Avoid insane roaming fees and explore Italy fuss-free
Having internet access is essential for any trip abroad, especially in a country like Italy where your travels will likely involve plenty of walking. I mean, how else are you supposed to access Google Maps, look up nearby restaurants and cafes, and contact travel buddies on the go? International roaming charges are notoriously pricey, so thankfully there are loads of different options now for staying connected.
Duomo di Milano in sunset
eSims have especially become popular over the recent years and for a good reason. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and convenient to top up. Plus, they’re supported by most major mobile devices and they work around the world — Italy included. Keep reading to learn more about how eSims in Italy work, where to get them, and more.
*Prices displayed in this article are accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to change.
eSims, Physical Sims, or Pocket WiFi – choosing the best option
How do eSims compare to Pocket WiFi or physical SIM Cards? These are some of the most commonly used options for internet abroad, but let’s get into them a bit more to help you figure out which would work best for you.
The Coliseum in Rome
If you prefer to keep your personal SIM card and access cellular data just like how you would at home, then consider getting an eSim.
eSims (or embedded sims) work exactly like traditional SIM cards – except there is no physical object to insert into your phone. All you have to do is make sure your device can support them. Your mobile device will prompt you through the activation process, so there’s no need to go through the hassle of swapping SIMs in and out.
Summer in Venice, Photo Credits: Dan Novac on Unsplash
eSims are also much cheaper compared to special international travel plans. At the time of writing, major carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile offer international roaming services at a daily fee of about $5-10. It might not seem like much per day, but this adds up. You can easily reach a hundred dollars on roaming alone — especially if you plan to travel beyond Italy and stay in Europe for longer than a week. Oof. 😬
Cinque Terre, Photo Credits: Jack Ward on Unsplash
The Bramante Staircase at the Vatican Museum
Pocket WiFis, on the other hand, are devices that allow users to connect to the internet via hotspot. You use them pretty much like home WiFi routers and can be used with any device that supports internet connectivity like mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. They usually have reliable signal strength, and multiple users can connect to one Pocket WiFi unit.
The downside to these, though, is that they can take up precious space in whatever bag you’ll be bringing around with you. You’ll have to make sure they don’t get wet, damaged, or lost. You’ll also have to make time to swing by the airport again since you usually pick up and drop these off there.
Duomo Milano, Photo Credit: Caleb Strokes on Unsplash
Finally, physical SIMs are the traditional SIM cards we’re all familiar with. Prepaid eSIM cards for major local providers like TIM, Vodafone, and Wind Tre are easy to find and available in kiosks at major airports like the Roma Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa. If you have a dual-sim phone, this is perfect for you.
To better help you picture the pros and cons of each, check out the table below.
Features | |||
All electronic, physical pick-up/drop-off isn’t required | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Easy data top-up feature | ✅ | ✅ | ❌* *Usually unlimited, no need for top-up |
Comes with a local phone number | ✅* *Can receive calls & SMS but usually can’t send, will depend on the local carrier | ✅* *Can receive calls & SMS but usually can’t send, will depend on the local carrier | ❌ |
Can activate pre-arrival to use right upon landing | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Can use in multiple countries | ✅* *Check eSim package for list of valid countries | ❌ | ❌ |
Can connect to multiple devices all at once | ❌* *Some eSims allow data allotment for hotspot | ❌ | ✅ |
Easy on phone battery | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
Compatible with all devices | ❌ | ✅* *Dual-SIM preferred otherwise, swap out existing SIM | ✅ |
Validity | Until data runs out or chosen validity, whichever comes first | Until chosen validity | Until end of trip |
Does eSim work in Italy?
Pisa Duomo and the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Yes, eSims work in Italy just like in other EU countries! You might find some eSims online that cater specifically to Italy, while some can be used across Europe. Our Travel eSim works in 40+ European countries, and you can choose from different types of plans depending on how long you’ll be staying. Data plans for 7, 10, and 15 days are currently available.
How to get an eSim in Italy
You can easily purchase your Travel eSim from the Klook app or website. Here’s how it works:
- Before anything else, check if your device is eSim compatible. If it is, you can proceed to the next few steps.
- Go to this page, select your desired package, and purchase the eSim. You’ll receive immediate confirmation and booking details over email.
- Find your purchased eSim under “My Orders” in the Klook app.
- Install the eSim. There are two ways to do this. You can either scan the QR code provided in the booking details from your confirmation email OR you can install it directly via the Klook app.
- Once you’ve arrived at your destination country, go to your phone settings and switch to your eSIM. The eSIM will only be activated after you connect to the local network.
Klook Tip: eSims can be installed before departure or once you touch down in your destination country. International airports in Italy such as Roma Fiumicino (FCO), Milan Malpensa (MXP), and Venice Marco Polo (VCE) have free WiFi so there’s no need to worry if you don’t get to install it before you leave. We do recommend doing it before you get there, though, just to make sure you’re all set to go once you land.
After you activate the eSim, it is valid for your selected duration on a 24-hour basis. For example, if you purchase a 7-day eSIM and activate it on 1 October at 9 PM, it will be valid until 8 October at 9 PM.
For more details on purchasing, installing, and activating our Travel eSim, we’ve prepared this handy infographic guide below.
🔥Limited time only: Get 1GB FREE on eSims!
Get 1GB free when you book your Italy eSim on Klook and enjoy high-speed WiFi with no hidden costs or charges. Just select the “Data in total” package to avail of the offer.
Where can you buy prepaid SIM cards in Italy?
The Pantheon in Rome
If your device doesn’t support eSims, consider getting a prepaid SIM. You can easily purchase them at airport kiosks, mobile operator stores, convenience stores, and larger electronic retail shops. Just a heads up — if you get them at the airport, they might be a tad more expensive than those sold in the city but hey, that’s the price of convenience for you. 🤷♂️
Klook Tip: Don’t forget to bring your passport when purchasing a SIM card in Italy. A few mobile network carriers also charge a small fee for SIM card installation, so make sure you have some petty cash set aside.
What are the best mobile networks in Italy?
Siena, Tuscany
There are lots of mobile network carriers in Italy, but some of the most widely-used ones are TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile), Vodafone Italy, Wind Tre, and Iliad. Here’s a quick rundown on them:
- TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) is one of the oldest providers in the country, so their SIM cards have great coverage in the mainland and urban areas. They have a dedicated SIM card for visitors to Italy called TIM Tourist, which gives you cellular data and calls (domestic and international). Texts aren’t included in this plan.
- Vodafone Italy SIM cards also work excellently in the city and offer high-speed 5G coverage. They also have a special tourist SIM, which gives you free texts on top of data and calls to Italian numbers.
- Wind Tre is more flexible in terms of plans, with half and full Tourist passes available depending on the length of your stay. You get 5G coverage and international calls for 30 days on the half pass, while the full pass gives you these benefits for 60 days. For more information, visit their official website here.
- Out of all these options, Iliad offers the most budget-friendly options as tourist plans start at $9 (exclusive of activation fee). You might see their stores less though, since they’re a newer company established in 2018.
The most reliable way of securing these SIM cards is to physically purchase them over the counter when you’re already there in Italy since not all carriers offer English support on their websites, and some accept only selected credit cards.
Booking on Klook, on the other hand, lets you skip the stress of searching for the kiosks and lining up at the airport after a long flight since you can just do it online. Plus, you’ll be able to make sure your credit / debit / e-wallet is accepted with the various payment method options.
How do I use an internet package with my Italy prepaid SIM card?
Florence Duomo
Most Italy prepaid SIM cards (especially for tourists) already come with a mobile data plan, so there’s no need to worry about buying a separate internet package. Just keep in mind that since prepaid SIMs come with a set amount of internet GB, you won’t be able to top up if you run out of data. You may have to buy another plan, depending on your operator.
This is where eSims come in handy as you can conveniently top up anytime through your mobile device.
Trevi Fountain in Rome, Photo Credits: Chris Czermak on Unsplash
Now, if you’re wondering if you can use the same prepaid SIM card you bought in Italy for the rest of Europe, the answer is yes you can! Europe’s Roam Like At Home (RLAH) policy allows local SIM cards to be used in other EU countries without additional roaming fees up to a certain capacity.
Klook Tip: You can double-check if the SIM card supports EU roaming if you purchase at an airport kiosk or retail store since an assistant will help you install it on your phone. And if you purchase it on Klook, you can immediately see information on which countries you can use it in!
Italy essentials and top things to do in Italy
ositano on the Amalfi Coast, Photo Credit: Louise Krause on Unsplash
With an eSim, you get to travel lighter without the weight of incurring international roaming charges that could skyrocket by the end of your trip. Plus, since it’s electronic, you don’t have to carry anything around! This is a huge plus when traveling in Italy (or Europe for that matter) as you’ll definitely be getting your steps in and taking trains often.
If you need more inspiration for your itinerary, here are some top things to do in Italy you can check out!
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