As one of the largest airports in Italy, Milan Malpensa International airport (MXP) sees millions of passengers annually. Buying a SIM card at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) upon arrival is essential for staying connected while traveling in Italy. This article provides important information for travelers about SIM card at Lombardy Airport (Milan Malpensa) on where and what SIM cards are available to purchase.
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To get a SIM card at Milan Malpensa airport, you can choose three ways, including:
Buy Online Before You Go (Easiest): Order a tourist SIM from SimOptions, Keepgo, OneSimCard, or an Italian carrier (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre). It’ll be ready when you land!
Get Connected Instantly at the Airport: Find SIM card kiosks in the arrival areas of Malpensa Airport (MXP). It’s pricier but super convenient.
Best Deals in Milan City Center: Head to carrier stores (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre) or electronics shops downtown for the cheapest plans and most options.
Pick the option that best suits your style and budget!
There are a few places where you can buy SIM cards for Italy at Lombardy Airport (MXP). But note that prices vary slightly between kiosks located in different halls, even for the same package.
Here are some guidelines about the locations of Italian mobile network carriers at MXP airport:
What to prepare: an unlocked phone, passport and payment method. Ask staff for help with the activation process and any extra charges.
Pro Tip: When buying at the Milan airport, look for kiosks and booths with clear signage about pricing, network coverage and terms of service.
No. While SIM card kiosks and shops at MXP airport generally stay open late into the evening, often until around 11 PM, their hours can vary. It’s highly unlikely to find them open after midnight. So, if you arrive late, there’s a chance you might not be able to purchase a SIM card upon arrival. It’s best to have a backup plan, like purchasing a SIM card online in advance.
Good to know: 1 EUR = 1.08 USD as of Feb 2024
It costs between 64 EUR (68.50 USD) and 85 EUR (90.95 USD) for you to buy a TIM Italy, Vodafone Italy, or Lycamobile Italy SIM card for at Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).
But the prices may vary depending on the time of the year, the provider, and the plan you choose. It is best to compare prices from different providers before buying.
To obtain a SIM card as a foreign traveler at Lombardy Airport, generally you need to prepare the following things:
Here is an overview of what to expect for the registration and activation process when purchasing a SIM card at Lombardy Airport:
Being prepared with proper documentation and understanding the registration process will make purchasing a SIM card much smoother upon arrival at Lombardy Airport.
Note: Staffs at Milan Malpensa Airport can speak both Italian and English, so don’t worry about language barrier.
So, the registration process to buy a SIM card at MXP airport is quite complicated and time-wasting. Many tourists do not experience this hassle. But, don’t worry, there is always a better alternative. Let’s see what it is.
If you want to avoid the hassle when buying a SIM card at the Milan Malpensa Airport, consider buying Italy eSIM (embedded digital SIM). This type of SIM is directly integrated into a device and activated remotely with a QR code or app.
Some benefits of choosing an Italy eSIM over a regular SIM card at Lombardy Airport:
To buy eSIM for Italy travel, you should choose a reputable eSIM provider like Gigago. Gigago Italy eSIM works on both iOS and Android. Some popular eSIM plans for Italy of Gigago are:
You’ll need a valid passport or other official photo ID. Some providers may also require a credit or debit card for payment.
Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked and compatible with Italian networks. Check with your provider before departure.
Yes, most providers have kiosks or staff who can assist with topping up your balance at the airport.
Follow the instructions provided by the staff at the point of purchase. This may involve inserting the SIM card into your phone and configuring network settings.
Buying a SIM card at Lombardy Airport can be inconvenient if you don’t have much budget. With the rise in various providers and plans available, it’s important to eSIM technology to compare prices and and features online to find the SIM best fit for your card purchase needs. Alternatively, esSIM exists like GIGAGO offers a flexible and hassle may better-free option for frequent suit Italy travelers.
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