Updated: 2 October, 2024
All the ways to get internet in Europe so that you always have a connection, with prices, where to buy and many tips.
If you're traveling to Europe, having internet is essential to navigate the city, use public transportation, and communicate with locals using the translator, which will come in handy, especially if it's your first time on the old continent.
Moreover, the internet can get you out of trouble or an uncomfortable situation, especially if you're traveling solo.
In my case, it was in Rome when I arrived at Termini station, which, as far as I understood, wasn't an unsafe area, but walking around there at night didn't feel very reassuring. At that moment, I was glad to have internet to order an Uber.
The easiest way to get unlimited internet in Europe from the moment you arrive is with this Holafly eSIM card.
There are also other alternatives that I analyze in detail so you can see which one is best for you, based on my experience of living and traveling around Europe. If you have any questions, leave a comment at the end of the article, and I'll help you as much as I can.
1. Roaming (Expensive)
Roaming in Europe is the easiest way to get mobile data, and generally, you just need to activate roaming in your phone settings.
So, when you arrive in Europe, your mobile company from your home country will connect to its partner network in that country to provide you with service.
The major issue here is the cost; the rates tend to be quite high for the limited data they offer.
Some companies also offer international packages that you can purchase for traveling to Europe, with each company in each country having its own pricing.
Summary of Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Easy to use, you just activate it.
- Keeps your home country phone number.
❌ Cons
- Very expensive.
- The connection is not always stable.
2. Local SIM (Affordable)
The most budget-friendly way to get mobile data in Europe is by purchasing a European SIM card.
Until a few years ago, when traveling to Europe, you needed a SIM card for each country. However, the European Union passed a law allowing you to use the SIM card in other countries without paying for roaming, although with some conditions.
Here's a map indicating countries with free roaming in Europe (yellow ones):
Please note that the European Union comprises 27 countries, and some mobile operators may charge you for using roaming in other countries, such as Switzerland, Andorra, and the United Kingdom.
Where can I buy a SIM cards in Europe?
Finding places to buy travel SIM cards won't be a problem; you'll find official stores and mobile shops at airports and in cities.
👍 Friend's tip: If you want to save, avoid buying the chip at the airport, which is where they have the data packages for tourists and the prices can be more than double those in the city.
Internet providers in Europe - Which one is the best?
Some of the internet providers with a significant presence in Europe are Vodafone, Orange, T-mobile, and several companies under the Telekom umbrella like A1.
However, when leaving the country where you bought the SIM card, you may encounter some connection or coverage issues.
Among all providers, Vodafone works best for roaming in Europe.
What is the price of internet in Europe?
Prices vary depending on each company, the country where you buy it, the place of purchase and the offers they have at the moment.
Here are the current prices for Vodafone Spain:
| Data | Roaming Data | Days | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25GB | 6GB | 28 days | €10 ($10.7) |
| 50GB | 8GB | 28 days | €15 (USD16) |
| 100 GB | 11GB | 28 days | €20 ($21.3) |
| 120GB | 16 GB | 28 days | €30 (USD32) |
| 150GB | 22GB | 28 days | €40 (USD42.6) |
When you buy an international SIM card in European stores, they usually don't inform you that for roaming, you get significantly fewer GB, which are included in the total data. Once those data are used up, you have to recharge or they start charging you for roaming. 😫
How to recharge a prepaid SIM card?
If you buy a Vodafone SIM card, you can recharge through their app.
However, in some countries you may encounter issues, and the only option is to visit a Vodafone office for recharging.
While Vodafone has a broad presence in the EU, it is not available everywhere, and you may not receive support in certain countries.
How much does roaming cost?
Vodafone's roaming costs 1.88 euros (2 USD) per GB, as shown in the text message below when I entered France.
How to use the SIM card in other european countries?
To use the chip in other countries you will need to activate roaming.
If activating it doesn't give you internet access, you must restart your phone. If you still don't have data, you'll need to visit a Vodafone store.
More details to know
One of the significant advantages of having a SIM card for Europe from a local provider is that you can share data by using it as a hotspot with other devices, such as a laptop or the phones of others traveling with you.
Although since it is a physical SIM you'll need a cellphone with a dual SIM slot, or you'll have to remove your home country's SIM.
The only downside is that some applications, like banking apps, are associated with your home country's phone number, causing issues when making card payments or other transactions.
Another challenge is the limited data because, despite purchasing a SIM card with a lot of GB, the available data are much less when traveling to other countries.
Local SIMs are designed for European Union residents, not for a Eurotrip.
If you're used to watching videos, sharing photos and videos, you'll need a considerable amount of GB, and the plans of local SIMs might not be sufficient.
Keep in mind that to use a SIM card in Europe, your phone must be unlocked; otherwise, it won't work.
Summary of Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Can be the cheapest option if you don't use much data and buy it in the city.
- Allows you to share data.
❌ Cons
- You have to find an office to buy the SIM.
- No internet upon arrival.
- Data is not unlimited and roaming has much less data
- Cheaper plans don't include calls.
- Sometimes, you need to go to the office to recharge in other countries.
- If your phone is for a single SIM, you have to remove your home country's SIM.
- You need an unlocked cellphone.
3. HolaFly eSIM (Unlimited)
The HolaFly Europe eSIM is the best way to have unlimited data throughout your trip because it offers stable coverage from the moment you arrive, all without having to switch your SIM card. That means zero complications!
However, the first thing you need to do is check if it works with your phone because it doesn't function with older or lower-end models
Here you can check if it will works with your cellphone, scrolling down to the "How does the HolaFly eSIM work?" section and clicking on "Check compatibility."
Good news! Now, with the eSIM Europe, you can share your data with other devices or travelers, up to 500 MB.
How much does the HolaFly eSIM for Europe cost? Is there any discount?
One advantage of this eSIM for Europe is that you can choose a plan based on the number of days you'll be traveling.
Below, you can see some of their prices, all offering unlimited data. You can get a 5% discount with this link or by using the code VIAJEROSACTIVOS. They also have options for fewer and more days.
| Days | Price |
|---|---|
| 10 | €34 ($36.2) |
| 15 | €47 ($50.1) |
| 20 | €57 ($60.8) |
| 30 | €69 ($73.5) |
How and when do I get the eSIM?
Another significant advantage of purchasing a Europe eSIM is the convenience of receiving it in your email almost instantly after payment.
How can I install it?
You will receive an email with all the details for the installation. If you have an iOS device, it's through the QR code, and for Android, follow the provided instructions.
Sometimes, it can be a bit intimidating when they tell you that you need to install things on your phone, especially if you're like me and not particularly skilled in these matters. However, I assure you it's very easy.
The instructions are well-explained and involve only a few steps. Additionally, if you encounter any issues, the customer support service works well. They respond quickly through the chat.
The advantage of completing the installation before traveling is that once you land in Europe, you'll already have internet to start enjoying your trip.
How do I get data in other countries?
The main reason why I always travel with HolaFly is that you don't have to do anything when changing countries; it connects automatically.
Summary of Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Easy to set up before traveling
- Unlimited data and stable internet connection
- You have internet as soon as you arrive
- Includes calls
- No need to take out your SIM card
- You can share the data
❌ Cons
- Not compatible with all mobile phones
Summary of the 3 Ways to Get Internet in Europe
- Roaming: This is the easiest way, but also the most expensive.
- European SIM card: It can be the cheapest if you don't use a lot of data and you don't need internet from the moment you land.
- Holafly eSIM: Unlimited data easily if your phone supports eSIM.
As you can see, the best way to have access to internet in Europe is with the Holafly eSIM, which works very well without complications or unexpected roaming charges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, there are companies that offer unlimited plans, but they won't work for traveling around Europe because they are contract-based and require a local bank account.
In other words, this type of European data SIM card is only suitable if you live there; as a tourist, you can only buy a prepaid SIM card.
Yes, both the Vodafone international SIM card and the Holafly Europe eSIM card work for England and the rest of the United Kingdom without any additional charges.
Final Thoughts
These are all the most popular ways to get internet in Europe so you can always stay connected and make the most out of your trip.
If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘
More travel tips for Europe
- How to claim a delayed flight: quick and easy
- 31 Budget Travel Tips for Europe
- 22 cheapest destinations in Europe
- 14 Tips for traveling to Europe in winter
Hello, I’m Andrea, the creator and writer of Viajeros Activos (Active Travelers). I’m a nomad, so I consider myself a full-time traveler. I’m passionate about good food and always looking for new adventures.