When travelling abroad an eSim is the best solution for using data or making calls without the hassle of hunting for a physical SIM card in the country you are in. With so many eSim card providers out there ,which is the best eSim in 2025 for your holiday in Europe?

What is an eSim?

An eSIM is like the modern, digital version of the old-school SIM card so instead of being a tiny plastic card you have to insert into your phone, an eSIM card is built right into your device.

I didn’t even know these existed until I started travelling through Europe and I needed a way of using data in all the countries I would be going through for Google Maps.

How do you use an eSim card?

Using an eSim is really easy, it’s like downloading an app on your phone. Here are some steps to activating and using your eSim:

1. Check if your phone can use an eSIM

First, make sure your phone or tablet can use an eSIM. Most newer devices have eSIMs built in. If you’re not sure check your device settings, normally under ‘Mobile Service’.

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2. Pick a plan

Decide which provider you want to get your eSIM from. You can find providers online through their websites. You can find links to the best eSim providers on this page.

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3. Scan a QR code or use an app

Once you’ve picked a plan, the provider will give you a QR code or a link with instructions to follow to get your eSim set up on your phone.

1. Go to Settings on your phone.
2. Look for something like Mobile Data, Cellular, or eSIM.
3. Tap Add eSIM or Add Data Plan.

Your phone will now set up your new eSIM.

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Step 4: Turn it on

Once the eSIM is set up, your phone will ask if you want to use it for calls, messages, or just the internet. Pick what you need, and make sure to turn on the new eSIM in your settings.

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Step 5: Load data (if needed)

If you bought a plan that needs extra data later, go to the provider’s website or app. You can top up (add more data) by paying for what you need.

10 best eSim providers for Europe:

1. Airalo

• Coverage: All 44 European countries.
• Price: Plans start at $4.99 for 1GB valid for 7 days.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds up to 150 Mbps.

Some downsides:

• Data-only plans, so no phone number provided.
• Some reviews say network speed can be a bit slow in some regions.

Here’s a link to Airlo’s official website.

2. Holafly

• Coverage: 32 European countries.
• Price: Offers unlimited data for $34.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds; tethering/hotspot not allowed.

The downsides:

• More expensive compared to other providers.
• No data tethering/hotspot allowed.
• Limited free call minutes within Europe.

Here’s a link to Holafly’s official website.

3. Ubigi

• Coverage: All 44 European countries.
• Price: $9 for 3GB valid for 30 days.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds up to 150 Mbps.

Some downsides:

• Data-only, so no support for incoming/outgoing calls and SMS.
• Website is a bit less user-friendly.

You can find a link to Ubigi’s official website here.

4. Bouygues Telecom

• Coverage: 20 European countries
• Price: $43 for 30GB valid for 30 days and $1.43 per for 1 GB
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Higher upfront cost.
• Activation process may be less straightforward.

To check out Bouygues telecom here a link to their website.

5. Truphone

• Coverage: All 44 European countries.
• Price: $15.30 for 1GB
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds up to 100 Mbps.

Downsides:

• Higher cost per GB for short-term plans.
• Data-only so no phone number provided.

Here’s a link to Truphone’s website.

6. DENT

• Coverage: All 44 countries in Europe.
• Price per 1GB: Plans start at $5 for 1GB.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Speeds may be slower compared to other providers.
• Data-only so no voice or SMS services.

Here’s a link to DENT’s website.

7. Surfroam

• Coverage: All 44 countries in Europe.
• Price: £8.34 for 1GB of data.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Limited data allowances.
• Data-only, no phone number provided.

You can check out Surfroam here.

8. MobiMatter

• Coverage: All 44 European countries.
• Price: $20 for 20GB valid for 30 days.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Data-only plans.
• Speeds and connectivity may vary by location.

Check out MobiMatter’s website here.

9. Flexiroam X

• Coverage: All 44 European Countries.
• Price: £5.41 for 1GB valid for 7 days.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Data-only; no voice or SMS services.
• Activation process may require additional steps.

Here’s the link to Flexiroam X’s website.

10. Orange Holiday Zen

• Coverage: 30 European countries.
• Price: €29.99 for 8GB valid for 14 days.
• Network Speeds: 4G/LTE speeds.

Downsides:

• Limited validity period.
• Higher cost per GB compared to some competitors.

Here’s a link to Orange Holiday Zen’s website.

The Best eSim card for Europe

Personally I use MobiMatter’s eSim card for when I am travelling through Europe. I only need data and they have some great data package offers. I have never had a connection problem and my friends who MobiMatter haven’t had any problems either.

Which eSim card provider do you use in Europe? What is your personal best? Let me know below.

To check out my personal journey though Europe ,starting in London, press here.