Buying a SIM Card in Bern for Travelers 2024: Guide from Locals

If you’re a traveler who is looking to buy a SIM card in Bern, we’ve got you covered. 

This article is intended for tourists or travelers who want to stay connected during their visit to Bern. We understand that finding the right SIM card can be a concern, so we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to make the process easier!

I. Why Buy SIM card in Bern?

When traveling to Bern, having a SIM card is essential for staying connected and enjoying a disruptive experience. 

Unlike relying solely on free Wi-Fi or expensive roaming charges, having a local SIM card provides you with reliable and affordable internet access wherever you go. 

With a SIM card in Bern, you can easily navigate the city, stay in touch with friends and family, access online maps, and make local calls without breaking the bank.

II. Which mobile internet carrier is the best in Bern?

There are three popular mobile network carriers in Switzerland. They are Swiss, Salt and Sunrise. 

Here is a table comparing these operators: 

Criteria	Swiss	Salt	Sunrise
Coverage	1st	2nd	3rd
Speed	Best	High	Moderate
Reliability	Very Reliable	Reliable	Reliable
Popularity	Popular	Popular	Popular
Prices	Cheap	Cheap	Affordable

► Our recommendation: Swiss seem to still hold first place in the Switzerland mobile network market. 

III. Best Bern SIM Card Plans and Price

We recommend Switzerland packages of 3 popular mobile operators in this country: 

1. Swisscom prepaid sim card

Swiss offers a plan with unlimited data for 2 CHF per day.

Here are some data plans offered by Swisscom:

• 500 MB of data for 30 days: 6.90 CHF

• 2 GB of data for 30 days: 19.90 CHF

• 5 GB of data for 30 days: 45 CHF

2. Salt Switzerland prepaid sim card

Here are some available options:

• Unlimited data on their 4G network, along with unlimited calls and SMS, but it is only valid within Switzerland. This plan is priced at 59.95 CHF.

• Unlimited data on their 4G network throughout Europe, combined with unlimited calls and SMS within Switzerland. This plan costs 89.95 CHF.

• Unlimited data within Switzerland on their 4G network, without any restrictions. This plan is priced at 35 CHF.

3. Sunrise Switzerland prepaid sim card

Similar to Swisscom, a Sunrise prepaid SIM card for Switzerland is priced at 19.90 CHF and includes 20 CHF credit upon activation.

Sunrise provides an option for unlimited data + chat per day in Switzerland at a rate of 2.5 CHF for a 24-hour period. There are no usage limits within this timeframe, but it’s important to note that the data is only available for use within Switzerland

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card in Bern?

You will have 4 options: 

1. At Bern Airport

When you arrive at the airport, buying a prepaid SIM card becomes incredibly convenient. You’ll find a dedicated phone store, as well as the option to purchase a Switzerland SIM card at the currency exchange. 

2. Phone stores in the city center

If you missed the opportunity to buy a prepaid SIM card at the airport in Bern, don’t worry! Your best option is to visit one of the official retail stores located in the city center or shopping malls. Simply use Google Maps to find your preferred store and locate the nearest one to your hotel.

3. Convenience stores and gas stations

While convenience stores and gas stations also sell Switzerland SIM cards, it’s important to note that you’ll have to handle the activation and registration process on your own. The staff at these locations typically don’t provide assistance or support, so we generally do not recommend this option for tourists.

4. Online

Another option is to purchase a prepaid Switzerland SIM card online. If your phone is eSIM compatible, the easiest way is to order a Switzerland eSIM card through platforms like Gigago. If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, you can still order a physical prepaid SIM card for Switzerland via official websites of Switzerland mobile operators. 

V. Switzerland eSIM card for Bern – Alternative to SIM Card for travelers

Benefits of Switzerland eSIM tend to outweigh those of other options when it comes to convenience and prices. 

Here are a few ways to buy eSIM for Bern:

• Buy at websites of network carriers offering eSIM services: Swiss, Salt or Sunrise

Note: Usually travelers still have to present ID/passport.

• Buy from eSIM carriers or retailers: some reliable and popular retailers namely Gigago. 

For Switzerland, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $5.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Switzerland eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.00 – $136.90 . 

VI. What to Prepare to buy SIM card in Bern.? 

When purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Bern, it’s important to have your passport with you. The store will take a copy of your passport and register the new SIM card under your name and passport number. You’ll receive a physical prepaid SIM card with a phone number that starts with +41.

If you prefer to avoid the registration process for any reason, you have alternative options. You can order an international prepaid SIM card for Switzerland or opt for an eSIM card. When ordering a SIM card online for Switzerland, you only need to provide your email address; no ID verification is required.

VII. Extra Tips when buying SIM card in Bern

When buying a SIM card in Bern, here are some extra tips to keep in mind:

• Compare plans: Take a look at different providers and compare their plans to find the one that best suits your needs in terms of data, call minutes, and validity.

• Consider data packages: If you anticipate using a lot of data, look for providers that offer affordable data packages or unlimited data options.

• Keep your SIM card safe: Once you purchase a Switzerland SIM card, make sure to keep it in a safe place and avoid losing it during your travels.

• Activate and test: After purchasing a SIM card, follow the activation instructions provided by the provider, and test the connection to ensure everything is working smoothly.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to buy a SIM card in Bern and enjoy a seamless and reliable mobile experience throughout your visit.

VIII. FAQs

IX. Conclusion

In conclusion, buying a SIM card in Bern is a convenient way for travelers to stay connected during their visit. Whether you purchase one at the airport, official retail stores, or online, having a local SIM card offers advantages such as affordability and reliable connectivity. Remember to bring your passport for registration, compare plans, and consider your data needs. Stay connected hassle-free and enjoy your time exploring Bern with a local SIM card in hand!