Prepaid Hungary SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

Harper Thomas

|

Published: August 2024

Hungary SIM cards are essential for tourists who want to stay connected during their travels.

In this comprehensive guide, I will cover everything you need about Hungary SIM cards. From identifying the best options and their costs to where to buy them and how to activate them, this post ensures that tourists can make informed choices for great communication during their travels in Hungary.

I. What are the Best Hungary SIM Cards for Tourists?

Here are the best SIM card options for tourists in Hungary:

1. Telekom SIM Cards

Magyar Telekom, also known as Telekom, is the largest mobile operator in Hungary. It offers extensive coverage and high-speed internet.

Packages:

2. Vodafone SIM Cards

Vodafone Hungary is known for its competitive data packages and extensive coverage.

Packages:

3. Yettel SIM Cards

Yettel, formerly Telenor, is another prominent operator offering attractive prepaid packages for tourists.

Packages:

If your phone supports eSIM, consider getting one for the following benefits:

• No need to switch out your original physical SIM
• Ability to add multiple network carriers (if using iPhone 14 Pro)
• Use multiple lines
• Save time and effort

4. DIGIMobil

DIGI Mobil, originally part of the Romanian-backed RCS & RDS company, received a 4th LTE license in 2014. They launched their own 2G and 4G network on the 1800 MHz (B3) band in 2019, offering low-priced postpaid tariffs with limited coverage. 

In 2022, DIGI was sold to the Hungarian ICT group 4iG. As of June 1, 2023, DIGI stopped selling new contracts, shut down their network, and migrated their customers to the Vodafone network.

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Hungary for Tourists?

Tourists can buy SIM cards in Hungary through the following methods:

1. Buy Hungary SIM Cards Online

This suits tech-savvy travelers with eSIM-compatible phones or those who want to be connected upon arrival.

• Pros: Convenient – no need to find a store after arrival, often cheaper than airport options, can be activated before landing in Hungary. 
• Cons: Requires an eSIM-compatible phone for eSIMs, physical SIMs need to be delivered to your home address.

2. Buy Hungary SIM Cards at Airport

SIM cards are available at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport.

Where to buy?

At Budapest Airport, you can buy a prepaid SIM card for tourists at the Universal Airport Hub. This shop is located in Arrival Hall 2B.

Here’s how to find it:

• After exiting the luggage claim area through the sliding doors, look to your right.
• The Universal Airport Hub is near the Spar Supermarket.
• Arrival Hall 2B also features a Money Exchange, car rental companies, a tourist information desk, a cafeteria, and the Spar Supermarket.

Procedure: Present your passport and choose a plan. The staff will register your information and activate the SIM.

3. Buy Hungary SIM Cards in Cities

Purchase SIM cards from mobile provider stores or electronics shops in major cities.

Where to buy?

• Vodafone, Telekom, or Yettel official stores   
• Media Markt or other electronics retailers 
• Some convenience stores and newsstands

Procedure: 

• Choose a provider and plan 
• Present your passport 
• Staff will register your information and activate the SIM

This option often provides more choices and better prices than airport options.

III. How Much is a Tourist Hungary SIM Card?

The cost of a tourist SIM card in Hungary ranges from 490 HUF to 1500 HUF (approximately 1.40 USD to 4.20 USD).

• Magyar Telekom: 990 HUF (approximately 2.80 USD) for a SIM card with 2 GB of data and 40 minutes.
• Vodafone: 1500 HUF (approximately 4.20 USD) for a SIM card with 100 MB of data and 40 minutes.
• Yettel: 490 HUF (approximately 1.40 USD) for a basic SIM card, or 990 HUF (approximately 2.80 USD) for a data-only SIM card.

IV. What types of Hungary SIM cards are available for tourists?

Here are the main types of Malta SIM cards available for tourists:

1. Prepaid SIM card Malta
2. Tourist eSIM for Malta

V. Do I need a SIM card to travel to Hungary?

YES. Here’s why you should buy a SIM card compared to other connectivity options:

• Cost-Effective: International SIM cards offer cheaper data, calls, and text rates than international roaming charges.
• Reliable Connectivity: With a SIM, you get better network coverage and faster internet speeds.
• Ease of Use: Prepaid SIM cards are easy to purchase and set up upon arrival.
• Local Number: Having a local number makes communicating with local services, booking reservations, and contacting friends or family in Hungary easier.

However, if your phone supports eSIM, consider using it for added convenience and security. eSIMs remove the hassle of changing physical SIM cards, letting you add multiple network carriers and manage everything digitally. This can save you time and effort, especially when traveling to different places.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Hungary?

When buying a SIM card in Hungary, be prepared to show your identification documents and have some basic information ready.

• Hungarian address: Provide a valid address (hotel, hostel, or friend’s).
• Tax number (if staying over 90 days): If you plan to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days, you’ll need a Hungarian tax number, which can be obtained at the Hungarian tax authority (NAV).
• Phone ownership proof: Some providers may require your phone’s purchase receipt or warranty card.
• Your passport or ID card: You must show a valid government-issued ID to purchase a SIM card.
• Your phone’s IMEI number: Make sure you know your phone’s IMEI number, which can usually be found on the phone’s packaging or by dialing *#06#.

VII. Hungary eSIM – Alternative to Tourist SIM cards

When traveling to Hungary, tourists often face the hassle of purchasing an international SIM card, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming. That’s why an eSIM really shines.

With an eSIM, you can purchase a virtual SIM card online, receive a QR code, and instantly activate your plan.

One of the most reliable and biggest eSIM retailers in the market is Gigago, a trusted brand with:

• 4.6 ⭐ ratings on Trustpilot and 4.8 ⭐ ratings on Google Reviews 
• 1.000.000+ satisfied customers worldwide 
• eSIM plans available in 190+ countries 
• 24/7 customer support via WhatsApp and email 
• Fast and secure online payment system

If you buy an eSIM, you can enjoy a range of benefits, including:

• Convenience and ease of use 
• No need to physically swap SIM cards 
• Instant activation and delivery 
• Affordable data plans with varying speeds and durations 
• Ability to stay connected with family and friends back home 
• Access to local data speeds and networks

For Hungary, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Hungary eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Hungary; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Hungary?

The validity of tourist SIM cards in Hungary varies by provider. Here are the popular validity periods for Telekom, Vodafone, and Yettel:

• Telekom: Prepaid SIM cards are typically valid for 30 days. Extensions or renewals can be made based on the amount of the top-up.
• Vodafone: SIM cards are generally valid for 30 days. The data and call allowances are valid for the same period.
• Yettel: All prepaid SIM cards for tourists are valid for 30 days and can be used across Europe.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Hungary?

Step 1: Purchase a SIM card

Step 2: Insert the SIM card

Step 3: Follow the instructions. This may involve dialing a specific number or sending a text message.

Step 4: Register your SIM card with your details, such as your name and address, as Hungarian law requires.

Step 5: Top up your credit to start using your SIM card. You can do this at a store, online, or using a recharge voucher.

X. FAQs

XI. Conclusion

In conclusion, Hungary SIM cards offer tourists a variety of options, like prepaid physical SIMs and eSIMs, so they can stay connected easily. Whether they need data for browsing or want to make international calls, Hungary has trustworthy providers to cover their needs.