Best eSIMs for Europe (2024)
Our skilled writers & in-house research team are behind the biggest cybersecurity stories, like The Mother Of All Breaches & WhatsApp Data Leak.
We closely analyze the services, check their features & openly share our testing methods with everyone.
Learn more-
Inga Valiaugaitė
Writer
If you enjoy traveling across Europe like me, you’ll be glad to know there’s a way to enjoy seamless connectivity across different countries without spending a fortune on roaming fees. eSIMs are virtual SIM cards that work like physical SIM cards, and eSIM providers have regional eSIM plans that cover most of Europe.
There are many advantages to using an eSIM in Europe, including the flexibility to travel across borders and enjoy uninterrupted internet access. This is vital as you can easily access digital train tickets, check locations on Google Maps, buy concert tickets, open restaurant menus, and more. All without fiddling with a physical SIM card.
However, with so many eSIMs available today, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. I’ve conducted tests to find the best eSIMs for Europe. In this article, I’ll guide you to pick the perfect eSIM for your European adventure.
Top 5 best eSIM providers for Europe — shortlist
- Saily – overall best eSIM for Europe in 2024
- Airalo – eSIM with the widest coverage in Europe
- JetPac – eSIM for Europe from only $1
- aloSIM – prepaid eSIM for Europe with easy installation and activation
- Nomad – affordable eSIM with flexible data plans for Europe
What to consider when choosing eSIM for traveling in Europe?
It’s essential to assess your needs carefully before choosing an eSIM. Here are some pointers to help you pick the best eSIM for Europe:
- Coverage: Check if the eSIM is available in every European country you plan to visit. The providers we’ve picked have coverage in most European countries.
- Data and call: Do you only need internet access, or would you like to make calls with your eSIM? Some eSIM providers have data-only plans, while others provide phone numbers for calls and SMS. Also, think about your data needs and choose between fixed or pay-as-you-go plans. If you opt for a fixed plan, ensure you can top up to get additional data.
- Plan validity period: eSIM plans have different validity periods, so consider the duration of your trip in Europe and select an eSIM with a validity period that aligns with your travel timeframe.
- Price: Compare prices from different providers and find the most cost-effective eSIM based on your needs and budget.
The best eSIMs for Europe travel – detailed list
I assessed several eSIMs and conducted in-depth tests to come up with this list of the best eSIMs for Europe. I looked at each eSIM’s regional plans, network coverage, activation process, pricing, customer support, and other features. Continue reading to discover what each eSIM has to offer:
1. Saily – overall best eSIM for Europe in 2024
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.99/week |
| Countries: | Yes (37 countries) |
With comprehensive coverage and affordable prices, Saily is the best eSIM for Europe. This eSIM, created by the same people behind NordVPN, provides mobile data plans in over 150 countries.
Saily offers 7-day and 30-day plans with varying amounts of data. Its 7-day plan comes with 1GB of data, perfect for light users. For more extended stays, Saily’s 30-day plans offer 3GB to 10GB of data. Unfortunately, Saily doesn’t have regional plans for Europe, so it may be better suited for people visiting particular European countries than those traveling across the region.
Activating Saily is straightforward. Download the app, choose your plan, and surf the internet. You can contact the Saily customer support team via live chat or email if you encounter any issues.
Saily’s eSIM plans are relatively cheap. Depending on the country, a 1GB, 7-day plan costs $1.99. This makes Saily an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget. Moreover, its speed doesn't disappoint either, with 4G and LTE connectivity in most locations.
In a nutshell, Saily is a reliable, affordable, and comprehensive eSIM solution for anyone traveling to Europe. With flexible plans, easy activation, and extensive coverage, it covers all the bases for a hassle-free connectivity solution abroad.
2. Airalo – eSIM with the widest coverage in Europe
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (39 countries) |
Airalo is a worthy alternative to Saily, especially if you’re visiting multiple European countries. This eSIM offers European regional plans covering 39 countries.
You can opt for one of Airalo’s European regional plans or purchase an eSIM plan for a specific country in Europe. Airalo offers data-only local and regional plans, meaning you won’t get a phone number assigned and won’t be able to make calls unless you use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype.
If you’d like an eSIM with a phone number to make calls, I recommend Airalo's Discover+ global plan, which covers 39 countries in Europe and other countries worldwide. Airalo offers prepaid plans with no contracts, and its top-up option lets you get more data if needed.
Activating an Airalo eSIM is a breeze. Download the Airalo app, scan a QR code, and connect within minutes. You can also activate it automatically (via the app) or manually. Airalo accepts multiple payment options and provides excellent customer support via live chat and email.
Airalo prices for most European countries start at just $4.50 for a 1GB, 7-day plan. If you get its regional European eSIM, the same plan costs $5. Airalo provides reliable 5G, 4G, or LTE connectivity in most European cities.
3. JetPac – eSIM for Europe from only $1
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.00/4 days |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (28 countries) |
JetPac is known for its super affordable eSIM plans. Its local and regional plans cover many European countries.
JetPac has local eSIM plans for 28 European countries. You can also select from its European regional plans for seamless connectivity across over two dozen different countries.
Jetpac offers plans for both short and extended trips. Its data plans are typically valid for 4 to 30 days and offer 1GB to 40GB of data. Jetpac is a data-only service, so you can’t make calls or send SMS with the eSIM. On the plus side, Jetpac supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G in most European countries.
You can install a JetPac eSIM in seconds. Simply select a plan that suits your needs and scan a QR code to install the eSIM on your device.
Jetpac’s eSIM plans start at $1.00 for a 1GB, 4-day plan. However, you can always choose a longer plan with more data allowance.
4. aloSIM – prepaid eSIM for Europe with easy installation and activation
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (35 countries) |
aloSIM has local and regional plans covering all the top travel destinations in Europe.
You can select aloSIM’s European regional plan, which covers 35 countries. It also has plans covering specific parts of Europe, such as Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Western Europe, and the Mediterranean. This can be handy if you’re visiting a particular region.
Besides these regional plans, aloSIM also has local plans for all 35 European countries where it operates. aloSIM’s data plans generally start from 1GB for 7 days and go up to 100GB for 180 days. With aloSIM, you’re guaranteed LTE, 4G, or 5G speeds in every part of Europe. You can see the type of network available in each country while choosing a plan.
aloSIM is one of the few eSIMs that supports calling and texting. However, you must download a separate app called Hushed to access these features.
Setting up an aloSIM eSIM takes just a few minutes. You can install and activate the eSIM by scanning a QR code or entering the eSIM details manually. aloSIM provides customer support via live chat and email.
aloSIM offers competitive prices for its Europe plans, starting at $4.50 for 1GB (valid for 7 days).
5. Nomad – affordable eSIM with flexible data plans for Europe
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.00/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (38 countries) |
Nomad is an easy-to-use eSIM with excellent coverage in Europe (38 countries) and an array of flexible data plans.
This eSIM provider offers local, regional, and global plans covering many European countries. Nomad has short-term eSIM plans (like 1GB for 7 days). But if you’re planning an extended adventure, you can opt for longer plans with generous data allowances (like 20GB for 30 days).
In addition to its Regular Plans, Nomad has Day Plans for most European countries. These plans give you 500MB to 1GB per day, but you can continue to access the web at 512kbps if you run out of data.
Like Airalo, Nomad doesn’t come with a number, so you can’t make calls or send SMS with this eSIM. However, it supports topping up if you run out of data. Most Nomad data plans in Europe give you LTE, 3G, 4G, or 5G speeds.
When you purchase Nomad eSIM, you will receive a QR code via email along with instructions on how to install and activate it. Nomad doesn’t have a live chat option, but you can contact its customer support team by filling out a form on its website.
Nomad local eSIM plans start at only 4.00 for 1GB (valid for 7 days) for most European countries, while its regional European eSIM costs $5.00.
6. Instabridge – fast and secure eSIM for Europe
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.00/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (34 countries) |
Instabridge provides fast and reliable internet connection in 34 European countries. It’s among a handful of eSIM providers that offer pay-as-you-go plans.
You can purchase an Instabridge eSIM plan for a specific European country or select any of its European regional plans covering 34 countries. Instabridge’s plans come with 1GB to 20GB of data and are valid for up to 30 days. In addition to regular plans, this eSIM provider also has pay-as-you-go plans.
You can use an Instabridge eSIM on up to 10 devices at no extra cost. This eSIM also comes with extras like a map of free Wi-Fi hotspots, a VPN, or a data-saving browser.
The Instabridge app is intuitive and lets you install and activate your eSIM easily. Simply purchase a plan and tap “activate” on the app to install and activate your eSIM, and that’s it. Instabridge doesn’t have a live chat, but you can reach its customer support team by filling out a form on its website.
Instabridge’s plans for Europe start at only $2.00 for 1GB of data (valid for 7 days). The price of its pay-as-you-go plans vary depending on the country you’re visiting.
7. BNESIM – cheap eSIM for Europe with additional perks
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $0.97/month |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (32 countries) |
BNESIM is one of the most affordable eSIMs for Europe, and it’s available in many tourist hotspots.
You can select a local plan for any of the 32 countries where BNESIM operates in Europe. This eSIM provider also has European regional plans. BNESIM is a data-only eSIM. However, if you download its app, you get a virtual phone number that you can use to receive calls.
BNESIM’s fixed data plans, valid for 30 days, gives you 1GB to 100GB of data. It also has pay-as-you-go plans. This eSIM provides 3G, 4G, or 5G, depending on your location.
You can easily set up and activate your BNESIM eSIM via the app — it takes only a few steps. No identification is required. The BNESIM app is user-friendly and has extra features like data tracking. You can contact its customer support team via live chat, email, or phone.
The cheapest BNESIM regional plan for Europe costs only $.0.97 for 1GB (valid for 30 days). The prices of its local fixed and pay-as-you-go plans vary depending on your location.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for Europe
All the eSIMs I’ve highlighted above are excellent options for Europe. Understandably, it can be difficult to decide which of them to pick. So, here’s a table showing the top 5 eSIMs for Europe side-by-side for easy comparison.
| Brand | Rating | Coverage in Europe | Networks | Compatibility | Starting price |
| Saily | 4.9 | 37 countries | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | $1.99 |
| Airalo | 4.7 | 39 countries | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | $4.50 |
| aloSIM | 4.4 | 35 countries | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | $4.50 |
| Jetpac | 4.5 | 28 countries | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | $1.00 |
| Nomad | 4.6 | 38 countries | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | $4.00 |
Having difficulties selecting an eSIM? Make a list of the features you prioritize in an eSIM, including your preferred price range and the number of European countries you plan to visit. Then, look through the list to see which eSIMs satisfy your requirements.
How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for Europe
I selected the best eSIMs for Europe after conducting exhaustive analysis and tests with the Cybernews research team. I paid particular attention to the coverage of different eSIMs in Europe, their prices, and the type of network connection they support. Here’s a quick look at some of the factors I prioritized when choosing the best eSIMs for Europe:
- Coverage in Europe: An eSIM with limited coverage in Europe is of little use if you’re traveling across the region. I checked the coverage of each eSIM in Europe and chose eSIMs with comprehensive coverage, particularly in the top European countries.
- Network: No one enjoys slow internet, and with 5G readily available in many European countries, I picked eSIMs that support 5G. All the eSIMs on the list provide super-fast connection speeds with 5G, 4G, 3G, or LTE connectivity.
- Data plans: eSIMs offer two main types of data plans: pay-as-you-go and fixed data plans. I selected eSIMs that provide both short-term and long-term fixed plans to suit the needs of different travelers. I also included some eSIMs with pay-as-you-go plans.
- Price: Price is a major factor when selecting an eSIM. I assessed the prices of dozens of eSIMs before choosing the providers in this article. Compared to many other eSIMs on the market, these eSIMs offer the most useful features and have the best prices.
- User-friendliness: Using an eSIM can seem complicated, especially since you have to install and activate it. I paid particular attention to how each eSIM is installed and activated. All the eSIMs on this list can be installed and activated easily. Each eSIM provider has detailed guides explaining how to install, activate, and use their eSIMs.
- Compatibility: I looked at the list of devices each eSIM works with and picked eSIMs that are compatible with a wide variety of Android and Apple devices.
Why should I choose a travel eSIM for Europe?
There are numerous benefits to using an eSIM in Europe. Below, I’ll highlight a few reasons you must get an eSIM when traveling to Europe:
- Instant connectivity: One of the biggest perks of getting an eSIM is that you can connect to the internet the second you land in Europe. There’s no need to visit a shop to buy a SIM card. This can be useful if you need to purchase a train ticket and check Google Maps for directions to your hotel or Airbnb.
- Keep your current SIM card: You don’t need to remove your current SIM card to use an eSIM, even if you’re using a single SIM device. This reduces the chances that you could misplace your SIM card. Moreover, you can still use your regular SIM card to make international calls while using your eSIM for data.
- Cut costs: An eSIM allows you to cut costs compared to roaming, which can be expensive. Besides, most eSIM plans are cheaper or comparable to local eSIM plans. This means you can save money and invest in having a memorable trip in Europe.
- Convenience: An eSIM offers more convenience than a physical SIM card. For example, you don’t need to swap SIMs when you arrive in Europe. Also, you can easily top up with the click of a button without going to a physical shop.
- Flexibility: eSIMs offer a lot of flexibility. For instance, you can switch network providers if you’re not getting a good signal. Besides, if you have a European regional plan, you can travel across borders in Europe, and your eSIM will automatically connect to a local network and continue working.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Not all phones are compatible with eSIMs. You can check if your phone supports eSIMs. Here’s how:
How to check eSIM compatibility on iPhones
Generally, newer models such as iPhone XR, XS, 11, 12, and up work with eSIMs. To check if your iPhone is compatible with eSIMs, navigate to Settings > General > About and scroll down to Available SIM. If this option is available along with a 15-digit IMEI number, your iPhone supports eSIMs. Alternatively, consult your device's user manual or visit the Apple website to verify if your iPhone works with eSIMs.
How to check eSIM compatibility on Android phones
The process of checking an Android phone’s eSIM compatibility may vary slightly depending on the device’s manufacturer and model. Generally, you need to go to Settings > Network & Internet (or a similar option) and look for a SIM card or Mobile network. If there’s an option to add a new SIM or mobile plan, your Android phone likely supports eSIMs. Alternatively, check the device specifications on the manufacturer's website or refer to the user manual for explicit information about eSIM support.
Generally, new devices from manufacturers like Google and Samsung are eSIM-compatible. Ensure your operating system is up-to-date to access the latest features and get eSIM support.
The table shows some eSIM-compatible devices from the most popular smartphone manufacturers:
| iPhone | XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 |
| Google Pixel | 2 (with Google Gi), 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, Fold |
| Samsung Galaxy | S20, S20X, S21, S22, S23, S24, Note 20, Fold, Z Fold, Z Flip, A54 |
| Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro |
| Xiaomi | 12T Pro, 13 |
| Nokia | XR21, X30, G60 |
Can I use my domestic mobile provider's international data plan in Europe?
Yes, you can use your domestic mobile provider's international data plan in Europe. While this is convenient, roaming data can be expensive and slow, making it less favorable for travelers. In contrast, eSIM providers work with local mobile carriers, ensuring faster and more reliable speeds.
To give you an example, US domestic mobile providers like AT&T and Verizon offer international plans with fixed costs. AT&T's International Pass costs $10 daily for international calling and data. Verizon provides a monthly international plan for $100, offering unlimited data with potential slowdowns after 20GB.
In comparison, eSIMs offer more flexibility in terms of duration and data allocation. This makes eSIMs a better choice for international travelers seeking a cost-effective and reliable connectivity solution. I’ve compared prices, and eSIMs outshine the fixed offerings of domestic mobile providers.
How to activate the eSIM data plan on your phone
There are a few ways to activate an eSIM. eSIM providers will usually explain how to install and activate your eSIM once you purchase a plan. I’ll briefly highlight the three most common ways to activate an eSIM below:
- Activating via app: This is also known as automatic activation. You need to click a button on your app to install and activate your eSIM. The process is mostly automatic, although you may be directed to change some settings on your device (e.g., make the eSIM your primary SIM and activate roaming).
- Activating via QR code: This is another straightforward way to activate your eSIM. You need to scan a QR code to initiate the eSIM installation and activation. You’ll be prompted to complete the eSIM activation by changing some settings on your phone.
- Manual activation: To activate an eSIM manually, you must go into your device’s settings and manually input the eSIM activation code and other details, like the SM+DP address. This method may seem complicated, but it’s pretty easy if you follow the steps laid out by your eSIM provider.
Note: Most eSIMs only become fully activated once you reach your destination and connect with a local carrier. So, don’t be worried if you go through the activation steps outlined by your eSIM provider and your app says the eSIM is still activating.
Bonus tip: Deactivate roaming on your domestic SIM to avoid unwanted charges. Your eSIM will handle all your data connectivity needs in Europe.
How to buy an eSIM for Europe
You can purchase an eSIM by visiting the website of any eSIM provider or downloading the eSIM app. Barring a few exceptions (i.e., telecom providers that offer physical SIM cards and eSIMs, like T-Mobile), eSIM providers don’t have physical outlets. So, you can only purchase an eSIM for Europe online. eSIM providers accept different payment methods, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and even crypto (in some cases).
Once you buy an eSIM plan, the eSIM provider usually emails you details about the eSIM service, including instructions on installing and activating it.
Tips for using an eSIM card for Europe
An eSIM card is your key to instant connectivity across borders in Europe. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing and using an eSIM:
- Unlock your phone: Carrier-locked phones are tied to specific telecom providers and don’t work with eSIMs. Confirm that your phone isn’t carrier-locked before purchasing an eSIM plan.
- Check your phone’s eSIM compatibility: Not all phones support eSIMs. Ensure your device is compatible with eSIMs before buying an eSIM plan.
- Calling and numbers: Not all eSIM plans come with a local number that you can use to make calls. Many eSIMs offer data-only plans, while some provide a number for receiving calls and texts only. Choose a plan that fits your needs. If you opt for a data-only eSIM, you can still make calls and send messages using VoIP apps like WhatsApp and Facetime.
- eSIM card activation: I recommend activating your eSIM a day before your trip. The validity period of some eSIMs starts counting once you install the eSIM app, while others only begin when you connect to a local network at your destination. Remember, most eSIMs have a limited validity window, typically 1-3 months.
- Roaming: Deactivate roaming on your domestic SIM to avoid roaming charges. You can depend on your eSIM for data while traveling in Europe.
- Conserve your data: You can limit the amount of data you consume by putting your phone in airplane mode when you’re not using it and downloading maps for offline use.
Final thoughts on the best eSIMs for Europe
An eSIM is a cost-effective connectivity solution when traveling in Europe. There are several eSIM providers to choose from, but Saily is one of the few that ticks all the boxes for me. I love that it was created by NordVPN, a reputable cybersecurity company. Plus, it offers short-term and long-term plans for over 150 countries in the world, including many popular travel destinations in Europe. Also, its prices are very affordable, and it’s easy to set up. What more could you ask for?
More helpful eSIM guides from Cybernews experts:
Best eSIMs for Europe - FAQ
What is the cheapest eSIM card for Europe?
BNESIM is the cheapest eSIM card for Europe. The eSIM’s pricing starts at $0.97 for 1GB of data (valid for 30 days). eSIM providers like Saily and Jetpac also offer great value for money.
Can I use 5G on a European eSIM card?
Yes, Saily and all the eSIMs above offer 5G in Europe. However, you can only get 5G connectivity if your device supports it.
Can I make calls with an eSIM card in Europe?
Yes, depending on your eSIM provider. Many eSIMs have data-only plans, but some providers, like aloSIM, offer a phone number and calling minutes.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked