For travelers, having access to mobile internet in Italy is essential for staying connected, navigating, and accessing information on the go. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various options for getting mobile internet in Italy, including coverage, speed, connectivity options, data rates, and more. I. Mobile Internet Coverage and Speed in Italy 1. Italy […]
Buy Windtre SIM Cards and eSIM for tourists
Windtre is one of the major mobile network operators in Italy, offering coverage across the country with fast 4G speeds. This guide provides key information for tourists visiting Italy on getting connected with Windtre SIM cards or eSIM, including where to buy them, activation, top up options, and more.
In this article
I. Overview about Windtre – What you need to know
Windtre is a telecommunications company in Italy, operating since 2016 after the merger of Wind Telecomunicazioni and 3 Italia. Here are some key facts about Windtre:
- Founded: 2016 from the merger of Wind Telecomunicazioni and 3 Italia
- Full Company Name: Wind Tre S.p.A.
- Services: Mobile network operator providing phone, mobile broadband, and converged fixed/mobile services
- Subscribers: Over 30 million mobile customers as of 2022
- Coverage: Provides service to 99.7% of the Italian population
- Stores and Partners: Over 3,500 Windtre branded stores and other authorized partner retailers
- Customer Support: Provides customer support in Italian and English via phone, chat, email, and social media
II. Windtre Coverage in Italy
- Windtre has over 22,000 4G sites across Italy’s 20 regions
- Provides 4G outdoor coverage to 99.7% of the Italian population
- Also covers major roads, highways, smaller towns and villages
- Partner domestic roaming with TIM expands 4G reach
III. Windtre Speed in Italy
- Average Download Speed: 29.2 Mbps (Opensignal Nov 2023)
- Average Upload Speed: 9.4 Mbps
- Capable of 300 Mbps+ peak download speeds with compatible devices
- Fast speeds for streaming, gaming, video calls when traveling
By choosing Windtre, tourists can stay connected and enjoy a seamless mobile experience throughout their trip in Italy, whether they need to navigate, share photos and videos, or stay in touch with friends and family.
IV. Does Windtre Have eSIM in Italy?
Yes, Windtre launched eSIM support for prepaid plans in 2020. An eSIM or embedded SIM is a digital version installed in your phone eliminating the need for a physical nano SIM card. What benefits does eSIM bring to you?
- Easier setup – Activated remotely without visiting store
- Dual SIM capability – Use your regular SIM and local data SIM together
- More security – Can’t be lost or stolen like physical SIM
- Greater convenience – Quickly switch plans or operators when traveling
Using eSIM technology makes getting connected even more straightforward without the hassle of finding then inserting SIM cards.
Note: Your phone needs to be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-equipped in order to work with eSIM. Check how to know if your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM with our guides.
V. Top Windtre SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Windtre prepaid SIM cards don’t require registration making them very convenient for foreign visitors. The best value Tourist Pass packages include:
- Price: $15.50/month
- Valid for 30 days upon activation with no contracts
- Includes 70GB of 5G data with speeds up to 1Gbps
- Unlimited calls to Italian numbers
- 100 minutes to call 53 countries internationally
- Extra minutes can be purchased for $5.20
- 15GB EU data and 3GB Switzerland data
- Tethering included at no extra cost
- One-time $10.50 SIM activation fee
Purchase is simple at any WINDTRE store by showing your passport. Considering the data, call minutes and reliability of WINDTRE’s network, it offers reliable connectivity at a reasonable price throughout a visitor’s trip to Italy and potentially parts of Europe.
Note: You should check the updated price and plan on Wintre’s website.
VI. Where to Buy a Windtre SIM card?
Windtre SIM cards are available from:
- Windtre Stores: These official stores are widely available in major cities and airports across Italy. You can purchase a physical SIM card, choose a plan, and activate it on the spot.
- Carrefour, Esselunga, and other partner stores: Many major retailers and supermarkets sell Windtre SIM cards. Options and availability may vary compared to official stores.
- Airport & City Kiosks: Most major airports in Italy have mobile kiosks or convenience stores selling Windtre SIM cards. Prices might be slightly higher than other locations.
Buying in-store tends to be most expensive but lets you get connected promptly after arriving. Airport and tourist area shops offer convenience despite fewer plan choices and inflated rates.
VII. Where to Buy Windtre eSIM for Italy?
To get Windtre Italy eSIM you can:
1. Book eSIM online
Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Windtre website and navigate to the Tourist SIM section.
- Select the Windtre Tourist eSIM option.
- Choose your desired data package. Options range from 1GB to 20GB.
- Enter your email address and billing information.
- Once your purchase is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with a QR code and activation instructions.
The entire process is done online, so you won’t need to visit any physical stores. Plus, activation is instantaneous, so you can start using your eSIM as soon as you receive the QR code.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- You’ll need an eSIM-compatible phone to use Windtre eSIM. Check your phone’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
- Windtre eSIM is a prepaid option, so you’ll need to top up your data credit if you run out.
- Windtre eSIM is only available for tourists. If you’re planning to stay in Italy for an extended period, you might need to consider a different option.
2. Windtre Stores – Quick with expert support but harder to find
3. Third party provider
Third party eSIM providers like GIGAGO simplify getting connected. They email eSIM profiles for easy self-activation with QR code. This lets you skip finding and visiting operator stores once in-country.
For Italy, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $3.00 , so reasonable for a short trip. Moreover, what is great about Gigago’s Italy eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, vary between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Italy, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
VIII. How to Top-up Windtre SIM/eSIM
Adding more credit to extend service is straightforward:
- Online – Fast and simple using Windtre website
- Windtre App – Conveniently add credit through the mobile app
- Retail Outlets – Purchase and add top-up voucher codes
You receive SMS confirmation once additional credit successfully applied to account. Check remaining balances by dialing *#448##*.
Auto-renewal also activates on most SIM only plans when credit remains to keep your service and unused data active.
IX. FAQs about Windtre in Italy
What identification is required to buy Windtre SIM?
Prepaid SIM purchase only requires passport or travel ID. No registration needed.
Can I use Windtre SIM in Europe?
Yes, SIMs work throughout 71 European destinations. Roaming beyond included data charged.
How is Windtre coverage outside cities?
4G signal strong along highways and smaller towns with over 22,000 sites.
How to check Windtre data balance?
Log into your account or text SALDO to 4800951 to receive balance over SMS.
How to contact Windtre support?
Available in Italian and English via phone, chat, social media, email, and stores.
X. Conclusion
Windtre makes staying connected across Italy easy whether you need a SIM card or eSIM. Tourist SIM card plans start from $5 and can be purchased at arrival airports, main train stations or online for self-pickup. eSIM profiles from providers like GIGAGO offer added convenience to use dual SIM features. With various bundles catering to different usage needs, Windtre lets you stay connected across Italy to map travel, upload pictures, and keep your devices online.