8 Best eSIMs for Germany 2023: The Full Guide

Are you planning a trip to Germany in 2023 and looking for the best eSIM for Germany for your cell phone?

eSIMs weren’t available when I first started traveling Europe in 2015, but I wish they had been.

They’ve made my life so much easier since and I know they’ll make yours easier, too!

However, especially since this is a relatively new technology, I understand that finding the right eSIM can be overwhelming, whether you’re new to Germany and Europe or you’ve been traveling there for decades.

That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide, where we’ll explore the best eSIM options available for travelers visiting Germany in 2023.

To help you make the best decision for your needs, I compare various eSIM providers and their plans, including pricing, data packages, calling/texting options, top-up options, data sharing/hotspot capabilities, and more.

I’ll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using an eSIM versus a traditional SIM card, so you can decide which option is right for you.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the best eSIM options for Germany in 2023 and can choose the right one for your trip.

So, let’s dive in and explore the best eSIMs for Germany that will keep you connected on your adventures!

You might also like: The Ultimate Solo Female Travel Guide to Munich

The Best eSIM for Germany:

eSIM Basics

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is built into a device, such as a smartphone or tablet, and can be programmed with a mobile network’s profile.

This means that instead of having to physically swap out a physical SIM card when changing networks or plans, you can simply update your eSIM profile on your device to the travel eSIM that you’ve purchased.

Handy, right? 🙂

Why would you need an eSIM data plan?

An eSIM data plan can be beneficial for travelers (like you and me!) because it allows you to easily switch to a local network without having to worry about physically obtaining and swapping out SIM cards.

This is especially helpful for those who travel frequently, as you can simply purchase a local German eSIM plan wherever you are in the world, without even stepping foot in Germany.

Additionally, eSIM plans can be more flexible. They allow users to easily switch between plans or carriers without the hassle of obtaining and physically switching out SIM cards.

Read more: 13 travel essentials that will change your life

How is an eSIM better than standard SIM cards?

In addition to the convenience factor, eSIMs can also offer other benefits over traditional SIM cards.

For example, they take up less physical space in a device, which can be important for devices with limited space.

Additionally, eSIMs can be more secure, as they are not susceptible to physical damage or theft in the same way that traditional SIM cards are.

There’s also less hassle required with eSIMs because you aren’t always required to provide an ID (depending on local regulations).

On the other hand, for physical SIMs, you must bring your passport and go through the hurdles of getting a physical SIM card once you arrive at your destination, where you might not speak the language.

Finally, eSIMs can also be more environmentally friendly, as they eliminate the need for physical SIM cards to be produced and discarded.

Data needed when traveling to Germany

Before considering your SIM options for a trip to Germany, you may be wondering: how much data do I really need?

When it comes to data usage in Germany, the amount you’ll need depends on the type of traveler you are.

If you’re only doing light browsing, such as checking emails, looking up directions, or finding top tourist hotspots (like those included in my reader-favorite Ultimate Munich solo female travel guide), you’ll likely only need a few hundred megabytes (MB) per day.

However, if you plan on consuming media, like streaming videos or uploading Instagram stories and posts, you’ll need more data.

Roaming with your home provider can quickly become expensive, especially if you’re using a lot of data. That’s why purchasing a SIM or eSIM for your trip can save you money in the long run, even for light browsing.

For example, a typical U.S. phone plan might charge $10 per day for international data usage.

That means if you’re in Germany for 10 days and only use 50MB of data per day, you’ll have spent $100 on data alone.

On the other hand, purchasing the best eSIM for Germany with up to 2GB of data for your trip could cost as little as $20.

Of course, if you plan on using a lot of data, it’s important to choose the right eSIM for your needs.

Look for providers that offer higher data limits or unlimited data (like Holafly), as well as options to top-up with more data if you run out.

I’ll get into all of this below, so if you’d like to continue finding the best eSIM for Germany for your needs without breaking the bank, then keep reading!

You might also like: Berlin in 2 Days: a weekend guide

How does the Germany eSIM work?

When you purchase an eSIM for Germany, you will receive a QR code that you can scan with your smartphone.

This will automatically install the eSIM profile onto your device, allowing you to connect to a local network without the need for a physical SIM card.

Can you get an eSIM in Germany?

Yes, you can purchase an eSIM for Germany from various providers online or in-store.

However, currently, options for Germany eSIM providers are limited: only Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile) offers a prepaid eSIM for Germany.

Other companies require you to have longer contracts, be resident in Germany, or pay by direct debit from a German bank account. Obviously, these aren’t options for travelers!

For these reasons, eSIMs are by far the best and most convenient option for those just traveling in Germany.

The Best eSIM for Germany:

Pros and Cons: Benefits of getting an eSIM for Germany vs. buying a physical SIM card in Germany

To make it easiest to compare the pros and cons of getting an eSIM for Germany versus buying a physical SIM card in Germany, I’ve made this easy-to-reference table:

FACTORS	ESIM	PHYSICAL SIM
Cost	Varies depending on provider and data allowance	Usually cheap, but can still be expensive depending on provider and data allowance
Convenience	Can be purchased and activated online before traveling; no ID required	Requires finding physical store, presenting passport, and possibly language barrier
Data allowance	Varies depending on provider and plan	Varies depending on provider and plan
Internet speed	Generally fast and reliable, BUT deprioritized on local networks	Can be slower and less reliable in rural areas, BUT prioritized on local networks
Duration	Can be used for a specific period, usually 30 days or more	Typically valid for up to 90 days
Reusability	Can be reused in other countries, depending on provider	Not always usable in other countries
Risk of loss	None – stored on device	Can be lost or damaged
Availability	May not be available with all providers	Generally available with most providers

As you can probably see, getting an eSIM for Germany has some clear advantages over purchasing a physical SIM card upon arrival.

The main benefits of getting an eSIM include convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to activate the plan before even leaving for the trip.

On the other hand, purchasing a physical SIM card in Germany can provide access to faster internet speeds and potentially more data.

However, this usually comes at a higher cost and the inconvenience of having to find a physical store to purchase the SIM card.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Read more: See where major German cities make it on my list of the 7 safest places for women to travel alone in Europe!

You don’t need a “Germany eSIM” per se

Since 2017, European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) countries have been required to offer roaming services to their customers without any additional charges.

These countries include the EU, Lichtenstein, Norway, and Iceland.

This means that travelers visiting Germany can purchase a physical SIM card in any EU/EEA country and use it throughout their trip – including in Germany – without incurring additional roaming fees.

So, this is all to say that a “Germany eSIM” isn’t strictly necessary for traveling throughout Europe, as long as you have a SIM card from an EU/EEA country or an eSIM with validity in multiple European countries (like the Airalo Europe eSIM).

However, if you’re only visiting Germany, consider purchasing a Germany-specific eSIM as it may offer potentially better deals and service plans.

(Of note here: Switzerland and the UK are not part of the EEA. While many European SIM cards offer service in Switzerland and/or the UK for no additional charge, it’s important to double-check if either of these destinations is on your itinerary.)

Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!

The Best eSIMs for Germany Compared

Quickly and easily compare the best eSIMs for Germany in the table below, or keep scrolling to read more information about each eSIM.

		Data allowance options (time duration offered)
ESIM PROVIDER	COST	1GB	2GB	3GB	5GB	10GB	15GB	20GB	30GB	UNLIMITED	TOPUPS?	DATA SHARING	CALLING?	CONVENIENCE
Airalo Hallo! Mobil	$5-26	7 days	15 days	30 days	30 days	30 days	–	30 days	–	–	Yes	Yes	Data only	Buy online/app
Holafly	$19-99	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, or 90 days	–	No	Data only	Buy online/app
Nomad	$6-33	7 days	–	15, 30 days	15, 30 days	30 days	30 days	30 days	–	–	Yes	Yes	Data only	Buy online/app
SimOptions	$7.90-59.90	7 days	–	15 days	30 days	–	–	–	30 days	–	No	Yes	Data only	Buy online/app

1. Airalo eSIMs for Germany: Airalo Hallo! Mobil

Airalo was one of the first eSIM providers on the market and provides eSIMs for practically every destination on the planet.

This includes a huge range of options for travelers to Germany, from 1GB good for 7 days to 20GB for 30 days.

You can also top-up if you run out of data, allowing for maximum flexibility!

At the time of writing, Airalo eSIMs for Germany start at just $5. The most expensive option, 20GB for 30 days, is $26 – a really fantastic deal, if you ask me!

The best eSIM for Germany from Airalo can easily be bought online here. Purchase and activation take just minutes (more on the specifics below).

Once you’ve installed and activated your eSIM, it will operate on Germany’s O2 network.

While I haven’t personally used a prepaid Europe eSIM since I live in Europe now, my parents recently used an Airalo eSIM visiting me in the UK. They found it easy and painless. (And they’re not the most tech-savvy. 😉 )

However, they did miss the option to call, for example to confirm the taxi they arranged to pick them up from the airport.

Want the best eSIM for Germany that can also be used for calling and texting? Check out the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM below.

Read more: The Ultimate Europe Solo Travel Guide

How good are the eSIM services of Airalo?

If you’re considering an Airalo eSIM for Germany, you might be wondering: how good are the eSIM services of Airalo?

Airalo is a reputable provider of eSIMs, and their Germany eSIM offers excellent services to travelers.

Airalo’s Germany eSIM provides a high-speed internet connection, and its coverage extends to all major cities in Germany.

Additionally, their eSIMs come pre-activated, so you can start using them immediately without any hassle.

Airalo’s Germany eSIM also offers affordable pricing like their 5 GB for 30 days option for $14.99, making it an excellent option for moderate data users.

However, as I mentioned before, Airalo’s eSIM does not allow calling. As such, you will need to use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for communication.

You should also keep your home SIM card enabled (with mobile data disabled) so that you can still use it to make calls in case of an emergency.

Overall, Airalo’s Germany eSIM is a reliable and convenient option for travelers who need a stable internet connection while in Germany. With its competitive pricing and easy-to-use setup, it’s no surprise that Airalo is a popular choice for many travelers visiting Germany.

To learn more and get up-to-date prices and offers, click here.

2. Best eSIM for Germany with Unlimited Data: Holafly eSIM for Germany

The Holafly eSIM for Germany is another top contender for the best eSIM for Germany, and there’s one big reason why:

Holafly continues to be the only major reputable eSIM provider offering unlimited data.

Starting at $19, you can get unlimited data plans on the Vodafone Germany network for 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, or even 90 days!

This is perfect for those who slow travel or creators who aren’t sure how long they’ll be in Germany, but need a reliable internet connection without worrying about how much data they’re using on their phone.

“On their phone” is the important key phrase here, because unfortunately, the Holafly Germany eSIM doesn’t allow data sharing (like hosting a hotspot).

So, you can’t use this on your phone and plan to use it for remote work on your laptop, for example. It also doesn’t offer calling or texting capabilities.

To learn more and get up-to-date prices and offers, click here.

3. Nomad eSIM for Germany

Nomad is another Germany eSIM provider that has been rising in popularity.

They have very similar offerings to Airalo, offering anywhere from 1GB for 7 days to 20GB for 30 days in Germany. Your data will come from your choice of either Vodafone or multiple providers’ networks.

The eSIMs from Nomad range from $6 to $33 at the time of writing.

Top-ups and data sharing are also both allowed with Nomad eSIMs, allowing for maximum flexibility.

Calling and texting are not included.

To learn more and get up-to-date prices and offers, click here.

Backpacking Europe this summer? Find out what else to include on your packing list with my guide and free printable!

4. SimOptions eSIM For Germany

Rounding out the options for the best eSIM for Germany is the SimOptions Germany eSIM.

Their cheapest option is $7.90 for 7 days and 1GB of data at the time of writing.

They also offer 3GB, 5GB, and 30GB data packages, all valid for 30 days.

While data sharing is allowed with the SimOptions Germany eSIM, top-ups are not an option. This eSIM includes only data, and not calling or texting.

To learn more and get up-to-date prices and offers, click here.

The Best eSIMs for Europe Compared

As I mentioned above, due to recent new laws and regulations, a “Germany eSIM” is not needed, per se.

However, the best eSIMs for Germany listed above are only valid in Germany.

So, if you’re passing through any other country before or after you visit Germany, why not get an eSIM that has coverage for the entire (or at least most of the) continent, instead?

If you’re wondering what’s the best prepaid SIM to buy in Europe, keep reading to discover the best eSIMs for Europe that you can use in Germany, too.

		Data allowance options (time duration offered)
ESIM PROVIDER	COST	1GB	2GB	3GB	5GB	10GB	15GB	20GB	30GB	UNLIMITED	TOPUPS?	DATA SHARING?	COUNTRIES	CALLING & TEXTING	CONVENIENCE
Airalo Eurolink Europe	$5-185	7 days	30 days	30 days	–	30 days	–	90 days	180 days	–	Yes	Yes	39	Data only	Buy online/app
Holafly Europe eSIM	$19-99	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	–	5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, or 90 days	–	No	32	Data only	Buy online/app
Orange Holiday Europe 8GB	$22.18	–	–	–	14 days	–	–	–	–	–	Yes	Yes	50	30 min calls, 200 texts	Buy online or in-store
Orange Holiday Europe 20GB	$44.37	–	–	–	–	–	14 days	–	–	–	Yes	Yes	50	120 min calls, 1000 texts	Buy online or in-store
O2 Go Card (Simoptions)	$24.90	–	–	–	–	30 days	–	–	–	–	Yes	Yes	36	Credit for ~10 min calls	Buy online

1. Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM

One of my top picks for the best eSIM for Europe is the Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM.

This is one of my favorites because it has some of the most options available for data packages, you can easily top-up if you need more data, and data-sharing for hotspots is allowed.

1GB packages for 7 days start at just $5, and packages up to 100GB for 180 days are available!

This is perfect if you’ll be working remotely while traveling around Europe.

If you use this eSIM, make sure to keep your home SIM enabled so that you can still contact emergency services, if needed (with data roaming turned off). Many carriers allow this while roaming for free.

2. Holafly Europe eSIM

The Holafly Europe eSIM costs exactly the same as the Germany-specific one.

So, if you want eSIM data plans with unlimited data, then Holafly is your best bet.

I’ll mention again here though that Holafly doesn’t allow data-sharing – so you can’t use one of their eSIMs for a hotspot.

Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!

3. Orange Holiday Europe eSIM

Now onto one of my all-time favorite and best eSIMs for Europe – the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM.

This eSIM comes in 8GB or 20GB options, both valid for 14 days.

Top-ups are also available, in case you run out of data or want to extend past 14 days!

Unlike all the other eSIMs listed here, the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM also includes calling and texting.

This is perfect if you’re not sure your home provider will allow you to contact local emergency services without extra fees or you’re scared of incurring roaming charges if you do need to make one of these calls.

Because staying connected and being able to call anyone in an emergency is one of my top solo travel safety tips, I really love the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM as the best eSIM for solo travelers in Europe.

You might also like: Thinking about taking your first solo trip but don’t know where to begin? Start with my complete guide to traveling alone for the first time!

4. O2 Go Card (Simoptions) Europe eSIM

Of the eSIMs you can purchase online, the O2 Germany eSIM from Simoptions rounds out the list of the best eSIMs for Europe that you can use in Germany.

They offer one package of 10GB for 30 days, which is more than enough data for the average month-long trip to Europe.

They also provide $2 worth of credit to put towards calling, if you want to take them up on their offer for a phone number. At their current rate of $0.21/minute, this is worth about 10 minutes of calls.

The Best eSIM for Germany:

Local mobile operators offering eSIMs in Germany

Telekom Germany (T-Mobile) eSIM

The only local mobile operator in Germany that offers eSIMs to prepaid customers is Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile).

Other operators require you to be resident in Germany or only accept direct debit from a German bank account, which obviously isn’t an option for travelers.

So, while Telekom Germany does offer eSIMs, their packages aren’t readily available for you to view online. Additionally, they still require you to jump through some hoops to get one.

If you’re in a bind and forgot to get a SIM card before traveling to Germany, you can stop by a Telekom Germany store and enquire about an eSIM. In this case, they should be able to provide you one.

However, in my opinion, the hassle isn’t worth it compared to the ease of the eSIMs I’ve already mentioned.

Read more: The top 12 solo travel destinations in Europe

The Best eSIM for Germany:

How to Buy & Install Your eSIM

Devices compatible with eSIM in Germany

The first step to getting the best eSIM for Germany is, of course, checking that your device is compatible, to begin with!

Most modern smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches support eSIMs nowadays. However, it’s always best to double-check before purchasing an eSIM plan.

Here’s how to check if your device is eSIM compatible:

1. Check your device’s manual or manufacturer’s website to see if it supports eSIMs.
2. Check your device’s settings to see if it has an eSIM option.
3. Contact your device’s manufacturer or mobile carrier to confirm if your device supports eSIMs.

If your device is compatible with eSIMs, congratulations! You can now enjoy the benefits of using a digital SIM card for your trip to Germany.

Generally, the following devices are eSIM compatible:

MANUFACTURER	MODEL	MAX. NUMBER OF ESIMS
Apple	iPhone XR iPhone XS iPhone XS Max iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone SE (2020) iPhone 12 Mini iPhone 12 iPhone 12 Pro iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone SE (2022) iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max iPad Pro (2018 and onwards) iPad Air iPad	20
Apple	Watch series 3 Watch series 4 Watch series 5 Watch series 6 Watch SE	1
Google	Pixel 3 Pixel 3a Pixel 4 Pixel 4a Pixel 5 Pixel 6 Pixel 6a Pixel 6 Pro Pixel 7 Pixel 7 Pro	1
Huawei	P40 P40 Pro (not including the P40 Pro +) Mate 40 Pro	1
Motorola	Razr 2019 Razr 5G	1
Samsung	Galaxy Z Flip Galaxy Z Flip 5G Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Galaxy Z Flip4 Galaxy Fold Galaxy Z Fold2 5G Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Galaxy Z Fold4	1
Samsung	Galaxy S20 Galaxy S20+ 5g Galaxy S20 Ultra Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G Galaxy S21 Galaxy S21+ 5G Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G  Galaxy Note 20	5
Samsung	Galaxy S22 Galaxy S22+ Galaxy S22 Ultra Galaxy S23 Galaxy S23+ Galaxy S23 Ultra	5+
Planet Computers	Gemini PDA	1
Rakuten Mobile	Rakuten Mini Big-S Big Hand Hand 5G	1
Oppo	Find X3 Pro Reno 5 A Find X5 Find X5 Pro	1
Sony	Xperia 10 III Lite  Xperia 10 IV Xperia 1 IV Xperia 5 IV	1
Honor	Magic 4 Pro	1
Xiaomi	12T Pro	1
Sharp	Aquos Sense6s Aquos Wish	1
DOOGEE	V30	1

If your device isn’t on this list, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it doesn’t support eSIMs.

Check with your device’s manufacturer or carrier to confirm if your device supports eSIMs.

1. Buy Your eSIM

Wondering how can I buy a tourist SIM card or eSIM for Germany?

Luckily, it’s really easy!

Follow any of the links I’ve included in this guide, where you’ll follow a simple purchase and check-out process on each individual eSIM provider’s website.

You’ll be done in minutes, usually with no ID required.

They’ll then usually send you an e-mail, which you’ll use to install your eSIM.

2. Install your eSIM

The next step is to install your eSIM.

Follow the instructions provided by your eSIM provider to scan the QR code or download the eSIM profile onto your device.

This can usually be done through your device’s settings app, under “Cellular” or “Mobile Data”.

3. Activate your German eSIM

Once your eSIM profile is downloaded to your device, you might need to restart it to activate the eSIM.

After restarting, go to your device’s settings and select the option to activate the eSIM. This may involve entering a code or confirming your identity with your eSIM provider.

Once the eSIM is activated, you should see the eSIM plan appear in your device’s network settings.

Congrats! You’re now ready to use your eSIM to connect to mobile data and make calls and send texts, depending on the plan you’ve chosen.

Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!

Verdict: What’s the best eSIM for Germany?

The simple answer to what’s the best eSIM for Germany is: it depends on your needs and travel style.

However, I’ve tried to categorize a variety of situations you might identify with below so you can choose the best eSIM for Germany for you.

Best eSIM for Germany Overall

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM (with calling) or Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM (data only)

Best eSIM with Calling & Texting

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM

Best eSIM for Unlimited Data

Holafly (if you don’t need hot-spotting capabilities)

Best data eSIM for non-techy people

Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM

Best eSIM for Germany for travelers only visiting Germany, who want cheap data with the most options

Airalo Hallo! Mobil

Best eSIM for Germany for solo Travelers

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM (for its package of data, calling, and texting capabilities so you don’t have to worry about accidentally incurring roaming charges when enabling emergency calling with your home SIM)

Best eSIM for Germany for those visiting on a Europe trip who don’t want to worry about data limits & don’t need hotspots

Holafly Europe eSIM

Best eSIM for digital nomads in Europe or people who need a lot of data they can hotspot

Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM

Best eSIM for a 2-week Europe trip including Germany

Orange Holiday Europe 8GB eSIM

Final thoughts on Germany eSIMs

As you can see, there are several great options for the best eSIM for Germany.

Each provider offers its own set of features, benefits, and limitations, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.

When deciding which eSIM to use in Germany, consider factors such as data speed, coverage, price, and data limits.

It’s also important to make sure that your device is compatible with eSIMs and that you follow the provider’s instructions for installation and activation carefully.

If you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to consider a provider that offers international coverage or a multi-country plan, like the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM.

On the other hand, if you’re only visiting Germany for a short time, a local eSIM like the Airalo Hallo! Mobil eSIM may be the most cost-effective option.

Remember, an eSIM is a convenient and flexible option for staying connected while traveling, but it’s not a substitute for proper planning and preparation. 🙂

Make sure to research your destination ahead of time, and plan for any connectivity issues you may encounter, such as limited coverage or roaming charges.

Overall, with your personal best eSIM for Germany and a bit of planning, staying connected while traveling in Germany can be a hassle-free experience.

Happy travels und gute Reise! 😉

Interested in more travel tips I don’t share on the blog? Follow me on Instagram and don’t miss a thing!

The Best eSIM for Germany:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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