Planning that dream European getaway? You’ve got your itinerary, your bags are packed, but what about staying online from Lisbon to Berlin? Remember the days of fumbling with tiny SIM cards every time you crossed a border in Europe?
Well, those days are long gone. Welcome to the era of the eSIM for Europe! This guide is here to cut through the noise, helping you navigate the maze of eSIM options to find the best eSIM for Europe travelling in 2025, ensuring you stay connected no matter where your adventures take you.
So, how can an eSIM be your ultimate travel hack for traversing Europe? Let’s uncover the best options available.
Ever wished staying connected in Europe was as easy as tapping a screen? Saily makes that wish a reality for countless travelers exploring the continent. It’s quickly become a go-to for its no-nonsense approach to eSIM Europe travel, giving you reliable service without any headaches.
They’ve built a solid reputation for keeping things simple and secure. So, whether you’re strolling through the streets of Paris or hiking in the Alps, Saily aims to keep you online effortlessly.
Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
2022 | 35+ European countries | Data-only, Hotspot, Secure connection | 1GB/7 days, 10GB/30 days, 20GB/30 days | Vodafone, Orange, Deutsche Telekom | 24/7 Live chat, email | Yes | 9.5/10 |
Saily really shines with its straightforward plan variety. They understand that not everyone needs a massive data plan for a quick city break to Rome, nor do they want to run out of data on a longer multi-country tour through Germany and Italy. Their app is super clean and easy to use; picking a plan and getting set up takes just a few taps. It’s a truly smooth user experience for anyone zipping around Europe’s major spots like Barcelona, Berlin, or Lisbon.
They also play nice with EU roaming regulations, so once you’re set up, your data just works across borders. Think about going from the bustling markets of Madrid to the quiet canals of Amsterdam without a hitch. Saily just gets it.
Saily really nails it for travelers who want peace of mind. Their strong suit is secure and affordable plans that cover a huge chunk of Europe, including places like France, Spain, and Portugal. If you’re hunting for a cheap eSIM for Europe, Saily often pops up with some killer deals. They don’t mess around with complicated tiers; you pick your data, you pick your validity, and you’re good to go.
Their focus on security means you’re less worried about your data while Browse in a café in Prague or checking maps in Vienna.
Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Countries Covered |
Europe Starter | 1 GB | 7 days | $4.99 | All EU/EEA | France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc. |
Schengen Hopper | 10 GB | 30 days | $19.99 | All EU/EEA | All Schengen countries + UK |
Grand Tour | 20 GB | 30 days | $29.99 | All EU/EEA | All Schengen countries + UK, Switzerland |
Pros
Cons
Airalo, frankly, is a household name in the eSIM world, and for good reason. When it comes to eSIM for Europe, they’re often the first choice for travelers. They’ve built a reputation for offering a staggering range of plans for almost every country on Earth, and Europe is no exception.
Their platform is super easy to navigate, and they really simplify getting connected.
Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
2019 | 40+ European countries | Data-only, Hotspot support | 1GB/7 days, 20GB/30 days, 50GB/90 days | Major European carriers (e.g., Vodafone, Orange, Three) | 24/7 Live chat, email, comprehensive FAQ | Yes | 9.8/10 |
Airalo excels in providing a vast array of data plans, whether you’re off for a quick city break in Prague or planning a month-long backpacking trip across Scandinavia. Their app is incredibly intuitive, making the user experience smooth from purchase to activation. You can easily see your data usage, top up, and manage your plans right from your phone, which is a lifesaver when you’re navigating new cities like Munich or enjoying the scenery in Santorini.
They work seamlessly with EU roaming regulations, meaning your Airalo Europe eSIM review would likely highlight how effortlessly you can cross borders. Just imagine going from the bustling streets of Athens to the serene fjords of Norway, staying online the entire time.
Airalo’s strength truly lies in its sheer breadth of coverage and the flexibility it offers. If you’re looking for an eSIM card Europe solution that literally covers most of the continent, Airalo’s regional Europe plans are tough to beat. They partner with top-tier local networks, so you’re always getting reliable 4G or even 5G speeds in major European hubs like London, Berlin, and Paris.
Plus, their pricing is competitive, and they frequently offer deals. This makes them a solid choice for those seeking a good balance of cost and coverage.
Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Countries Covered |
Eurolink 1GB | 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 | 40+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland, Turkey |
Eurolink 10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | $21.00 | 40+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland, Turkey |
Eurolink 50GB | 50 GB | 90 days | $60.00 | 40+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland, Turkey |
Pros
Cons
When you hear “unlimited data” and “Europe travel” in the same sentence, Holafly often comes to mind. They’ve really carved out a niche for travelers who simply do not want to worry about data limits. If you’re someone who relies heavily on maps, social media, video calls back home, or streaming while exploring cities like Florence or enjoying a train ride through the Swiss Alps, Holafly is shouting your name.
They’re all about giving you peace of mind with truly generous data allowances.
Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
2017 | 32+ European countries | Unlimited Data, Data-only, Hotspot (limited on some plans) | Unlimited/5 days, Unlimited/15 days, Unlimited/30 days | Major European networks (e.g., Orange, Vodafone, Three) | 24/7 Live chat, email, extensive FAQs | Yes | 9.1/10 |
Holafly’s main draw is, without a doubt, its focus on eSIM Europe unlimited data. This means you don’t have to constantly check your data usage, which is a huge stress reliever when you’re busy soaking in the sights of Barcelona or finding the best gelato in Rome. Their activation process is typically smooth, often involving a simple QR code scan. While primarily data-focused, their plans ensure you’re always connected, whether you’re navigating via Google Maps in Berlin or sharing your amazing experiences from a cafe in Lisbon.
They’ve made sure their services align well with EU roaming regulations, so moving from one European country to another, say from Austria to Hungary, is totally seamless.
Holafly is the ultimate choice for data-hungry travelers exploring Europe. Their commitment to offering eSIM Europe unlimited data sets them apart. This isn’t just for casual Browse; it means you can use your phone just as you would at home. Imagine video calling family from the Eiffel Tower or streaming your favorite shows on a long train journey across Germany without a second thought.
This focus on unlimited data makes them particularly appealing for digital nomads, content creators, or anyone who can’t afford to be offline.
Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Countries Covered |
Europe Unlimited 5 | Unlimited | 5 days | $19.00 | 32+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland |
Europe Unlimited 15 | Unlimited | 15 days | $34.00 | 32+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland |
Europe Unlimited 30 | Unlimited | 30 days | $47.00 | 32+ European countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland |
Pros
Cons
Nomad is a solid contender in the eSIM for Europe space, known for its flexibility and wide array of options. They’re a great pick for travelers who appreciate having choices, whether it’s for data size or network preference. Think of them as the adaptable friend who fits into any travel plan, from a quick hop to Brussels to an extended adventure through Poland and the Czech Republic.
They aim to give you control over your connectivity, which is pretty sweet when you’re on the move.
Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
2020 | 100+ countries (many in Europe) | Data-only, Hotspot | 1GB/7 days, 20GB/30 days, 50GB/90 days | Multiple major European carriers (e.g., Telefonica, Three) | 24/7 Live chat, email, comprehensive FAQ | Yes | 9.0/10 |
Nomad offers a variety of regional Europe plans that cover a significant number of countries within the EU and EEA, plus others like the UK and Switzerland. Their app is pretty straightforward, making it easy to browse plans, buy, and activate your eSIM. This makes them a great choice whether you’re planning a short trip to Amsterdam or a longer adventure traversing through France, Germany, and Italy. You get to choose from different networks in some regions, which can be a real plus for optimizing your connection quality.
They also understand the importance of EU roaming, so your experience across borders is generally seamless. That’s a huge relief when you’re hopping from Vienna to Budapest.
Nomad’s standout feature is its flexibility, especially for travelers who want to customize their data experience. They often offer plans with multiple network choices, letting you pick the best coverage for your specific itinerary across Europe. This is super helpful when you’re traveling through diverse regions, maybe from the bustling cities of Spain to the more rural parts of Portugal.
Their diverse range of data allowances also means you can truly tailor your plan to your needs, whether you need a small amount for quick navigation or a larger bundle for extensive usage. If you’re looking for a Nomad eSIM Europe plan, you’ll find plenty of options.
Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Countries Covered |
Europe 5GB | 5 GB | 15 days | $11.00 | All EU/EEA | France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc. |
Europe 20GB | 20 GB | 30 days | $35.00 | All EU/EEA | All Schengen countries + UK |
Europe 50GB | 50 GB | 60 days | $65.00 | All EU/EEA | All Schengen countries + UK, Switzerland |
Pros
Cons
Now, if you’re after a full-fledged experience with calls, SMS, and generous data, the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM (often found via SimOptions) is a classic choice. It’s a bit different from the pure data-only eSIMs we’ve talked about because it comes from a major European carrier. This means you’re getting a robust solution that feels much like a local SIM, just without the physical card hassle.
It’s particularly popular for those who want that extra layer of connectivity.
Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
Established 2005 (eSIM via partners) | 30+ European countries | Data, Calls, SMS, Hotspot | 12GB/14 days, 20GB/14 days, Unlimited Calls/SMS | Orange S.A. (France) and partners | Email, phone (Orange support), partner FAQs | Web-optimized | 9.3/10 |
The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM is really designed for a comprehensive travel experience. It’s not just about data; you get a genuine Europe phone number with included calls and SMS, which is super handy for making local reservations, contacting hotels, or staying in touch with travel buddies. This is a game-changer for many, especially when navigating places like Paris, Rome, or Berlin where local contact can be crucial. The data allowances are generous too, so you can stream, navigate, and share all your European adventures without worrying.
Because it’s backed by a major carrier like Orange, you’re looking at really reliable network quality across the EU and EEA. This means seamless transitions when you’re moving from Spain to Portugal, or from the Netherlands to Belgium.
What makes the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM a standout for your eSIM for Europe travelling needs is its all-inclusive nature. Unlike most travel eSIMs that are data-only, this one offers a true local experience with voice and text capabilities. This is perfect for travelers who need more than just data – perhaps for business calls, coordinating with tour guides, or just having a local number for emergencies.
It’s a robust and reliable option, leveraging the strong infrastructure of a major European telecommunications company.
Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Countries Covered |
Orange Holiday S | 12 GB | 14 days | $29.90 | 30 EU/EEA countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland, Andorra |
Orange Holiday L | 20 GB | 14 days | $39.90 | 30 EU/EEA countries | All EU/EEA, UK, Switzerland, Andorra |
Pros
Cons
Choosing the best eSIM for Europe travelling isn’t just about picking the cheapest option. It’s a blend of factors that contribute to a truly seamless and stress-free connectivity experience. We put each eSIM provider through its paces, looking at what really matters to travelers crisscrossing the continent.
Here’s how we break it down:
eSIM Provider | Key Feature Highlight | Europe-Wide Plans Available (✅ / ❌) | Unlimited Data Options (✅ / ❌ / Limited) | Validity Range | Best For |
Saily | Secure & affordable Europe-wide plans | ✅ | ❌ | 7-30 days | Budget-conscious, reliable connectivity |
Airalo | Extensive regional coverage | ✅ | ❌ | 7-180 days | Wide coverage, general travelers |
Holafly | Truly unlimited data in major destinations | ✅ | ✅ | 5-90 days | Heavy data users, digital nomads |
Nomad | Flexible data plans, multiple network choices | ✅ | ❌ | 7-90 days | Flexible travelers, network choice |
Jetpac | Budget-friendly, travel perks | ✅ | ❌ | 7-30 days | Value seekers, light travelers |
aloSIM | European phone numbers, easy activation | ✅ | ❌ | 7-30 days | Those needing a local number |
Instabridge | Competitive rates, built-in security | ✅ | ❌ | 7-30 days | Security-conscious, budget travelers |
Ubigi | Premium global & Europe plans, reliable | ✅ | ❌ | 1-365 days | Business travelers, long-term stays |
Yesim | Diverse plans, flexible unlimited options | ✅ | ✅ (Limited) | 7-60 days | Varied needs, some unlimited use |
Orange Holiday Europe (via SimOptions) | Robust with calls/SMS & generous data | ✅ | ❌ | 14-30 days | Full connectivity, calls/SMS needs |
So, why are eSIMs basically a non-negotiable for your European adventure in 2025? Honestly, it’s all about making your trip smoother, cheaper, and way more convenient.
First off, think about seamless country-hopping. Thanks to those amazing EU roaming regulations, a single eSIM for Europe plan often covers dozens of countries. You can go from sipping coffee in a Parisian cafe to exploring ancient Roman ruins, then off to the vibrant streets of Berlin, all without touching your phone’s settings or worrying about extra charges. How cool is that?
Then there’s the sheer convenience: no more fumbling with tiny physical SIM cards, trying to find a paperclip to open the tray, or worrying about losing your home SIM. You just download your eSIM profile and activate it, often before you even land. This means instant activation upon arrival anywhere in the Schengen Area. Imagine stepping off the plane in Lisbon and having data already working to call a taxi or find your hotel.
Plus, you get to keep your home number active. This is huge! You can receive important calls or texts from back home on your primary line while using the eSIM for all your local data needs. This flexibility means you’re always reachable without racking up massive roaming costs. Speaking of costs, eSIMs often lead to a significant reduction in roaming fees compared to what your home provider would charge.
And the flexible data options cater to literally every itinerary. Whether you need a small data pack for a weekend city break or a larger bundle for a month-long backpacking trip, there’s an eSIM Europe travel plan out there for you. It’s like having a tailor-made connectivity solution. Seriously, using an eSIM means you’ll be able to navigate cities with maps, use public transport apps, book tickets, and share those unforgettable moments instantly.
Ready to ditch the traditional SIM card hassle and embrace seamless connectivity across Europe? Explore our top-rated eSIM providers today and find your perfect solution for an unforgettable adventure!
The eSIM game in Europe is always evolving, and 2025 is shaping up to be pretty exciting. We’re seeing some cool trends that will make staying connected even easier and more personalized for travelers.
One big thing on the horizon is AI-powered itinerary-based plan recommendations. Imagine your eSIM provider suggesting the perfect data package based on your travel plans – say, if you’re hitting up Paris for a few days, then venturing to the Greek islands. Another neat trend is hyper-localized deals for specific cities. You might see a “Paris data pack” pop up, offering special deals for high-density usage areas.
Then there’s the widespread 5G availability across all major cities and popular tourist routes. This means lightning-fast speeds for streaming, video calls, and just about everything else, whether you’re in London, Rome, or Amsterdam. We’re also expecting deeper integration with EU-wide digital services, making things like booking trains or accessing local apps even smoother. And of course, there’s a greater emphasis on privacy features and digital security for travelers, which is always a welcome development in an increasingly digital world.
When you’re picking an eSIM for Europe, it’s not just about how much data you get. There are other features that can really make or break your connectivity experience on the continent.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, meaning they’re perfect for Browse, maps, and using messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal. For calls, you’ll usually rely on VoIP apps. But here’s the thing: some providers, like the Orange Holiday Europe, do offer an actual Europe phone number or include limited calls/SMS, which can be super handy for local bookings or emergencies.
Hotspot capability is another must-have. Being able to share your connection with a travel companion or your laptop can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re working on the go or have multiple devices. Then there’s the choice between regional (EU/EEA) vs. global vs. single-country plans. A general “eSIM for Europe” plan covering multiple countries (like all EU/EEA nations) is often the most strategic choice for multi-country trips. But if you’re doing a deep dive into just one place, say Italy, a country-specific plan might offer more data for your buck.
Validity periods are important too. Options like “eSIM Europe 30 days” or “eSIM Europe 60 days” cater to various trip lengths, from short city breaks to extended backpacking tours. And don’t forget customer support and language options. Accessible support, especially in English and other major European languages, can be a godsend if you run into any snags. Look for popular providers like “Nomad eSIM Europe,” “Airalo Europe eSIM review,” and “Holafly Europe” as they tend to offer good support infrastructure.
Ever wondered how your eSIM for Europe magically works across so many different countries? It’s not magic, it’s all about smart partnerships. eSIM providers team up with the big local European networks, the giants like Vodafone, Orange, Deutsche Telekom, Three UK, Telefónica, and TIM. This ensures you get widespread coverage, whether you’re strolling through the vineyards of Bordeaux or hiking in the Austrian Alps.
The real key here is the “Roam Like At Home” regulation within the EU/EEA. This incredible rule means that once you’re using an eSIM from a provider that complies (which most good travel eSIMs do for their EU plans), your data, calls, and texts cost the same as they would in the country where the eSIM is based. This means truly seamless connectivity across borders, without any hidden roaming fees. So, when you cross from Germany into France, your eSIM just keeps on working without you lifting a finger. It’s a game-changer for European exploration.
Pros of Using an eSIM for Europe | Cons of Using an eSIM for Europe |
Seamless multi-country travel: Leverages EU Roaming for effortless border crossings. | Device compatibility can be an issue: Only newer smartphones support eSIMs. |
Instant activation anywhere: Get online as soon as you land in the Schengen Area. | Mostly data-only: You’ll rely on VoIP apps for calls/SMS (unless specified). |
Cost-effective vs. roaming: Significantly cheaper than your home provider’s roaming fees. | Troubleshooting reliant on online support: No physical store to walk into for help. |
Keeps home number active: Receive calls/texts on your primary line. | Less effective outside EU/EEA: Coverage might be patchy or expensive in places like the Balkans or parts of Eastern Europe that aren’t in the EU. |
Huge plan variety: Options for every trip length and data need. | |
No physical SIM hassles: No fumbling, no lost cards, no finding an ejector tool. |
So, you’re thinking about getting an eSIM for Europe, but is your phone even on board? Here’s the deal: most newer smartphones are totally ready for an eSIM adventure. We’re talking about iPhones from the XS/XR series onwards, recent Samsung Galaxy S, Note, Fold, and Flip models, and Google Pixel 3 and newer.
But hey, don’t just take our word for it. Before you dive into planning your connectivity, do a quick check of your device settings or hop over to your phone manufacturer’s website. A quick search usually tells you if your trusty device is eSIM compatible.
Once you’ve picked your ideal eSIM Europe travel plan, how do you pay for it? It’s usually super easy and pretty standard, mirroring most online purchases.
The most common payment methods you’ll find are major credit and debit cards, like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. PayPal is also a widely accepted option, offering an extra layer of security. And for those of you who love convenience, many providers also support mobile payment platforms like Google Pay and Apple Pay. While less common, some providers might even accept local European payment gateways or even cryptocurrencies, but those are typically the exceptions.
Aspect | eSIM for Europe | Physical SIM Card for Europe |
Convenience | Download and activate digitally before/after arrival. Super easy. | Purchase and insert physically at airport/store. Can be a bit of a hassle. |
Cost | Often cheaper data plans, no roaming within EU due to regulations. | Can be cheap locally, but airport prices vary, potential for roaming fees outside EU/EEA. |
Flexibility | Easy to switch plans, regional options covering many countries. | Tied to one local network/plan; often need a new SIM per non-EU country. |
Phone Number | Usually data-only, some offer virtual/EU numbers. | Provides a local phone number, which can be essential for some services like deliveries. |
Compatibility | Newer devices only. | Most smartphones. |
Risk of Loss | None (it’s digital!). | Can be lost/damaged, or you might misplace your home SIM. |
Installation | Quick QR code scan or manual setup. | Manual insertion, might require documentation (passport, visa) in some countries. |
When you’re exploring Europe, staying connected means choosing the right data plan and understanding what speeds you can expect. eSIM providers for Europe offer a pretty wide range of options to fit every kind of traveler.
You’ll see data amounts like 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 50GB, and even 100GB. To give you an idea, 5GB might be fine for a short trip focused on navigating via Google Maps and quick social media updates. But if you’re planning on video calls from a Roman piazza, streaming movies on a train from Berlin to Munich, or uploading tons of photos, you’ll definitely want a plan with more juice.
Now, about those “eSIM Europe unlimited data” options: here’s the scoop. While some providers, like Holafly, genuinely offer unlimited data, many others might have fair usage policies (FUP) or speed reductions after you hit a certain threshold. It’s always smart to check the fine print, but generally, providers known for generous FUPs are your best bet.
Validity periods are just as varied: 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 180 days, and even yearly options for the truly frequent visitors. Pick one that matches your trip length, whether it’s an “eSIM Europe 30 days” plan for a month-long adventure or a shorter one for a city break.
As for network speeds, you’re looking at 4G LTE as the standard, and increasingly widespread 5G availability across major European cities like Paris, London, Berlin, Rome, Madrid, Lisbon, Amsterdam, Prague, Vienna, Stockholm, and Copenhagen. Thanks to EU regulations, you can generally expect reliable speeds across the EU/EEA, ensuring your digital life keeps moving as smoothly as your travels.
Not all travelers are alike, and neither are all eSIM for Europe options. Finding your perfect match means thinking about your travel style.
For Schengen Zone Explorers, focused on hitting up multiple EU/EEA countries, regional plans covering the entire bloc are ideal. They let you move seamlessly without changing a thing. If you’re tackling both the UK & Europe Travelers, make sure your chosen provider offers specific coverage that includes both regions, as the UK is no longer part of the EU roaming area.
Budget Backpackers will want to hunt for the providers with the lowest cost per GB – think of it as finding a “cheap eSIM for Europe.” Digital nomads, on the other hand, need long-term plans, high data allowances, and ideally, options for a Europe phone number or super reliable VoIP. Business travelers prioritize consistent high-speed data, utmost reliability, and strong customer support. And for the luxury travelers, premium plans with concierge service or extra perks might be worth the splurge.
Sometimes, hearing what others say helps too. Check out “eSIM for Europe Reddit” threads; you’ll often find real-world experiences and recommendations from fellow travelers.
Getting your eSIM for Europe up and running is typically a breeze. Here’s a general step-by-step guide to get you connected:
As you soak in the beauty of Europe with your new eSIM, a little bit of smart thinking about your online habits goes a long way. Think about your data security, especially when you’re hopping on public Wi-Fi in bustling tourist areas or busy train stations.
While your eSIM provides a secure connection through its cellular network, those free Wi-Fi spots can be tempting but might not always be the safest. Just be mindful of what sensitive information you’re sharing when connected to public networks, and consider using a VPN if you’re doing anything important. Your eSIM Europe travel experience should be as safe online as it is offline!
After diving deep into the world of eSIM for Europe, if we had to pick one standout, Saily consistently rises to the top for its exceptional balance of affordability, security, and broad European coverage. It’s truly designed to make your travel connectivity worry-free.
Ready to experience truly seamless travel across Europe’s diverse landscapes? Explore our top-rated eSIM providers today and find your perfect connectivity solution for your adventure!
An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into your phone, replacing the need for a physical plastic card. For Europe travel, it means you can buy a data plan from a provider online, download it to your phone, and instantly connect to local networks across multiple European countries, all without swapping SIM cards.
For most travelers, yes, an eSIM is generally better for Europe. It offers seamless country-hopping within the EU/EEA due to roaming regulations, instant activation, the ability to keep your home number active, and often more cost-effective data plans compared to traditional roaming.
Yes, some providers like Holafly offer “eSIM Europe unlimited data” plans. However, it’s crucial to check their fair usage policies (FUP), as some “unlimited” plans might reduce speeds after a certain data threshold, while others offer truly unrestricted data.
Most “eSIM for Europe” plans cover countries within the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA), which typically include 27 EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. Many plans also include non-EU countries like the UK and Switzerland, but it’s always best to confirm specifics with the provider.
You can often purchase and install your eSIM before you leave, but you usually activate the data plan once you arrive in Europe. This ensures your validity period starts when you actually need it, upon landing.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, relying on VoIP apps for calls. However, certain providers, like Orange Holiday Europe (available via SimOptions), offer plans that include a local European phone number with calls and SMS, which can be very useful for making local reservations or staying in touch.