Best Denmark SIM Cards for Tourists

Latest update: June 2024

If you are going to travel Denmark soon, knowing how to stay connected during your visit is essential, if not important. We all know that a local SIM card is a traditional way to stay in touch with other people back home while traveling abroad. But, how is it in a foreign country like Denmark?

This article will discuss all about Denmark SIM cards, including best SIM card plans for tourists, which providers offer affordable prepaid options, where to buy SIM cards for Denmark, and up-to-date information. Take a look!

In this article

I. Where to Buy a Tourist SIM Card for Denmark?

Where to buy a Denmark sim card - at airport — Where to buy a Denmark sim card – at airport

Tourists can buy a Denmark travel SIM card with 04 main ways as follows:

1. Buy Physical SIM card online (before the trip)

Tourists can preorder online a prepaid SIM card for use in Denmark from travel SIM providers before their trip. The SIM will be delivered to your home address.

This way allows you to have enough time on researching options so as to choose the carrier and plan best suited your needs and budget. Just make sure the SIM card is compatible with your phone.

What to prepare: No

Price: varies by network operator and plan

Pros:

No need to rely on international roaming
More cost-effective than using your home network for roaming.
Better coverage in remote areas in comparison with international roaming.
Activate your SIM before arrival

Cons:

Possible limited data
Shipping costs
Potential delays

2. Buy at the Airports (upon arrival)

After arrival at Dermark, you visit the designated stores or kiosks at the Copenhagen airport.

This option is convenient for those needing immediate connectivity right upon arrival.

What to prepare: passport or valid ID, payment method

Cost: Higher compared to online purchases

Pros: No need for prior planning or online purchases.

Cons: Limited options compared to online purchases and potentially higher prices.

3. Buy in Cities (After Arrival)

Visit authorized retailers, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, electronic stores or network provider stores in Danish cities (including Copenhagen) to buy prepaid SIM cards for Denmark. However, finding a phone shop selling prepaid SIM cards for tourists in Denmark is somehow harder than in other countries.

What to prepare: Passport or valid ID, and a payment method.

Cost: Much cheaper than airport purchases, starting from 120 DKK (approx. $18).

Convenience: Pros: More options and potentially better deals compared to airport purchases.

Cons: Requires some effort to locate a store and may involve language barriers.

4. Buy eSIMOnline

Visit the website of eSIM providers that offer Denmark eSIM or EU eSIM (that cover Denmark) and select a tourist eSIM plan that suits your needs. Then, you can activate the eSIM remotely without the need for a physical card.

What to prepare: an eSIM-compatible device and internet access.

Cost: Comparable to physical SIM cards, starting from 100 DKK (approx. $15).

Pros: Easy activation, and greater flexibility in choosing plans.

Cons: Not all devices support eSIMs

II. What Are The Best SIM Cards for Tourists?

Good to know: 1 DKK (Danish Krone = KR) = 0.14 USD (as of December 2023)

Denmark has 04 main mobile carriers and 02 mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs):

TDC/YouSee,
Telenor Denmark,
Telia Denmark,
3 Denmark; and
Lebara Mobile Mobile (MVNO of Telenor and Telia)
Lycamobile (MVNO of Telia)

Big note: All of these major mobile internet providers in Denmark do not provide prepaid SIMs directly anymore.

Here are details about SIM card packages for tourists of each MVNO:

1. Buy Prepaid Lycamobile Denmark SIM Card Plans and Price

Here are some prepaid packages available for tourists of Lycamobile:

Denmark SIM Only: 5GB + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark, valid for 30 days = $10.49 USD
Denmark Explorer: 15GB + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark + 500 international minutes to call 50+ destinations, valid for 30 days = $20.99
Denmark Unlimited: Unlimited data + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark + unlimited international minutes to call 50+ destinations, valid for 30 days = $31.49 USD

Important Note: Be aware that the prepaid SIM card of Lycamobile limits free EU roaming. So, you should use the Lycamobile plan for traveling in Denmark only, not for traveling around Europe.

2. Buy Prepaid Lebara Mobile Denmark SIM Card Plans and Price

Data bundles of Lebara Mobile include:

20GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $7.24
60GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $14.53 USD
100GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $15.44USD
500GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $35.16 USD
Unlimited high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $42.26 USD

Important Note: These prepaid plans:

Use the network of Telenor and Telia Denmark.
Only work in Denmark, not other EU countries
Have no access to 5G networks in Denmark

The plan details (including price, data allowances, validity) are updated at the time of writing this article. For the most updated information, visit the official websites of the car

▶ Our recommendations:

If you only travel Denmark, then you can choose either Lycamobile or Lebara Mobile data packages. But, Lycamobile are slightly cheaper.
If you travel onwards to Europe, do not use them because the data is limited (though there is EU roaming included), go for another option: an eSIM card.

III. Do I Need to Buy a SIM Card for Denmark Travel?

Yes. You need to buy a SIM card for Denmark travel.

Tourists still have other options to stay connected while traveling abroad: free WiFi, pocket WiFi, physical tourist SIM cards, travel eSIM for Denmark (or Europe).

Each option has its strengths and weaknesses. But, choosing which one for your trip to Denmark should be considered carefully to warrant worthwhile experiences.

Let’s see our table comparing pros and cons of each option:

Option	Pros	Cons
Pocket WiFi	Rather highGenerous data Be able to share with other devices	Requires renting/purchase upfrontHave to bring along during the tripHave to maintain a specific distance to be able to share with other devices
Physical tourist SIM cards	Affordable to cheap priceDifferent plans to chooseAlways have internet when necessary	Need to visit stores to buy or wait for SIM deliveryNeed to swap and insert the SIM into the trap
Travel eSIM	Flexible multi-country use	Potentially higher costs than local SIMRequires devices that support eSIM
Roaming with existing SIM	Continues existing service	Very expensive international rates
Public WiFi	Free in some areas	Low speedUnstable due to a lot people use at a timeUnstable coverageUnsecure connection

▶ Our recommendation: Choose SIM/eSIM for a good overall performance, including stable coverage, fast speed, good security, cost effectiveness, and multiple choices. However, if you do not favor swapping SIM cards, consider using an eSIM.

IV. What to Prepare When Buying A SIM Card in Denmark?

When buying a SIM card in Denmark, you’ll want to ensure you have passport or ID card to identify. Most Danish mobile providers require identification when purchasing a SIM card. Ensure you have:

Passport or EU National ID: These are the most commonly accepted forms of identification.
Proof of Address: Not always required, but it’s good to have a document showing your address, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.

If you’d prefer to bypass the registration and verification processes, consider opting for an eSIM if your phone supports it. This can offer a more convenient and private alternative to traditional SIM cards.

V. What Types Of Denmark SIM Cards Are Available For Tourist?

Types of Denmark SIM cards for tourists

Here are 02 main types of SIM cards available for tourists visiting Denmark:

1. Prepaid physical SIM card in Denmark

Prepaid physical SIM card in Denmark is a physical nano-SIM card that you insert into your phone. It requires purchase and activation. It includes 02 plan types: Data only and data + calls and texts.

How it works: Available from stores. Popular brands are Lebara Mobile and Lycamobile. Purchase a SIM, load it with credit and activate data packages. Recharge before expiry.
Cost: SIM cards start from 29 DKK. Monthly packages from 19-199 DKK with varying data allowances.
Suitable for: Travelers who want the full control of a physical SIM without roaming charges.
Pros: Local phone number, affordable plans with generous data, coverage on major networks.
Cons: Need to purchase upfront, may not use leftover credit if it expires.

2. Prepaid Tourist Denmark eSIM

Prepaid Tourist Denmark eSIM is a digital SIM profile downloaded to your eSIM compatible device. No physical SIM slot needed. It also includes 02 plan types: data only and data + calls and texts.

How it works: Purchase an eSIM package online from a provider. Connect to network upon receiving login details.
Cost: Starts from 15-30 EUR usually. Multi-country and long validity options available.
Suitable for: Travelers with eSIM phones visiting multiple European countries.
Pros: Convenience of no physical SIM, can switch profiles easily, roam freely in supported countries.
Cons: Higher upfront cost, limited validity if not renewed, not all phones support eSIM yet.

▶ Our recommendation:

Denmark is located in Europe. There is a policy of free roaming within Europe. So:

If you only visit Denmark on your trip: you can choose either a physical prepaid SIM card from Lebara Mobile/Lycamobile or a virtual eSIM for your trip.
If you are visiting multiple EU countries besides Denmark: An eSIM with EU-wide coverage may be preferable. Providers like Gigago offer eSIM packages covering many EU nations. You can then use the eSIM freely across the EU without any roaming charges.
If you are not going to make analog calls/texts, then choose data-only plans. This will still allow you to stay connected with other people in your hometown through apps and get Internet access as well.

VI. Denmark eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards to Get Internet in Denmark

Want to use eSIM for your trip to Denmark? You may wonder which provider to choose.

Before choosing your eSIM provider, consider these factors:

Instant connectivity right after landing,
Cost effectiveness
Multiple data plans
Wide network coverage
Easy installation
24/7 support
No contract or commitment
Check eSIM-compatible devices
Positive customer reviews

GIGAGO will be your best choice because this provider meets all the requirements above. They offer multiple data plan options for Denmark, starting from a 3-day plan with 300MB per day for $5 with $3.00 . They also have 5-day, 7-day, 10-day, 14-day, 15-day, 20-day, 25-day, 28-day, and 30-day plans ranging from 1GB to 50GB of data, with prices from $5 up to $136.90. These diversifying options surely fit your trip duration.

To activate your Gigago eSIM, scan the QR code given by Gigago in the confirmation email after purchase and follow the instructions. Visit Gigago eSIM Denmark to see more details.

VII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Denmark?

The duration of a tourist SIM card in Denmark can vary depending on the mobile provider and the specific plan you choose. Here are some common options:

Short-Term Plans: Many tourist SIM cards are designed for short stays and typically last for 7 to 30 days. These plans often include a set amount of data, calls, and texts.
Prepaid Plans: Some prepaid SIM cards allow you to choose the duration based on the amount of credit you purchase. These can be valid for 30 days or until the credit runs out. You can often top up the credit to extend the validity.
Monthly Plans: Some providers offer monthly plans that automatically renew if you have sufficient credit or if you have set up automatic payments. These plans can be a good option if you are staying for an extended period.

Some examples from major providers:

TDC/YouSee: Offers prepaid SIM cards with various data packages that typically last for 30 days.
Telia: Provides prepaid options with validity ranging from a week to a month, depending on the package.
Telenor: Similar to other providers, Telenor offers plans that usually last for 7 to 30 days.
3 (Tre): Offers several prepaid plans, often with a validity period of 30 days.

By choosing the right plan and understanding its duration, you can ensure that your tourist SIM card lasts for the duration of your stay in Denmark.

VIII. How to Use Denmark Prepaid SIM Cards and eSIM

1. Using prepaid Denmark tourist SIM Cards

Steps for using a Denmark tourist SIM card are:

Check whether or not your phone is unlocked and compatible with European SIM cards before departure
Buy a prepaid travel SIM card which costs from 30 to 50 DKK.
Insert the SIM card into your phone, turn it on
The SIM comes with credit but your can still top up online
The WiFi calling and mobile data work in Denmark and EU countries with no extra charges due to roaming inclusion.

2. Setting up and activating Denmark eSIM

Take these steps if you want to use Denmark travel eSIM:

Check if your phone is eSIM compatible before traveling.
Research eSIM providers like Gigago that offer Denmark/EU plans online before departure
Buy the Denmark or EU-wide eSIM plan that fits your needs and download the eSIM profile from the website.
Go to Settings > Install Profile > Add eSIM and follow guidelines

Some eSIM plans also offer global coverage beyond Europe. So, check your plan for details.

IX. FAQs

Can I use my regular SIM card in Denmark?

You can use your regular SIM card by roaming in Denmark, but it may be expensive. Check rates with your provider first. Using a Danish SIM card will likely be much cheaper for data/calls.

Can I use my current phone in Denmark?

SIMs in Denmark use common GSM technologies, but you need to check your phone’s network bands match those used locally.

How much does a Danish SIM card cost?

Prepaid SIMs from providers like Lebara Mobile and Lycamobile cost around $8-15 USD. Airport SIMs may be more.

Will my Danish SIM work in other countries?

SIMs from Lebara Mobile and Lycamobile include EU roaming, so the allowances can be used in many European countries.

Is there unlimited data available with Denmark SIM plans?

Yes, the most expensive plans from Lebara Mobile and Lycamobile include unlimited high-speed data valid for 30 days.

Can I get 5G access with a Denmark SIM card?

Currently, only plans provided directly by Telenor and Telia support 5G access in Denmark. MVNO SIMs don’t yet.Currently, only plans provided directly by Telenor and Telia support 5G access in Denmark. MVNO SIMs don’t yet.

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a Denmark travel SIM card such as those SIM cards offered by Lebara Mobile or Lycamobile or eSIM offered by Gigago is extremely convenient for tourists visiting Denmark to stay connected. By bypassing expensive roaming with a Denmark SIM, travelers preserve their privacy and enjoy huge data allowances worth far more than the cost.