SIM cards for Europe: Where to buy them and the best options

Why should you get a SIM card for Europe?

Relying on your home carrier’s roaming is one of the fastest ways to burn through cash. Even if your provider offers an "international plan," the daily fees often add up to more than what a prepaid SIM would cost for the entire trip.

A SIM card for Europe is often the smarter choice — here’s why:

• Affordable pricing. A prepaid SIM card for Europe usually costs between €15 and €40 ​​(US$16-43) for 15-30 GB of data.

• Reliable coverage. You get access to the same local networks residents use. That means 5G and 4G speeds and fewer dropped connections.

• One SIM across many countries. Thanks to the EU’s "Roam Like at Home" policy, a SIM card bought in one EU country works across the rest of the EU with no extra fees. For example, buy a SIM in Spain and use it seamlessly in Italy, France, or Germany.

Note: The "Roam Like at Home" policy covers EU/EEA countries. It doesn’t include the UK, Switzerland, Norway, or Iceland. If you plan to visit those, check your provider’s coverage details. Also, keep in mind that some providers have fair-use policies that limit data usage when roaming in other EU countries.

For a European SIM card to work, you’ll need either a phone bought in Europe or an unlocked device. If your phone is locked to a carrier, it won’t accept another SIM. Not sure if your phone is compatible with European SIM cards? Check our guide: Will my phone work in Europe?

Which SIM card is the best for travel to Europe?

The best SIM card for you depends on your travel style. Are you a heavy data user? Are you hopping between multiple countries or spending most of your time in, let’s say, France? Let’s look at the top travel SIM cards for Europe that travelers rely on:

Orange: The best overall value for EU-wide coverage

If you want a European SIM card that works across multiple destinations, Orange is hard to beat.

• Coverage: Includes France, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Austria + full EU roaming.

• Pros: It’s easy to buy online and works across most of Europe.

• Cons: You’ll need ID registration, which can be a small hassle if you’re buying on arrival.

Vodafone: Flexible options for multi-country travelers

Vodafone operates in 15 European countries directly and has partnerships in 30 other destinations. It offers different SIM card packages for tourists in every country.

• Coverage: Includes Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, the Czech Republic, and other countries.

• Pros: Offers flexible pricing and strong coverage.

• Cons: Plans differ by country, so you’ll need to double-check before purchasing.

If you’re visiting just one or two Vodafone-heavy countries, it’s a convenient pick.

Three UK: Unlimited data in the UK, with roaming in Europe

If your trip begins or ends in the UK, consider Three UK.

• Coverage: Includes the UK and 40+ European destinations.

• Pros: Includes an unlimited data SIM card for UK travel, with a 12 GB European roaming allowance, plus unlimited calls and SMS. 

• Cons: It’s a great choice only if you’re spending at least some time in the UK.

Bouygues Telecom: An affordable choice for longer stays in France

Bouygues Telecom is one of the best options if most of your trip is in France, with EU roaming included for side trips.

• Coverage: Focuses on France, but it’s still usable across Europe.

• Pros: Offers large data bundles and competitive pricing.

• Cons: Top-ups must be purchased in France.

How to use a SIM card for Europe

Activating and using a SIM card for Europe is easy, no matter which country you’re in or which provider you use. Follow this quick guide to get started:

1. Unlock your phone. If your phone is tied to a specific provider, ask a service representative to unlock it before you leave your home country. If that’s not an option, you can always pick up a cheap unlocked phone in Europe that comes bundled with a SIM card.

2. Buy or order a SIM card. You can do that at the airport, in a city-center shop, or online before your trip.

3. ​​Register if required. In some countries (like France or Ireland), you may need to show your passport.

4. Insert the SIM card. Power off your phone, pop the SIM card into the slot, and restart the device.

5. Activate the SIM. Most smartphones will automatically recognize the new SIM when you power them back on, so turn on your phone and wait a few seconds for the SIM to activate. If it doesn’t, check the leaflet that came with your SIM — you may need to dial a specific code, send a text message, or follow the instructions on a leaflet.

6. Set up data and APN. Sometimes you’ll need to configure your phone’s APN (Access Point Name) settings to enable mobile data. This information usually comes with your SIM card, or you can find it on the provider’s website.

7. Top up or choose a plan. If your SIM card is prepaid, you may need to top it up or choose a data plan to get started. You can do this online, through the carrier’s app, or by purchasing a top-up voucher at a local store.

8. Start using your SIM. Once it’s active, you’re good to go. Make calls, send texts, and use data across Europe without worrying about the expense.

How much do SIM cards cost in Europe?

The cost of a SIM card in Europe depends on the country, provider, and how much data you need. In general, expect to pay €15 to €40 (US$16-43) for a prepaid SIM card with 15-30 GB of data, valid for a few weeks. 

However, country differences matter too. In countries like Germany, Spain, and the UK, competition keeps rates lower, while Switzerland and the Nordic countries are more expensive.

Finally, always check for extras like activation fees, charges for topping up, or higher rates for international calls. Taxes and small surcharges add up, so it’s worth reviewing the details before you buy.

Where to buy a SIM card for Europe

You’ll find SIM cards in plenty of places, but some options are better value than others. The most popular ones include:

1. At the airport. Upon arrival in Europe, look for official kiosks like Sim Local (London Heathrow) or Orange booths (Paris CDG). 

2. Carrier stores. Visit Vodafone or Orange stores in city centers. Staff can help you with setup.

3. Convenience stores and supermarkets. In some countries, you’ll find SIM cards at chains like 7-Eleven (Sweden) or Relay (France).

4. Online. Pre-order from carrier websites, Amazon, or third-party retailers like SimCorner. This is the most convenient option if you want your SIM ready to go on arrival.

If you’re looking for alternatives, another option is pocket Wi-Fi for Europe. It’s a portable hotspot that you can rent and share with multiple devices, great if you’re traveling in a group. 

Data roaming is also an option if your home carrier offers an affordable plan, but watch out for high costs if you’re from outside the EU. And don’t forget, some airports and train stations offer paid hotspots as a backup if you need a quick connection.

Consider an eSIM instead: The modern alternative

A physical SIM card isn’t your only option anymore. Many travelers now choose eSIMs — digital data-only SIM cards you download straight to your phone. The benefits of using an eSIM include:

• Instant setup without installing a physical SIM.

• Keeping your home number active.

• Easy online top-ups.

An eSIM for Europe is one of the most convenient options because it’s affordable, secure, and ready to activate instantly. It’s a good option for frequent travelers and digital nomads.

Quick recap: How to stay connected in Europe

Traditional SIM cards are great if you want a physical card for calling, texting, and internet access. Top choices include Orange and Vodafone for EU-wide coverage, Three UK for the UK, and Bouygues for France.

eSIMs are best for convenience, flexibility, and no-hassle setup. For most travelers, Saily’s eSIM app is the easiest way to stay connected.

Other options include pocket Wi-Fi for groups and roaming if you want to keep things simple (but roaming will cost more).

Bottom line: A SIM card for Europe will save you money, keep you connected, and make your trip easier. But if your phone supports them, eSIMs are the smoothest choice.