Having cellular data during your Barcelona trip is extremely handy for using maps, translation apps, and staying connected. Getting a local SIM card in Barcelona ensures you have constant data access without expensive roaming fees.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a SIM card at Barcelona Airport (BCN) and in the city.
In this article
You can choose some options to buy a SIM card at Barcelona airport (BCN):
There are two main options available to purchase a SIM card with data at Barcelona Airport to stay connected during your visit to Spain:
Both Tech & Fly and Relay stores accept cash and credit/debit cards as payment. Staff also speak English to assist international travelers.
No, SIM card shops at BCN Airport usually close by midnight. Although the airport operates 24/7, most shops and services, including SIM card kiosks, shut down around 10 PM to midnight.
As a result, if your flight arrives late at night, these stores will likely be closed, and you won’t be able to buy a SIM card immediately. To avoid this inconvenience, it’s recommended to plan ahead by either pre-ordering a SIM card online or opting for an eSIM, provided your phone supports it.
The best SIM card options for travelers at Barcelona El Prat Airport are: Orange, Vodafone, Movistar and Yoigo.
| SIM Card | Data Provided | Call Minutes | Validity | Price (EUR) | Price (US$) |
| Orange Holidays Pass 5 | 30GB | 50 mins to Spain & others | 5 days | €15 | ~ $16.3 |
| Orange Holidays Pass 15 | 60GB | 100 mins to Spain & others | 25 days | €25 | ~ $27.2 |
| Vodafone Prepago S | 25GB | 300 mins in Spain | 28 days | €10 | ~ $10.9 |
| Vodafone Prepago M | 50GB | Unlimited in Spain | 28 days | €15 | ~ $16.3 |
| Movistar Prepago Plus | 10GB | Unlimited in Spain | 30 days | €10 | ~ $10.9 |
| Movistar Prepago Premium | 20GB | Unlimited in Spain | 30 days | €15 | ~ $16.3 |
| Lebara | 200MB | Unlimited in Spain | 30 days | €7 | ~ $7.6 |
| Lycamobile | 1GB | Unlimited in Spain | 30 days | €10 | ~ $10.9 |
The Orange Holidays and Vodafone prepaid packages provide the best value for tourists visiting Barcelona who will use moderate to high amounts of data during their trip. They offer generous data bundles, local call minutes as well as ability to use the SIM like a local within EU countries.
The Movistar and Lycamobile options also deliver good value if you need a backup SIM for light usage.
Make sure to switch on data roaming and check the correct APN settings for the SIM card network before using data abroad. The article provides APN settings for most providers.
When purchasing a SIM card in Barcelona, there is some registration and verification required by Spanish law. Here is what you need to prepare:
If you’d rather not deal with finding and registering a physical SIM card, there is another option – using an eSIM for connectivity instead. Here’s an overview:
An eSIM is an electronic or digital SIM card downloaded via QR code to your phone. There is no physical plastic SIM card required. Setting up an eSIM just takes a few minutes.
One excellent eSIM choice in Barcelona specifically is provided by GIGAGO, offering prepaid data eSIMs with these highlights:
For Spain, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $3.00 . Gigago’s Spain eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Spain, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
Yes, you need to show your passport at the point of purchase as SIM card registration is required by law in Spain. Shops at the airport will register cards efficiently using passport details.
Most SIM card provider shops are open from early morning to late in the evening. If arriving very late, you can also purchase SIM cards from vending machines. However, vending machine stock is limited to main carriers only.
Yes, providers like Vodafone, Orange, and Yoigo have excellent extensive 4G networks across Barcelona and most of Spain. The only exception might be a few remote rural areas.
Yes, an eSIM provides the exact same cellular and data connectivity service as a regular physical SIM card. The only difference is eSIMs are configured digitally and do not require a SIM chip.
Absolutely, having an eSIM like Gigago supports using dual SIM mode. You can have the eSIM data plan active plus a separate local SIM for calls/texts – very convenient.
Getting a SIM card at Barcelona Airport upon arrival makes it incredibly easy to stay connected straight away as a tourist. While airport prices are slightly higher, the convenience factor is well worth it.
The top recommended providers at BCN airport are Vodafone and Lycamobile for reliable connectivity around Spain. Also, consider the Gigago Spain eSIM as a convenient alternative to a physical SIM card.
Whichever Barcelona SIM card you choose, you’ll stay maximally connected through your trip with data access, location services, maps, and more!
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