Whether you use a physical SIM or eSIM during your trip, this guide will walk you through the simple process of reconnecting with your home network and avoid any unwanted roaming charges.
How to make a phone call in Europe using an eSIM
For travelers heading to Europe, understanding how to make calls using an eSIM is crucial for maintaining communication while avoiding excessive roaming charges from their home carriers. This guide will walk you through the process of learning how to make a phone call in Europe through both traditional calling options and modern internet-based solutions, so you can make an informed decision on staying connected in Europe without excessive roaming charges.
In this article
I. How to get an eSIM with calls to Europe
When planning to make calls in Europe, you have two main options for using an eSIM: getting a plan with calling capabilities or using a data-only plan with internet calling apps.
eSIMs with Calling Plans
These eSIMs provide a local phone number for making and receiving calls and text messages. However, not many eSIM providers offer such plans. They are primarily offered by local European operators such as Orange, Vodafone, etc. Long-term contracts may be required, as prepaid options are less common. Additionally, calling non-European numbers will incur international rates.
Data-Only eSIMs
Data-only eSIMs are generally easier to find and more affordable. They don’t provide a local phone number for traditional calls, but you can use them for calling via VoIP apps (like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype).
Most modern messaging apps now offer high-quality voice calls, and they are especially convenient because many people already use these apps daily.
Data-only eSIMs are widely available from both local European carriers and global providers like Gigago, Airalo, Holafly, etc.
For most travelers, the recommended approach is to get a data-only eSIM and use internet calling apps. This option provides more flexibility, better rates, and easier activation. Just make sure that your contacts have access to the same messaging apps you are going to use for making calls.
II. How to call Europe using an eSIM plan with calls
Using your eSIM to make calls in Europe is easy. Before you start, check your plan’s international calling minutes allowance.
Below we instruct you how to call landlines and mobile phones both from or to Europe.
Calling Europe landlines with eSIM
Making calls to landlines in Europe with your eSIM keeps you connected easily. Here’s how:
- Obtain the country code. Each European country has a unique code (e.g., Italy is +39). A list of country codes is provided below.
- Dial the country code.
- Enter the full landline number. The number of digits varies by country (e.g., Italy has 10-digit numbers).
- Tap the call button (usually a phone icon) to connect your call.
For example, calling an Italian landline: +39 049 9871731
Voice calls to a mobile phone number
Calling mobile numbers in Europe with your eSIM is similar to calling landlines:
- Obtain the country code: (e.g., France is +33, Germany is +49). A list of country codes is provided below.
- Dial the country code.
- Dial the mobile number. The number of digits varies by country (e.g. France has 9-digit numbers).
- Press the call button
For example, calling a French mobile: +33 6 12 34 56 78
European Country Codes & VoIP Alternative
Here are some frequently used European country codes:
- Western Europe: +34 (Spain), +33 (France), +39 (Italy), +49 (Germany), +44 (UK), +351 (Portugal), +31 (Netherlands), +41 (Switzerland), +43 (Austria), +32 (Belgium), +353 (Ireland)
- Eastern Europe: +40 (Romania), +380 (Ukraine), +48 (Poland), +36 (Hungary), +421 (Slovakia)
- Northern Europe: +46 (Sweden), +354 (Iceland), +45 (Denmark), +47 (Norway), +358 (Finland)
- Southern Europe: +30 (Greece), +357 (Cyprus), +356 (Malta), +385 (Croatia), +381 (Serbia), +386 (Slovenia)
III. How to call Europe using an eSIM with data-only
If you have a data-only eSIM, you can use VoIP applications to make calls. Popular choices include WhatsApp, FaceTime, Messenger, Telegram, and Skype, but any app supporting VoIP calls will work. Most of these apps also support video calls.
Here’s how to make a VoIP call:
- Download a VoIP app: Choose your preferred app from the app store.
- Register or log in: Use your phone number or create an account.
- Add contacts: Add the people you want to call to your contacts within the app.
- Select a contact: Choose the person you want to call.
- Make the call: Press the call button and wait for them to answer.
Note: Both you and the person you're calling need to have the same VoIP app installed. Using VoIP with a data-only eSIM is often much simpler than finding a local eSIM with traditional calling minutes.
How much does it cost to make calls in Europe with an eSIM?
It all depends on the plan and carrier you go with. If you choose to make VoIP calls, it will come at no extra cost. If you have an eSIM with a local phone number and minutes for making phone calls, you may be charged extra once you use all minutes included in the plan.
Gigago eSIM coverage for Europe
Gigago eSIM plans for Europe are covered by 33 countries and territories in the world, including:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holy See (Vatican City State), Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom.
IV. FAQs
Can I use an eSIM on my phone?
eSIM compatibility depends on your phone model and brand. While most modern phones support eSIMs, it’s always best to check your device’s specifications or contact your carrier for confirmation.
Where can I get an eSIM for my phone?
Getting an eSIM is easy! You can purchase one online from providers like other international eSIM vendors. You can also visit a local mobile carrier store in Europe to purchase an eSIM with a local phone number, where available.
Do I need to have mobile data to make calls with an eSIM?
Whether you need mobile data for calls depends on how you’re making them:
VoIP calls (e.g., WhatsApp): Yes, an active data connection and internet access are required for VoIP calls.
Calls with an international calling plan: No, you don’t need mobile data if your eSIM has an international calling plan. However, you’ll still need network coverage from your eSIM provider.