How to Get and Activate CYTA SIM cards and eSIM: 2024 Guide for Tourists

CYTA SIM cards are a convenient option for staying connected while exploring the beautiful beaches and ancient sites in Cyprus. As one of the leading telecom providers in Cyprus, CYTA operates reliable cellular networks across the island nation. Tourists can easily purchase CYTA SIM cards upon arrival or sign up for an eSIM before their trip. This guide will show you how to buy and activate CYTA SIM cards and eSIM options for the best travel experience in Cyprus.

Cyta sim card and eSIM

I. Quick Facts about CYTA

CYTA is Cyprus’s biggest mobile network provider. Here are some key facts about CYTA you may need to know:

  • Founded: in 1955, headquartered in Nicosia, Cyprus
  • Full company name: Cyprus Telecommunications Authority
  • Types of services: fixed-line telephone, internet, mobile service through its Cytamobile-Vodafone brand, and Pay TV called Cytavision
  • Coverage: nationwide coverage in Cyprus
  • Number of users: around 2 million subscribers
  • Distribution: many retail stores called Cytashops located all around Cyprus
  • Customer support: 24/7 via website/ live chat/ call/ email
  • Language: English, Greek
CYTA is Cyprus’s largest mobile network carrier
CYTA is Cyprus’s largest mobile network carrier

II. Why CYTA When Visiting Cyprus – Coverage and Speed

CYTA is one of the three largest carriers in Cyprus (CYTA – 1st; Epic, formerly MTN – 2nd; and PrimeTel – 3rd). Now let us explore CYTA’s coverage and speeds to see if you should choose CYTA when traveling to Cyprus.

1. CYTA Coverage in Cyprus

CYTA coverage map in Cyprus (Source: nPerf)
CYTA coverage map in Cyprus (Source: nPerf)
  • CYTA boasts reliable nationwide 4G/5G network coverage throughout Cyprus;
  • Their networks cover most populated regions of the country, including all main cities and tourist spots;
  • CYTA networks also extend to rural towns as well as remote coastal areas.

2. CYTA Speed

  • Average download speed: 30Mbps
  • Average upload speed: 8Mbps

The download and upload speed varies depending on the CYTA’s mobile internet plan you choose. Their top plan offer unlimited speeds with access to the fastest speeds CYTA can currently provide via 4G and 5G technology.

► In summary, CYTA offers reliable connectivity across Cyprus. Its widespread coverage delivers fast wireless service almost anywhere on the island.

III. What are the Best Connectivity Options of CYTA for Tourists to Cyprus?

CYTA Cyprus offers three main connectivity options for tourists, including:

  • CYTA SIM cards
  • Pocket Wifi
  • CYTA roaming
OptionProsCons
CYTA SIM cards– Diverse SIM plan options
– Budget-friendly rates for call/ text/ data
– Easy to purchase online or at carrier stores
– Unlocked phone needed
– Risk of loss/damage when uninstalled
Pocket Wifi– Portable 
– Internet sharing, cheaper costs for group
– Ideal for group traveling together
– Items to carry
– Have to return it after trip
Roaming– Familiar home operator/plan/number
– No SIM swap
– Expensive
– Network coverage depends on the agreement between your domestic carrier and CYTA

► Recommendation: CYTA SIM cards are the best value solution for travelers to Cyprus. They are hassle-free compared to options like a portable Wifi hotspot or roaming service, giving you fewer things to worry about while on vacation.

IV. Best CYTA SIM Cards for Visitors & Price

The table below lists several tourist CYTA SIM card options and their respective pricing.

PlanBenefitsValidityPrice
soeasy Plus 1020 GB of data;
400 call minutes; 
400 SMS; 
Free roaming in the EU
30 days€10 – $10.67
soeasy Plus 2050 GB of data;
1000 call minutes; 
1000 SMS; 
Free roaming in the EU
30 days€20 – $21.34
soeasy Plus 35100 GB of data;
2000 call minutes; 
2000 SMS; 
Free roaming in the EU
30 days€35 – $37.35

Note: Visit the CYTA’s official website for the most accurate details on CYTA SIM cards.

V. Does CYTA Support eSIM in Cyprus?

Sure. CYTA offers eSIM for tourists to Cyprus. It is a digital SIM card that is integrated into an eSIM-supported device. Just like physical SIM, CYTA eSIM lets you access the Cytamobile-Vodafone network so you may use your cellular plan. eSIM is easy to activate and use and planet-friendly.

Why choose CYTA eSIM?

  • Simple: Simply scan a QR code and your eSIM will be ready to use within minutes
  • Safe: eSIM is encrypted and protected with digital safety features.
  • Flexible: Even if your device only has space for one physical SIM card, you can still activate a second eSIM number on it.

VI. Where to Buy CYTA SIM Cards and eSIM?

Tourists to Cyprus can easily buy CYTA SIM cards/ eSIM at various locations.

1. Where to Buy CYTA SIM cards for Cyprus

1.1. Upon arrival at Larnaca Airport

You can purchase CYTA SIM cards at Larnaca airport at carrier kiosks or Electronic stores after going through customs.

  • Pros: convenient, instant Internet when you reach Cyprus
  • Cons: airport prices are higher than in the cities or online 

1.2. CYTA shops

CYTA has multiple stores selling SIM card plans so it is easy for tourists to buy a suitable SIM plan. These sales points provide a wide range of CYTA SIM cards with affordable pricing.

  • Pros: widely available across the island, budget-friendly rates, a wide selection of SIM plans 
  • Cons: need to locate and then get to the stores
Buy CYTA SIM cards at  CYTA shops
Buy CYTA SIM cards at CYTA shops

Pro Tips:

  • Your devices needs to be unlocked to accept CYTA’s networks in Cyprus.
  • Passport is needed for CYTA SIM registration. Payment by EURO cash/credit card.

2. Where to Get CYTA eSIM for Cyprus?

2.1. Directly from CYTA

Visitors to Cyprus may buy CYTA eSIM via 

  • Online service on CYTA’s official website
  • Use My CYTA app
  • Commute to the nearest CYTA store

2.2. GIGAGO – Reputable third-party eSIM reseller

With Gigago’s eSIM service, tourists to Cyprus can enjoy CYTA’s widespread 4G/LTE and even 5G network and fast-speed data without ID proof.

Gigago offers multiple eSIM plans for tourists to Cyprus
Gigago eSIM plans for tourists to Cyprus

Gigago eSIM packages for Cyprus are affordable, starting with only $3.00 for 1GB per day over 3 days and varying between $3.00$95.90 . Gigago always offers flexible eSIM plans on CYTA network to suit any traveler’s data needs and trip duration.

Pro Tip: If you utilize apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger for calling/texting, opt for a data-only Cyprus eSIM plan to save money.

VII. How to Activate CYTA SIM/eSIM in Cyprus?

By taking these steps, you will be able to activate CYTA SIM cards/ eSIM successfully:

1. How to Activate CYTA SIM cards in Cyprus?

To activate your CYTA SIM card:

  • Put the CYTA SIM into the SIM slot on your mobile device
  • Switch on your mobile phone
  • Follow the prompts to activate CYTA SIM. CYTA SIM usually activate automatically
  • If data is not working, adjust the APN settings
  • Check that data is working by browsing a web page
  • You can now enjoy CYTA services with your new SIM.

2. How to Activate CYTA eSIM in Cyprus?

To activate your CYTA eSIM:

  • Confirm that your device works with eSIM
  • Sign up for a CYTA eSIM plan online
  • CYTA will email you an eSIM profile with a QR code
  • Scan the QR code using the My CYTA app or your device settings (Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM/ Add Cellular Plan)
  • Follow the on-screen prompts to set up the CYTA eSIM profile
  • Once ready, look for the CYTA network signal on your device
  • After activation is complete, you can use CYTA services.

Important Note:

Please follow the detailed instructions:

VIII. How to Top-up CYTA SIM cards/eSIM

There are two main channels to top up your CYTA SIM cards/ eSIM:

Online Top-up

  • Touch the “Top-up” section on the CYTA official website or My CYTA app to top up your SIM. 
  • Utilize a credit/debit card to make payment.

Physical Top-up

  • Get to the CYTA shops/ authorized stores to top-up your CYTA SIM account
  • Select an amount and the phone number you want to top up.
  • Utilize a credit/debit card to make payment.

IX. FAQs about CYTA SIM Cards and eSIM in Cyprus

Do I need a passport to purchase a CYTA SIM card in Cyprus?

Yes, you will need to show your passport when buying a CYTA SIM card, as providers require identity verification for regulatory reasons.

How much data do the CYTA SIM cards include?

CYTA offers various prepaid plans with CYTA SIM cards, starting from around €10 for 20 GB of data valid for 30 days.

Can I use my CYTA SIM card internationally?

CYTA SIM cards only include data for use in Cyprus. But you can enable roaming for an additional fee to use the SIM card in other countries on partner networks.

X. Conclusion

To wrap it up, CYTA SIM cards and eSIM provide travelers with an easy solution for navigation, staying in touch with friends and family, and share the best moments on social media while exploring the beautify island of Cyprus. Whether purchasing a physical CYTA SIM card upon arrival or downloading an eSIM before trip, tourists have reliable options through CYTA’s extensive cellular networks across the island.