Getting an eSIM for Barcelona: Everything you need to know

Advantages of using an eSIM in Barcelona

Using an eSIM is one of the easiest ways to stay connected during your Catalan adventure.

It’s a cost-effective alternative to traditional roaming that will help you avoid the fees many mobile providers charge abroad, sometimes as much as €10-15 a day for just a small amount of data. With an eSIM, you can access mobile data at local rates, without having to rely on patchy public Wi-Fi or worry about surprise bills when you get home.

Pro tip — before using an eSIM for Barcelona, turn off data roaming on your main SIM to prevent surprise charges. This will prevent your phone from connecting to Spanish networks with your home plan.

Beyond saving money, an eSIM is also incredibly convenient. You don’t need to search for a local SIM card or deal with physical swaps — everything is digital, and activation is instant. You can get online as soon as you arrive in Barcelona.

And if your trip includes other destinations, eSIMs let you manage multiple data plans at once, so you can easily switch between countries without hassle — you can get a regional plan, too. Besides, many eSIM services also offer the flexibility to top up or change your plan on the go, with no contracts or long-term commitments required.

So even if you're visiting Barcelona for a weekend, an eSIM is the easiest and most reliable way to stay online.

How to choose the right eSIM plan for Spain

Barcelona is a fast-paced city, so having the right eSIM data plan can make all the difference when you’re trying to navigate your way to Sagrada Familia. Here are a few key things to consider when picking the best eSIM for your trip to Spain.

Comparing different eSIM providers

Choosing the right eSIM app from the many available on the market can impact your connectivity and overall experience. When comparing different eSIM apps and data plans, ask yourself:

• Does this plan offer fast, reliable speeds across Barcelona?

• What’s the coverage like outside of major cities if you plan day trips?

• Is customer support available if something goes wrong?

• Are there any extra features, such as hotspot capability, top-ups, or built-in security features?

One great eSIM app option is the Saily eSIM app, which offers affordable data plans with security features — it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a reliable connection and an additional layer of safety that comes with an ad blocker, web protection, and virtual location. Saily's eSIM plans for Spain cover the whole country — yes, Barcelona included.

Estimating your data usage

Are you not sure how much data you need for your stay in Barcelona? Well, it all depends on how you use your phone, but having a rough idea might help you pick the right plan.

Here are some rough estimates of average data consumption per 1 hour:

• Navigation on Google Maps: ± 5 MB

• Music streaming: ± 40 MB

• Social media browsing: ± 100 MB

• Video streaming: ± 1 GB

If you run out of data, many providers, including Saily, allow you to top up instantly, so you’re never left without a connection.

Tips for getting the most out of your eSIM

Planning how you use your eSIM can make a big difference in keeping your trip to Barcelona stress free — at least when it comes to staying connected. A bit of preparation goes a long way.

Start by limiting background data usage — you can do this by turning off background access for apps that don’t need to constantly refresh.

It’s also a good idea to download offline maps ahead of time so you’re not using mobile data just to navigate around the city. 

And if you’re planning to use your phone as a hotspot, be mindful — sharing your connection with others can burn through your data allowance quickly, so only do it when your friends and family desperately need it. 

Lastly, keep an eye on your usage by setting data limits on your phone. It’s an easy way to track consumption and avoid any surprise charges.

How to activate an eSIM in Barcelona

Activating an eSIM for Barcelona is quick and straightforward — you can do it in a few simple steps: 

1. First, check if your phone is eSIM-compatible.

2. Buy an eSIM plan from your chosen eSIM service before your trip.

3. Follow the steps to download and install the eSIM profile.

4. Scan the QR code or use the link sent to your email.

5. Complete the setup by following the on-screen steps.

6. Turn on your eSIM when you get to Barcelona.

And that’s it! Setting up an eSIM is quick and easy — definitely a lot faster than trying to find where to get a Spanish SIM card. 

Get the Saily eSIM app for your trip to Barcelona

An eSIM gives you the perfect mix of ease, affordability, and reliability for your trip to Spain. With quick setup, affordable price, and flexible data options, you won't stress about staying connected abroad.

Ready to make your Barcelona trip better with reliable mobile data? Check out the Saily eSIM app and data plans in over 200 destinations to find the perfect option for your travel needs.

Make sure your phone works in Spain and supports eSIM technology before buying a plan. With the right prep, you'll enjoy smooth connectivity throughout your Spanish adventure without any issues!