Travelling around Europe is amazing, but it's also one of those places where your phone quietly runs the whole trip.
I've lost count of how many times I've needed data just to keep things from going wrong, like realising I was on the wrong train in Italy and having about 3 minutes to figure out where to get off, or standing in a small town in Austria with no signs, no people, and zero idea which way the hiking trail actually started.
Even in big cities, you need data for the basics: scanning QR menus, checking last-minute platform changes, or calling a ride when public transport randomly stops running.
A multi-country trip in Europe looks easy on paper because borders are close together, but that's exactly where connectivity gets annoying.
I used to buy local SIM cards, one in Spain, another in Germany, and it was always a bit of a gamble.
A regional eSIM simplified everything.
Now I buy a plan online, scan a QR code, and my phone works as soon as I land. No hunting for SIM shops, no swapping cards, no worrying whether my data will disappear halfway through a train ride.
In this guide, I'll break down the best regional eSIM plan for Europe in 2026, what they cost, where they work well, and who they actually make sense for.
P.S. Keep reading to snag some sweet exclusive discount codes for BATW readers!
READ ALSO: Best eSIM for The USA Best eSIM for New Zealand Best eSIM for Australia Best eSIM for Vietnam
TLDR; My Europe eSIM Recommendation
Throwback to one of my first trips in Europe – Cinque Terre, Italy
Best eSIM for 7 Days in Europe: Strong eSIM
Best eSIM for 30 Days in Europe: Ubigi
Overall Best eSIM for Europe: Ubigi
Instead of juggling country-specific eSIMs, I focus here on Europe‑regional plans – the ones that let you travel across most of Europe with a single eSIM.
The key difference between them comes down to trip length and travel style: some are ideal for long, work-heavy stays, while others shine on short hops where simplicity, flexibility, and predictable pricing matter most.
For a week-long trip across Europe, my top pick is Strong eSIM.
What really makes Strong stand out for short travel is the customisation. You don't have to pay for a huge package you won't use, and you aren't stuck with tiny, restrictive day plans that run out mid-trip when you need maps, messaging, or a quick upload to share memories.
Even better, if you find yourself running low, you can just grab an extra 200 MB or 1 GB instantly – no big commitments, no overpaying, no fuss.
Hotspot is supported too, which is a lifesaver if you're sharing data with a travel buddy or using a laptop for maps, research, or streaming while waiting for a train.
For me, Strong felt like a safety net that gave freedom without breaking the budget — the kind of plan you don't have to stress over, so you can just focus on exploring.
For longer stays in Europe, Ubigi is my go-to.
Its wide coverage means you don't need multiple eSIMs or extra top-ups to fill gaps, and it's surprisingly cost-efficient when you calculate the price per country.
Top-ups are super smooth too. I've had to add data mid-trip — on a train crossing France, while my laptop was tethered — and it worked perfectly without Wi-Fi.
The hotspot feature is also unlimited, so I can share my connection with my laptop or travel buddy with zero hassle.
In the next section, I'll break down how Ubigi compares with other eSIMs, so you can pick the plan that fits your travel style best.
Summary Of The Best eSIMs In Europe
| eSIM | Data Coverage | Coverage Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIMOVO | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB, 50GB, Unlimited | Customisable | USD 1.60 – USD 324 |
| Ubigi | 500 MB, 1GB, 3 GB, 5GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, 25 GB, 50 GB, Unlimited | 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, annually | USD 2 – USD 119 |
| Eskimo | 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 30 GB | 2-year validity | USD 2.5 – USD 75 |
| Strong eSIM | 1 GB, 1.5 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, 50 GB | 1 day, 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, 3 months, 6 months | USD 2.9 – USD 195.9 |
| Holafly | Unlimited | Customisable | Starting from USD 3.9 |
| Vuoly | 1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 13 GB, 20 GB, 26 GB, 40 GB, 50 GB, Unlimited | 7 days, 10 days, 15 days, 28 days, 30 days, 90 days | USD 5 – USD 100 |
| Zensim | 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, Unlimited | 10 days, 30 days | USD 13 – USD 57 |
| Simify | 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, 30 GB, 45 GB, 60 GB, 100GB, Unlimited | 7 days, 20 days, 30 days, 45 days, 60 days, 90 days | USD 18 – USD 144 |
Best eSIM For 7 Days In Europe
| eSIM | Plan | Data | Price | Price per GB |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubigi | 7 days | 10 GB | USD 12 | USD 1.20/ GB |
| Eskimo | 7 days | 5 GB | USD 9 | USD 1.80/ GB |
| SIMOVO | 7 days | 5 GB | USD 11.40 | USD 2.28/ day |
| Zensim | 10 days | 5 GB | USD 13 | USD 2.60/ GB |
| Strong eSIM | 30 days | 5 GB | USD 14.8 | USD 2.96/ GB |
| Simify | 7 days | 5 GB | USD 18 | USD 3.60/ GB |
| Vuoly | 30 days | 5 GB | USD 20 | USD 4/ GB |
| Holafly | 7 days | Unlimited | USD 27.30 | USD 3.90/ day |
Ubigi is my top pick for a short Europe trip, and it's not just because of the price. While the minimum plans start from 10 GB, their 7-day, 10 GB plan costs USD 12 (USD 1.20/GB), which is already great value, but what really sets Ubigi apart is how well it behaves when you're moving between countries.
I used Ubigi on a fast-paced route through Italy, Austria, and Germany — lots of trains, border crossings, and city hopping. The connection felt stable the whole time, especially around major transport hubs where some eSIMs tend to struggle.
Ubigi uses strong European carrier partnerships, so handovers between countries are smooth, not the “no signal for 10 minutes” situation you sometimes get. For a week-long Europe itinerary where you're bouncing around, this reliability matters more than people realise.
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Eskimo surprised me with how competitive it is for short trips. Their 7-day, 5 GB plan is USD 9 (USD 1.80/GB), which makes it one of the cheapest European options on this list.
I tested Eskimo mostly in Spain and southern France for navigation, WhatsApp, and light browsing. Speeds were solid in cities, setup was instant, and hotspot worked without issues.
Where Eskimo falls slightly short is consistency once you start crossing borders quickly — it's more of an all-round decent eSIM than one deeply optimised for Europe specifically. Still, for a single-country trip or slower travel, it's an excellent value.
SIMOVO is interesting because it looks cheap at first glance. Their 7-day, 5 GB plan costs USD 11.40 (USD 2.28/GB), which is competitive on paper.
In practice, SIMOVO's strength is stability rather than speed bursts. It worked well for Google Maps, ride-hailing apps, and emails across Western Europe. However, SIMOVO's daily allowance structure means that instead of giving you one big pool of data to use however you want over your whole trip, it gives you a set amount of high‑speed data each day that resets every 24 hours.
For example, a plan might include 2GB of fast data per day: you can use that 2GB at full speed on anything from maps to streaming, but once you hit that daily limit, the remaining data for the day stays available only at much slower speeds until the next reset.
This approach can help travellers budget their data in smaller, predictable chunks and avoid burning through a lump sum early in the trip, but it also means you need to be aware of your usage each day rather than treating it like one total allowance for the entire period.
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ZenSim sits somewhere in the middle. Their 5 GB plan costs USD 13 and lasts 10 days (USD 2.60/GB), which is actually nice if your trip is slightly longer than a week.
What I like about ZenSim is flexibility — topping up is easy, and you're not locked into exact 7-day timing. I used it in Central Europe (Czech Republic and Hungary), and it handled day-to-day usage without issues. That said, for strict 7-day trips, you're paying a bit more per GB than Ubigi or Eskimo, so it's better suited for relaxed itineraries rather than fast city-hopping.
If you're travelling for a week across Europe, Strong eSIM is a very customisable and flexible choice. You can pick exactly how much data you'll need, from 1 GB up to 50 GB, and the eSIM works across 30+ or 40+ European countries.
Hotspot is supported too, which is handy if you're sharing with a travel buddy or connecting a laptop. Keep in mind, Strong eSIM is data-only, so phone numbers aren't included — but apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and email work seamlessly.
Simify is the second most expensive option here for short European trips. Their 7-day, 5 GB plan costs USD 18 (USD 3.60/GB), and yes — that's steep compared to the others.
That said, Simify is the one I trust when coverage matters more than cost. It runs on strong local networks and tends to hold signal better in rural areas, smaller towns, and during long train journeys.
If your European trip includes road trips, countryside stays, or places where you really don't want your map to drop, Simify earns its price — but purely for value, it's not my first choice for 7 days.
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Vuoly – Their 30-day, 5 GB plan costs USD 20 (USD 4/GB), which isn't the cheapest per gig, but it makes sense if you care more about network quality than volume.
What stands out with Vuoly is network access. It connects to major Tier-1 carriers across Europe – names like Orange, Vodafone, TIM, EE, O2, and Bouygues Telecom, with 5G available in many countries and LTE as a fallback. In real terms, that means you're usually on the same networks locals use, rather than being pushed onto weaker secondary carriers.
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Holafly – If you're the kind of traveller who doesn't want to think twice about data while bouncing between countries, Holafly is the easiest, no-brainer option for Europe. It's the most expensive pick on this list, but you're paying for pure convenience.
Holafly really shines if your Europe trip involves multiple countries. There's no switching plans, no worrying about borders, and no sudden data cut-offs when you hop from one country to another. Speeds were solid in cities and tourist areas, and for everyday travel needs, it just works quietly in the background.
One thing to note: hotspot usage is limited, so it's not ideal if you plan to tether a laptop all day. But for phone-based navigation, messaging, bookings, and social media, it's hard to beat.
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Best eSIM For 30 Days In Europe
| eSIM | Plan | Data | Price | Price per GB |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubigi | 30 days | 25 GB | USD 32 | USD 1.28/ GB |
| SIMOVO | 30 days | 20 GB | USD 33.6 | USD 1.68/ GB |
| Eskimo | 30 days | 10 GB | USD 18 | USD 1.8/ GB |
| Zensim | 30 days | 20 GB | USD 29 | USD 1.9/ GB |
| Strong eSIM | 30 days | 20 GB | USD 42.9 | USD 2.15/ GB |
| Vuoly | 30 days | 20 GB | USD 45 | USD 2.25/ GB |
| Simify | 30 days | 20 GB | USD 45 | USD 2.25/ GB |
| Holafly | 30 days | Unlimited | USD 74.9 | USD 2.5/ day |
Ubigi is my top choice for 30 days in Europe. Their 25 GB plan costs USD 32 (USD 1.28/GB), which hits a rare sweet spot between price, coverage, and long-term reliability.
The network performance is especially noticeable over time. Even after weeks of daily use — maps, hotspotting a laptop, uploads, video calls — it stayed stable. For a month-long trip where you don't want to think about your data again after day one, Ubigi is the easiest “set it and forget it” option.
SIMOVO is a close second and offers solid value. Their 20 GB plan for 30 days costs USD 33.60 (USD 1.68/GB), which is competitive and fair.
SIMOVO is best if your travel is more structured rather than winging it as you go, like staying in cities and using data mainly for maps, messaging, or work. It's reliable for day-to-day use, but unlike Ubigi, it has a daily data allowance (more on that in our Detailed Comparison below), so you need to keep an eye on how much you use each day — especially if you're sharing your connection via hotspot.
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Eskimo can look appealing at first glance, especially for light travellers. Their 10GB plan for 30 days costs USD 18 (USD 1.80/GB), which makes it the cheapest among the other brands we're comparing.
This plan works best if you're mostly connected to Wi-Fi at cafés, hotels, or hostels, and only need mobile data for essentials like navigation, messaging, or quick online check-ins. However, it's worth noting that Eskimo caps its 30-day plans at just 10GB, which can feel limiting if you're regularly using Google Maps, public transport apps, or hotspotting on the go.
For heavier data users, that allowance can disappear faster than expected. Still, if you're on a short city trip or simply want a low-cost backup eSIM without spending much, Eskimo remains a reasonable and budget-friendly option.
ZenSim sits comfortably in the middle. Their 20 GB plan costs USD 29 (USD 1.90/GB), which is good value, especially if you like flexibility.
What ZenSim does well is control – top-ups are easy and can be done in any amount that you feel would suit the remainder of your trip. I liked this flexibility of purchasing, without needing to buy another huge plan, and extending your plan doesn't feel stressful. I've used it during slower travel months where I wasn't bouncing countries every few days, and it held up well.
Strong eSIM stood out for one simple reason: flexibility. On a 3-week Europe trip hopping between Spain, France, and Italy — with a mix of fast travel days and slower small-town stays – the 20GB plan felt deliberately sized, not restrictive. I could navigate constantly, upload photos on the go, and hotspot my laptop when Wi-Fi was unreliable, without having to constantly check my remaining data.
What makes Strong eSIM different from many competitors is how adjustable their plans are. Instead of forcing you into a one-size-fits-all package, you can scale data and duration to match how you actually travel — whether that's a short city break or a longer multi-country route.
There's no phone number included, but if your priority is reliable data across borders rather than calls or SMS, that trade-off makes sense.
Simify is the most expensive option here for a 30-day stay. Their 20 GB plan costs USD 45 (USD 2.25/GB).
That said, Simify's strength is dependability. If you're working remotely, travelling through less touristy areas, or simply want the most consistent signal possible, Simify delivers. I've had fewer dead zones with Simify in rural areas compared to some cheaper eSIMs. Still, purely on value, it's hard to justify over Ubigi unless coverage reliability is your absolute top priority.
Vuoly – At USD 45 (USD 2.25/GB), it's priced for travellers spending a full month in Europe who want reliable data without paying for unlimited they may not fully use.
This plan works across 42 European countries, so it's well-suited for month-long itineraries where you might base yourself in one country and take side trips across borders.
For longer travel, network stability matters more than headline speeds. Vuoly connects to major European carriers like Vodafone, Orange, TIM, EE, O2, and Bouygues Telecom, offering 5G in many countries and solid LTE coverage elsewhere.
This is a data-only eSIM, so no phone number or SMS is included. That's usually not a deal-breaker, as apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Zoom work perfectly, but it's worth noting if you rely on traditional calls or SMS.
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Holafly – What makes Holafly work well for a 30-day Europe trip is the unlimited data across multiple countries. You can cross borders without changing plans, swapping eSIMs, or worrying about sudden cut-offs. I found this especially useful when hopping between cities and countries where you're constantly using Google Maps, checking train schedules, booking accommodation, and translating menus on the fly.
Speeds are generally strong in major cities and popular travel routes, and for day-to-day travel use — navigation, messaging, social media, ride-hailing, and streaming a bit in the evenings — it's reliable.
You don't get a local number, and hotspot usage is limited, so it's not ideal if you're planning to work remotely from a laptop full-time. But for phone-based travel needs, it does exactly what it promises.
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Best Unlimited eSIM For Europe
| Provider | Countries Covered | Price ( 30-Day Plan) | Price per Day | Hotspot Allowed | High-Speed Data Cap per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vuoly Unlimited | 42 | USD 35 | USD 1.17/day | Yes | 3 GB/day high-speed, then throttled |
| SIMOVO Unlimited | 30+ | USD 45 | USD 1.50/day | Limited / not ideal | 0.5–3 GB/day (plan-based) |
| Ubigi Unlimited | ~37–39 | USD 57 | USD 1.90/day | Yes | Fair use (not publicly defined) |
| Zensim Unlimited | 39 | USD 57 | USD 1.90/day | Yes | 3 GB/day high-speed, then throttled |
| Simify Unlimited | 43 | USD 59 | USD 1.96/day | Yes | No cap (true unlimited) |
| Holafly | 40+ | USD 74.9 | USD 2.5/ day | Yes | Hotspot is limited to ~1 GB/day |
#1 Simify Unlimited
Best for: Most extensive Europe destination coverage
Simify's standout option is the Unlimited Europe & UK eSIM, which covers 43 countries across the continent — basically everywhere you're likely to travel from Portugal to Poland and from Ireland down to Italy.
What makes it easy to recommend is that the data is truly unlimited, and you can stretch it for up to 90 days. That means no stress about monitoring usage while you're on trains, booking last-minute stays, uploading stories, or navigating cities you've never been to before.
Pricing:
- Unlimited for 7 days – USD 27 (USD 3.85/day)
- Unlimited for 15 days – USD 40 (USD 2.66/day)
- Unlimited for 21 days – USD 51 (USD 2.42/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 59 (USD 1.96/day)
- Unlimited for 45 days – USD 81 (USD 1.80/day)
- Unlimited for 60 days – USD 108 (USD 1.80/day)
- Unlimited for 90 days – USD 149 (USD 1.65/day)
This plan is especially good for travellers with heavy data needs — working remotely, doing lots of uploads, or planning longer multi‑city trips.
What I like most about Simify is the real unlimited data (and ability to hotspot) – nothing kills momentum faster than watching data tick down on day 2 of a long trip.
With Simify's Unlimited plans, you genuinely don't have to ration, which makes travel much less stressful. You also avoid roaming shockers — there's no need to worry about local SIM shops, registration requirements, or roaming fees when crossing borders.
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Order a Simify Unlimited Europe & UK eSIM here
#2 Ubigi Unlimited
Best for: Uninterrupted cross‑country performance
Ubigi's Europe plan is an excellent choice if you want strong performance and a reliable connection across borders. It covers roughly 37–39 countries, including all popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the UK.
The thing that really stands out is the network switching — once installed, Ubigi moves between networks automatically as you cross country lines, without interruptions. It's also hotspot‑friendly, so you can connect multiple devices.
Prices are a bit higher than ultra‑budget eSIMs, but given how much territory one eSIM covers, it's solid value.
Pricing:
- Unlimited for 7 days – USD 26 (USD 3.71/day)
- Unlimited for 10 days – USD 29 (USD 2.90/day)
- Unlimited for 15 days – USD 49 (USD 3.27/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 57 (USD 1.90/day)
Ubigi is ideal for travellers who want smooth cross‑country performance and flexibility without a lot of restrictions.
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Order an Unlimited Ubigi plan for Europe here
#3 Holafly
Best for: trips where you don't want to track data or manage top-ups
Holafly is all about simplicity.
You get unlimited data across Europe at 4G/5G speeds, and it works seamlessly across multiple countries without needing to change plans when you cross borders. If your trip involves moving fast between cities (or countries) and you just want your data to work without thinking about it, this is where Holafly shines.
Coverage is strong across major European cities and transport routes, making it reliable for navigation, bookings, messaging, and everyday travel use. It's the kind of eSIM you forget about once it's installed, which is honestly what most people want.
That said, there are a couple of limitations worth knowing. Hotspot sharing is capped at around 1 GB per day, so while it's fine for quick laptop tasks or emergencies, it's not ideal if you plan to work remotely full-time or tether multiple devices.
Like most unlimited plans, heavy usage may also be subject to fair use policies, though for normal travel use this rarely becomes an issue.
Pricing (Europe):
- Unlimited for 7 days – USD 27.30 (USD 3.90/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 74.90 (USD 2.50/day)
If you're hopping between European countries and don't want to manage data caps, top-ups, or multiple eSIMs, Holafly's unlimited plans make travel a lot more relaxed.
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Order a Holafly eSIM for Europe here
#4 Zensim Unlimited
Best for: Simple, fuss-free unlimited plan
Zensim offers unlimited data across 39 European countries, much like Ubigi, but with a slightly different usage structure. Instead of one big pool of high‑speed data, Zensim gives you up to 3GB of high‑speed data per day, then throttles to slower speeds (1 Mbps) after that. For most travellers, that's still enough for navigation, messaging, light streaming, and social uploads.
Top‑ups are available if you need extra on a heavy day, and setup is fast via scanning a QR code that's sent to your email upon purchase.
Pricing:
- Unlimited for 10 days – USD 29 (USD 2.90/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 57 (USD 1.90/day)
This is a good choice if your trip is between 1 and 4 weeks and you want simple, unlimited‑style coverage without juggling more complicated plans.
Order a Zensim Unlimited for Europe here
#5 SIMOVO Unlimited
Best for: Budget-friendly unlimited eSIM plan
SIMOVO is the most budget‑oriented option here and works well if you know you won't be using heavy amounts of data or if your trip is more city‑based. It covers 30+ European countries, which is slightly less than the top picks, and offers daily high‑speed data allowances that reset every 24 hours — from 500MB up to 3GB per day depending on the plan you choose.
This structure helps you avoid burning through all your data early in the trip, and it's easy to predict what you'll use each day. It's not ideal if you're sharing lots of data or hotspotting frequently, but for navigation, messaging, or light browsing, it's a sensible pick that keeps costs tight.
Pricing:
- 500MB/day for 1 day – USD 1.50/day
- 500MB/day for 2 days – USD 1.50/day
- 1GB/day for 3 days – USD 1.50/day
- 1.5GB/day for 4 days – USD 1.50/day
- 2GB/day for 5 days – USD 1.50/day
- 3GB/day for 7 days – USD 1.50/day
- Custom plan options up to 30 days available.
SIMOVO works best for travellers who want predictable daily data and are fine with lighter usage.
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Order a SIMOVO Unlimited for Europe here
#6 Vuoly Unlimited
Best for: Fixed-length Europe trips with consistent daily usage
Vuoly's Unlimited plan ranks lower not because of poor performance, but because of limited flexibility. Vuoly only offers fixed-duration unlimited plans, which can be inconvenient for longer or open-ended Europe trips.
For example, if you buy a 10-day unlimited plan for a short Europe itinerary and later decide to extend your trip by another 2–3 weeks, you can't simply extend or top up your existing plan. You'd need to purchase a brand-new plan and reinstall or switch eSIMs, which adds friction mid-trip.
In terms of network quality, speed, and day-to-day reliability across Europe, Vuoly actually performs very well and could easily rank higher. Its lower placement is purely about plan structure, not connectivity.
- Unlimited for 10 days – USD 35 (USD 3.50/day)
The 10-day Unlimited plan works across 42 European countries, which already puts it ahead of several “budget” eSIMs. It connects to strong Tier-1 European carriers and supports 5G where available, so speeds feel fast and consistent in major cities and transport corridors.
Vuoly uses a fair-use structure rather than hard caps. You get up to 3 GB of high-speed data per day, and once that's used, speeds drop to 1 Mbps.
Importantly, your data doesn't stop — maps, messaging, bookings, and emails still work — and full speeds automatically reset the next day.
In practice, this feels much more forgiving than strict daily limits, especially if you occasionally have heavier usage days.
It's a data-only eSIM (no phone number or SMS), but hotspot and tethering are supported, so sharing data with a laptop or second device works without issues.
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Order a Vuoly Unlimited eSIM for Europe here
eSIM I Don't Recommend For Europe
First off — SIMOVO isn't a bad eSIM. It works well, installs instantly, and offers high-speed 4G/5G across Europe's top networks.
You get hotspot/tethering, daily high-speed allowances, and flexible plans from 500MB/day up to 2GB/day, making it versatile for longer or more data-heavy trips.
Many travellers find it reliable for navigation, streaming, and staying connected across multiple countries.
But after using it alongside other Europe-focused eSIMs, it doesn't feel as travel-friendly for typical European trips — and the main reason is price.
Higher Cost per GB
SIMOVO's unlimited or daily high-speed plans are solid in features, but they're noticeably pricier than competitors like Ubigi.
For example, 2GB/day for 7 days costs USD 75.60 (USD 5.40/GB), 14 days is USD 151.20, and 30 days jumps to USD 324.00. For short-to-mid length trips, this can feel excessive, especially when other eSIMs deliver comparable coverage at a fraction of the cost.
More Generalist Than Europe-Focused
SIMOVO works across multiple regions and supports daily high-speed quotas, but for travellers focusing on Europe, I prefer eSIMs that are optimised for European carriers such as Vodafone, O2, and more – they often handle roaming and city-to-city transitions with fewer speed fluctuations.
Plan Options Can Feel Overwhelming
While the range of customizable daily allowances is useful for power users, most travellers only need a clear weekly or monthly plan. SIMOVO's daily data options can feel more complicated than the straightforward packages offered by Simify or Ubigi.
In short, SIMOVO delivers excellent network performance and flexibility, but for Europe-specific travel, the price and daily quota setup make it less convenient than other eSIMs on my list. That's why I place it lower in ranking; it works and has great features, but other options offer better value for typical Europe trips.
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Order SIMOVO for Europe here
Detailed Comparison Of eSIMs For Europe
| Feature | Simify | Ubigi | Zensim | Eskimo | Simovo | Holafly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotspot / Tethering | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes – but limited |
| Europe Countries Covered | 43 | 30–35+ (depending on plan) | 39 | 42 | 30+ | 40+ |
| Single eSIM Install | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (one global eSIM) | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data Option | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Top-ups Available | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Data Structure | Unlimited & Fixed | Unlimited & Fixed | Unlimited | Fixed | Unlimited | Unlimited data at 4G/5G speeds |
| Unique Feature | True unlimited options for Europe | Strong network stability & reputable brand | Predictable daily unlimited usage | One global eSIM usable across regions for up to 2 years | Very low daily cost unlimited plans | Borderless European coverage with unlimited data |
| Best For | Long trips with heavy daily data use | Travellers who want stability and fewer speed drops across borders | Short trips where daily usage is consistent | Long-term travellers who want one eSIM that works worldwide | Budget travellers who use light data daily | Travellers visiting multiple European countries |
| Cons | Limited flexibility if you need to adjust data mid-trip | Europe coverage varies by plan and can be confusing | Daily speed caps can feel restrictive for hotspot users | 30-day plans capped at 10GB maximum | Not suitable for hotspotting or heavy daily usage | More expensive than data-capped alternatives |
#1 Ubigi eSIM For Europe
After trying countless eSIMs across Europe — from Barcelona's bustling streets to train rides through Germany and remote hikes in Slovenia — Ubigi is one of the few that consistently just works. It's not perfect, but it hits the sweet spot between price, coverage, and everyday reliability, which is exactly what you need when you're hopping between countries, cities, and time zones.
Ubigi uses a single eSIM profile that stays on your phone once installed. This means you don't need to reinstall a new eSIM every time you travel, whether you're returning to Europe or heading somewhere completely different like the US or Asia. For each new trip, you simply purchase a new data plan and activate it on the same Ubigi eSIM profile.
Ubigi even lets you select a virtual IP address for your home country, which might seem like a small feature, but it can be surprisingly useful. This means that when you're abroad, your device appears to be browsing from your home country, allowing you to access apps, streaming services, or websites that are region‑locked.
For example, you could watch your usual streaming shows, access local banking apps, or use government portals just like you would at home — all without needing a VPN or worrying about blocked content. For frequent travellers who rely on certain apps or services, this small detail can save a lot of frustration and keep your online experience seamless.
And if something goes wrong, there's a 14‑day refund policy for technical issues, which is reassuring when you're buying ahead of time.
Pros:
- Covers ~37 European countries (Western, Central, parts of Eastern Europe)
- Reliable cross-border connection without manual resets
- Supports unlimited hotspot sharing
- Option to select virtual IP for home country
- Easy top-ups and 14-day refund policy
Cons:
- Slightly higher price than some budget options
- Unlimited speed plans have fair use limits
Here are some Ubigi Europe Plans:
Short Trips & Light Use
- 500 MB for 2 days – USD 2 (USD 4.00/GB)
- 1 GB for 7 days – USD 4 (USD 4.00/GB)
- 3 GB for 15 days – USD 6 (USD 2.00/GB)
- 3 GB for 30 days – USD 7 (USD 2.33/GB)
Balanced Mid‑Range Plans
- 10 GB for 7 days – USD 12 (USD 1.20/GB)
- 10 GB for 30 days – USD 14 (USD 1.40/GB)
- 25 GB for 30 days – USD 32 (USD 1.28/GB)
- 50 GB for 30 days – USD 39 (USD 0.78/GB)
Heavy Use & Unlimited Options
- Unlimited for 7 days – USD 28 (USD 4.00/day)
- Unlimited for 15 days – USD 39 (USD 2.60/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 69 (USD 2.30/day)
- Unlimited extended plans – up to USD 119 (for frequent travellers or longer stays)
Longer or Recurring Needs
- 20 GB/month Unlimited – USD 13/month (Europe) — great if you're a slow traveller or digital nomad returning frequently
- Annual 24 GB (2 GB/mo) – USD 24 — surprisingly good value if you travel Europe regularly
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Order a Ubigi eSIM for Europe here
#2 Strong eSIM For Europe
Strong eSIM feels like the Swiss Army knife of European eSIMs, you can literally tailor it to whatever kind of trip you're taking.
Whether you're hopping between countries for a week, staying put in one city for a month, or even planning a longer stretch, there's a plan to match.
I tested it on a multi-country itinerary – from Vienna to Brussels, and then down to Zagreb, and the flexibility really shone. I could pick exactly how much data I needed and for how long, without wasting anything.
Installation is instant and entirely digital: no physical SIM, no fuss. Once it's on your phone, you can start using it immediately in over 30 European regions.
It also lets you share your connection via hotspot, which came in handy when travelling with friends or working remotely on the go.
Plus, there's peace of mind: if your eSIM isn't activated or doesn't work even after support attempts, there's a full refund policy, which is reassuring when buying ahead of time.
Pros:
- Ability to choose GB and validity to fit any trip length
- Covers 30+ or 40+ European areas depending on the plan
- 5G-ready with daily reset data plans for predictable usage
- Supports hotspot and tethering across multiple devices
- Instant eSIM, no physical SIM needed
- Refund policy if eSIM fails to work after support attempts
Cons:
- Data-only; no phone number included
- Can feel overwhelming to choose the “right plan” with so many options
- Slightly pricier for high-volume users compared to budget eSIMs
Europe (30+ areas):
- 300 MB for 1 Day – USD 2.90 (USD 9.67/GB)
- 500 MB for 1 Day – USD 2.90 (USD 5.80/GB)
- 1 GB for 1 Day – USD 3.90 (USD 3.90/GB)
- 1 GB for 7 Days – USD 3.90 (USD 3.90/GB)
- 1 GB for 1 Month – USD 2.90 (USD 2.90/GB)
- 1.5 GB for 1 Day – USD 5.90 (USD 3.93/GB)
- 2 GB for 1 Day – USD 7.90 (USD 3.95/GB)
- 3 GB for 1 Day – USD 11.90 (USD 3.97/GB)
- 3 GB for 15 Days – USD 9.90 (USD 3.30/GB)
- 3 GB for 1 Month – USD 9.90 (USD 3.30/GB)
- 5 GB for 1 Month – USD 14.90 (USD 2.98/GB)
- 10 GB for 1 Month – USD 24.90 (USD 2.49/GB)
- 20 GB for 1 Month – USD 42.90 (USD 2.15/GB)
- 20 GB for 3 Months – USD 43.90 (USD 2.20/GB)
- 50 GB for 1 Month – USD 85.90 (USD 1.72/GB)
- 50 GB for 6 Months – USD 91.90 (USD 1.84/GB)
Europe (40+ areas):
- 500 MB for 1 Day – USD 4.90 (USD 9.80/GB)
- 1 GB for 1 Day – USD 7.90 (USD 7.90/GB)
- 1 GB for 7 Days – USD 7.90 (USD 7.90/GB)
- 2 GB for 1 Day – USD 10.90 (USD 5.45/GB)
- 3 GB for 15 Days – USD 18.90 (USD 6.30/GB)
- 3 GB for 1 Month – USD 18.90 (USD 6.30/GB)
- 5 GB for 1 Month – USD 27.90 (USD 5.58/GB)
- 10 GB for 1 Month – USD 47.90 (USD 4.79/GB)
- 10 GB for 1 Month – USD 48.90 (USD 4.89/GB)
- 20 GB for 1 Month – USD 80.90 (USD 4.05/GB)
- 20 GB for 1 Month – USD 81.90 (USD 4.10/GB
- 20 GB for 3 Months – USD 85.90 (USD 4.30/GB)
- 50 GB for 6 Months – USD 195.90 (USD 3.92/GB)
Personally, I appreciated the ability to pick a plan for each leg of my trip without overbuying, which made European travel feel smoother and less stressful.
Order a Strong eSIM for Europe here
#3 Holafly eSIM For Europe
Holafly is one of those eSIMs that shines when you don't want to think about data at all.
What makes Holafly different from most Europe eSIMs is its true unlimited data model. Instead of buying fixed GB bundles and watching your usage climb, you simply choose how many days you need and use your phone normally. Maps, translations, social media, bookings, streaming — everything just runs in the background without you constantly checking your data balance.
Holafly uses a single Europe eSIM that works across borders, so you don't need to reinstall anything when moving between countries. That's especially useful if your itinerary isn't fixed or you're hopping between cities and countries quickly. I found this helpful on trips where plans changed last minute or when I added an extra country without planning ahead.
Setup is simple: you scan a QR code, install the eSIM, and you're ready to go. I activated mine before flying, and it connected automatically as soon as I landed — no airport SIM counters, no physical cards, no downtime.
Coverage is solid across major European destinations and transport routes. Speeds stayed reliable in cities and tourist areas, which is where most travellers will spend their time anyway.
For everyday use — Google Maps, train apps, WhatsApp, Uber, restaurant searches, and uploading stories — it did exactly what I needed.
One thing to be aware of: hotspot sharing is limited to around 500MB per day. That's fine for quick laptop checks or emergencies, but it's not ideal if you plan to work remotely full-time. Like all unlimited plans, Holafly also has a Fair Use Policy, meaning extremely heavy usage may lead to temporary speed throttling — though for normal travel use, I never ran into issues.
Holafly is also data-only, so there's no local phone number or SMS. Personally, this didn't bother me at all since I rely on WhatsApp, iMessage, and Telegram when travelling in Europe anyway.
Holafly Europe Unlimited Plans:
- Unlimited for 7 days – USD 27.30 (USD 3.90/day)
- Unlimited for 15 days – USD 50.90 (USD 3.39/day)
- Unlimited for 30 days – USD 74.90 (USD 2.50/day)
Pros:
- Unlimited data across 40+ European countries
- One eSIM works across borders without reinstallation
- Very easy setup and instant activation
- No data tracking or top-ups needed
Cons:
- More expensive than data-capped eSIMs
- Limited hotspot allowance (~1 GB/day)
- No local phone number or SMS
If you're moving fast, visiting multiple countries, or simply don't want to babysit your data while travelling Europe, Holafly is a solid choice.
It's not the cheapest option — but for convenience and peace of mind, it's one of the easiest eSIMs to use on a multi-country Europe trip.
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Order a Holafly eSIM for Europe here
#4 Vuoly eSIM For Europe
Vuoly surprised me in a good way. It doesn't get talked about as much as the big-name eSIMs, but in real use, it feels polished and dependable — especially for longer trips where you want stable 5G across multiple countries without overthinking your data.
What stood out immediately is how well Vuoly performs in busy European cities. It connects to strong local carriers and supports 5G where available, which makes a real difference if you're navigating, working remotely, or uploading content on the go.
Setup is straightforward: buy online, install once, and you're good to go across 42 European countries. There's no phone number included (it's data-only), but hotspot and tethering are supported, so using it with a laptop or sharing with a travel companion is easy.
Vuoly also offers a wide spread of plans – it's not the cheapest per GB on paper, but the network quality and consistency justify the price, especially if you value speed and reliability over squeezing every dollar.
Pros:
- Covers 42 European countries with one eSIM
- Strong 5G performance on major European networks
- Wide range of plans, from short trips to long stays
- Hotspot and tethering supported
Cons:
- Data-only (no phone number or SMS)
- Unlimited plan has fair-use speed limits
- Slightly pricier than budget-only eSIMs for light users
Vuoly Europe Plans:
- 1 GB for 7 days – USD 5.00 (USD 5.00/GB)
- 2 GB for 15 days – USD 9.50 (USD 4.75/GB)
- 3 GB for 30 days – USD 13.00 (USD 4.33/GB)
- 5 GB for 30 days – USD 20.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
- 10 GB for 30 days – USD 30.00 (USD 3.00/GB)
- 13 GB for 28 days – USD 25.00 (USD 1.92/GB)
- 20 GB for 30 days – USD 45.00 (USD 2.25/GB)
- 26 GB for 28 days – USD 43.00 (USD 1.65/GB)
- 40 GB for 28 days – USD 50.00 (USD 1.25/GB)
- 50 GB for 30 days – USD 80.00 (USD 1.60/GB)
- 50 GB for 90 days – USD 100.00 (USD 2.00/GB)
- Unlimited for 10 days – USD 35.00 (USD 3.50/day)
(Fair use: after 3 GB/day, speed reduces to 1 Mbps; data continues and resets daily)
Vuoly is a great fit if you're travelling Europe for weeks rather than days, want dependable 5G speeds, and prefer one eSIM that just works across borders without babysitting your data.
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Order a Vuoly eSIM for Europe here
#5 Zensim For Europe
Zensim is a flexible, easy-to-use option for travellers across Europe. All plans are data-only, so you won't get a local phone number, but hotspot and tethering are fully supported — ideal for sharing data with a laptop or a friend.
What I like about ZenSim is the variety of plans and the ability to top up. Whether you're staying for 10 days or a month, you can pick the data that suits your trip — and if you need more, top-ups are simple, apply automatically after your current plan ends, and are slightly cheaper than the original purchase.
Pros:
- Covers 39 countries
- Hotspot & tethering supported
- Flexible plans with easy top-ups
- Daily high-speed data structure (limits after 3GB/day)
Cons:
- Not truly unlimited in speed
- Slightly smaller coverage than Simify or Ubigi
Here's a snapshot of ZenSim's Europe plans:
10-Day Plans (39 countries)
- 5 GB for 10 days — USD 13 (USD 2.60/GB)
- 10 GB for 10 days — USD 20 (USD 2/GB)
- 20 GB for 10 days — USD 26 (USD 1.30/GB)
- Unlimited for 10 days — USD 29
30-Day Plans (39 countries)
- 5 GB for 30 days — USD 14 (USD 2.80/GB)
- 10 GB for 30 days — USD 23 (USD 2.30/GB)
- 20 GB for 30 days — USD 29 (USD 1.45/GB)
- Unlimited for 30 days — USD 57 (USD 1.9/ day)
Order a Zensim for Europe here
#6 Simify eSIM For Europe
Simify is one of those eSIMs that just quietly does its job – which, when you're moving between countries in Europe, is exactly what you want.
The Europe & UK plan covers 43 countries, including the UK, so it works well for classic multi-stop trips. I'm talking routes like landing in Lisbon, training through Spain and France, flying to Berlin, then finishing in Italy — all without needing to touch your settings or buy another eSIM halfway through.
What I personally like about Simify is the no-nonsense data setup. You can go up to 100GB with no daily limits, so you're not second-guessing whether it's okay to hotspot your laptop on a train, open Google Maps for the fifth time that day, or upload stories without hunting for café Wi-Fi.
Speeds are generally fast and stable, with 5G/4G/LTE depending on the country, and I found it reliable in both big cities and while moving between them. Hotspotting works too, which is handy if you're working remotely or travelling with more than one device.
Pros:
- Covers 43 countries, including UK
- Truly unlimited data, up to 90 days
- Stable 4G/5G connectivity
- Hotspot support for multiple devices
- Validity starts only when you connect
Cons:
- No calls or SMS included
- Price per GB slightly higher than some budget eSIMs
Here's how the plans break down:
- 5 GB for 7 Days – USD 18 (USD 3.60/GB)
- 10 GB for 30 Days – USD 23 (USD 2.30/GB)
- 20 GB for 30 Days – USD 45 (USD 2.25/GB)
- 30 GB for 30 Days – USD 59 (USD 1.97/GB)
- 45 GB for 45 Days – USD 81 (USD 1.80/GB)
- 60 GB for 60 Days – USD 99 (USD 1.65/GB)
- 100 GB for 90 Days – USD 144 (USD 1.44/GB)
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Order a Simify eSIM for Europe here
#7 Eskimo eSIM For Europe
Eskimo eSIM is a solid, no-frills option for travellers who want a fixed, reliable data plan without worrying about complicated setups or hidden fees. While I rank it #4 because other eSIMs offer more flexible daily allowances or slightly better value for high-volume users, Eskimo still has some standout features that make it appealing for European trips.
Another plus is personal hotspot support, allowing you to share your data with multiple devices, which is great if you're travelling with a friend or need to connect a laptop for work.
Pros:
- Covers 42 countries
- Instant activation
- Hotspot support
- Data can be shared with other travellers
- Money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Higher cost per GB
- No true unlimited options
- Fixed data only
Here's a breakdown of the Eskimo Europe plans:
- 1GB – USD 2.5 (USD 2.50/GB)
- 3GB – USD 6 (USD 2.00/GB)
- 5GB – USD 9 (USD 1.80/GB)
- 10GB – USD 18 (USD 1.80/GB)
For global travellers covering multiple regions, Eskimo also has plans that work across 109 countries:
- 1GB – USD 3.5 (USD 3.50/GB)
- 3GB – USD 9 (USD 3.00/GB)
- 5GB – USD 12.5 (USD 2.50/GB)
- 30GB – USD 75 (USD 2.50/GB)
Eskimo is best suited for travellers who want simple, guaranteed connectivity, especially if you prefer a fixed plan without worrying about daily high-speed limits or speed reductions.
The price per GB is slightly higher than some other Europe-focused eSIMs, which is why I place it last in my Europe ranking, but its ease of use, shareable data, and instant activation make it a dependable choice for those prioritising convenience over cost.
Order Eskimo eSIM for Europe here
#8 SIMOVO eSIM For Europe
SIMOVO is a strong option if you want reliable coverage across Europe, though I rank it slightly lower because the price can add up if you need a lot of data.
The plans are data-only, so calls and SMS aren't included, but messaging and video calls through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Zoom work perfectly. You can select your daily high-speed allowance — 500MB, 1GB, or 2GB — and once you reach that limit, the speed drops to 2G. This is enough to keep maps or messages working without interruptions.
One of the standout perks is the multi-country coverage. A single eSIM works across 30+ European areas, meaning no swapping eSIMs as you cross borders. The plans are flexible, ranging from 1 day up to 30 days, so you can match your eSIM to the length of your trip.
Pros:
- Covers 30+ countries
- Daily high-speed data (500MB–3GB/day)
- Hotspot & tethering supported
- Instant activation on arrival
Cons:
- Higher cost per GB for heavy users
- Speed drops to 2G after daily limit
Here's a quick look at the pricing for SIMOVO Europe:
- 500MB/day for 1 day – USD 3 (USD 6/GB)
- 500MB/day for 7 days – USD 21 (USD 6/GB)
- 1GB/day for 7 days – USD 37.80 (USD 5.40/GB)
- 2GB/day for 7 days – USD 75.60 (USD 5.40/GB)
- 2GB/day for 14 days – USD 151.20 (USD 5.40/GB)
- 2GB/day for 30 days – USD 324.00 (USD 5.40/GB)
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Order SIMOVO eSIM for Europe here
Choosing The Best eSIM for Europe
What's The Cheapest eSIM for Europe?
For a 7-day usage, the cheapest eSIM for Europe is ZenSim.
However, if you're talking about getting you through a full European trip for at least [duration] without frustration, ZenSim stands out as the cheapest eSIM for Europe that still feels usable and flexible for travellers.
I'm not talking about gimmicks or tiny data buckets that vanish before you get out of the airport. I mean plans that actually work for navigation, messaging, and everyday travel use without costing a fortune.
ZenSim's pricing for Europe is straightforward and easy to understand, and some of the best entry-level plans are genuinely hard to beat:
ZenSim Europe Plans (39 Countries):
- 5 GB for 30 days — USD 14 (USD 2.80/GB)
- 10 GB for 30 days — USD 23 (USD 2.30/GB)
- 20 GB for 30 days — USD 29 (USD 1.45/GB)
For a typical longer stay in Europe, that 20 GB for USD 29 plan is one of the cheapest mid-range data packages you'll find that still covers enough ground for most travellers — navigation, booking apps, messaging, social, and even some hotspot use. That works out to about USD 1.45 per GB, which is lower than most of the other options I've tested.
I've used ZenSim on trips through Central Europe — stopping in cities like Prague, Budapest, and Vienna — and the data held up for everything I needed. It's not lightning-fast 5G everywhere, but it reliably handled Google Maps, Uber rides, train schedule lookups, and local research without me constantly worrying about running out of data.
The reason ZenSim ends up being the cheapest is simple: it doesn't try to compete with every other high-performance feature on the market, and it doesn't push huge, unlimited claims that just throttle data later. Instead, it focuses on straightforward, practical plans that keep prices low and usable for most travel scenarios.
Yes, there are cheaper plans if you only need a few hundred megabytes, but those rarely get you through a full European trip without frustration.
ZenSim's sweet spot — especially at 10 GB and 20 GB levels — actually makes sense for real travel, not just budget listing.
So if minimising cost is your priority while still having data you can actually use, ZenSim is my pick for the cheapest practical eSIM for Europe.
Order a Zensim plan for Europe here
Most Reliable eSIM For Coverage Across Europe
For me, Ubigi stands out as the most reliable eSIM for Europe because of how consistently it stays connected where it actually matters.
The difference between travel joy and travel frustration often comes down to those moments when your phone has to work: finding a tiny train platform in Slovenia, booking a last-minute hostel in Porto, or navigating a late-night metro in Budapest. With Ubigi, these aren't moments of stress — they're smooth checkmarks.
1. Stable Connectivity Across Borders
Europe's network landscape is fragmented — dozens of countries, carriers, and roaming rules. A lot of eSIMs can handle one country fine, but start dropping signal strength or lagging when you cross a border. Ubigi's partnerships with major European carriers make roaming between France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, and beyond much smoother, with fewer signal hiccups when you're moving.
In practice, that means fewer moments waiting for your phone to “decide” which network to latch onto — something I've noticed especially on long train runs between capitals.
2. Balanced Network Prioritisation
Some budget eSIMs will connect you to whatever tower is available, even if performance is mediocre. Ubigi tends to connect to networks with stronger infrastructure first, which translates into real coverage, not just a signal bar with no usable data. I experienced this in places like Lyon and Krakow, where less reliable eSIMs would lag during peak hours, but Ubigi stayed usable.
3. Consistency in Everyday Use
On a longer European trip, you're juggling maps, ride apps, search results, restaurant bookings, and sometimes work calls. With Ubigi, I rarely had to refresh or reset connections — even in mixed urban/rural regions. It just behaves like a local SIM does, which saves time and frustration, especially when you're juggling multiple stops in a few days.
4. Coverage Where Other eSIMs Have Gaps
Some eSIMs perform well in Western Europe but taper off in Eastern or Central regions. Ubigi doesn't feel constrained in the same way. While not perfect everywhere, the signal stickiness in places like Bratislava or smaller Italian towns was noticeably better in my experience. For travel where every town — not just every capital — matters, that's a key difference.
5. Reliable Hotspot Sharing
For me, coverage isn't just about the phone — it's about connecting other devices. Ubigi's hotspot support stays usable even when tethering a tablet or laptop. A few times, slower eSIMs would drop in strength when hotspotting on long work days; Ubigi kept those sessions going.
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Order a Ubigi eSIM for Europe here
How To Get An eSim For Europe
Helsinki, Finland
1. Choose Your eSIM Before You Fly
Don't wait until you land in Europe to sort this out.
Airport Wi-Fi across Europe is hit-or-miss — especially in busy hubs like Paris CDG, Rome Fiumicino, or Barcelona El Prat. I've had Wi-Fi cut out mid-download while trying to install an eSIM in Madrid, which meant burning through roaming data just to finish setup.
What works best: Buy and install your eSIM at home on stable Wi-Fi. Most Europe eSIMs (Ubigi, Simify, Jetpac, ZenSim) only activate once they connect to a European network, so installing early won't waste unused days.
2. Use the App, Not Just the QR Code
Yes, the QR code works — until it doesn't.
If you ever need to reinstall your eSIM, switch phones, or top up data mid-trip, the app is what saves you. I learned this the hard way after swapping phones in Lisbon. The QR code had already been used, but the app let me reinstall instantly without contacting support.
If you're travelling across multiple countries, the app also makes it easier to:
- Check remaining data
- Top up quickly
- Confirm which countries are included
3. Install On Strong Wi-Fi
Install your eSIM before you travel, then label it clearly.
On iPhone: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM
Name it something obvious like “Europe eSIM – Ubigi”.
I once left both my Europe eSIM and a UK eSIM active while passing through Amsterdam. My phone kept jumping networks and drained data way faster than expected.
Before landing, turn off all unused eSIMs so your phone doesn't get confused.
4. Activate It When You Actually Need It
Your Europe eSIM starts counting once it connects to a supported network — not when you install it.
If you land late at night in places like Frankfurt or Vienna, airport Wi-Fi is often good enough to order a taxi or check your hotel. I usually wait until I'm leaving the airport or boarding a train before switching on the eSIM, so I don't waste half a day.
This matters even more on 7-day plans when every day counts. You can skip this headache when you purchase an Unlimited plan. 🙂
5. Check Network Selection
Europe has excellent coverage overall, but not all networks perform equally in every country.
For example:
- In Italy and Spain, some networks slow down noticeably during peak hours
- In Eastern Europe, certain eSIMs latch onto weaker carriers by default
If your data feels slow: Settings → Mobile Data → Network Selection
Turn off automatic and manually select another carrier.
I've fixed “no data” issues on trains between Austria and Hungary just by manually switching networks.
6. Know Your Hotspot Rules
If you plan to use your phone as a hotspot — for work, tablets, or travel partners — double-check the limits.
Some Europe eSIMs:
- Allow unrestricted tethering
- Cap hotspot usage daily
- Throttle speeds after a certain amount
I once hit a hotspot cap with Holafly (yes they have hotspot caps…) while working from a café in Prague and couldn't upload files until the next day. Always test hotspot speed early so you're not stuck later.
7. Save Support Info Before You Go
If something breaks, you don't want to be searching for support while standing on a platform in Milan with five minutes before your train leaves.
Screenshot:
- The provider's support email or WhatsApp
- Your order number
- The plan details
Thankfully, I've rarely needed support in Europe — but when you do, having it ready saves stress.
FAQs About eSIMs For Europe
Will one eSIM really work across multiple European countries?
Yes — if you choose a Europe or regional eSIM, not a single-country one.
Most Europe eSIMs (like Ubigi, Simify, Jetpac, ZenSim) cover anywhere from 30 to 40+ countries, including Schengen and non-Schengen destinations. Once installed, you don't need to change settings when crossing borders — the eSIM automatically switches to a local partner network.
That said, always check the country list if you're visiting places like the Balkans, Eastern Europe, or the UK, as coverage can vary by provider.
Does an eSIM replace my normal SIM card?
Not completely — and that's actually a good thing.
An eSIM for Europe is data-only, so your physical SIM stays active for calls, texts, and one-time passwords (like bank logins). This is especially useful if you rely on SMS verification while travelling.
Just remember: if you answer calls or send texts on your home SIM while abroad, roaming charges may apply.
When does my Europe eSIM start counting days?
Almost all Europe eSIMs activate when they connect to a European network, not when you buy or install them.
This means you can:
Buy the eSIM days or weeks in advance
Install it at home
Activate it only when you land in Europe
It's a small detail, but it makes a big difference — especially on 7-day or 10-day plans.
Is an eSIM fast enough for Google Maps, trains, and remote work?
For everyday travel? Absolutely.
Most Europe eSIMs connect to 4G or 5G networks, which is more than enough for:
Google Maps and train apps
Booking tickets and hotels
WhatsApp, Instagram, and email
Light remote work and hotspot use
Just be aware that “unlimited” plans often have daily high-speed caps, after which speeds slow down. If you're working remotely, a fixed data plan (like 20–30GB) is often more predictable.