are becoming go-to spots for crypto travelers. In Phuket and Chiang Mai, many hotels, spas and tour services accept BTC via platforms like Travala and CoinMap. Bali hosts crypto-friendly beach clubs and cafes, while Lisbon offers BTC payments for accommodations and events.

Did you know? As of early 2025, the global number of Bitcoin ATMs has surpassed 40,000, with the United States hosting over 85% of these machines. Major cities such as Los Angeles, Miami and New York each have a substantial number of Bitcoin ATMs, making it increasingly convenient for users to buy BTC on the go.

Global regulatory landscape: A mixed bag

Crypto regulation is all over the map — some countries are rolling out the red carpet, while others are putting up roadblocks. Here’s a snapshot of key trends:

• Pro-Bitcoin regions: UAE, Switzerland, El Salvador, Singapore and parts of the US are fostering innovation with clear, crypto-friendly laws.
• Tightening control: China, India (tax-heavy environment) and some African nations are clamping down with restrictions or heavy taxation.
• EU’s MiCA framework: The EU is leading with unified crypto regulation via Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA), balancing consumer protection with innovation support.
• Africa and LATAM: Many are still in flux — watch for rapid developments as grassroots adoption pressures governments for clarity.

Did you know? In March 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, positioning the United States as the first nation to hold Bitcoin as a national reserve asset. 

The United States and Trump’s pro-crypto stance

The US is a global powerhouse and home to over 28 million crypto users (8.3% of the population). In 2024, financial giants BlackRock and Fidelity entered the Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) market, giving Bitcoin a major credibility boost and making it more accessible to traditional investors. 

With a mature crypto infrastructure, including major exchanges, custodians, BTC payment services and a growing roster of institutional investors, the US is undergoing a massive shift under President Trump’s second office tenure.

Ahead of the 2024 elections, Donald Trump has flipped the script — going from crypto skeptic to outspoken supporter. He’s embraced pro-Bitcoin, pro-crypto policies and is actively courting the growing Web3 voter base. At campaign rallies, he’s pledged to support “financial freedom” and cut regulatory red tape, marking a potential turning point in US crypto policy.

“Crypto should be made in America — not driven offshore by bad policies.” — Donald Trump, 2024 presidential campaign rally. 

His stance has energized the US crypto scene and signaled that Bitcoin — and broader digital asset innovation — could become a key political and economic priority in the years ahead.