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SIM cards and eSIM in Germany

Which carriers matter, what buying a SIM involves, and when an eSIM is the smarter move.

Mobile internet eSIM Best option when traveling

Guac app icon

Guac

Recommended

Reliable mobile internet at better prices than most travel eSIMs, with polished iOS and Android apps and support for making and receiving phone calls.

App StorePlay StoreSee plans

Airalo

One of the biggest travel eSIM brands, with a very large destination catalog.

Holafly

Known for unlimited-data plans in many destinations, at a higher price per gigabyte.

Buying a local SIM card ID registration required

Registration
Bring your passport; the seller registers the prepaid SIM during activation.
Tourist plans and prices
Typical prepaid offers include around 8GB; compare the current validity and price before buying.
Where to buy
Airport counters and city carrier stores are the easiest places to buy; confirm activation before leaving.
Airport prices
Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.
Local eSIM
A travel eSIM is the simpler option and avoids local SIM registration steps.

Good to know

Use an official carrier store and complete registration and activation before leaving the counter.

Local carriers

  • Telekom

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Vodafone

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • O2

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Aldi Talk / Lidl Connect

    Good-value option when price matters most.

  • Lebara

    A solid alternative; compare current prepaid offers before buying.

eSIM and SIM cards by country→
Sources and how current this is

Data checked July 2026

Source dates: Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki: ~29 Jul 2026 (very recent) | How-To-Germany: ~29 Jun 2026 | Roafly: 21 Jan 2026 | Profee: 15 May 2026 (prices as of Apr 2026)

Sources disagree: Registration practice or tourist eligibility still varies between published accounts. Quoted prices or bundle details vary by seller and may change at short notice.

Sources

  • prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com
  • how-to-germany.com
  • roafly.com
  • profee.com

Frequently asked questions

Do I need my passport to buy a SIM card in Germany?

Bring your passport; the seller registers the prepaid SIM during activation.

Should I buy a SIM card at the airport in Germany?

Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.

What is the best eSIM for Germany?

Guac eSIM covers Germany with data plans starting from $1.50 per GB and instant activation, so your phone is online the moment you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular alternatives.

← All essential apps for Germany