Best eSIM for Europe in 2025
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Planning a trip to Europe? Then, an eSIM for Europe is what you need to stay seamlessly connected without swapping physical SIM cards or overpaying international roaming fees. eSIMs are virtual SIM cards that work like regular SIM cards, providing network coverage throughout Europe. So, no matter where you travel in Europe, eSIMs will ensure a smooth internet connection and low data costs when you share your memories online, book hotels, get train tickets, or find your location on maps.
With the help of the Cybernews research team, I tested and researched over 20 eSIM providers to find the best eSIM for Europe. Ultimately, I picked 5 eSIMs that provided me with uninterrupted internet connection during my European travels, were simple to use and affordable, and had excellent customer service. Continue reading this article to learn more about the best Europe eSIMs and choose the perfect one for your next trip.
Top 5 best eSIMs for Europe – shortlist
- Saily – the best overall eSIM for Europe in 2025
- Airalo – easy-to-use Europe eSIM
- Nomad – the most affordable eSIM with flexible plans for Europe
- aloSIM – top eSIM for Europe with data and call options
- Holafly – eSIM with unlimited data plans for Europe
Things to consider before choosing an eSIM for travel in Europe
Before you choose an eSIM for Europe, try to evaluate your specific travel needs. I found these key pointers to be very helpful when selecting the best eSIM for Europe:
- Coverage. Check the country list of the eSIM provider before committing. I recommend choosing an eSIM with generous country coverage for the most seamless connection, like the ones on our best Europe eSIM list.
- Available data. Some eSIM providers only offer data on their plans, while others also include calls and texts; don’t forget to check this information and pick an eSIM offering exactly what you need. Additionally, you can choose either a fixed-data plan or a pay-as-you-go one, depending on what’s more suitable for you. My tip with the fixed-data plans is to check if you can easily get a top-up if you run out.
- Plan validity period. eSIM providers offer plans of different validity periods, usually starting from just a couple of days for up to a month. Make sure to select a plan that matches the timeframe you plan to be traveling in Europe.
- Price. My recommendation is to compare the prices from different providers and pay attention to the price-to-feature ratio they offer. This way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose an eSIM for Europe that matches your expectations.
The best eSIMs for Europe – my full list
The Cybernews research team and I tested and reviewed several eSIMs to find the best available eSIMs for Europe. We examined the offered regional plans, network coverage, ease of activation process, pricing, and customer support. Ultimately, we chose the top 5 eSIMs for Europe – continue reading for thorough reviews of each provider.
1. Saily – the best overall eSIM for Europe in 2025
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.89/week |
| Countries: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Saily is the best overall eSIM for Europe, as it offers an excellent balance between affordability, ease of use, and coverage. Additionally, I found Saily’s customer support to be the best that I’ve tried, offering quick solutions to any problems you might face. Lastly, Saily offers comprehensive country coverage, with more than 40 EU countries on the list for seamless connectivity.
Saily eSIM offers local, regional, and global plans covering Europe. Its local plans are usually valid for 7 to 30 days and come with varying amounts of data. The 7-day plan gives you 1GB of data, so it’s perfect for light users. If you’re staying longer, you can opt for Saily’s 30-day plans, which offer 3GB to 20GB of data.
For more extended stays, I recommend Saily’s European regional plans, especially if you plan to travel to other European countries. These plans, valid for 7 to 180 days, come with up to 100GB of data. Saily also has global plans that are valid for up to a year.
While Saily has local eSIM plans for over 40 European countries and regions, its regional plans for Europe only cover 35 countries. Also, it’s worth noting that Saily is a data-only eSIM; you don’t get a local phone number to call and send SMS.
Activating a Saily eSIM was straightforward: download the app, choose a plan, and surf the internet. If you encounter any issues, you can contact the Saily customer support team via live chat or email.
Saily’s eSIM plans are relatively cheap. Its local eSIMs usually cost as low as $2.99 for a 1GB, 7-day plan. The same plan costs $4.50 if you get a Saily regional eSIM for Europe. Saily is an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget. Moreover, its speed doesn't disappoint either; we enjoyed 4G and LTE connectivity in most locations.
In a nutshell, Saily is a reliable and affordable eSIM solution for anyone traveling in Europe. With flexible local and regional plans, easy activation, and extensive coverage, it covers all the bases for hassle-free connectivity abroad.
2. Airalo – easy-to-use eSIM for Europe with simple activation
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Airalo is another great eSIM for Europe, especially if you plan to travel across multiple European countries. The provider covers 42 countries in the region, while Airalo features make travel seamless with a user-friendly app and a very simple activation process.
You can opt for Airalo’s European regional plans or purchase an eSIM plan for a specific European country. Airalo’s local plans are valid for 7 to 30 days and come with 1GB to 20GB of data, while its regional plans are valid for up to 180 days and offer up to 100GB of data. For longer stays, it has global plans that are valid for up to a year.
Airalo eSIM 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 plans, which cover 136 countries worldwide. Airalo offers prepaid plans with no contracts, and its top-up option lets you get more data if needed. This eSIM provides reliable 5G, 4G, or LTE connectivity in most European cities.
Activating an Airalo eSIM is a breeze: simply download the Airalo app, scan a QR code, and connect within minutes. You can also activate the eSIM automatically (via the app) or manually. Airalo provides customer support via live chat and email.
Airalo’s local plans for European countries start at just $4.50 for a 1GB, 7-day plan. The same plan costs $5 if you get its regional European eSIM.
3. Nomad – the most affordable eSIM for Europe with flexible data plans
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.00/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Nomad is a great eSIM for Europe if you’re looking for something affordable yet with good coverage and flexible data plans. Nomad eSIM offers a pay-as-you-go approach which is especially convenient if you’re not as hard-set on your travel time and would like to stay flexible with your data choices.
Nomad eSIM offers local, regional, and global plans. Nomad has short-term eSIM plans (like 1GB for 7 days). But if you’re planning an extended adventure, you can opt for a longer plan with generous data allowances (like 20GB for 30 days or 30GB for 365 days).
In addition to its regular plans, Nomad has day plans for most European countries. These plans give you 500MB to 1GB of data per day, and you can continue to access the web at 512kbps if you run out of data.
Like Saily, Nomad eSIMs don’t come with a number, so you can’t make calls or send SMS. On the plus side, it was easy to top up via the app. Nomad supports LTE, 3G, 4G, or 5G speeds in most European countries.
When you purchase a Nomad eSIM, you will receive a QR code via email and instructions on how to install and activate it. Nomad has an in-app live chat option. You can also contact its customer support team by completing a form on its website.
Nomad’s local eSIMs usually start at only $4.00 for a 7-day 1GB plan. However, if you’re getting its regional eSIM for Europe, you'll need to pay slightly more — about $5.00 — for the same plan.
4. aloSIM – Europe eSIM with data, call, and text options
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
aloSIM is one of the top eSIM for Europe choices for those who need available calls and texting in addition to data. aloSIM features include calls and SMS and allow for even more seamless connectivity in around 40 European countries included in the aloSIM’s list.
You can select an aloSIM 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 eSIM has local plans for over 40 European countries and regions. aloSIM’s plans generally start from 1GB for 7 days and go up to 100GB for 180 days. With this eSIM, you’re guaranteed LTE, 3G, 4G, or 5G speeds in virtually every part of Europe. You can see the type of network available in each country when choosing a plan.
aloSIM is one of the few eSIMs that supports phone calls and SMS. Each aloSIM plan comes with $1 worth of free credit for calling and texting. However, you must download a separate app called Hushed to be able to make calls and send SMS.
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. Its local plans usually start at $4.50 for 1GB (valid for 7 days), while its regional eSIM offers for Europe start at $5.00 for a 7-day, 1GB plan.
4. Holafly – eSIM with unlimited data plans for Europe
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $6.90/day |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Holafly is an excellent eSIM for Europe choice if you need unlimited data. The provider covers 40 countries in Europe as well as offering regional eSIM choices for your convenience. Overall, Holafly is a great choice if you’d rather not worry about going over the data plan limit.
Holafly eSIM offers unlimited data, both with the local and the regional eSIM plans. This is useful if you don’t want to waste time and top up your eSIM while traveling. On top of this, the plans range from 1 to 90 days in duration, allowing you to align the data usage to your trip.
However, Holafly offers data-only plans, so you won’t be able to call or text with the eSIM. However, similar to other eSIM providers on this list, Holafly supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G internet speeds, depending on your location.
Once you select your destination and plan duration, you’ll get an email with a QR code. To install Holafly, just scan the code and connect to an internet network when you arrive at your destination.
If you encounter an issue, you can contact responsive customer support via 24/7 live chat or email. You can also browse through its guides and FAQs to solve the issue immediately.
While this eSIM isn’t the most affordable, it provides excellent value for your money. In fact, you can get the regional plan for Europe for $6.90 and enjoy 1 day of unlimited data usage. You can always switch to a longer plan, with the 90-day eSIM being $139.90.
6. Jetpac – eSIM for Europe with plans starting at $1.00
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.00/4 days |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Jetpac offers eSIM plans for Europe for as low as $1 for 1GB of data. This offer is available for first-time users, and the plan is valid for four days. Jetpac eSIM has local and regional plans covering European locations, plus offers free airport lounge access if you experience delays in your flight schedule.
Jetpac has local eSIM plans for all the popular European countries. You can also opt for its European regional plans for seamless connectivity across over two dozen countries.
Jetpac eSIM has plans for short and long trips. Its 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. It supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G in most European countries.
You can install a Jetpac eSIM in seconds: you only need to 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.
7. GigSky – eSIM for Europe with comprehensive country coverage
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $3.49/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
GigSky is a good eSIM for Europe choice, as it covers 49 European countries. If you’re looking for flexibility, the provider offers inflight and offshore plans in addition to the regular local, regional, and global plans. If you’re a frequent cruise traveler, then you can take advantage of unique GigSky features such as cruise-dedicated plans.
GigSky offers new users 100MB of data when you install the app. While 100MB isn’t a lot, it can be useful if you don’t have internet access and need to set up the eSIM in a foreign country.
GigSky eSIM has fixed and unlimited local and regional plans covering Europe. Its local plans typically offer 1GB to 10GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days, while its regional plans offer up to 50GB of data and are valid for up to 90 days. One of the reasons this provider ranks low on this list is that besides its global cruise plans, it has only one global plan.
GigSky’s unlimited plans are valid for 7 to 15 days and aren’t capped. However, your connection slows down after you consume 2.5GB in a day, but it resets after 24 hours.
Like Saily and many other eSIM providers, GigSky is a data-only service, so you don’t get a local phone number. Depending on your location, this eSIM supports 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G.
When you purchase a GigSky eSIM plan, you’ll receive an email with a QR code and instructions on how to set up the eSIM. Follow the instructions to install the eSIM, and it will automatically connect to a supported network once you arrive at your destination.
GigSky doesn’t have a live chat service. However, you can contact its support team via phone or email. I found the GigSky app to be user-friendly and easy to use.
GigSky isn’t the cheapest eSIM on this list, but its prices are relatively affordable. A 1GB, 7-day plan costs $3.49 to $4.49 for most locations. The same entry-level plan costs $5.59 if you select its regional eSIM for Europe. GigSky’s unlimited data plans start at about $20.99 for 7 days, depending on your location.
8. Roamless – eSIM for Europe with convenient pay-as-you-go option
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.45 (doesn’t expire) |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Roamless is a no-fuss eSIM for Europe that works automatically in 180+ countries, instead of offering local or regional plans. Additionally, it operates on a pay-as-you-go basis and supports phone calls.
While Roamless eSIM doesn’t have fixed plans, you need to choose how much data you want – 1GB to 10GB of data. This data never expires. So, if you load money to cover 5GB of data and don’t use it all up during your trip, you’ll have a balance in your Roamless wallet that you can use on your next trip to any country or region where the eSIM service operates.
I like that Roamless gives new users 500MB of data for free — this is way more than the 100MB GigSky offers. Plus, you can make phone calls to 200+ countries using your Roamless wallet balance. You don’t even need to be connected to your Roamless eSIM to make calls; all that’s required is internet access. Call rates vary by country, starting at $0.01 per minute.
Roamless has a sleek app that you can use to monitor your data consumption and add more funds to your account. There are different ways to activate this eSIM. The easiest method is to activate automatically by clicking Activate Now on the Roamless app. You can also activate the eSIM by scanning a QR code or manually entering your eSIM details.
Roamless’ customer support team can be reached via phone or email. You can also submit a support ticket via the Roamless app. While there are multiple support channels, it’s a bummer that Roamless doesn’t have a live chat service.
The price of Roamless plans varies depending on the country. While you only need to pay $2.45 per GB in the UK, it costs a whopping $9.45 per GB in Mexico. Depending on your location, you can expect 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G connectivity from this eSIM.
9. Instabridge – eSIM for Europe with fast connections
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.00/week |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
Instabridge covers over 40 European countries and regions with fast internet connection, making it a good eSIM for Europe choice. Among the Instabridge features, you can choose between fixed plans or pay-as-you-go options for more flexibility.
You can purchase an Instabridge fixed eSIM plan for a specific European country or select any of its European regional plans, which cover 34 countries. Instabridge’s plans come with 1GB to 20GB of data and are valid for up to 30 days.
I like that you can use an Instabridge eSIM on up to 10 devices at no extra cost, which makes it a good choice if you’re traveling with family or friends and want to cut costs. This eSIM also comes with extras like a map of free Wi-Fi hotspots, a VPN, and 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.
Instabridge doesn’t have a live chat service, but you can reach its customer support team by filling out a form on its website.
The price of Instabridge’s local plans varies by country, but it usually starts at only $2.00 for 1GB of data (valid for 7 days), while its regional plans for Europe start at $2.80 for 1GB of data for 7 days. The price of its pay-as-you-go plans varies depending on the country you’re visiting.
10. BNESIM – affordable eSIM for Europe with call option
| Rating: | |
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $0.97/month |
| Coverage in Europe: | Yes (40+ countries and regions) |
BNESIM is a very affordable eSIM for Europe choice, widely available in European tourist hotspots. In addition to BNESIM features and affordable plans, you can also opt for a virtual phone number and use it for cheap international calls.
You can select a local plan for any of the 40+ European countries and regions where BNESIM operates or pick from its regional plans for Europe (which covers 32 countries). This eSIM provider offers fixed-data plans that are valid for 30 days and come with 1GB to 100GB of data. It also has pay-as-you-go 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. This eSIM provides 3G, 4G, or 5G, depending on your location.
You can easily set up and activate your BNESIM eSIM via the app: there are only a few steps, and no identification verification is required. The BNESIM app is user-friendly and has useful features like data tracking. You can contact the BNESIM customer support team via live chat, email, or phone.
BNESIM prices vary by country, but its local and regional plans start from 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.
Best eSIM providers for Europe compared
To make it easier for you to choose, I created a table comparing our top eSIMs for Europe side-by-side. Take a look and pick the best option for you:
| Brand | Rating | Coverage in Europe | Networks | Data allowance | Starting price |
| Saily | 4.9 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 100GB | $1.89/week |
| Airalo | 4.7 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 100GB | $4.50/week |
| Nomad | 4.6 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 50GB | $4.00/week |
| aloSIM | 4.4 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 100GB | $4.50/week |
| Holafly | 4.0 | 200+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | Unlimited | $6.00/day |
| Jetpac | 4.5 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 40GB | $1.00/4 days |
| GigSky | 4.4 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 50GB and unlimited | $4.50/week |
| Roamless | 4.4 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 10GB | $2.45 (plans don’t expire) |
| Instabridge | 4.0 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 20GB | $2.00/week |
| BNESIM | 3.8 | 40+ countries and regions | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1GB to 50GB and unlimited | $0.97/month |
If you’re having difficulties selecting an eSIM, I recommend making 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
To find the best eSIMs for Europe, the Cybernews research team and I used our in-depth eSIM testing methodology to thoroughly analyze several providers. My main criteria for these eSIMs were the country coverage in Europe, a network connection, a good price-to-feature ratio, and ease of use. Here’s a more in-depth look at my priorities when choosing the best eSIMs for Europe:
- Coverage in Europe (30%). 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 in both popular and less-visited European countries.
- Network (15%). 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 (25%). 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 (15%). Price is a major factor when selecting an eSIM. I assessed the prices of dozens of eSIMs before choosing the providers for this article. Compared to many other eSIMs on the market, these eSIMs offer the most useful features and have the best prices.
- User-friendliness (10%). 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 (5%). 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.
What is eSIM?
An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that works just like a regular SIM card: it provides internet access, and some eSIMs even allow you to make calls and send SMS messages. Unlike physical SIM cards, you don’t have to insert an eSIM into your device. Instead, you install it on your device — somewhat like an app.
eSIMs are popular among travelers because of the convenience they offer. You don’t have to remove your regular SIM card to use an eSIM, which means you can still receive phone calls and SMS messages from your contacts.
Also, with an eSIM, you have instant connectivity in each country. You don’t have to go through the hassle of getting a local SIM card and swapping out your regular SIM each time you land in a new country.
Benefits of using eSIM in 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:
| Brand | Model |
| iPhone | XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 |
| Google Pixel | 2 (with Google Gi), 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 9 Pro, 9a, Fold, 9 Pro Fold |
| Samsung Galaxy | S20, S20X, S21, S22, S23, S24, Note 20, Fold, Z Fold, Z Flip, a54, a56 |
| Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro, Pura 70 Pro |
| Xiaomi | 12T Pro, 13, 13T Pro, 14, 14T |
| 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.
Do European eSIM plans come with a European phone number?
Not all eSIM plans for Europe come with a local phone number. If you want a local phone number to make calls and send SMS while in Europe, ensure the eSIM provider you choose offers a European phone number.
A few eSIM providers offer phone numbers and allow calling and texting at local rates. For example, aloSIM offers a local phone number, and you get $1 worth of phone credit. You can always load more credit.
Other eSIM providers like Airalo (only on the Discover+ global plan), Roamless, and BNESIM (only for receiving calls) also offer a local phone number when you purchase an eSIM plan.
How to activate the eSIM data plan for Europe
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 enter 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 activate 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 card 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.
Best eSIMs for Europe: final thoughts
Choosing an eSIM as a way to stay connected while traveling in Europe is a highly cost-effective and fuss-free solution. I found several best eSIMs for Europe, but Saily stood out as the best overall option. The provider combines affordability, coverage, flexibility, and excellent customer service in one package, making it your perfect travel companion in Europe and worldwide. Plus, Saily was created by an industry-leading cybersecurity company, NordVPN, so you can be sure it’s a reliable and secure eSIM solution.
More helpful eSIM guides from Cybernews experts:
Best eSIMs for Europe FAQ
Do eSIMs work in Europe?
Yes, eSIM providers have extensive coverage in Europe thanks to partnerships with local network carriers. Every eSIM I recommend in this article has coverage in over 40 European countries and regions.
Is it worth getting an eSIM for Europe?
Yes, getting an eSIM for Europe is worth it, as it provides seamless connectivity and can significantly lower roaming costs. Additionally, using an eSIM eliminates the need to swap between physical cards and offers flexible data plans and seamless internet connection no matter where you travel.
What is the best eSIM to buy for Europe?
Saily is the best eSIM for Europe in 2025, as it offers extensive country coverage, affordable prices, flexible data plans, and excellent customer care service. Another great eSIM option is Holafly, as it offers unlimited data plans, perfect for longer European stays.
Can I activate my eSIM before travel?
Yes, you can activate an eSIM before traveling and get internet access once you arrive at your destination. However, I recommend checking your eSIM provider’s activation policy before doing this. Some eSIMs are activated the moment you install them, while others need to connect to a supported network to be activated. Generally, it’s advisable to install your eSIM a day or two before traveling and activate it right before your journey.
What is the cheapest eSIM card for Europe?
BNESIM is the cheapest eSIM in Europe. Its prices start at $0.97 for 1GB of data (valid for 30 days). eSIM providers like Saily 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.
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