|
This article detailing where and how to get the SIM card from the Thessaloniki International airport as you get into Greece.
How to Get Mobile Internet in Greece for Travelers: What Option to Choose?
|
Mobile internet in Greece plays a crucial role for tourists and travelers, allowing them to stay connected, access information, and enhance their travel experiences. Read on this travelers’ guide so you can choose the best option for your trip in Greece.
In this article
I. Mobile Internet in Greece – Coverage and Speed
In Greece, the major operators are Cosmote, Vodafone, and Nova, each offering extensive coverage and varying speeds across the country.
1. Greece Mobile Internet Coverage
Regarding the overall coverage measured by the Availability metric, the Opensignal report shows:
- Cosmote leads with 94.3% Availability, meaning its users enjoy nearly ubiquitous connectivity.
- Vodafone ranks second with 93.4% Availability, just over 1% behind Cosmote.
- Nova lags significantly behind at 91.0% Availability, around 3-4% lower than the other two operators.
In summary, for overall coverage experience, Cosmote provides the best service according to this assessment, followed by Vodafone in second place and Nova ranking last.
| Operator | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Cosmote | – Extensive coverage in urban, suburban, and rural areas. – Strong 4G network in major cities. – Leading Availability metrics. | – Limited 5G coverage in rural regions. – Weak 3G signals in remote areas. |
| Vodafone | – Widespread 4G coverage in urban and suburban regions. – Strong 3G coverage in remote areas. – Competitive Availability metrics. | – Limited rural 5G rollout. – Occasional congestion in urban areas. |
| Nova | – Decent 4G coverage in urban centers. – Competitive 3G connectivity in some urban areas. – Cost-effective plans where available. | – Limited rural coverage. – Slow transition to 5G technology. |
► Recommendation: Vodafone is the top choice in Greece for its extensive 4G coverage in urban areas, strong 3G connectivity in remote regions, and competitive Availability.
2. Greece Mobile Internet Speed
Greece ranks a respectable 30th globally for median mobile download speeds, clocking in at 151.51 Mbps. The country’s median mobile upload speed of 22.90 Mbps. Another key metric, mobile latency, is a low 26ms in Greece – low enough to enable a smooth real-time data experience for applications
Overall, the download, upload and latency figures indicate Greek mobile users are enjoying good quality mobile data performance across operators.
II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists to Greece?
Travelers can connect in Greece through local SIM cards, eSIM, roaming with Greek operators, public WiFi, and Pocket WiFi devices.
| Cost | Where to buy | Convenience | Pros | Cons | |
| Local SIM card | $10-30 | Mobile shops, airports | Moderate | Affordable, widely available. | Requires unlocked phone, language barrier. |
| eSIM | $15-50 | Provider’s app or store | High | Convenient setup, no physical card. | Limited availability, device compatibility. |
| Roaming | Varies | Automatically enabled | High | No need to switch SIM, immediate use. | High fees, potential slow speeds. |
| Public WiFi | Free/low | Cafes, airports | Moderate-High | No SIM needed, urban availability. | Security risks, limited rural coverage. |
| Pocket WiFi | $5-15/day | Online rental, stores | High | Connect multiple devices, reliable. | Extra device, cost. |
► Recommendation: For travelers with eSIM-compatible devices, using eSIM is preferred for its convenient setup and seamless connectivity, offering a hassle-free experience without the need for a physical card.
Tips:
- Know your needs: Understand your data, call, and message requirements.
- Research: Look into local networks and plans for the best fit.
- Check compatibility: Ensure your phone supports eSIM and matches the network.
- Secure: Protect personal info when activating eSIM or logging in.
II. Internet Rates in Greece
Here is the table listing Mobile Internet rates (internet tariff) of each telecom operators in Greece:
| Telecom Operators | SIM Card | eSIM | Roaming Public WiFi | Pocket WiFi |
| Vodafone | $15 | $20 | $2/hour | $5/day |
| Cosmote | $12 | $25 | $1.50/hour | $6/day |
| Nova | $10 | $22 | $2.50/hour | $7/day |
Note: Prices are in USD and may vary depending on the current exchange rates and telecom policies.
► Recommendation: For travelers in Greece, Vodafone is recommended for its comprehensive coverage, diverse options.
III. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Greece
Choosing a data SIM card is a top option for tourists in Greece, ensuring connectivity and easy communication with people back home through apps, surpassing other alternatives.
There are a few SIM card packages which are recommended for tourists:
- Vodafone:
- Package: “Tourist SIM”
- Price: €15 EUR (approximately $17 USD)
- Data Allowance: 10GB
- Cosmote:
- Package: “Tourist SIM”
- Price: €10 EUR (approximately $11.50 USD)
- Data Allowance: 5GB
- Nova:
- Package: “Traveler SIM”
- Price: €12 EUR (approximately $14 USD)
- Data Allowance: 7GB
Note: Prices and packages are subject to change, and it’s advisable to contact the operator for the most up-to-date information.
IV. Data eSIM for Greece – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists
For tourists in Greece, a data eSIM is the best choice to connect mobile internet, blending convenience and connectivity seamlessly.
eSIM, an electronic SIM card, offers several advantages over traditional physical SIM cards. Its convenience and flexibility eliminate the need for carrying physical cards, enabling users to activate services quickly and easily.
1. Buy eSIM from Greece Operators
In Greece, major network providers such as Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind Hellas commonly offer eSIM services.
In Greece, obtaining an eSIM is possible through two methods:
- Buying directly from the carrier: This typically requires presenting your passport.
- Acquiring it through eSIM resellers/providers: This offers a more convenient and straightforward process as it has simplified procedures, easy access, quick activation, flexible options.
| Operators | Price | Pros | Cons |
| Cosmote | $10 – $20 | -Wide popularity and good network coverage – Diverse range of plans | – Prices might be higher – Potential service limitations |
| Vodafone | $10 – $25 | – Fast network speed – Convenient payment with eSIM – Suitable for travelers | – Activation fees may apply – Some plans could be expensive – Possible service restrictions |
| Wind | $10 – $20 | – Flexible plans – Good customer support | – Limited coverage in some areas – Possible speed or service quality limitations |
2. Buy eSIM from Gigago
Purchasing eSIM from reputable providers like Gigago is considered the most convenient solution because it requires no passport or ID card, no waiting for SIM delivery, and easy setup (via QR code scanning), providing internet connectivity as soon as arriving in the destination country.
Here are the steps to buy eSIM from Gigago for a specific country:
- Choose a suitable plan based on your needs, budget, and trip duration on Gigago’s eSIM page by searching for the country’s name.
- Make the payment online.
- Wait for the confirmation email from Gigago.
- Scan the QR code or manually input the activation code into your phone.
- Enable data roaming on your phone.
- Connect to the local network provider’s signal.
When purchasing a Greece eSIM, you will receive an additional 1GB of bonus data valid for the same period as your selected plan. So for example, if you buy the 10GB 14-day package normally priced at $23.98, with this promotion you will receive 11GB of data for the same price.
Don’t forget to take advantage of this bonus data offer when buying your Greece eSIM from Gigago!
V. FAQs
How reliable is mobile internet coverage in Greece?
Mobile internet coverage in Greece is generally reliable, especially in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. However, coverage may vary in more remote or rural areas.
Can I use my mobile internet plan while traveling within Greece?
Yes, most mobile internet plans in Greece include domestic roaming, allowing you to use your data allowance while traveling within the country without additional charges.
How can I monitor my mobile internet usage in Greece?
Mobile operators typically offer online account management platforms or mobile apps where you can monitor your data usage in real-time and track your remaining data allowance.
VI. Conclusion
Mobile internet in Greece is provided by major operators like Cosmote, Vodafone, and Nova, offering various data plans. Coverage is generally reliable in urban areas. For connectivity, consider either a traditional SIM card or eSIM, depending on device compatibility and convenience. Evaluate your data needs and device compatibility before choosing the best option for your mobile internet in Greece.
You might also like
|
Having a SIM card at Greece airports provides a convenient solution for staying connected to the Internet and making calls during your trip. Read the article below to know the price and how to buy it here.
|
Rhodes International Airport (RHO), where you can easily stay connected upon arrival with convenient SIM card options available for communication throughout your stay.
|
Discover the best way to stay connected and navigate the vibrant landscapes of Greece effortlessly by data roaming. This guide will give you information related to data roaming in Greece.
|
This guide will provide essential information on using your mobile device in Greece, ensuring you stay connected plain throughout your journey.
|
A pocket wifi connection is suitable for travelers visiting Greece, as these options offer internet connectivity on the go. Here is a full guide to pocket WIFI renting in Greece for the tourists as well as other options of the Internet coverage in the country.