This article is tailored for travelers who want to navigate the complexities of staying online while abroad. You’ll learn how roaming in Cyprus works, the potential costs, and practical ways to save money, including exploring eSIMs as a reliable alternative.
Mobile Internet in Cyprus for Travelers: 5 Ways to Get Data & Cost
Staying connected with mobile internet in Cyprus is important for tourists who want information anytime during their trip. There are several convenient ways for visitors to access the Internet and you can choose the best one to enjoy your Cyprus trip. This guide covers five affordable options for getting online using your smartphone or other devices.
In this article
I. Mobile Internet in Cyprus – Coverage and Speed
CYTA, Epic (formerly known as MTN), and PrimeTel are the three main mobile network operators in Cyprus. Let us have a look into the coverage and speed of these carriers!
1. Cyprus Mobile Internet Coverage
- CYTA is the biggest operator with reliable nationwide 4G/5G coverage across Cyprus. CYTA’s network covers all main cities and tourist spots and also extends to rural towns as well as remote coastal regions.
- Epic, the second-largest carrier, offers 4G and 5G services in main cities, towns, and some remote coastal areas.
- PrimeTel’s coverage is good but not as extensive as CYTA and Epic.
▶ Our recommendation:
CYTA offers the most reliable 4G/5G network coverage throughout Cyprus. Thanks to its robust coverage in most cities and towns as well as various SIM plans, CYTA will be a top choice for tourists to this stunning country.
2. Cyprus Mobile Internet Speed
According to the data about Cyprus Median Country Speeds from Speedtest Index Global (March 2024):
- Cyprus ranks 45th in the world in terms of mobile internet speeds
- Average download speed: 60.52Mbps
- Average upload speed: 11.40Mbps
- Latency: 17ms
▶ Our recommendation:
Cyprus has reasonably fast mobile Internet speeds, ranking near the top half globally for download and upload rates. Visitors can enjoy smooth online experiences like HD video chatting and fast browsing thanks to speeds averaging over 60Mbps. Overall, Cyprus provides reliable and adequate network performance for travelers wanting mobile internet access throughout their trip.
II. What are the Connectivity Options for Travelers to Cyprus?
There are five main options to connect to the mobile internet in Cyprus: physical SIM, eSIM for Cyprus, public Wifi, pocket Wifi, and international roaming. Now let us explore the pros and cons, where to buy, and price of each option.
Option | How it works | Price | Where to buy | Pros | Cons |
SIM card | Insert Cyprus physical SIM into your unlocked mobile phone for mobile data, calls, and texts | Affordable, depending on your chosen Cyprus carrier/ plan | Carrier stores/ kiosks at main Cyprus airports, convenience stores, telecom shops in cities | A wide range of Cyprus SIM options, widely available, budget-friendly rates | Unlocked phone needed |
Cyprus eSIM | Buy ans activate eSIM profile on compatible mobile devices (smartphones/ smartwatches/ laptops/ tablets) | Cost-effective | Online from Cyprus telcos or from reputable third-party eSIM providers | Online purchase and setup, no store visit, no physical SIM | Your phone needs to be unlocked and work with eSIM technology |
Roaming in Cyprus with home carrier | Use existing home plan while traveling in Cyprus | Very expensive | Via home carrier | Same number works, no need separate plan | Expensive roaming fees |
Pocket Wifi | Rent a portable Wifi hotspot device | Not too expensive | Rental kiosks at major airports, rental websites | Portable Wifi anywhere, Internet sharing | Limited data in several plan options |
Public Wifi | Free Wifi at certain hotspots (cafes, restaurants stations, malls,…) | Free | Available in main cities and towns | Free connection | Security issues, need to hunt for free Wifi hotspot |
Pro Tips:
- For price-conscious visitors, a physical SIM card is the best option. If you want the best deals, go around the Cyprus cities to buy your SIM. Do not forget to check if your phone is unlocked.
- For those with eSIM-embedded mobile devices, consider getting an eSIM for Cyprus.
- Bring your passport/ ID card/ driver’s license for ID check and EURO cash/ credit card/ debit card for payment.
III. Internet Rates in Cyprus
Good to know:
EUR 1 = USD 1.07; USD 1 = EUR 0.93 (as of February 2024)
The Internet tariffs in Cyprus depend on the connectivity option that you choose for your trip. The table below represents the reference rates of the five different options for getting mobile internet in Cyprus.
Option | Rate (USD) |
Cyprus SIM card | Starting at EUR €5 – USD $5.3 for 5GB of data |
Cyprus eSIM | USD $3.5 for 1GB used in 3 days |
Roaming with the Cyprus operators | Rather expensive, depending on your home plan/ home carrier |
Public Wifi | Free |
Pocket Wifi | Expect to pay $7.4 (€6,95) per day |
Note: The details on Internet tariffs in Cyprus in the table are for reference only. Check with your selected provider for the most accurate information.
▶ Our recommendation:
Getting a physical SIM card from major Cyprus providers or a digital SIM from Gigago gives visitors an affordable way to connect to the internet right away when they land. Both options provide inexpensive mobile data for travelers.
IV. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Cyprus
Data SIM card for Cyprus provides visitors with great data plans at budget-friendly rates. This table shows some of the SIM options from main Cypriot mobile network operators.
Carrier | Plan | Benefits | Validity | Price |
Cyta | soeasy Plus 10 | 20 GB of cellular data;400 minutes; 400 sms; EU free roaming | 30 days | €10 – $10.7 |
soeasy Plus 20 | 50 GB of cellular data;1000 minutes; 1000 sms; EU free roaming | 30 days | €20 – $21.5 | |
soeasy Plus 35 | 100 GB of cellular data;2000 minutes; 2000 sms; EU free roaming | 30 days | €35 – $37.6 | |
Epic | 5G Value | 1 GB of cellular data;300 minutes;300 sms | 30 days | €9.99 – $10.7 |
5G Advanced | 8 GB of cellular data;800 minutes;800 sms | 30 days | €19.99 – $21.4(original price: €29.99) | |
5G Unlimited Max | Unlimited data; Unlimited minutes; Unlimited sms | 30 days | €19.99 – $21.4(original price: €39.99) | |
PrimeTel | – | 5GB | 7 days | €5 – $5.3 |
– | 20 GB of cellular data | 30 days | €15 – $16 | |
Data + voice + sms | 100 GB of cellular data;1000 mins;1000 sms | 60 days | €20 – $21.5 |
Advice: The details on Cyprus SIM card plans may change over time so you had better contact your chosen provider for the latest information.
V. Data eSIM for Cyprus – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet in Cyprus for Tourists
Important Note: eSIM plan options for Cyprus only work on eSIM-compatible mobile devices.
Getting a digital SIM (eSIM) is a great way to connect to mobile internet in Cyprus. An eSIM has several benefits compared to a regular SIM card:
- You can download and activate it online, no need to go to a store.
- Your phone does not need a SIM slot since it’s digital. There is no chance of losing or breaking the SIM.
- You will have immediate internet access as soon as you arrive in Cyprus.
- You can use multiple eSIM profiles for Cyprus on your one phone.
When traveling to Cyprus, visitors can choose to purchase eSIMs directly from major Cypriot operators or from trusted eSIM suppliers like GIGAGO online before their trip.
Why select Gigago?
Gigago is a reliable eSIM reseller that provides digital SIM (eSIMs) for over 200 countries globally. Their eSIM service for Cyprus is very popular with visitors because:
- Tourists can sign up for a Cyprus eSIM and activate it online easily
- Setup takes only a few minutes from your phone
- No identity verification is needed
- 24/7 multilingual customer service
- Gigago’s eSIM plans for Cyprus work on CYTA network – Cyprus’s biggest mobile carrier. These packages are very competitive, starting at just $3.00 for 1GB used in 3 days and ranging from $3.00 – $95.90 . Just pick the Cyprus eSIM plan that best works for your needs and trip duration.
How to buy Cyprus eSIM plan with Gigago?
Just take these simple steps to get a Cyprus eSIM option with Gigago:
- Pick that plan (validity, data) that best aligns with your needs
- Pay online using credit card or e-wallet
- Check your email for activaiton key/ QR code to activate your Cyprus eSM
- Switch on the data roaming feature in your phone’s settings and your Cyprus eSIM will be ready.
VI. FAQs about Mobile Internet in Cyprus
Is a prepaid SIM card or mobile hotspot better for mobile internet in Cyprus?
A prepaid local SIM card is generally more cost-effective than renting a mobile hotspot for mobile internet in Cyprus. SIMs start at around EUR 5 for data.
Can I use my home wireless carrier for mobile internet in Cyprus?
Using your regular carrier will likely incur high roaming fees. A local Cyprus SIM ensures you get competitive rates for mobile internet in Cyprus.
Can I buy a SIM card at Larnaca or Paphos Airport?
Yes, you can purchase SIM cards with data packages upon arrival at airports in Larnaca and Paphos before passing through customs for mobile internet in Cyprus.
Which carrier has the best coverage for mobile internet in Cyprus?
Major providers Cyta and Epic have very reliable 4G networks nationwide for smooth use of mobile internet in Cyprus across cities and tourist sites.
VII. Conclusion
So in summary, getting mobile internet in Cyprus is easy and economical thanks to the various affordable options. No matter if you prefer a prepaid SIM, pocket Wifi, or roaming, visitors have good choice for staying connected while exploring Cyprus. It is best to get an eSIM plan for flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and reliable connectivity during your Cyprus trip.