Last updated on May 23rd, 2023 at 09:40 pm
Italy eSIM – Italy is a must-visit destination for its rich culture, history, and cuisine. To make the most of your trip, staying connected is vital. Italy eSIMs offer a convenient and cost-effective way to access mobile data without a physical SIM card. In this guide, we’ll compare Holafly and Airalo, two popular eSIM providers for Italy, to help you choose the best plan for your needs.
Related Travel Guides:
- eSIM Phone Check – Updated List of Phones with eSIM and How to Check if Your Phone is eSIM Compatible
- The Best eSIM for International Travel – Best eSIM Providers
- Top ESIM for Europe Holafly vs Airalo
Where to Stay When in Italy
Check the map below and browse for the best deals on accommodations for Italy.
Book Your Travel Insurance for Italy
You can read Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full Heymondo Travel Insurance Review
You can get Safetywing Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included
What is an Italy eSIM?
An Italy eSIM is a digital SIM card specifically designed for use in Italy. It allows you to access mobile data without needing a physical SIM card, making it a popular choice for international travelers. eSIMs offer several benefits, including the ability to switch between providers and plans easily, no roaming fees or international charges, and the option to maintain your primary phone number while using a secondary data plan.
Comparing Holafly and Airalo for Italy eSIM
Holafly Italy eSIM
Holafly Italy eSIM Plans
5 GB for 15 days for $22 USD Unlimited data for 30 days for $45 USD (with a discount code)
Here are the complete plan prices:
- 7 Days Unlimited Data for $27 USD
- 10 Days Unlimited Data for $34 USD
- 15 Days Unlimited Data for $47 USD
- 20 Days Unlimited Data for $54 USD
- 30 Days Unlimited Data for $64 USD
Coverage: Nationwide, including major cities and tourist destinations
Network: Utilizes the TIM network
Airalo Italy eSIM
Airalo Italy eSIM Plans
1 GB for 7 days for $6 USD 3 GB for 30 days for $14 USD (with a discount code)
Coverage: Nationwide, including major cities and tourist destinations
Network: Utilizes the Vodafone network
MAYA
Europe+ eSIM Plan
See the plan prices below:
- 1 GB for 30 days for $5 USD
- 3 GB for 30 days for $9 USD
- 5 GB for 30 days for $14 USD
- 10 GB for 30 days for $24 USD
- Europe Unlimited Data for 30 Days for $49 USD
Check Maya eSIM data packages and our detailed Maya eSIM review
Comparison of Holafly and Airalo Italy eSIM Plans
While both providers offer nationwide coverage and utilize reputable networks (TIM for Holafly and Vodafone for Airalo), Airalo remains the better choice for affordable data over Holafly. Holafly usually stands out in the comparison with its unlimited data and fits someone who needs to always be connected with traveling in Italy.
The best choice for your Italy eSIM will depend on your data usage habits and the length of your trip.
Activating Your Italy eSIM
After purchasing an Italy eSIM from either Holafly or Airalo, you’ll receive a QR code via email. Scan the code using your phone’s camera to activate the eSIM and access your data plan. Note that eSIMs typically only provide data services, so you’ll need to rely on apps like WhatsApp or Telegram for voice and text communication.
eSIM Compatibility and Requirements
Before purchasing an Italy eSIM, ensure that your device supports eSIM feature and is unlocked to use eSIM services from different providers. eSIMs are compatible with newer devices like the iPhone XR and later or Samsung Galaxy S20 and later.
Tips for Using Your Italy eSIM
- Conserve data by turning off automatic updates and background app refresh
- Use offline maps or download maps for the areas you’ll visit
- Connect to Wi-Fi at hotels, cafes, or public areas whenever possible to save data
- Monitor your data usage regularly to avoid running out of data during your trip
- Carry a portable battery pack to keep your phone charged while using data-intensive apps
Alternatives to eSIMs in Italy
Prepaid Sim Cards in Italy – Physical SIM
If your device isn’t eSIM compatible or you prefer a physical SIM card, you can still purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in Italy.
Popular providers include TIM, Vodafone, and Wind Tre. These providers offer various plans and data allowances, but you’ll need to consider the additional steps of purchasing and swapping out SIM cards.
Staying Connected in Italy With a Pocket Wi-Fi
Another option for staying connected in Italy is renting a pocket Wi-Fi device. These portable hotspots provide internet access for multiple devices and can be rented at airports or ordered online before your trip.
Popular pocket Wi-Fi providers in Italy are Skyroam and Glocal Me. Check our corresponding reviews for each of them.
Check our favorite pocket Wi-Fi device, GlocalMe.
Final Thoughts on Italy eSIM and Which One to Choose – Holafly vs Airalo
When traveling in Italy, staying connected is crucial for a seamless experience. If you’re on a budget and need data for a short trip, Airalo’s 1 GB for 7 days at $6 USD might be your best option. However, if you require more data or plan to stay in Italy for an extended period, Holafly’s plans for unlimited data in Italy may be more suitable.
We hope this Italy eSIM guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Enjoy your trip to Italy and stay connected!