🇪🇺 European King: “The Close to Perfect” Bed Size
Looking for the sweet spot between luxury and practicality in Europe? The European King is one of the continent’s most beloved bed sizes — and for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know about why it’s so popular, who it’s best for, how it compares, and how to shop for one smartly.
📏 European King Size Dimensions
- 160 x 200 cm
- 63 x 79 inches
- Often made from two single mattresses (80 x 200 cm each) on a shared or split base
✅ Pro tip: If you’re shopping for bedding, always double-check if the bed has a one-piece or two-piece mattress — it affects your sheet choice!
🛌 Why It’s So Popular
👩❤️👨 Ideal for couples: It offers plenty of width without overwhelming the bedroom
🏨 Standard in European hotels: Especially 4- and 5-star rooms
⚙️ Modular: Often consists of two singles—great for delivery in tight stairwells or older buildings
2️⃣ Works with adjustable beds: Two separate bases = custom comfort on both sides
🛒 Easy to source: Widely available in stores across Europe, from IKEA to luxury brands
🧭 Where It’s Popular
- Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Nordic countries
- Common in modern apartments, boutique hotels, and urban homes where space is tight but comfort matters
🔁 European King vs Other Sizes
| Bed Size | Dimensions (cm) | Dimensions (in) | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| European King | 160 x 200 | 63 x 79 | Most common “luxury” size in EU |
| UK King | 150 x 200 | 59 x 79 | Narrower by 10 cm |
| US King | 193 x 203 | 76 x 80 | Much wider, but similar length |
| EU Double | 140 x 200 | 55 x 79 | Smaller, for tighter spaces or solo |
🛒 Bedding Compatibility Tips
- Fitted sheets: Make sure to choose 160 x 200 cm specifically
- Top sheets and duvets: Often 200 x 200 cm or 240 x 220 cm depending on preference
- Split mattress? Consider two 80 x 200 cm mattress protectors instead of one large one
💬 Alternative Names
- King Size (Europe)
- 160-bed (used in Scandinavian retailers)
- French King (in some international stores)
- Zwei Einzelbetten mit Topper (common in German-speaking markets when combined with a topper)
🧠 Fun Facts & Quirks
🏨 Many hotel beds in Europe are actually two single mattresses pushed together — still counted as a “King”
🛏️ You can adjust firmness per side with two mattresses — a lifesaver for couples with different sleep needs!
🚚 Split bases make delivery much easier, especially in older European buildings with tight staircases
🧼 Cleaning is easier: Many couples prefer being able to lift or move one mattress at a time
👤 Who Should Choose a European King?
| Sleeper Type | Why It’s a Great Fit |
|---|---|
| Couples | Balance between closeness and personal space |
| Tall people | 200 cm length fits most people up to 6’6″ comfortably |
| Urban dwellers | Fits in most European master bedrooms |
| Light sleepers | Separate mattresses reduce partner movement transfer |
| Adjustable bed owners | Compatible with dual-adjusted sleep systems |
🧠 Pro Tips
🛒 Want one big mattress instead of two? Look for 160 x 200 “monobloc” options with reinforced centers
💑 Different firmness needs? Go for two mattresses + one topper = seamless comfort for both
🧺 Bedding tip: European duvet covers often match mattress width—consider going wider for luxury feel
✨ Conclusion: A European Favorite That Just Makes Sense
The European King bed is the gold standard for comfortable, space-smart sleeping across the continent. Whether you’re outfitting your new home, choosing a hotel room, or upgrading your current setup, it’s hard to go wrong with this elegant and versatile size.
💤 Sleep smart, sleep wide, sleep like a European.