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SIM cards and eSIM in Greece

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 25GB, while starter prices begin near $11-34.
Where to buy
Buy at an official carrier counter at the airport or at an official city store, and test the SIM before leaving.
Airport prices
Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.
Local eSIM
Local eSIM is available and follows the same identity rules as a physical SIM.

Good to know

Older phones without 4G may not connect because the 3G networks have been shut down.

Local carriers

  • Cosmote

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Vodafone Greece

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Nova

    Good-value option when price matters most.

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

Data checked July 2026

Source dates: Traveltomtom: 3 May 2025 (first-hand but DATED - street-vendor observation and prices) | Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki: ~24 Jul 2026 (3G shutdown, VAT) | Cellesim: 29 Jun 2026 (eSIM in-person rule) | Real Greek Experiences: 2 Feb 2026

Sources disagree: Quoted prices or bundle details vary by seller and may change at short notice. Tourist eligibility for a locally issued eSIM remains unclear.

Sources

  • traveltomtom.net
  • prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com
  • cellesim.com
  • realgreekexperiences.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.

What is the best eSIM for Greece?

Guac eSIM covers Greece 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 Greece