Get a European eSIM for your travels
Compare the best eSIMs for European city breaks. Order and receive yours with instant QR code delivery, usable alongside your existing number.
How an eSIM works
Buy online
Choose your plan and purchase. No physical SIM is shipped.
Scan QR code
Open your phone settings and scan the QR code from your email.
Arrive and connect
Your eSIM activates automatically when you land and detects the local network.
Use your data
Your home SIM stays active for calls. Use eSIM data without roaming charges.
Compare providers
Both cover Europe comprehensively. Here's how they compare.
Airalo
Largest networkWorld's largest eSIM marketplace
200+ countries including all EU destinations
- check_circleCountry-specific plans that connect to top local networks
- check_circleWorks in 200+ countries — ideal for multi-country Europe trips
- check_circleData-only plans from around €4 for 1 GB
- check_circleQR code delivered instantly after purchase
- check_circleWell-rated iOS and Android app
Best for
Single-country trips or precise country-by-country coverage
Yesim
Best for EuropeSeamless European connectivity
150+ countries with Europe-wide regional plans
- check_circleEuropean regional plans covering 30+ countries in one activation
- check_circleCompetitive data rates with unlimited options in many markets
- check_circleeSIM + Wi-Fi calling in some markets
- check_circleVirtual phone number available as an add-on
- check_circleSmooth app with real-time data usage tracking
Best for
Multi-country European itineraries or travellers who want one plan across borders
Does your phone support eSIM?
Most phones released after 2019 support eSIM — including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3a and later. To check: on iPhone, go to Settings → General → About → Available SIM. On Android, Settings → Network → SIM card → Add eSIM.
Carrier-locked phones (bought on a contract) may not support eSIM until the lock is removed. Contact your carrier if you're unsure.
eSIM questions
What is an eSIM and how does it work?expand_more
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone, instead of slotting in a plastic card you download a data plan and activate it by scanning a QR code. You buy the plan for your destination before you travel, install it, then switch it on when you land - your home SIM stays in place for calls and texts while data runs through the eSIM.
Can I use one eSIM in several European countries?expand_more
Yes, a single regional eSIM covers most of Europe on one plan, so you can move between countries without buying a new SIM in each. Explore Europe-wide bundles that connect automatically as you cross borders, for multi-country trips these usually work out cheaper and simpler than switching between separate country plans.
How does an eSIM work across Europe?expand_more
Across Europe, an eSIM works by connecting to a local partner network in each country you enter, so a Europe-wide plan hands you from one carrier to the next automatically as you travel. You manage the whole thing from your phone's settings - no card swaps, no shop visits - and your data allowance is shared across every country the plan covers.
Do I still pay EU roaming charges with an eSIM?expand_more
With a travel eSIM you don't pay EU roaming charges, because you're browsing on a local or regional data plan rather than on your home network. You pay one upfront price for the allowance you choose, so there's no hidden costs or bill shock when you get home - if you're running low, simply top up or buy a new plan.
Is my phone eSIM compatible?expand_more
Recent phone models tend to be more compatible with eSIM capabilities; iPhone XS, Samsung Galaxy S20, and Google Pixel 3a, recent Android phones and later all support eSIM compatibility. To check, look for "Add eSIM" or "Add data plan" in your mobile settings; note that some contracted handsets may be locked, so it's worth confirming before securing a plan.
Ready for Europe?
Get your eSIM before you fly — takes 5 minutes, works the moment you land.