SIM cards and eSIM in Romania
SIM cards and eSIM in RomaniaWhich carriers matter, what buying a SIM involves, and when an eSIM is the smarter move.
Mobile internet eSIM Best option when traveling
Guac
RecommendedReliable mobile internet at better prices than most travel eSIMs, with polished iOS and Android apps and support for making and receiving phone calls.
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
- Expect to show your passport or ID when buying a prepaid SIM; stores routinely ask for it, so have it with you.
- Official Orange or Vodafone stores are the best route, with helpful staff and the full plan range; they exist in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, Sibiu, Timisoara and many smaller towns. Digi sells through its own Magazin stores. Skip the counters at Bucharest's Henri Coanda Airport: limited choice, long queues and worse prices than in town.
Telekom Romania prepaid no longer exists: its prepaid customers were moved to Digi in early 2026, so ignore any guide still recommending a Telekom SIM. Digi is new to prepaid, so its retail footprint and tourist-facing plans are less proven than Orange's or Vodafone's. Romania is in the EU, so an EU SIM roams here at home rates, and local mobile data is among the fastest in the world.
Local carriers
Orange Romania
Best overall coverage and speeds; the usual first pick.
Vodafone Romania
Very solid nationwide and a safe alternative.
Digi
Only started selling prepaid in late 2025 after taking over Telekom's prepaid customers; coverage tops 98% of the population and it sells through its own Magazin stores.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my passport to buy a SIM card in Romania?
Expect to show your passport or ID when buying a prepaid SIM; stores routinely ask for it, so have it with you.
What is the best eSIM for Romania?
Guac eSIM covers Romania with data plans starting from $0.58 per GB and instant activation, so your phone is online the moment you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular alternatives.