Best eSIM for Spain: my tested travel picks in 2026
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Traveling to Spain in 2026? If you’ve ever wasted time hunting for a SIM card at the airport, been hit with surprise roaming charges, or struggled to find reliable data on the go, you’re not alone. These common travel hassles can quickly derail your plans. That’s why I tested and compared the best eSIM providers for Spain, focusing on real-world performance like coverage, speed, and ease of use. This guide cuts through the noise to help you find an easy and reliable way to stay connected from day one.
Top 5 best eSIM providers for Spain in 2026
- Saily – best overall eSIM for Spain in 2026
- Airalo – eSIM for travelers exploring Spain and Europe
- Jetpac – cheapest eSIM for Spain
- aloSIM – Spain eSIM with a phone number
- Nomad – Spain eSIM with multiple unlimited data options
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests eSIM services using a clear and consistent process. We combine first-hand experience with expert analysis to evaluate features, performance, coverage, and pricing - so you can make confident decisions before your trip. Learn how we test eSIMs.
Factors to consider when choosing an eSIM for travel in Spain
I’ve used eSIMs on nearly every trip I’ve taken, and after a few hits and misses, I’ve figured out what really matters when picking the right one – especially for somewhere like Spain. Whether you’re heading to Barcelona for the beaches or Madrid for business, these are the key things I always check when selecting an eSIM for international travel:
- The countries you’ll be visiting. If you’re just staying in Spain, a local eSIM usually does the trick. But if you plan to cross into Portugal or France, go for a regional plan that covers multiple European countries. It saves money and the hassle of switching providers mid-trip.
- Data and calls. I usually only need data – just enough for Google Maps, emails, and posting some photos. But if you need to call a hotel or book something locally, look for an eSIM that includes calls and texts. You can also rely on apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime over data.
- How much data you’ll actually use. I’ve learned not to overestimate here. For shorter trips with Wi-Fi access, 1-3GB is often enough. But if you’re working remotely or watching videos, take a bigger plan or one with top-up options.
- Trip length. Some eSIMs expire after 7 or 15 days, while others give you a full month. Check the plan duration so you don’t lose access mid-trip and avoid paying for more than you need.
- Hotspot support. If you know you’ll need to share your data with a laptop or travel companion, make sure the plan allows hotspot usage. Not all of them do.
- Pricing. I don’t want to overspend, but I also won’t go for the cheapest option if it means poor coverage or a clunky app. I recommend comparing 2-3 providers to find the best balance between cost, features, and reliability.
The best eSIMs for Spain – detailed list
To make this line-up, I tested the top eSIM providers and narrowed the list down to the 8 best eSIMs for Spain. I mainly focused on price, coverage, data options, and how easy they are to use.
1. Saily – my top eSIM pick for Spain
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 6 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $3.79 |
During my trip, I tested several eSIMs, and Saily was the best eSIM for Barcelona, Mallorca, and beyond. There are a few reasons behind my decision: affordability, broad coverage, ease of use, and extra security features (a virtual location, ad blocker, and web protection). For only $3.79/week, I could stay connected throughout Spain and feel assured that my device won’t get infected by a virus while browsing Spanish websites for museums or cafes.
Since I stayed in Spain for only a week, I opted for its cheapest 7-day plan for $3.79 with 1GB. However, if you’re staying longer or have bigger data needs, Saily eSIM has 30-day plans for up to 20GB for $21.84 or an unlimited 15-day plan for $46.54. That’s great if you don’t want to count each GB. Overall, the provider has 6 local, regional, and global plans with Spain included.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $3.79 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $6.64 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $9.49 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $15.19 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $21.84 |
| Unlimited data for 15 days | $46.54 |
Activating and using Saily in Spain was very easy. I just downloaded the app, picked my plan, and tapped Install eSIM. The setup took only a few minutes, and by the time I landed in Madrid, I was already connected. No QR codes, no ID verification, and no confusion – the app handled everything smoothly. One feature I liked was how clearly the app showed my data usage and let me top up with just a tap.
While in Madrid, I enjoyed using Saily eSIM. The provider states that it offers 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G, depending on local mobile network availability. Fortunately, I experienced only the fastest speeds throughout my trip.
When I had a quick question about switching plans, I used the in-app live chat. I got a reply within minutes, and the support agent was helpful and friendly – you don’t always get that with budget-friendly providers. To sum everything up, Saily felt reliable and easy to use from start to finish.
2. Airalo – Spain eSIM for anyone touring Europe
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 8 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
As a frequent traveler, I really appreciate Airalo’s regional and global plans. For instance, it has a regional plan for Europe with Spain included, meaning you can easily cross European borders without changing your plan. Even if you’re only traveling to Spain, Airalo is still a reliable local choice for its fast speeds and ease of use.
I found that it has 8 local plans for Spain, 1 regional, and 6 global plans valid for up to 365 days, including Spain. Among these plans, there’s a recently added 1-day free plan with 1GB, which I used to test the service before committing. While this plan isn’t a lot, it’s still an advantage compared to Saily, which doesn’t have a free tier. While most of Airalo’s plans offer only data, it has an array of global plans, dubbed Discover+, that also support calling and texting.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 1 day | FREE |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB for 15 days | $6.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.50 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $10.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $15.50 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $22.50 |
| Unlimited data for 10 days | $35.00 |
Getting started with Airalo was very easy and intuitive. After purchasing a plan from its website, I was guided to download the app, which turned out to be clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate. I activated my eSIM using the QR code method, and the whole process took just a few minutes. What stood out most was how clear and beginner-friendly the instructions were.
I used Airalo eSIM to stay connected effortlessly. The provider works with Movistar and supports LTE connectivity. My experience was smooth, with reliable speeds for everything from navigation to streaming.
Customer support was also solid. I reached out via email while testing a few features and got a helpful response within a day. There’s 24/7 live chat available through the app and website too, in case something goes wrong mid-trip. Overall, Airalo made setup and support feel smooth and reliable – exactly what you want when you're traveling.
3. Jetpac – low-cost eSIM for staying connected in Spain
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 10 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $1.00 |
Jetpac certainly targets budget-conscious travelers, with plans starting at only $1.00. Plus, no matter which plan you pick, you get premium travel perks like airport lounge access – an advantage I’ve only seen Jetpac offer. It’s a great bonus if you have a long layover or want to relax before your flight.
Jetpac eSIM offers 10 local plans for Spain, along with a regional Europe plan and a global plan that includes Spain. As mentioned above, the cheapest option – the regional Europe plan – starts at just $1.00 for 1GB over 4 days, while local plans begin at $4.00 for 1GB over 4 days. However, prices rise quickly, with the next tier costing $7.00 for 3GB over 7 days. If you prefer not to track your data usage, Jetpac also has unlimited options: $24.99 for 7 days or $31.99 for 10 days.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 4 days | $1.00 to $4.00 |
| 3GB for 7 days | $7.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $10.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $15.00 |
| 15GB for 30 days | $18.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $30.00 |
| 30GB for 30 days | $24.99 |
| 40GB for 30 days | $29.99 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $24.99 |
| Unlimited data for 10 days | $31.99 |
Jetpac was one of the easiest eSIMs I set up during my testing. After choosing a plan in the app, I scanned the QR code, turned on data roaming, and was connected within minutes. The app itself is straightforward, and I liked that it includes a step-by-step guide that walks you through everything. Once connected, managing my data and topping up was smooth right from the app.
On my trip, I also tested Jetpac’s performance. The provider partners with Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone, offering LTE, 4G, and 5G speeds depending on your location. Since Jetpac is data-only, I relied on apps for calls and messaging without any issues.
Jetpac stood out for its responsive customer support. I reached out via both WhatsApp and email, and in both cases, I received a helpful reply in under an hour. It's not 24/7 live chat like some competitors have, but the fast response times still made me feel supported while on the move.
4. aloSIM – Spanish eSIM for travelers who want full mobile service
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 7 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
I found aloSIM to be one of the few eSIM providers that go beyond just data. If you're planning to make local calls or send texts, aloSIM gives you that flexibility – thanks to its integration with the Hushed app. It’s a feature I didn’t see from most other eSIMs I tested, and it came in handy when I needed to confirm bookings or call ahead to restaurants.
aloSIM eSIM features 7 local plans for Spain and 3 regional plans – Mediterranean, Europe, and Western Europe – with Spain included. On the downside, it doesn’t have a global plan, which can be limiting for frequent travelers like me. Its cheapest plan is $4.50/GB for 7 days; bigger data plans increase slightly in price. There's even an unlimited 10-day plan for $35.00.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB for 15 days | $6.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.50 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $11.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $18.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $26.00 |
| Unlimited data for 10 days | $35.00 |
Setting up aloSIM during my Spain trip was smooth and straightforward. After purchasing a plan, I received a QR code via email, and installing the eSIM took just a few minutes. The app itself is clean and intuitive – I could easily track data usage, top up, and access support when needed.
One thing to note: if you’re on iOS 16.4 or newer, it’s best to install the eSIM after you arrive in Spain, as it activates automatically once you're connected to a local network. Android users and those on earlier iOS versions won’t need to worry about this.
aloSIM proved to be a solid choice. The provider works with Orange, Telefonica, XFERA, and Vodafone, offering LTE and 5G connectivity depending on the local network. Luckily, I experienced consistently fast speeds throughout my trip.
As for support, aloSIM offers 24/7 help via live chat and email. While the chatbot wasn’t particularly helpful, its email support team responded clearly and resolved my issue without much back-and-forth.
5. Nomad – eSIM for Spain with flexible unlimited plans
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 10 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
Premium eSIM provider Nomad caters mainly to heavy data users, offering a user-friendly app, solid performance, and a wide selection of unlimited data plans. Compared to other providers on this list, Nomad’s unlimited options are among the most cost-effective.
Nomad eSIM offers a wide selection of local, regional, and global plans that include Spain, most of which are valid for 30 days. While that’s fairly standard among eSIM providers for Spain, what I really appreciate is the variety of unlimited data plans available for 3, 5, 7, and 10 days. They’re quite cost-effective, with the cheapest unlimited 3-day plan priced at just $11.00.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $12.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $16.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $20.00 |
| 50GB for 30 days | $45.00 |
| Unlimited data for 3 days | $11.00 |
| Unlimited data for 5 days | $17.00 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $23.00 |
| Unlimited data for 10 days | $31.00 |
Activating Nomad was quick and hassle-free. I set everything up through the app in just a few minutes, and once the eSIM was installed, it automatically connected to a local network without me having to tweak any settings.
During my time in Spain, I counted on Nomad for reliable internet, and it delivered. The provider works with major carriers like Vodafone España, Telefonica Spain, Orange, and MasMovil, offering LTE, 4G, and 5G speeds depending on your location. I experienced consistently fast and stable connectivity the entire trip.
The Nomad app also deserves a shoutout – it’s well designed and intuitive. I could easily monitor my data balance, top up, and get help when I needed it. When I had a quick question, I reached out via the app’s live chat and got a helpful response faster than through its ticket system. Overall, Nomad made staying online in Spain completely stress-free.
6. GigSky – Spain eSIM for business travelers
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 14 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.99 |
With consistent coverage, flexibility, and a polished user experience, GigSky is a solid choice for business travelers. I was particularly impressed by its unique offerings, including inflight, offshore, and cruise plans. What really stood out, though, was its extensive selection of local, regional, and global data plans.
For Spain specifically, GigSky offers 14 local, 7 regional Europe, 5 global, and 11 cruise plans. At the local level, the provider includes a free 7-day trial with 500MB so you can test the service first. If it works for you, paid plans start at $4.99 for 1GB over 7 days. Business travelers with higher data demands can choose from several unlimited options, starting at $4.24 for a 1-day plan and going up to $56.24 for 30 days of unlimited data.
Unlike some eSIM providers who place hard caps on their unlimited data plans, GigSky’s unlimited options slow down after you use about 2.5GB per day. It’s also worth noting that GigSky doesn’t offer a local phone number, so you won’t be able to make traditional calls or send SMS. That said, messaging and calling via apps like WhatsApp worked without any issues.
| Data plan | Price |
| 500MB for 7 days | FREE |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.99 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $8.49 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $11.04 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $15.99 |
| 50GB for 90 days | $44.98 |
| 100GB for 180 days | $67.49 |
| Unlimited data for 1 day | $4.24 |
| Unlimited data for 3 days | $12.74 |
| Unlimited data for 5 days | $19.54 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $24.64 |
| Unlimited data for 14 days | $35.19 |
| Unlimited data for 21 days | $43.49 |
| Unlimited data for 30 days | $56.24 |
My experience with setting up GigSky was pleasant. After purchasing a data plan, I received an email with a QR code and clear setup instructions. The app itself is intuitive and makes it easy to manage everything in one place. Once activated, the eSIM connected to a local network as soon as I arrived in Spain – no manual tweaks required.
I also tested GigSky’s customer support to see how responsive it is. The 24/7 in-app live chat was fast and helpful, and I appreciated having the option to reach out via email if needed. Overall, the setup experience felt polished and reliable – exactly what I’d expect from a provider targeting frequent and business travelers.
7. Holafly – fully customizable unlimited data plans for Spain
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 90 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $1.99 |
Holafly brings a different kind of convenience to the table for travelers in Spain. Its standout feature is the unlimited data across various plan lengths, which made staying online effortless throughout my trip. I also liked how easy it was to tailor the plan duration, making it feel built around my travel schedule rather than the other way around.
What sets Holafly apart is its approach to data – instead of fixed data caps, it offers unlimited data on both its local Spain eSIM and its regional Europe plan. You can also choose how long you want to stay connected, with plan durations ranging from 1 to 90 days. Just note that speeds may be reduced in some areas, and since Holafly doesn’t include a phone number, calling and texting will need to be done through VoIP apps. However, if you're very concerned about the privacy of your data, keep in mind that Holafly routes its traffic through China, as I discovered on Reddit.
| Data plan | Price |
| Unlimited data for 1 day | $1.99 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $29.90 |
| Unlimited data for 15 days | $50.90 |
| Unlimited data for 30 days | $74.90 |
| Unlimited data for 60 days | $106.90 |
| Unlimited data for 90 days | $139.90 |
Holafly eSIM made getting connected in Spain feel effortless. After selecting my plan, I scanned the QR code and followed the prompts – everything worked right away without any confusion. The app is clean and user-friendly, giving me full control over my data and support access in just a few taps.Using Holafly eSIM in SpainCustomer support also left a solid impression. Its live chat is available around the clock, and when I had a question about switching networks mid-trip, I got a fast, helpful response. For quick answers, its FAQ section is well organized and easy to navigate.
Customer support also left a solid impression. Its live chat is available around the clock, and when I had a question about switching networks mid-trip, I got a fast, helpful response. For quick answers, its FAQ section is well organized and easy to navigate.
8. Instabridge – Spain eSIM with affordable, pay-as-you-go pricing
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 190+ |
| Plans in Spain: | 4 |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $2.00 |
If you’re after unlimited data without spending a fortune, Instabridge really delivers. It might not be as feature-rich as bigger eSIM providers like Saily or Airalo, but I liked its no-fuss setup, built-in VPN, data-saving browser, and the freedom of pay-as-you-go pricing. That’s especially handy if you’re always online streaming or scrolling.
Instabridge eSIM offers standard plans for Spain ranging from 1GB to 20GB, valid for 7 to 30 days. Beyond these, you can take advantage of its flexible pay-as-you-go options specifically for Spain. If you're traveling more widely, Instabridge also has regional plans for Europe and global plans that include Spain.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $2.00 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $4.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $11.00 |
| 20GB for 7 days | $14.00 |
| Pay-as-you-go plan | $2.00 per GB |
Using Instabridge during my trip was surprisingly smooth. The app is clean and straightforward – activating the eSIM took just a tap, and within minutes, I was connected and online. I appreciated how little fuss was involved; no QR codes or complicated setup screens. Instabridge also offers some nice extras like a free Wi-Fi map and a data-saving browser, though you’ll need to download them separately.
As for support, there’s no live chat or instant help. You’ll have to fill out a contact form on its website and wait for a reply. In my case, the support team got back to me the next day, which isn’t lightning-fast but still decent if you're not in an urgent pinch.
Best eSIM providers for Spain compared
Here’s a quick comparison table that breaks down the key features of each eSIM for Spain. I created it to help you quickly spot which one fits your travel needs best.
| Brand | Rating | Data | Cost | Network speed in Spain | Plan duration | Calls and SMS | Customer support channels | Allows hotspot |
| 1. Saily | 1GB to unlimited data | $3.79 to $46.54 | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G | 7 to 30 days | ❌ No | 24/7 live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 2. Airalo | 1GB to unlimited data | $4.50 to $35.00 | LTE | 7 to 30 days | ✅ Yes, on the Discover+ plan | 24/7 live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 3. Jetpac | 1GB to unlimited data | $1.00 to $31.99 | 4G, LTE 5G | 4 to 30 days | ❌ No | WhatsApp and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 4. aloSIM | 1GB to unlimited data | $4.50 to $35.00 | LTE, 5G | 7 to 30 days | ✅ Yes | 24/7 live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 5. Nomad | 1GB to unlimited data | $4.50 to $45.00 | 4G, LTE, 5G | 7 to 30 days | ❌ No | Live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 6. GigSky | 1GB to unlimited data | $4.99 to $56.24 | 3G, 4G, 5G | 7 to 180 days | ❌ No | 24/7 live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 7. Holafly | Unlimited data | $1.99 to $139.90 | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G | 1 to 90 days | ❌ No | 24/7 live chat and email | ✅ Yes | |
| 8. Instabridge | 1GB to 20GB, and pay-as-you-go | $2.00 to $14.00 | 3G, 4G, 5G | 7 to 30 days | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for Spain
During my trip to Spain, I had the chance to compare, rank, and test the top eSIM providers firsthand. These are the key factors I focused on when putting this list together:
- Coverage in Spain (20%). I looked at the coverage of different eSIMs in Spain and picked those with excellent coverage across the country. Whether you’re holidaying by the beach in Valencia or attending a football game in Madrid, the eSIMs on this list will help you to stay connected.
- Network speed (20%). I assessed and compared the network speeds of various eSIMs in Spain. The providers on my list provide some of the fastest speeds in Spain. Depending on the provider you choose and your location in the country, you can expect 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G speeds.
- Data plans (20%). I analyzed the data plans of many eSIMs and selected those with the widest variety of plans to meet the needs of different travelers. Most of these providers have local, regional, and global plans covering Spain.
- Price (20%). eSIM prices vary, and the most expensive providers aren’t necessarily the best. I compared the prices, features, and performance of different eSIMs and picked the ones offering the best deals.
- User-friendliness (10%). I tested different eSIM services to gauge their ease of use. These eSIMs are among the most user-friendly options available today. It should be easy to set up these eSIMs and connect to the internet, even if you’ve never used an eSIM before.
- Customer support (10%). I checked the customer support channels of different eSIMs and contacted them to check response times. All the eSIMs on my list responded within 24 hours. Many of them have a live chat service so you can get an instant response to your questions.
What is the cheapest eSIM plan for Spain?
Currently, Jetpac has the cheapest eSIM plans for Spain. Its plans start at $1.00 for a 1GB plan, valid for 4 days. Saily is another relatively affordable provider, charging $3.79 for a 7-day, 1GB plan. Here’s a table showing how much each eSIM provider charges for 1GB.
| eSIM provider | Cost of 1GB |
| Jetpac | $1.00 (1GB, 4-day plan) |
| Instabridge | $2.00 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
| Saily | $3.79 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
| Airalo | $4.50 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
| aloSIM | $4.50 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
| Nomad | $4.50 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
| GigSky | $4.99 (1GB, 7-day plan) |
Benefits of using an eSIM in Spain
Using your regular SIM card in Spain can be expensive, and dealing with a local SIM is often inconvenient. An eSIM offers a simpler and more affordable way to stay connected while traveling. Here are some of the main benefits of using an eSIM in Spain:
- Immediate internet access. eSIM allows you to browse the internet and access online services, like hotel bookings or maps, as soon as you arrive in Spain. This can make a huge difference, especially if you are visiting the country for the first time and don’t know your way around.
- Seamless connectivity. If you’re traveling to multiple European countries, getting a European regional plan ensures seamless connectivity as you cross borders. It eliminates the need to get a local SIM card in each country or learn how to load more data.
- Keep your regular SIM and phone number. With an eSIM, you don’t need to swap your SIM card while abroad. This means you can continue receiving phone calls and accessing services linked to your SIM card.
- No need to visit a store. You can download, install, and top up your eSIM digitally without visiting a physical store. This eliminates the hassle of getting a new SIM and ensures you can stay connected even if you’re traveling in the most remote parts of Spain.
How to get an eSIM in Spain?
You can get an eSIM for Spain online through the provider’s website or app – no need to visit a physical store. Just pick a plan, complete the payment, and you’ll get setup instructions by email. Typically, you only need to follow a few steps:
- Download the provider’s eSIM app from the Apple Store or Google Play
- Select a Spain plan that suits your travel duration and usage needs
- Create an account and complete the purchase
- Follow the in-app instructions to install and activate the eSIM
- Once activated, your eSIM connects automatically when you arrive in Spain
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most smartphones released after 2019 support eSIM functionality. If you're not sure whether your device is compatible, you can check out our in-depth eSIM guide. However, if you’re short on time, here's a quick overview to get you started.
Flagship Galaxy S21 and newer phone models, plus foldables like the Z Flip and Z Fold series, all are eSIM compatible. To confirm, go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager and see if you can add an eSIM, or look for IMEI (eSIM) under Settings > About phone.
Any iPhone from the XR onward includes eSIM functionality. The iPhone 15 lineup relies solely on eSIM, dropping the physical SIM tray entirely. Older models, such as the iPhone 6, 7, and 8, don’t offer eSIM support. For the entire list, refer to Apple’s official compatibility chart.
How do I activate eSIM in Spain?
Depending on the provider you choose, there are a few different ways to install and activate your eSIM. Here are the most common methods to get your Spain eSIM running.
One of the easiest ways to get started is through your provider’s app. Just follow these steps:
- Sign up and pick a plan that fits your needs. I recommend Saily eSIM – now you canBuy Saily eSIM 10+ GB data plan, get 10% off!
- Download and install the app from your eSIM provider
- Tap Activate in the app to start the installation
If you’d rather scan than tap, QR‑based setup works just as smoothly:
- Choose and purchase your data plan
- Download the provider’s app
- After purchase, check your email for a QR code and step‑by‑step instructions
- Scan the QR code to begin the process
- To activate the eSIM, set it as your primary data SIM and enable roaming
For hands‑on users, some providers let you add an eSIM manually:
- Buy a plan directly from the provider’s site or app
- You’ll receive an activation code and SM‑DP+ address
- On iOS, go to Settings > Mobile Data and enter the eSIM information
- Follow the provider’s specific instructions for a seamless setup
Things to know about using an eSIM in Spain
As a regular eSIM user, I’ve picked up a few useful lessons along the way. If you’re new to eSIM technology, these tips might come in handy before choosing a plan for Spain:
- Check if your phone is carrier-locked. Some phones are locked to one service provider. If that’s the case, you won’t be able to use an eSIM. You can check if your phone is carrier-locked by going to Settings > General > About on your device and checking for Carrier Lock. Alternatively, you can also contact your eSIM provider and ask them directly. Some providers can unlock your device for a fee.
- Check if your device supports eSIM. If your smartphone was made before 2018, it might not support eSIMs. We have a guide explaining how to check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs. You can also look at your device's manual or the manufacturer’s website to determine if your device supports eSIMs.
- Check if the eSIM supports calls and SMS. If you’d like to make phone calls using your eSIM in Spain, you should first check if your chosen provider supports calling and texting. Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans, but some allow calls and SMS. If your eSIM plan is data-only, the only way to make calls is by using VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime.
- Learn about your eSIM activation. Read your eSIM provider’s instructions and ensure you understand how to set up and use your eSIM. It’s important to know how your eSIM is activated to avoid activating it too early or waiting too long to do so. Some eSIMs only activate when you’re in Spain and connect to a local network. Others require internet access for activation, so it’s better to activate them before your trip.
Are eSIMs the best way to stay connected when traveling to Spain?
While I recommend using an eSIM, there are different ways to stay connected when traveling in Spain. I’ll briefly compare the other options below:
- Local prepaid SIM cards. Getting a local SIM card at airports and shops across Spain is easy and affordable. However, you can only get one after arriving in the country, which can be inconvenient if you’re visiting Spain for the first time or don’t speak Spanish.
- International prepaid SIM cards. You can also stay connected with an international SIM card. Many providers, including Vodafone, O2, and Orange, offer global SIM cards that you can use in multiple countries. Usually, you can order them before your trip to stay connected as soon as you arrive. However, they’re often expensive.
- eSIM cards. An eSIM is the most convenient and affordable way to stay connected in Spain. You can purchase it online and set it up before your trip to access the web and make calls once you land in the country. Compared to using an international or a local prepaid SIM card, an eSIM is much cheaper and easier.
How to make calls with eSIM in Spain?
Most eSIMs offer data-only plans without a local phone number, calls, or SMS. If you intend to use your eSIM to make calls or send text messages, here are the options available to you:
- Check if your eSIM provider supports calls. Most eSIM providers, including Saily, Nomad, and Instabridge, offer data-only plans. However, some of them, like Airalo and aloSIM, have plans that allow you to make calls and send SMS messages. Choose one of these providers if you’d like to make calls using your eSIM.
- Use your home SIM. If you get a data-only eSIM, you can use your home SIM to make calls. However, international calls usually attract higher charges.
- Use VoIP apps. Another way to make calls with a data-only eSIM is to use Voice-over-Internet Protocol apps, such as Skype, WhatsApp, or FaceTime. With these apps, you can use the internet to make calls.
Best eSIM for Spain: final thoughts
Using an eSIM in Spain is a smart move for anyone who wants reliable and instant connectivity without the hassle of physical SIM cards. Just activate your plan before landing, and you're ready to navigate, message, or work as soon as you arrive.
Saily delivers standout value with flexible plans and strong coverage, making it one of my top picks for Spain. That said, options like Airalo or Jetpac also hold up well, depending on your needs. No matter which you choose, an eSIM takes the guesswork out of staying connected in Spain.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews
eSIM vs physical eSIM: Which is a better option while traveling?
Best eSIMs for Italy: Discover top eSIMs for Italy travel
Best eSIMs for France: Best eSIMs for traveling in France
Best eSIMs for Europe: Explore the best eSIMs for Europe
FAQ
What is the cheapest eSIM card for Spain?
Jetpac is the cheapest eSIM card for Spain, with plans starting at just $1.00. Saily is also relatively cheap, charging $3.79 for a 7-day 1GB plan.
Can you get eSIM with a Spanish phone number?
Yes, some eSIM providers, like aloSIM, offer local phone numbers that you can use to make calls and send SMS. Simply purchase an aloSIM plan for Spain, and you’ll get a phone number (along with $1.00 free credit) from its sister app, Hushed.
Are there unlimited data plans for Spain?
Yes, several providers offer unlimited data plans, and if you're looking for the best eSIM Spain unlimited data option, Saily and Airalo are solid picks.
Which Spanish networks have eSIM?
All the top network providers in Spain, such as Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, Pepephone, and 02 Spain, offer eSIM cards. Visit their shops in the country to enquire about getting an eSIM.
Can I use 5G on a Spain eSIM card?
Yes, many eSIM providers offer 5G in Spain, but the network you’ll get generally depends on your location. When choosing an eSIM provider, check if it supports 5G in Spain. eSIM providers, like Saily and Nomad, offer 5G connectivity in Spain.
Which eSIM is best for Spain?
Saily is the best eSIM cardr for Spain. It’s affordable, offers a variety of plans, and partners with local mobile networks to provide the best service quality.
Can I make calls with an eSIM card in Spain?
Yes, you can make calls using an eSIM if your eSIM provider supports calling. eSIMs like Airalo (only on its Discover+ global plan) and aloSIM support calling and texting. Even if you have a data-only eSIM plan, you can still make calls with VoIP apps like Messenger or FaceTime.
