eSIM is extremely useful for travelers in Portugal, don't spend your time to seeking a local cellular shop, buy eSIM online and get instantly connected to the mobile Internet. Starting from $1.68/gb
Quick Guide: Best eSIM in Portugal
#1. airalo - Most popular eSIM store offers eSIMs in 190+ countries. Long stay plans, try esim it's safer than public Wi-Fi
#2. knowroaming - Fast, reliable and secure in Portugal. No additional charges, buy online
#3. airhubapp - Operates in over 90 countries. Most popular prepaid eSIM, don't pay extra money for roaming
#4. holafly - Affordable prices, stay connected to the Internet while traveling. 5G networks in Portugal
#5. keepgo - Saves up to 90% on Roaming in Portugal. Best customer Support, get more with eSIM
eSIMs vs Prepaid SIM Cards for Portugal
In Portugal, both eSIMs and prepaid SIM cards are available for purchase. Here are some key points to consider:
- Convenience: eSIMs are embedded into your device and can be activated remotely, eliminating the need to insert a SIM card into your phone physically. On the other hand, prepaid SIM cards require you to purchase a physical card, insert it into your phone, and activate it manually. Also, when buying a SIM, you will need to provide your documents.
- Coverage: eSIMs offer excellent coverage in Portugal, but it's important to check the coverage maps of different SIM providers before deciding.
- Data usage: eSIMs usually offer more data than prepaid SIM cards, making them ideal for streaming videos or live streaming from popular sightseeing locations. Some of the most popular sightseeing locations in Portugal include the historic city of Lisbon, the picturesque beaches of the Algarve, the Douro Valley wine region, the medieval town of Sintra, and the ancient city of Évora.
- International calling: eSIMs offer the advantage of being able to make calls to friends and family outside Portugal more easily than prepaid SIM cards. With an eSIM, you can use your existing phone number and data plan to make calls and send messages from anywhere in the world. In contrast, prepaid SIM cards often require you to purchase separate international calling packages.
- Price: Prepaid SIM cards are usually more expensive than eSIMs, and they provide you with a lesser amount of data you'll need during your stay in Portugal.
If you plan to do a lot of live streaming from popular sightseeing locations or want to stay in touch with relatives and friends outside Portugal easily, an eSIM might be the best option for you.
Best Prepaid Sim Cards in Portugal
Portugal has a variety of prepaid SIM cards available for travelers to choose from, including offerings from Vodafone, MEO, and NOS. These SIM cards offer varying amounts of data, calls, and text messages, making it important to compare options before making a purchase.
Nonetheless, it's worth noting that eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular and offer several advantages over traditional prepaid SIM cards.
Not only are they more convenient, with no physical card to insert into your phone, but they also tend to be cheaper and offer more benefits in terms of data and international calling capabilities.
So if you're planning a trip to Portugal and looking for the most cost-effective and convenient option, it's worth considering an eSIM over a traditional prepaid SIM card.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy eSIMs in Portugal?
The price depending on the provider and the amount of data and calling minutes included in the plan. However, eSIMs generally tend to be more cost-effective than prepaid SIM cards because they offer more benefits and features.
Some of the advantages of eSIMs include
- Convenience: eSIMs are embedded into your device and can be activated remotely, eliminating the need to insert a SIM card into your phone physically.
- More data and calling minutes: eSIMs often offer more data and calling minutes than traditional prepaid SIM cards, making them ideal for travelers who need to stay connected and use their phone extensively.
- International compatibility: eSIMs work in multiple countries, making them a convenient option for travelers who are planning to visit multiple destinations.
| Provider | Data Plan | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo | 10GB | 30 days | €37 |
| KnowRoaming | 5GB | 30 days | €22 |
| AirHubApp | 8GB | 14 days | €25 |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 5 days | €19 |
| KeepGo | 100MB | 365 days | €3 |
While prepaid SIM cards are widely available in Portugal, they often come with limitations and hidden costs. For example, some providers may charge additional fees for international calling or roaming.
Further, purchasing a physical SIM card can be inconvenient, as it requires finding a store and physically inserting the card into your phone.
Generally, if you're traveling to Portugal and looking for the most cost effective and convenient option, it's worth considering an eSIM over a traditional prepaid SIM card. The benefits of eSIMs make them a superior choice for travelers who need to stay connected and use their phones extensively while on the go.
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Where To Buy a SIM in Portugal
If you're planning a trip to Portugal, there are many places where you can buy a prepaid SIM card or eSIM. Here are some of the most popular locations:
- Airports: Many airports in Portugal, including Lisbon Portela Airport and Porto Airport, have kiosks and shops that sell prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs.
- Mobile phone stores: Portugal has several mobile phone providers, such as Vodafone, MEO, and NOS, which have stores located throughout the country. These stores offer prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs, as well as phone plans and accessories.
- Supermarkets and convenience stores: Major supermarkets and convenience stores like Continente, Pingo Doce, and 7-Eleven also sell prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs.
- Online: Another option is to purchase an eSIM online before you arrive in Portugal. You will need to use our website to pick up the best option.
While prepaid SIM cards are readily available in Portugal, it's worth considering the benefits of eSIMs.
They are often cheaper, more convenient, and offer more data and international calling capabilities compared to traditional prepaid SIM cards.
So if you're looking for the best value and ease of use, it's worth considering purchasing an eSIM for your trip to Portugal.
1. airalo
Price Range: $3 - $62
|
Validity (day): 5, 7, 8, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90, 180 |
Mobile App: iOS, Android |
|
Regions: Europe, America, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania |
Coverage: over 190 countries |
Try AirAlo now! Validity: 7 to 30 days, starts from $1.66/GB
2. knowroaming
Price Range: $4 - $55.93
|
Validity (day): 1, 3, 7, 15, 30, 90, 180 |
Mobile App: iOS, Android |
|
Regions: Europe, North America, Middle East, Africa, Asia, Oceania |
Coverage: 97 countries |
Knowroaming offers local eSIM for a low price
3. airhubapp
Price Range: $1 - $58
|
Validity (day): 3, 7, 8, 10, 14, 15, 30, 90, 180, 365 |
Mobile App: iOS, Android |
|
Regions: Europe, North America, Middle East, South Africa, Asia Oceania |
Coverage: 98 countries |
4. holafly
Price Range: $19 - $99
|
Validity (day): 3, 7, 8, 10, 14, 15, 30, 90, 180, 365 |
Mobile App: iOS, Android |
|
Regions: Europe, North America, South Africa, Asia, Oceania |
Coverage: over 130 counties |
Take advantage of this offer now and save on roaming
5. keepgo
Price Range: $3 - $740. Special offer: 2GB free
|
Validity (day): 365 |
Mobile App: iOS, Android |
|
Regions: Europe, North America, South Africa, Asia, Oceania |
Coverage: 110 counties |
FAQ
- Which devices support eSIMs?
Many modern smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices support eSIMs. Check with your device manufacturer to see if your device supports eSIM technology.
- Can I use an eSIM if my device doesn't support it?
No, your device must have eSIM support in order to use an eSIM. You cannot use an eSIM on a device that does not support this technology.
- How do I activate an eSIM in Portugal?
You can activate your eSIM remotely by scanning a QR code or entering a code provided by your mobile operator. Once activated, your eSIM will be ready to use.
- How much do eSIMs cost in Portugal?
The cost of eSIMs in Portugal varies depending on the provider and the amount of data and calling minutes included in the plan. However, eSIMs generally tend to be more cost-effective than traditional prepaid SIM cards.
- Can I use an eSIM for international travel?
Yes, eSIMs are great for international travel because they allow you to activate a mobile plan remotely without needing to purchase a physical SIM card in each country you visit.
- Can I switch between different eSIM providers while I'm in Portugal?
Yes, you can switch between different eSIM providers while you're in Portugal by deactivating your current eSIM and activating a new one. Keep in mind that you may need to purchase a new plan from your new eSIM provider.
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Written by: Eric Costilia
Eric Costilia is an experienced writer, editor and researcher. His writing focuses mostly on tech, gaming. He wrote dozens of eSIM carriers reviews, which makes him an expert of this technology.