Planning to visit Germany soon? Maybe for Oktoberfest in Munich or to visit friends in Berlin?
Maybe you’re already there and want to find the best eSIM plan to enjoy uninterrupted internet for your trip. Having a smartphone with a reliable data connection is essential for navigating the country, accessing important travel information, staying in touch with friends and family, and making the most of your time in Germany. Here's what you need to know about buying an eSIM in Germany.
Can I get eSIM in Germany?
Yes, you can easily get an eSIM in Germany. Providers like Telekom, O2, and Vodafone offer a range of eSIM options. However, you need to be a resident of the country and these local providers will ask you to provide a verified address. If you're planning to visit Germany for a short time—like a weekend away or 30-day adventure—providers like Sim Local, Holafly, and Airalo offer a range of eSIM plans tailored for you. Simply choose your preferred provider, download the eSIM, and activate it on your device for instant access to your favourite apps like Whatsapp, Instagram, and Google Maps.
But which provider should you choose?
Of the most established international eSIM providers, Sim Local operates over 150 stores and kiosks across 100 airports worldwide. And now you can download an eSIM from their app and website. This article compares Sim Local with other popular options to help you decide on the right provider for your trip to Germany.
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Why Choose An eSIM?
Nowadays, you can easily switch to local mobile networks without swapping physical SIM cards. There are so many benefits to using an eSIM when travelling:
Instant Connectivity: No more waiting for a physical SIM card or visiting local stores. Just scan a QR code, and you’re connected from the moment you step off the plane. Perfect for accessing maps, booking apps, or translation services right away.
Flexibility: With an eSIM, you can switch between multiple carriers without juggling tiny SIM cards. Planning to hop around Europe before or after Germany? No problem. eSIMs make it a breeze.
Cost-Effective Plans: eSIMs come with competitive pricing and tailored data plans. Whether you need a low-data plan for occasional messaging and browsing or a high-data plan for streaming and heavy use, there’s an option that fits your needs and budget.
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Sim Local
Founded in 2011, Sim Local offers a variety of data plans, from short-term options for brief stays to longer-term plans for extended trips. Prices start as low as €4, and you can top up your data as needed. The guided activation takes under five minutes and it starts with a quick QR code scan.
Sim Local partners with local providers to ensure robust speeds and excellent coverage whether you’re exploring Berlin’s bustling streets or the serene Rhine valley. With some plans, you can use the intuitive app or online portal to track your data usage and top up in real-time.
Unlike most competitors who operate exclusively online, when it comes to talking to someone in person, Sim Local stands out. Although the company currently does not have a physical presence in Germany yet, they do have store locations in 100+ airports worldwide and growing fast. This makes it easy for travellers who prefer in-person assistance or need a quick SIM solution upon arrival. In the absence of a physical store, Sim Local provides 24/7 customer support if you have any issues setting up or managing your eSIM. Customers rave about Sim Local’s customer service and support.
And if your trip gets cancelled or you simply change your mind, Sim Local offers refunds up to six months after purchase.
Check out SIM Local’s eSIM options for Germany here.
Sim Local vs. Airalo
Founded in 2019, Airalo is another strong contender, offering extensive coverage across Germany. Their activation process is also simple—simply scan a QR code.
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Sim Local
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Airalo
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Trustpilot Review
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4.8
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2.3
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Data Plans (Germany)
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1GB - 20GB
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1GB - 20GB
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Extended Coverage (Europe)
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Yes
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Yes
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Calls & Texts
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Available
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Data Only
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Refunds
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6 Months
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30 Days
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However, based on reviews, Sim Local shines with superior customer service, making it a preferred choice for travellers who value support and reliability.
Sim Local vs. Holafly
In contrast to Sim Local which offers more varied and flexible data packages, including options for lighter users, Holafly focuses on unlimited data plans; great for heavy data users needing constant internet access.
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Sim Local
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Holafly
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Trustpilot Review
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4.8
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4.6
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Data Plans (Germany)
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1GB - 20GB
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Unlimited plans only
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Extended Coverage (Europe)
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Yes
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Yes
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Calls & Texts
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Available
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Data only
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Refunds
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6 Months
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6 Months
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But make sure you read the fine print when purchasing an unlimited plan from Holafly as data-hungry customers have discovered that there are, in fact, limits. Expect a speed reduction when certain thresholds are exceeded.
What’s the cheapest travel eSIM in Germany?
When compared to Airalo and Holafly, Sim Local has the cheapest eSIM plan for Germany with its 7 Day 1GB Smartroam data plan which you can purchase for around €4. Holafly is the most expensive because their plans offer unlimited data. Whether you're travelling around Germany or hopping around Europe, Sim Local's eSIM plans are affordable while offering outstanding customer support and best available network coverage, making it the go-to choice for staying connected without breaking the bank.
Best eSIM: final recommendations
Choosing the right eSIM depends on your travel needs. For most travelers, Sim Local is a top pick due to its affordability, flexible data options, easy activation, and excellent customer support. Holafly is great for heavy data users who don’t want to worry about data limits. However, Holafly offers data-only plans in Germany, whereas Sim Local offers plans with calls and texts. Additionally, Holafly's claim of 'unlimited' data is worth investigating. Check their fair usage policies before making a purchase.
Ready to stay connected on your German adventure? Check out Sim Local’s eSIM options for Germany now, buy the right plan for your trip, and activate it on the day you travel.
