Italy is a dream destination for travellers.
Imagine walking through the historic streets of Rome, gliding through the romantic canals of Venice, or exploring the fashion capital of Milan. Maybe you're dreaming of relaxing along the stunning Amalfi Coast or diving into the rich culture of Florence?
Popular cities like Milan, Florence, and Naples draw millions of visitors each year with major airports such as Rome’s Fiumicino (FCO), Milan’s Malpensa (MXP), and Venice’s Marco Polo (VCE) serving as major gateways into the country.
The airport is also a good place to buy a SIM card. But did you know you can skip the store visit altogether and download an eSIM instead?
Let's look at how easy it is to do just that in five simple steps.
1. Make sure your phone is eSIM compatible
First things first. Before you dive into the world of eSIMs for your Italian adventure, make sure your phone is eSIM compatible. Most modern smartphones, including the latest models from Apple, Samsung, and Google, come with eSIM capabilities. To check if your device supports eSIM, you can usually find this information in your phone’s settings under “Cellular” or “Network” options. Alternatively, you can check this up-to-date list of smartphones to confirm compatibility.
2. Make sure your phone is unlocked.
An unlocked phone can use SIM cards or eSIMs from any carrier, giving you the freedom to choose the best eSIM options available. If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you might face restrictions or additional charges when trying to use a different network. You can usually check if your phone is unlocked in the settings under "Cellular" or "Network" options. Alternatively, contact your carrier to confirm. Check out this quick guide for more information.
3. Choose your destination
Choosing your destination is the first step to finding the perfect eSIM for your travels. Most eSIM provider websites feature a search bar where you can type in your country (or region) or select from a dropdown menu
For instance, Sim Local offers eSIM options for over 190 destinations, including popular countries like Italy.
4. Choose your plan.
Many eSIM providers will let you choose plans for a specific country (like Italy), an entire region (like Europe), or a global plan that provides network coverage all over the world.
Let’s look at all three offerings from Sim Local to give you an idea of what’s on the market.
Italy only
For those who prefer a data-only plan, Sim Local offers a wide range of available plans from Smartroam. These are data-only eSIM plans that do not include calls and texts. However, when you have access to apps like WhatsApp and Instagram, you’ll have excellent alternatives at your fingertips.
When you activate one of these plans, you’ll connect to local mobile networks including the Iliad, Vodafone Omnitel, and Wind Tre Italy, providing you with the best available coverage and speeds, from almost anywhere in Italy. Data options range from 1GB to 20GB. Data tethering is allowed, which means you can use your phone as a hotspot for other devices.
Italy & other parts of Europe
If your travels extend beyond Italy into other parts of Europe, you might want a more far-reaching eSIM. Orange has a few excellent eSIM bundles that cover most of Europe. Here are some of their best plans.
Orange Holiday Zen 12GB
The Orange Holiday Zen eSIM provides 12GB of data, which is perfect for short trips around Europe. It covers 36 countries, so you can stay connected as you hop from Italy to France, Spain, Germany, and beyond. This plan also includes unlimited calls and texts within Europe, making it a great all-around option for travellers.
Orange Holiday EU 30GB
For those needing more data, the Orange Holiday EU 30GB plan is a great choice. With 30GB of data, you can easily stream, browse, and stay connected without worrying about running out of data. This plan also covers 36 countries and includes unlimited calls and texts within Europe, offering comprehensive coverage for longer trips or more data-intensive needs. You also get 120 minutes of international calls, and 1000 texts.
Orange Holiday EU 50GB
If you're a heavy data user, the Orange Holiday EU 50GB plan is the ultimate option. With 50GB of data, you can enjoy high-speed internet (5G/LTE) across 42 countries without any concerns. It also includes unlimited calls and texts within Europe, plus 120 international minutes (and 1000 texts). This plan is ideal for digital nomads, social media bingers, or anyone who plans to use lots of data while hopping from country to country.
Data tethering and hotspots are allowed with all of Orange’s European plans.
Italy & other parts of the world
For those planning to visit Italy as part of a wider world trip, there are plans out there tailored specifically for you, such as the Orange World 10GB eSIM plan.
Orange World (Up to 10GB)
The Orange World eSIM plan provides up to 10GB of 4G/LTE data that can be used in 149 countries worldwide.
This eSIM is compatible with any device, including phones, tablets, and hotspots. Whether you're in the Americas, Asia, Africa, or Oceania, the Orange World eSIM ensures you stay connected. And if 10GB isn't enough, or you plan to travel for more than 14 days, your eSIM provider should have an app where you can easily top up. You can download the Sim Local app here.
5. Activate your eSIM plan
If you choose the right provider, activating and installing your chosen eSIM plan should be pretty effortless. Once the purchase is complete you should receive a QR code via email or directly on the provider’s website with guided instructions on next steps. You’ll be prompted to add an eSIM plan in your phone’s settings or simply scan the QR code with your phone’s camera.
Side note: If you experience any issues, it’s important to choose a provider that’s ready to help if you get stuck at any step. Look for providers that offer 24/7 support.
