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

Buying a SIM card in Valletta can make your travel experience smooth and connected in Malta’s charming capital.

For travelers planning a trip to Valletta, this guide is your go-to resource for getting a SIM card in Valletta. Discover why it’s essential, which carriers offer the best services, and where to find the best plans and prices. Whether you’re looking for a traditional SIM card or considering an eSIM, we’ve covered you with local tips and tricks to improve your stay.

I. Why Buy a SIM card in Valletta?

Buying a SIM card in Valletta keeps you connected and stress-free while exploring Malta. Here’s why:

• Save Money: Ditch expensive roaming fees and enjoy local calls, texts, and data rates.
• Stay Connected: Reliable internet wherever you go, unlike hit-or-miss free Wi-Fi.
• Instant Access: Get online as soon as you land without the trouble of pre-ordering or extra gadgets.
• Local Perks: Use an international number to book and stay in touch with new friends easily.
• Freedom to Choose: Pick the perfect plan for your needs without long-term commitments.

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

The best mobile internet carrier in Valletta for 2024 is EPIC. EPIC provides the most reliable coverage, fastest speeds, and robust connectivity, making it ideal for tourists and locals.

Valletta has three major network operators: EPIC, GO, and Melita. Additionally, several MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) use these infrastructures to provide their services.

Here’s a comparison of the major network operators based on key criteria:

Criteria	EPIC	GO	Melita
Coverage	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Speed	Fastest 4G/5G	Fast 4G/5G	Moderate 4G
Reliability	Highly reliable	Highly reliable	Good
Popularity	Most popular	Popular	Less popular
Tourist Plan (Sample)	8GB data for €9.99 (28 days)	8GB data for €9.99 (28 days)	10GB data for €10 (28 days)

Highlights

• Epic is known for its wide coverage and super-fast speeds, perfect for remote work and streaming.
• GO gives you competitive speeds and solid coverage, with a great track record for reliability.
• Melita is the go-to for international calls and decent data plans, though coverage might be hit-or-miss in rural areas.

For tourists, these providers offer flexible prepaid plans that can be easily top up through their apps. Epic and GO have similar data packages for €9.99, while Melita gives you a bit more data for about the same price. These options help you stay connected throughout your trip with reliable internet and good-value plans.

III. Best Valletta SIM Card Plans and Price

The table below highlights the top prepaid SIM card plans in Valletta, Malta, as of July 2024. Prices and plans might vary slightly depending on where and when you buy.

Mobile OperatorEpic Malta	Plan Name	Price (EUR)	Data	Minutes	SMS	Validity	Notes
	Value Pack	4.99	100 MB	100	100	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	Data Pack	5.99	4 GB	N/A	N/A	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	Value Pack	9.99	8 GB	200	200	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	Youth Basic	8.99	10 GB	400	400	28 days	For those under 25, requires top-up if auto-renewal is disabled
	Youth Standard	12.99	40 GB	400	400	28 days	For those under 25, requires top-up if auto-renewal is disabled
	Youth Special	19.99	35 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	28 days	For those under 25, requires top-up if auto-renewal is disabled
GO Malta	Smart S	4.99	500 MB	100	100	28 days	Includes Music Wildcard (unlimited streaming for Spotify, Amazon Music, Deezer & Apple Music)
	Smart M	9.99	10 GB	200	200	28 days	Includes Music Wildcard
	Smart L	15.99	12 GB	300	300	28 days	Includes Music Wildcard
	Smart XL	34.99	14 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	28 days	Includes Music Wildcard
	DIS	8.99	10 GB	200	Unlimited	28 days	For those under 29, requires initial activation in a GO store
	Double DAT	12.99	40 GB	300	Unlimited	28 days	For those under 29, requires initial activation in a GO store
Melita	Pass S	5	500 MB	100	100	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	Pass M	10	10 GB	200	200	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	Pass L	15	20 GB	200	200	28 days	Auto-renews, can be deactivated
	BigGig M	5	5 GB	400	Unlimited	28 days	For those under 29, requires initial activation in a Melita store
	BigGig L	10	20 GB	400	Unlimited	28 days	For those under 29, requires initial activation in a Melita store

Highlights:

• SIM Card Prices: Epic and GO SIM cards cost 10 EUR each, while Melita SIM cards cost 5 EUR.
• Coverage: All three operators offer extensive 4G/LTE coverage throughout Malta, including Valletta.
• EU Roaming: All operators allow you to use your allowance in other EU/EEA countries without additional roaming charges.
• Top-Up: Top-up vouchers are widely available in stores and can be redeemed online or through mobile apps.

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card in Valletta?

There are two main options for purchasing SIM cards in Valletta: at the airport upon arrival or in the city center. Let’s explore each option:

1. Buy a SIM Card at Malta International Airport (MLA)

At Malta International Airport, you can purchase a SIM card immediately after landing. To buy, you’ll need your passport for registration. Epic (formerly Vodafone) is the only provider with a presence at the airport.

Pros:

• Convenient and quick
• Immediate connectivity upon arrival

Cons:

• Limited options (only Epic available)
• Potentially higher prices compared to city stores

2. Buy a SIM Card in Valletta City Center

In Valletta, you have several options for purchasing SIM cards:

• Official Carrier Stores
• Convenience Stores
• Online Purchase: Buy from Amazon or eBay before your trip.

Pros:

• More options to choose from
• Potentially lower prices
• Opportunity to compare plans in person

Cons:

• Requires time during your trip
• May need to navigate an unfamiliar city

► Recommendation: For a hassle-free trip, consider getting a SIM card at the airport or an eSIM online beforehand. eSIMs offer instant connectivity without swapping cards—just check your device’s compatibility.

V. Malta eSIM for Valletta – Alternative to SIM Card for Travelers

Imagine this: You land in Valletta, turn on your phone, and you’re instantly online without any hassle.

No more hunting for SIM card kiosks, no more fiddling with tiny cards, and no more stress about losing your SIM! With an eSIM, you’re all set to explore Valletta’s charming streets and capture every moment of your adventure while staying connected.

So, how do you get this magical eSIM? There are a few ways to do it:

1. Direct from the Network Carriers

All three network carriers – GO, Melita, and Epic in Malta – offer eSIM services for tourists.

Just a heads-up: you’ll usually need to show your ID or passport to buy one, which can be a bit of a hassle if you’re already on the move.

2. From eSIM retailers

Gigago is your go-to eSIM partner for your Valletta adventure! We promise to offer various eSIM plans to fit your needs so you can stay connected without spending a fortune.

Here’s what makes Gigago’s Malta eSIM stand out:

• Instant Delivery: Your eSIM details will be emailed to you within minutes of purchase. No waiting, no hassle!
• Global Coverage: Stay connected wherever you go, with smooth roaming across Malta.
• Flexible Data Plans: From daily 500MB to unlimited data.
• 24/7 Support: Available anytime, day or night.

For Malta, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Malta eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are or how long your trip is in Malta; with Gigago, there is always an option for you.

VI. What to Prepare to Buy SIM card in Valletta

Before buying a SIM card in Valletta, Malta, prepare:

• Unlocked Phone: Make sure your phone can use international SIM cards. Check with your provider if unsure.
• Passport or ID: Needed for SIM registration.
• EU Roaming: If you’re from the EU/EEA, check if your plan includes Malta.
• Euros: Some shops accept cards, but cash is handy.
• Local Address: Might need a local address. Hotel info might work.
• Data Needs: Know how much data you need.
• Compare: Look at different providers for the best deal.

VII. Extra Tips when Buying SIM card in Valletta

Snag the best SIM card deal and cruise through your Maltese adventure with these insider tips:

• Hit Up Convenience Stores: Skip dedicated mobile shops and head to spots like “Maypole” or “Agenda” for shorter lines and great SIM card prices.
• Airport Arrivals: While airport kiosks are tempting for instant connectivity, they usually have higher prices. Only go for them if you need instant access.
• Haggle a Bit: Don’t be shy – ask about any ongoing promotions or discounts, especially if you’re buying multiple SIM cards.
• Share Your Data: Traveling with a buddy? Some providers let you share data, so you can split a larger package and save some cash.
• Top-Up Like a Local: To avoid running out of data at the worst moment, get familiar with the top-up process. Many providers offer easy online options or scratch cards at local shops.

Hope your trip to Malta will be safe & sound!

VIII. FAQs

IX. Conclusion

In conclusion, getting a SIM card in Valletta is easy and budget-friendly, keeping you connected throughout your trip. You can choose from major providers like Epic, GO, and Melita for great coverage and plans. Just remember to bring your ID or passport when purchasing a SIM card and check out tourist packages for better deals. Safe travels!