How to Get Mobile Internet in Europe for Travelers: What Option to Choose?

It’s important to learn how to get mobile internet in Europe so you can be best prepared to stay connected throughout your European vacation.

Knowing how to get mobile internet in Europe can be challenging because it is difficult to know which temporary internet solution is best for your trip. In this article, we help travelers understand how to access mobile Internet while traveling Europe, navigate other top options so it’s easy for you to stay connected throughout your stay.

I. Mobile Internet in Europe – Coverage and Speed

Visitors have 03 major mobile networks to choose from to buy SIMs in Europe: Orange, Vodafone and Three UK. Each network has many unique advantages. Below are some evaluation criteria to help you better understand each carrier:

1. Europe Mobile Internet Coverage

• Orange mobile operator

Orange is the leading mobile network operator in Europe. This network provides wide coverage in 26 countries and has more than 287 million customers (as of December 2023). Currently, mobile carriers provide network services that meet 4G+ and 5G standards for tourists.

• Vodafone mobile operator

Vodafone is a British multinational telecommunications company and is currently operating strongly in 12 countries in Europe such as Germany, Greece, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, etc. Currently, these carriers are providing network services meeting 4G+ and 5G standards for customers.

• Three UK Mobile operator

One of the leading networks in Europe that you can refer to is Three UK. In addition to strong coverage in European countries, the network also operates in Asia with strong, fast internet quality on 3G, 4G and 5G.

2. Europe Mobile Internet Speed

Criteria	Orange	Vodafone	Three UK
Median Download Speed	257.21 Mbps	249.52  Mbps	226.27 Mbps
Median Upload Speed	57.95 Mbps	11.87 Mbps	13.14 Mbps

From the comparison table, it’s clear that Orange offers the fastest average download and upload speeds, surpassing both Vodafone and Three UK. This is the reason why the network has become the top choice for users who prioritize fast and reliable connections.

II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists to Europe?

There are different options of mobile internet in Europe for tourists such as SIM card, eSIM, roaming data, public wifi, and pocket wifi. Here is the table for you to compare the pros and cons of each option. 

Connectivity Options	Characteristic	Pros	Cons
Roaming	Use the same SIM that Vietnam is using to roam and connect to the Europe network.	– You don’t have to remove the main SIM so you don’t have to worry about losing the main SIM. – Keep the same Vietnamese number when contacting.	– Expensive cost. – Not all network operators in Vietnam have connection and cooperation contracts with network operators in Europe.
Prepaid Europe SIM card	Use a physical SIM to travel from Europe.	– Good price. – Diverse packages to suit all types of needs.	– It takes effort to buy or wait for the SIM to be shipped to install it. – Main SIM is easily lost when removed. – Limit 1 device to only use 1 sim.
eSIM Europe	– This is digital SIM. – Users do not need to disassemble and install, just scan the QR code to download the package information attached to the eSIM.	– Easily buy eSIM online, no need to declare information. – Just scan the QR to get the SIM, no complicated installation required. – Multiple packages can be installed on the same phone.	– Device picky, must have an eSIM compatible device to use (usually high-end models). – Must have an unlocked phone to use.
Free Wifi	Use public Wifi in Europe such as at cafes, restaurants, malls.	– Easy to use. – No cost.	– Can’t actively access the Internet when needed. – Information security risks. – Slow speed due to many users.
Pocket Wifi	As a network sharing device, it can share connections with many different devices.	– The phone does not need to be unlocked to receive the Internet. – Easy to use: turn on and use.	– High cost of renting or purchasing equipment. – Must ensure distance between the phone and the wifi transmitter. – If there are many users, the internet is not good.

III. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Europe

• Orange SIM cards data package

Orange is one of the operators that offers SIM cards to people traveling in Europe. They have three data plans for travelers: Orange Holiday Europe with 50GB, Orange Holiday Europe with 30GB, and Orange Holiday Europe with 12GB.

These plans are called “all-inclusive” plans because they have unlimited calls and texts within Europe. Thereby allowing tourists to share data connections, make calls and text messages. The cost of the base option is $20 and the cost of the plus option is $50.

• Vodafone SIM cards data package

You can get a pay as you go SIM card from prepaid plans S, M, L, XL and XXL for Vodafone. These plans vary in the amount of data they offer, from 25 GB to 150 GB for 28 days. This can be a suitable option if you do not have an eSIM compatible mobile phone.

Vodafone plans have unlimited calling minutes to the same carrier numbers and also come with free SIM card delivery within 24-48 hours. The price range for these options ranges from $10 to $40, depending on the plan you choose.

• Three UK SIM cards data package

British network Three offers SIM cards for travelers in 12GB, 50GB and 100GB plans. In addition to easy Internet access, you can text and call unlimited minutes in the UK. If you travel to other European countries, it only costs about $3 more per day and you can cancel this service at any time.

Three’s daily plans will range in price from $18 to $50. For travelers with long schedules, you can refer to the $45 per month package for the UK or an additional $3 per day roaming fee in other European countries.

Note: The price and plan can be changed over time. Contact the mobile operator to get the most updated information.

IV. Data eSIM for Europe – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists

eSIM offers a flexible and budget-friendly option for travelers needing internet access on their mobile devices. Depending on your needs, you can either buy an eSIM from a European operator or acquire one from eSIM providers.

1. Buy eSIM from Europe Operators

All countries in Europe have many carriers providing eSIM services for visiting tourists. You can easily purchase eSIM cards directly from stores at the airport or in various cities across the country.

How to buy: Most of the time when buying a SIM card at a store in Europe, you need to present your passport or ID card to register to buy an eSIM card. However, there are still some countries with easier processes where you do not need to present information.

The advantage of buying directly at mobile Operators is that the cost is quite cheap and provides a variety of packages to suit each customer’s needs. However communication with sales staff may be challenging due to potential language barriers.

2. Buy eSIM from The reputable eSIM Provider – Gigago

To purchase a European eSIM, travelers can explore the offerings available at Gigago. Through a hassle-free online procedure, customers will receive the eSIM via email and can activate it using a QR code, enabling instant connectivity upon arrival.

This option is exceptionally convenient for travelers as it eliminates the need to provide passport and ID card information. Additionally, the process to purchase an eSIM on Gigago is incredibly straightforward. If this is your first time buying, you can refer to the following:

• Choose the appropriate plan based on your needs, finances and trip duration.
• Make payments.
• Wait to receive the email.
• Scan QR code or import activation code manually.
• Turn on data roaming on the phone.
• Complete the process.

V. FAQs