Vodafone SIM Cards & eSIM for Travelers to Czech: How to Get and Activate 2024

Tourists planning to visit the Czech Republic will want convenient access to mobile services during their trips. As one of the largest carriers in Czech, Vodafone offers a reliable cellular network nationwide. Tourists can purchase Vodafone SIM cards or sign up for an eSIM plan to access the Internet while exploring the country.

This guide will explore where and how to purchase Vodafone SIM cards and eSIM and which option to choose for your trip in Czech.

Vodafone sim card in Czech

I. Quick Facts about Vodafone

Vodafone is one of Czech’s largest mobile network operators. Here are some of the key facts about Vodafone Czech you may need to know:

  • Founded: in 1995
  • Headquarter: Prague, Czech
  • Types of services: mobile services including calls, messaging, and data
  • Coverage: Vodafone’s network covers most areas of Czech
  • Number of users: Over 3 million subscribers
  • Distribution: Tourists can find Vodafone stores in many cities and towns to get help with purchases, bills, or phone issues.
  • Customer support: 24/7 via phone call/ online chat
  • Language: Czech, English
Vodafone is the third-largest carrier in Czech
Vodafone is the third-largest carrier in Czech

II. Why Vodafone When Exploring Czech – Coverage and Speed

Let us dive into the coverage and speed of Vodafone in Czech!

1. Vodafone Coverage in Czech

Vodafone coverage map in Czech (source: nPerf)
Vodafone coverage map in Czech (source: nPerf)
  • Vodafone ranks third in terms of 4G/ 5G network coverage across Czech, scoring 9.3 out of 10 (according to OpenSignal, 2024);
  • Their network offers good connectivity and decent speeds in smaller villages, natural parks, and historic sites;
  • Their broad network extends to most areas that visitors want to explore off the beaten path.

2. Vodafone Speed

Vodafone speeds in Czech (source: OpenSignal)
Vodafone speeds in Czech (source: OpenSignal)
  • Average download speed: 30.1Mbps (Opensignal, February 2024)
  • Average upload speed: 12.7Mbps
  • Consistent quality: 77.5% (the second-highest, led by T-Mobile at 88.4% and followed by O2 at 74.1%)

► Vodafone is a reliable choice for most visitors to the Czech Republic. Vodafone boasts good network coverage across Czech and great consistent connectivity. Its download and upload speeds are generally enough for basic tasks like navigation, social media, texting, etc.

Advice: If data speed is your priority, T-Mobile will be a better option due to its potential for fastest download and upload speeds.

III. What are the Best Connectivity Options of Vodafone for Visitors to Czech?

Travelers visiting Czech can access Vodafone’s network via three main ways;

1. Vodafone SIM cards:

  • Pros: affordable options for calling, texting, and cellular data
  • Cons: unlocked phone required

2. Vodafone Pocket Wifi:

  • Pros: Internet sharing, suitable for visitors traveling in group
  • Cons: things to carry, have to return the Wifi hotspot after trip

3. Vodafone roaming:

  • Pros: no SIM swap, familiar domestic carrier/ number/ plan
  • Cons: expensive, coverage depends on the agreement between Vodafone Czech and your domestic carrier

► Recommendation:

Vodafone SIM cards are a great choice for tourists who want budget-friendly and reliable Internet access in Czech. Roaming is a good alternative if your trip duration is short and you have discounted roaming deals. Pocket Wifi is suitable for those traveling in a group with multiple mobile devices to connect.

IV. Best Czech Vodafone SIM Cards for Visitors & Price

Vodafone provides tourists to Czech with several prepaid Czech SIM card options:

DataValidityRate
1.2GB data30 daysCZK 99 – USD 4.21
2.5GB data30 daysCZK 199 – USD 8.46
6GB data30 daysCZK 349 – USD 14.83

Important Notes: 

  • Opt for the Vodafone plan that best aligns with your data usage and trip duration.
  • Regularly visit Vodafone’s official website for the latest details of Vodafone SIM cards.

V. Does Vodafone Support eSIM in Czech?

Yes. Vodafone offers eSIM for compatible phones. Vodafone eSIM let you access the Vodafone network without a regular physical SIM.

Why choose Vodafone eSIM for Czech?

  • Simple activation: Just scan a QR code to set up an eSIM, no need to insert a physical card.
  • Wide network coverage: As one of the largest carriers, Vodafone provides fast LTE/ 5G connections across the Czech Republic.
  • Flexibility: You can have various carrier profiles on your mobile device and easily switch between them.

VI. Where to Buy Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM?

Vodafone SIM cards and eSIM are widely available in the Czech Republic so it is very easy for tourists to get a suitable one. Let us explore the different ways to buy your Vodafone SIM.

1. Where to Buy Vodafone SIM cards for Czech 

1.1. When you land at Czech airports

  • Pros: convenient, instant Internet connection when landing at Czech airport
  • Cons: airport rates are often a bit more expensive than in the city centers and towns 
  • Location: get Vodafone SIM cards at Prague International Airport – Vodafone Shop (Level 1, Terminal 2, Arrival Hall).
Purchase Vodafone SIM cards at Prague International Airport
Purchase Vodafone SIM cards at Vodafone shop, Prague International Airport

1.2. Vodafone stores and authorized retailers

Vodafone has many shops and retailers across the cities and towns in Czech. These stores offer a wide selection of Vodafone SIM card plans with affordable pricing. 

  • Pros: widely accessible across Czech, budget-friendly rates
  • Cons: need to locate and commute to the stores.

Pro Tips:

  • Only unlocked devices work with the Vodafone network in Czech so make sure your phone is unlocked.
  • Ask locals or use Google Maps for the most accurate Vodafone store locations.
  • Passport and CZK cash/ credit card are required for Vodafone SIM purchase and registration.

2. Where to Buy Vodafone eSIM for Czech?

2.1. Directly from Vodafone

Tourists can get Vodafone eSIM for Czech directly from Vodafone. ID proof is needed.

  • Online service on Vodafone official website
  • My Vodafone app
  • Get to the nearest Vodafone outlet

2.2. GIGAGO – Trusted third-party reseller

Gigago offers Vodafone eSIM options for visitors to the Czech Republic without any identification check. Tourists using Gigago’s eSIM services can connect to Vodafone’s extensive networks and enjoy 4G/LTE data speed at the most affordable rate.

Gigago offers a wide selection of eSIM plans for Czech
Gigago eSIM plans for Czech

Gigago’s eSIM plans for Czech are very competitive, starting at $3.00 for 1GB over 3 days and varying between $3.00$95.90 . No matter how long your Czech trip is and how much data you use, there is always a suitable option for you with Gigago.

Pro Tips:

  • Before going with Czech eSIM, ensure your device supports eSIM.
  • If you use online apps for calling and messaging, it is recommended to opt for data-only plans to save money.

VII. How to Activate Vodafone SIM/eSIM in Czech?

Activating Vodafone SIM cards and eSIM is a very simple process. If this is your very first time, follow these instructions to activate your Vodafone SIM.

1. How to Activate Vodafone SIM cards in Czech?

If you select to use a Vodafone physical SIM card, you just need to:

  • Put your Vodafone SIM into your unlocked phone and then switch your phone on
  • Activate your Vodafone SIM card. Normally, Vodafone SIM should be pre-activated
  • Adjust APN settings if you cannot use the Vodafone SIM card
  • Load a web page to confirm that cellular data is working
  • You can now enjoy Vodafone services (cellular data, calling, and messaging).

2. How to Activate Vodafone eSIM in Czech?

If you select to go with a Vodafone eSIM for your Czech trip, just need to:

  • Check if your device supports eSIM
  • Get a Vodafone eSIM plan online (directly from Vodafone or from Gigago website)
  • Receive the eSIM profile with a QR code via email  
  • Scan the QR code using My Vodafone app or your cell phone’s settings and continue installing
  • Check for the Vodafone signal on your mobile phone
  • Once the Vodafone eSIM is ready, you can start using its cellular services.

VIII. How to Top up Vodafone SIM cards/eSIM

Tourists to Czech can top up their Vodafone SIM cards or eSIM in two major ways:

1. Online Top-up

  • Touch the “Top-up” section on the Vodafone website or My Vodafone app to top up your vodafone SIM. 
  • Make payment (credit/debit card).

2. Physical Top-up

  • Get to the Vodafone shops to top up your account
  • Provide your number and opt for a top-up amount. Store staff will help you top up
  • Make payment (CZK cash/credit/debit card)

IX. FAQs about Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM in Czech

Can I purchase a Vodafone eSIM before traveling to the Czech Republic?

Yes, Vodafone eSIMs can be conveniently bought online in advance (directly from Vodafone Czech or on Gigago website) which saves time over finding a store after arrival.

How can I add more data to my Vodafone SIM card while traveling?

You can easily top up your Vodafone SIM card balance with additional data packages online via the Vodafone website or at stores using cash or cards.

Is customer support available in English language?

Yes, Vodafone customer assistance is available 24/7 in both Czech and English through phone, online chat, or visiting one of their stores.

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, Vodafone SIM cards and eSIM offers an easy and cost-effective Internet connection while exploring the Czech Republic. Vodafone’s wide coverage and decent data speeds prove invaluable for maps navigation, calling and texting, and travel updates to sharing the best moments on social media. Whether you choose to buy a Vodafone SIM card or sign up for an eSIM option, just select the plan that best suits your preferences and trip length.