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SIM cards and eSIM in Spain

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 60GB, while starter prices begin near $12.
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 pricing varies by seller, so compare the exact bundle before paying.
Local eSIM
Local eSIM is available and follows the same identity rules as a physical SIM.

Good to know

The domestic data allowance may be much larger than the EU roaming allowance; check the roaming cap.

Local carriers

  • Movistar

    Best choice for broad coverage, including rural areas.

  • Vodafone

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Orange

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Yoigo

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Digi

    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: Traveltomtom: 26 May 2026 (guide last updated Mar 2026) | Spain Expat: ~16 Jul 2026 | Migaku carrier comparison: 27 May 2026 | Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki: ~27 Jul 2026

Sources

  • traveltomtom.net
  • spainexpat.com
  • migaku.com
  • prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com

Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

Airport pricing varies by seller, so compare the exact bundle before paying.

What is the best eSIM for Spain?

Guac eSIM covers Spain 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 Spain