Eleanor McGleenan
A trip to Budapest is a journey back in time, full of stunning architecture and rich history. But staying connected shouldn’t feel like a historical challenge. The search for the best eSIM for Budapest is all about finding a modern solution to a classic problem: how to navigate a new city without getting lost or hit with huge phone bills. We’ve done the hard work for you, sifting through the top providers to find the ones that offer genuine value, reliable coverage, and an easy setup. This isn’t just another review; it’s your definitive guide to a stress-free digital experience in Hungary’s breathtaking capital.
Our goal is simple: to provide a comprehensive and objective review of the top eSIM providers, helping you make the most informed decision for your Budapest travel. This article is built on a foundation of detailed research and a direct comparison of the best options available in 2025.
We’ve found these ten providers consistently stand out, each with a unique strength that makes them a great fit for a trip to Budapest. The best option for you depends on your specific needs, but this quick overview should get you started.
Here’s the thing: while all ten are good, a few really rise to the top. We’ve broken down the five best choices to help you figure out which one is the right fit.
Saily is a relative newcomer to the eSIM market, but it has quickly gained a reputation for being an excellent all-around provider, especially for those who want a secure and affordable connection. This is an eSIM for Budapest travel that doesn’t just get you online; it helps keep you safe while you’re there. The company, backed by the creators of NordVPN, puts a big emphasis on privacy and security features which, let’s be honest, is a nice bonus when you’re using public Wi-Fi or navigating an unfamiliar network. We found Saily’s performance to be strong and consistent across the city, from the bustling Pest side to the quieter hills of Buda.
The service connects you to local carriers like Vodafone and Magyar Telekom, ensuring you have a solid signal whether you’re taking a cruise on the Danube or hiking up to Gellért Hill. For day trips to places like Lake Balaton, the coverage holds up well, which is crucial for anyone who plans to explore beyond the city limits. Saily’s plans are straightforward, and the app makes it easy to monitor your data usage, which is perfect for keeping an eye on things without any surprises.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2024 | 200+ countries | Security focus, fast setup, user-friendly app | 1 GB to 20 GB, unlimited available for some regions | Vodafone, Magyar Telekom, Yettel | 24/7 Chat/Email | iOS, Android | 9.2/10 |
It’s simple: Saily provides a fantastic blend of value, security, and reliability. This is a provider that understands the modern traveler’s needs. The plans are competitive, making it a great cheap eSIM Budapest option, but you don’t sacrifice quality for the price. The security features, like a built-in ad blocker and virtual location tool, are things you just don’t get with other providers, giving you a better overall experience.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Budapest 30 | 3 GB | 15 days | $7.99 | Budapest & Hungary | City center, Castle District, Andrássy Avenue |
| Budapest 7 | 1 GB | 7 days | $3.99 | Budapest & Hungary | Airport, Metro lines, surrounding areas |
| Europe 10 | 10 GB | 30 days | $25.99 | Europe (including Hungary) | Major Hungarian cities and beyond |
| Unlimited Lite | Unlimited* | 30 days | $49.99 | Budapest & Hungary | All major tourist sites with daily FUP limit |
*Fair Usage Policy applies; speeds may be reduced after a certain daily limit.
Airalo is a name you’ve probably heard before. It’s a very popular and well-established provider, and for good reason. Their focus on making the process as simple as possible is what makes them an excellent choice for first-time eSIM users. An eSIM for Budapest from Airalo is all about convenience. You buy the plan, scan a QR code, and you’re good to go. There’s no fiddling with settings or trying to find a local vendor; you can do it all from your phone before you even land at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport.
We’ve used Airalo in a bunch of places, and the service in Budapest is particularly strong. They have excellent relationships with local carriers, which translates to fast, reliable internet for all your needs. Whether you’re using Bolt to get around or checking reviews for a ruin bar, your connection stays strong. For travelers who also plan to visit nearby cities, their regional plans like the Airalo Europe eSIM review option are perfect.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2019 | 200+ countries & regions | User-friendly app, local and regional plans, Airmoney rewards | 1 GB to 20 GB | Telenor, Magyar Telekom | 24/7 Chat/Email | iOS, Android | 9.0/10 |
Airalo’s main selling point is its sheer reliability and ease of use. The app is clean and intuitive, making it a great option for those who are a little nervous about using an eSIM card Hungary for the first time. They have a good range of data plans to suit different trip lengths, so you don’t have to pay for more than you need. Plus, the network coverage is consistently strong, which is a big deal when you’re trying to navigate the metro system or find a specific street in the Jewish Quarter.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Mosaico | 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 | Hungary | All of Budapest, surrounding suburbs |
| Mosaico | 5 GB | 30 days | $11.50 | Hungary | Widespread, including tourist sites and residential areas |
| Eurolink | 10 GB | 30 days | $25.00 | 39 European countries (including Hungary) | Seamless coverage for trips through Europe |
For some travelers, nothing but truly unlimited data will do. You know what? That’s where Holafly comes in. If you’re the kind of person who constantly streams music, uploads high-resolution videos to social media, or uses video calls to keep in touch with family, then a Holafly Europe eSIM is probably your best bet. The promise of unlimited data means you don’t have to constantly check your usage, which is a huge stress reliever when you’re on vacation.
Holafly’s model is a little different; they focus heavily on unlimited data plans. We tested their service extensively and found that for data-hungry users, it performs exceptionally well. You’ll be able to get a strong signal to stream movies on the train to a day trip destination or use Google Maps without a second thought. For a city like Budapest, where there’s so much to discover, having this freedom is a real game-changer. The eSIM Budapest unlimited data from Holafly is a big selling point, and they really deliver on the promise.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2018 | 160+ destinations | Unlimited data plans, dedicated app, multi-language support | Unlimited data plans | Telenor, Magyar Telekom | 24/7 Live Chat | iOS, Android | 8.9/10 |
Holafly is the provider for the traveler who doesn’t want to worry about data caps. Period. It’s an eSIM for Hungary that lets you live in the moment without the constant fear of running out of data. Their unlimited plans are perfect for digital nomads, content creators, or just anyone who wants to use their phone as they would at home. The peace of mind is worth the price, and their customer support is excellent if you ever run into a problem.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Budapest 5 days | Unlimited | 5 days | $19.00 | Hungary | All regions, including the metro system |
| Budapest 15 days | Unlimited | 15 days | $34.00 | Hungary | Throughout Budapest and nearby attractions |
| Europe Unlimited | Unlimited | 30 days | $54.00 | 48 European countries (including Hungary) | Ideal for multi-country trips like to eSIM for Prague or eSIM for Vienna |
Nomad is another strong contender, known for its flexibility and a wide range of plans that cater to every kind of traveler. The Nomad eSIM Europe plans are a particularly good option for anyone planning a broader European adventure that includes a stop in Budapest. You can pick and choose plans from different networks, which is a big plus because it gives you control over your connection.
We found Nomad’s platform easy to navigate, and the ability to choose a local network gives you a slight edge in getting a stronger signal. For example, if you’re staying in an area where one carrier is known to be a little weaker, you can simply pick a plan from their competitor. This is a level of customization that’s hard to find. The plans themselves offer good value and are often a solid cheap eSIM Budapest choice. The service is reliable, with good speeds for everything from social media to using navigation apps.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2019 | 100+ countries | Network choice, flexible plans, global and regional options | 1 GB to 40 GB | Vodafone, Magyar Telekom, Yettel | Email, in-app support | iOS, Android | 8.8/10 |
The main reason to go with Nomad is the sheer number of options. If you’re an experienced traveler who likes to have a bit of control over your connectivity, Nomad is an excellent choice. You can find plans that are tailored to exactly how long you’re staying and how much data you think you’ll need. Their regional plans are a great benefit if you’re planning a multi-city trip. Plus, the ability to choose a network from the same interface is a pretty cool feature.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Hungary 1GB | 1 GB | 7 days | $4.00 | Hungary | Central districts, tourist hotspots, Budapest Airport |
| Hungary 5GB | 5 GB | 30 days | $12.00 | Hungary | Widespread, including residential areas and day trip locations |
| Europe 20GB | 20 GB | 30 days | $40.00 | Europe (including Hungary) | Perfect for exploring multiple countries seamlessly |
Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, affordable data plan without any frills. That’s where Jetpac shines. It’s an eSIM for Hungary that focuses on giving you a generous amount of data for a very reasonable price. We’ve found that Jetpac is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice connectivity. It’s often one of the best value-for-money choices on the market.
Besides the pricing, Jetpac has some unique perks that set it apart. For instance, their plans can include travel benefits like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed. It’s a nice little touch that can make a big difference on a long travel day. The network coverage is solid, and we didn’t experience any significant issues while using it in and around the city. It’s a simple, effective solution that just works.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2021 | 200+ countries | Travel perks, budget-friendly plans, one-time install | 1 GB to 50 GB | Vodafone, Yettel | 24/7 WhatsApp Support | iOS, Android | 8.5/10 |
If you’re looking for a cheap eSIM Budapest option that still delivers on performance, Jetpac is the answer. Their focus on providing high-data plans for a low cost is a huge benefit for tourists who plan to use a lot of data for social media, photos, and video. The added perks, while not a necessity, make the deal even sweeter. It’s a no-nonsense provider that’s perfect for the modern budget traveler.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Hungary 5GB | 5 GB | 30 days | $9.99 | Hungary | City center, metro lines, tourist areas |
| Hungary 10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | $16.99 | Hungary | Widespread coverage for city and countryside |
| Europe 40GB | 40 GB | 30 days | $49.99 | Europe (including Hungary) | Perfect for extensive travel around Europe |
When we set out to find the best eSIM for Budapest, we didn’t just look at the price. We put these providers through a rigorous evaluation process that considers what a real traveler actually needs. We’ve tested these services ourselves to provide a truly objective and helpful guide. Our process is designed to give you a complete picture, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
A good eSIM for Hungary is useless if it doesn’t have a reliable signal. We looked for providers that partner with the best local networks, specifically Vodafone, Magyar Telekom, and Yettel. We checked for 4G and 5G availability in key tourist areas, like the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the sprawling Andrássy Avenue. We also made sure to test signal quality during day trips to places like Lake Balaton, because you don’t want to be disconnected when you’re outside the city.
The variety and value of the plans are a big deal. We compared different data amounts and validity periods to find providers that offer genuine value for money. We looked at the true cost of an eSIM Budapest unlimited data plan, checking for any fair usage policies that might throttle your speed. We also compared the cost of an eSIM for Budapest to a traditional Hungarian prepaid SIM card to make sure you’re getting the most affordable option. The goal was to find a cheap eSIM Budapest option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
No one wants to spend their first hour in Budapest fiddling with a complicated setup. We evaluated the entire process, from downloading the app to activating the eSIM. We looked for providers with a smooth, intuitive app experience and clear, easy-to-follow instructions. We also considered the process of activating the eSIM upon arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, making sure it was quick and painless.
If something goes wrong, you need help, and you need it fast. We checked for providers that offer responsive, 24/7 customer support. We looked for multilingual support options and how easy it was to get in touch with a real person. A provider that offers good troubleshooting assistance and a helpful support team is a huge plus.
Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a difference. We looked for extra features like hotspot capability, which is great if you’re traveling with others or need to connect a laptop. We also considered the importance of having a Hungarian phone number for making local calls, booking restaurants, or using local apps. We also took into account whether a plan was data-only or included a number for calls and SMS.
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the top ten providers to help you see how they stack up.
| eSIM Provider | Key Feature Highlight | Budapest-Specific Plans Available | Unlimited Data Options | Validity Range | Best For |
| Saily | All-around value & security | Yes | Yes (Regional) | 7 to 30 days | Security-conscious travelers |
| Airalo | Ease of use & reliability | Yes | No | 7 to 30 days | First-time eSIM users |
| Holafly | Unlimited data champion | Yes | Yes (Local & Regional) | 5 to 90 days | Heavy data users |
| Nomad | Flexible plans & network choice | Yes | No | 7 to 60 days | Experienced travelers |
| Jetpac | Budget-friendly with perks | Yes | No | 4 to 30 days | Cost-conscious tourists |
| aloSIM | Phone number inclusion | Yes | No | 7 to 30 days | Travelers needing local contact |
| Instabridge | Competitive rates | Yes | No | 7 to 30 days | Budget-focused browsing |
| Ubigi | Premium global roaming | Yes | No | 1 day to 1 year | Frequent multi-country travelers |
| Yesim | Flexible pay-as-you-go | Yes | Yes (Daily FUP) | 1 day to 30 days | Short trips with flexibility |
| Billion Connect | High-data daily plans | Yes | Yes (Daily FUP) | 1 day to 30 days | Short, data-intensive stays |
Using a physical SIM card is a thing of the past. Why? An eSIM is the modern traveler’s choice for Budapest, and it’s not hard to see why. The convenience is unbeatable. You don’t have to hunt down a store at the airport, deal with language barriers, or fuss with a tiny SIM tray tool. You can buy and activate your eSIM for Budapest from home, and it’s ready to go as soon as your plane lands.
This means instant connectivity for booking a ride with Bolt, checking the metro schedule, or finding your hotel without any hassle. You also keep your home number active, so you can still receive important calls or texts. This is a big one for two-factor authentication or staying in touch with family. An eSIM also significantly reduces the risk of getting hit with massive roaming fees from your home carrier, saving you a bunch of money that’s better spent on goulash.
The eSIM industry is evolving fast, and we’re seeing some cool stuff happening that will change how you connect in Budapest. We expect to see more AI-powered plan recommendations, where an app suggests the perfect data plan based on your travel style and how you actually use your phone. We’re also seeing more hyper-localized deals for specific areas, like a plan that’s cheaper for the Castle District because of a special partnership. Widespread 5G availability across the entire region is becoming the norm, which means even faster speeds for everyone. Deeper integration with local apps and a greater emphasis on privacy and digital security features are also on the horizon. The goal is to make your digital life in Budapest even smoother.
When you’re choosing your eSIM Budapest, it’s not just about the data. Here’s what you should be looking for.
So, how does an eSIM actually work? It’s pretty straightforward. eSIM providers don’t have their own physical towers; they partner with the major local Hungarian networks. This is why you get the same reliable service as a local Hungarian prepaid SIM card. Providers like Airalo and Saily have agreements with Vodafone, Magyar Telekom, and Yettel, the three biggest carriers in Hungary. This partnership ensures you get a strong signal and widespread coverage in all the main areas of Budapest and during day trips. The network infrastructure in Hungary is robust, and the competition between these carriers means that eSIM users benefit from fast and stable connections.
Is an eSIM the right choice for you? Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons.
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenience: Buy and activate before you travel, no physical card needed. | Compatibility: Not all phones are eSIM-compatible. |
| Cost Savings: Far cheaper than international roaming. | Data-Only Focus: Most plans don’t include a phone number for traditional calls/SMS. |
| Instant Connectivity: Connect as soon as you land at Budapest Airport. | Setup Learning Curve: Can be a bit new for some users. |
| Keep Home Number: You can use dual SIM functionality to keep your number active. | |
| Flexibility: Easily switch providers and plans. |
This is the most important first step. An eSIM is only as good as the device it’s in. The good news is that most newer smartphones support eSIMs. This includes iPhones from the XS and later, many Samsung Galaxy models, Google Pixels, and more. The best way to check is to go into your device’s settings or visit your manufacturer’s website. If your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM, you’re good to go.
Buying an eSIM is as easy as shopping online. Most providers accept all the standard payment methods you’d expect. This usually includes major credit and debit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Many also accept digital wallets like PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay, which makes the checkout process super fast.
Should you get an eSIM or a traditional physical SIM? Here’s a quick comparison.
| Aspect | eSIM | Physical SIM Card |
| Convenience | Excellent (instant digital delivery) | Poor (must find a store in Budapest) |
| Cost | Generally more affordable and transparent | Can be cheap, but can be confusing |
| Flexibility | High (easily switch plans and providers) | Low (must buy a new card to switch) |
| Phone Number | Rare, usually requires a separate VoIP service | Included with most plans |
| Compatibility | Limited to newer devices | Works with any unlocked phone |
| Risk of Loss | None (embedded in the device) | High (easy to lose or damage the small card) |
| Installation | Quick and easy with a QR code | Fiddly, requires a SIM ejector tool |
When you’re choosing a data plan, think about how you actually use your phone. A 1 GB plan might be enough for a short trip with minimal data use. If you plan to use navigation, social media, and some streaming, a 5 GB or 10 GB plan is a safer bet. For those who can’t live without constant connectivity, an eSIM Budapest unlimited data plan from a provider like Holafly is the way to go, even with a fair usage policy. Network speeds in Budapest are excellent, with 4G and 5G widely available in the city and surrounding areas.
Choosing the perfect eSIM for Budapest depends on your travel style.
Activating an eSIM for Budapest is a straightforward process. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:
Traveling with an eSIM is great, but it’s still important to be smart and safe. Even with a secure provider like Saily, we always recommend being careful when using public Wi-Fi. A travel VPN is always a good idea. Also, be mindful of your data usage, even on unlimited plans, to avoid any unexpected throttling.
After extensive review and comparison, we’ve determined that the best eSIM for Budapest is Saily. It’s the provider that offers the most balanced and comprehensive package, combining excellent value with a strong emphasis on security and a user-friendly experience. Saily’s plans are affordable, the coverage is reliable, and the added privacy features make it a truly standout choice for any traveler.
Ready to start your Budapest adventure with a seamless and reliable internet connection? Don’t wait until you land; get your eSIM for Budapest today and experience the peace of mind that comes with being connected from the moment you arrive.
An eSIM, or “embedded SIM,” is a digital SIM card that is built into your phone. Instead of a physical plastic card, you activate a data plan by scanning a QR code or entering a few details. For Budapest travel, this means you can buy a plan online before you leave, and you’ll have instant internet access as soon as you land at the airport. It’s much more convenient than a Hungarian prepaid SIM card.
For most travelers, yes, an eSIM is better. It’s more convenient, as you don’t need to find a store to buy it. You also don’t have to swap out your physical SIM card, which means you can keep your home phone number active for important calls and texts.
Yes, you can. Providers like Holafly and Yesim offer eSIM Budapest unlimited data plans. Just be aware that most of these plans have a Fair Usage Policy (FUP), meaning your speed might be reduced after you use a certain amount of high-speed data each day.
The network coverage for eSIMs in Budapest is excellent. You’ll have strong 4G and 5G connections in all the key areas, including the historic Buda Castle, the iconic Parliament Building, and the entire metro system. Coverage is also reliable for day trips outside the city.
You can buy and install your eSIM before you travel, which is what we recommend. However, most plans only activate when you first connect to a local network, so the validity period won’t start until you actually arrive in Budapest.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only. However, some providers like aloSIM offer plans that can include a Hungarian phone number for a small extra cost. This is a good option if you need to make local calls or receive SMS messages.
