Planning a trip to Spain? Whether you're heading to Barcelona, Madrid, the Costa del Sol, or anywhere in between, staying connected is essential. From finding the best tapas spots to navigating the Alhambra, having mobile data at your fingertips makes your travel smoother and more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best SIM cards and eSIM options for travelers visiting Spain in 2025—so you can pick the one that fits your needs and budget.
Why Get a Local SIM or eSIM in Spain?
Roaming charges from your home carrier can be expensive. A local SIM or eSIM gives you:
- Affordable data and calls
- Better network coverage in Spain
- Instant internet access for maps, translations, bookings, etc.
- No stress about finding public Wi-Fi
eSIM vs Physical SIM: What’s the Difference?
- eSIM is a digital SIM card you can install instantly by scanning a QR code—no need to swap out your existing SIM.
- Physical SIM cards need to be inserted manually into your phone and usually require a visit to a store.
💡 Most modern smartphones support eSIM (iPhone XS and up, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, etc.).
Best eSIM Options for Spain (Tourist-Friendly)
- Airalo (Eurolink or Spalink)
- Plans starting from $4.50 for 1 GB (valid 7 days)
- Easy setup via app or QR code
- Good for light users or short trips
- Holafly
- Unlimited data plans for Spain
- Validity from 5 to 90 days
- Great for heavy users (YouTube, Google Maps, etc.)
- WhatsApp number retention
- Nomad
- Competitive pricing for data-only plans
- Simple user interface and activation
- Ubigi
- Good for business travelers or multi-country trips
- Supports 5G in some regions
Best Physical SIM Card Options in Spain
If your phone doesn’t support eSIM or you prefer a physical SIM, you can pick one up at:
- Airports – Vendors like Vodafone, Orange, or Movistar have booths at major airports like Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat.
- Local stores or kiosks – Find prepaid SIMs at supermarkets, electronics stores (like MediaMarkt), or official operator stores.
- Convenience stores and vending machines – Some stations and shops sell prepaid tourist SIMs.
Recommended Carriers:
- Orange Spain
- Tourist SIM: 12GB + unlimited calls in Spain for around €15
- Excellent national coverage
- Vodafone Spain
- International calling options
- Solid 4G/5G coverage
- Movistar
- Best network reach, especially in rural areas
- Slightly higher prices
What You’ll Need to Buy a SIM in Spain
- Passport or ID – Required by law for registration
- Unlocked phone – Make sure your phone isn’t locked to your home network
Final Tips
- Check compatibility: If going with an eSIM, double-check that your phone is compatible.
- Use dual SIM mode: Keep your home SIM active for calls/texts and use the Spanish eSIM for data.
- Buy ahead: If you prefer convenience, purchase your eSIM online before departure and activate it when you land.
Conclusion
Getting a SIM or eSIM for Spain is simple, affordable, and a smart move for any traveler. Whether you’re staying a few days or a few weeks, having local mobile data gives you the freedom to explore Spain like a local—without worrying about roaming fees.
