Last updated on November 26th, 2023 at 07:18 pm
Looking to visit Madrid or Spain soon and would like to get a sim card Madrid airport option? Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is the only airport in Madrid and as we live in Madrid and for a seamless adventure, it’s vital to stay connected. Our guide offers an in-depth look into both traditional and eSIM card options available at the Madrid airport to help you decide.
Read here How to get from Madrid Airport to city center
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Our Recommendations on Getting a Sim Card Madrid Airport
MasMovil offers great sim card prepaid plans at 15GB for 15,00€/30 days and a robust 120GB for 20,00€/30 days – best option if you find their kiosk in the Madrid airport. However, if you want an eSIM option for Madrid sim card, or trying to purchase online with your eSIM-compatible phone, best go for Airalo and Maya Mobile eSIM for unlimited eSIM data in Madrid.
Benefits of Getting a Local SIM Card in Madrid (Sim Card Madrid Airport)
- Cost-Effective: Dodge exorbitant international roaming charges.
- Reliable Internet: Experience Spain’s superior 4G and 5G networks.
- Easy Local Communication: A Spanish number makes local interactions smoother.
- Convenience: Easy top-ups at any local store or online.
Getting a Sim Card Madrid Airport
Upon your touchdown at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, one of the prime concerns for many travelers is ensuring seamless connectivity during their stay. Luckily, several SIM card providers have established their presence across the expansive terminals of the airport, each with its own set of enticing offers:
Vodafone
A renowned name in the telecommunications world, Vodafone has a commanding presence in both Terminals 1 and 4. They offer a range of deals, with one of the highlights being their 50GB data package for just €10. Tourists can also explore their Prepago M package, which provides a generous 100GB for 15,00€/28 days. They have other data-packed offers like the Prepago L, ensuring everyone finds a plan that suits their needs.
Orange
Adding vibrancy to the airport terminals with their signature color, Orange provides a comprehensive range of plans that address both data and call requirements. With their variety of offers, tourists can pick a plan that perfectly aligns with their stay’s duration and data consumption patterns.
Movistar
As a formidable force in Spain’s telecommunications sector, Movistar doesn’t disappoint at Madrid Airport. Especially prominent in Terminal 4, they have a dedicated store that offers various prepaid plans for tourists. Depending on data needs, visitors can choose from different allowances, all with the guided assistance of the friendly Movistar staff. Notably, the post office in Terminal 4 specifically provides Movistar services, making it convenient for those looking to address multiple errands in one stop.
MasMovil – Sim Card Madrid Airport
If you’re transiting through Terminal 4, MasMovil is hard to miss. Their value-driven prepaid plans are quite the catch, with deals such as 15GB for 15,00€/30 days and a robust 120GB for 20,00€/30 days. This makes them a top choice, especially for those keen on balancing cost and connectivity.
Detailed SIM Card Plans
Vodafone:
Tourist SIM: €15
10GB Data
50 minutes local calls
30 days validity
Pay-as-you-go: €10
5GB Data
€0.06/min for calls
Movistar:
Prepaid Plan: €20
15GB Data
80 minutes local calls
28 days validity
Monthly Plans: Starting at €30/month
Unlimited local calls
Navigating the Airport
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, with its sprawling infrastructure, can be a bit overwhelming. The providers’ outlets are primarily located in the arrivals area, ensuring that tourists can secure their SIM cards soon after landing. Before delving deep into the enchanting streets of Madrid, a local prepaid SIM card from these providers guarantees uninterrupted connectivity without causing a dent in your travel budget.
Madrid-Barajas is an expansive airport. Here’s your quick navigation guide:
- Terminal 1: Locate the Vodafone Kiosk near the baggage claim area.
- Terminal 2: The Movistar Kiosk is right by the exit gates.
- Terminal 4: Here you’ll find both Vodafone and Movistar kiosks, predominantly close to the shopping precincts.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Madrid
- Airport Kiosks: Right after you land at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, you’ll encounter numerous kiosks and retail stores offering SIM cards. These are tailored towards tourists and can be activated immediately.
- Shopping Malls: Major shopping centers in Madrid such as La Vaguada, Príncipe Pío, and Plaza Norte 2 host stores where SIM cards can be purchased and activated.
- Local Mobile Stores: You’ll find shops for leading Spanish mobile operators, including Vodafone, Movistar, Orange, and Yoigo, dispersed throughout Madrid. These outlets offer a wider selection of plans, some specifically for tourists.
- Convenience Stores and Kiosks: Some convenience stores and newspaper kiosks in Madrid also offer SIM cards, especially from budget providers. While they might be readily available, the staff might not always be proficient in SIM activation or plan explanations.
- Online: Pre-planning? Purchase a SIM card online prior to your trip. Still, note that upon arrival, you might need to visit a local store for registration and activation.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Madrid
Madrid, being the epicenter of Spain, has extensive coverage from all major network providers. Expect robust 4G connectivity and increasing 5G infrastructure, especially in the urban areas.
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Madrid
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) ensure enhanced voice quality and the capacity to utilize voice services over 4G or WiFi connections, respectively. Availability hinges on both your network provider and mobile device. Most recent smartphones facilitate these services, but double-check compatibility before traveling.
5G NR in Madrid (Sim Card Madrid Airport)
Madrid is at the forefront of 5G rollout in Spain. While it’s expanding, coverage is most prominent within the city and densely populated suburbs. Check up-to-date coverage maps and ensure your device is compatible with the local 5G frequencies if this service is vital for your stay.
SIM Card Registration in Madrid (Sim Card Madrid Airport)
Spain, including Madrid, mandates SIM card registration. This typically entails producing identification, usually a passport for tourists, during purchase. This registration helps link the SIM card to an individual, primarily for security purposes. It’s a swift process and once done, you’re all set to use your new SIM.
Currency in Madrid
Madrid, like the entirety of Spain, operates with the Euro (€). This is convenient for visitors from other Eurozone countries. Although credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s prudent to carry some cash for more local establishments or unforeseen contingencies.
By familiarizing yourself with these insights on mobile services and financial basics for Madrid, you’re well-equipped to remain connected and financially prepared during your visit.
EU Roaming and its Implications for Madrid
Madrid, being the capital city of Spain, enjoys the perks of EU’s “Roam Like at Home” policy that was implemented in June 2017. This policy has revolutionized the way European citizens utilize mobile services while traveling across EU countries. Here’s how it applies to travelers in Madrid:
- Roam Like You’re Home: If you’re from an EU country and using an EU-based SIM card, you can use your mobile services in Madrid just as you would in your home country. This means your standard voice calls, SMS, and data charges remain the same while roaming in Madrid.
- The Fine Print – Fair Use Policy: While the policy is generous, it’s intended for periodic travel, not permanent roaming. If you roam in Spain (or any other EU country) for a prolonged period without spending sufficient time in your home country, your provider might flag this. They can then apply small additional charges, but only after alerting you.
- For Non-EU Visitors: If your SIM card originates from outside the EU, standard roaming rates will apply in Madrid. To save on costs, consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival.
- Benefits for Locals: For Madrid locals traveling elsewhere in the EU, the “Roam Like at Home” policy means they can also use their mobile devices across the EU without any extra charges.
Remember to always check with your mobile provider before your trip. They can provide specific details related to your plan and any limits or exceptions to the roaming policy.
Comparing eSIMs in Madrid – Sim Card Madrid Airport
Maya eSIM Madrid
- 3 GB for $6 USD (5 days)
- 10 GB for $11 USD (5 days)
Maya offers relatively low-cost eSIM options that are easy to use and straightforward to set up. With a focus on affordability, Maya eSIM Madrid is particularly beneficial for short-term visitors who need basic data access.
👉🏽 GET MAYA MOBILE ESIM PLAN HERE
Holafly Madrid eSIM
- Unlimited data for $19 USD (5 days) using discount code GAMINTRAVELER
Holafly offers unlimited data, making it ideal for heavy data users or business travelers. Using a promotional code can further reduce costs, making it a competitive option for those who don’t want to compromise on data usage.
👉🏽 GET HOLAFLY FOR UNLIMITED DATA HERE – DISCOUNT CODE: GAMINTRAVELER
Airalo Madrid eSIM
- 1 GB for $4.5 USD (7 days)
- 20 GB for $26 USD (30 days)
Airalo provides highly flexible, low-cost data options suitable for both short and longer stays. The ease of setup and wide range of data packages make Airalo a convenient option for those looking for customization and affordability.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Madrid
In summary, Mas Movil and Movistar offer competitive data packages for both short-term and long-term stays in Madrid. However, if you’re staying in Madrid for a short period, consider eSIM options from Airalo or Maya for flexibility.
Our Final Thoughts and Recommendations
For the most cost-effective SIM card options in Madrid, opt for Mas Movil prepaid SIM card or Movistar Mobile’s prepaid SIM card. If you prefer eSIM, Maya offers the best-unlimited data packages while Airalo is good for smaller data packages.
👉🏽 GET HOLAFLY FOR UNLIMITED DATA HERE – DISCOUNT CODE: GAMINTRAVELER
👉🏽 GET MAYA MOBILE ESIM PLAN HERE
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