Last updated on March 25th, 2024 at 02:28 am
Looking to get a Zurich Airport SIM card for immediate connectivity in Switzerland? We have a full guide how to buy a sim card in Zurich.
Landing at Zurich Airport and wondering if you can buy a sim card at Zurich Airport? Yes, there are shops and vendors with Swisscom, Salt and Sunrise the leading for SIM card in Zurich and Switzerland.
The easiest way is to order your eSIM online where you can get cheap data packages and unlimited data without buying a SIM card in Zurich. For eSIM options, you can opt for Airalo, Holafly and Maya Mobile
If you are going from Zurich Airport to the city center you should know that it will take 20 minutes by taxi and 10 minutes by public transportation.
Zurich, known for its financial prowess and stunning landscapes, is a fusion of tradition and innovation. As you arrive, staying connected is essential. Zurich Airport is where your journey begins. What are the best SIM and eSIM deals here?
Let’s find out all the essentials to keep you connected in Zurich’s dynamic environment.
Make sure you get free transportation in Switzerland with the Swiss Travel Pass and Swiss Half Fare Card
WHERE TO STAY IN ZURICH
There’s no lack of hostels, backpacker inns, and budget hotels anywhere in Switzerland. These rooms can go anywhere between 50-100 CHF per night for accommodation in Switzerland. If you are looking for mid-budget and luxury hotels prices start from 200-300 CHF.
Click here to get the best deals in Zurich with Booking and Agoda
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: 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 comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Why a Local SIM Card in Zurich is Essential
Zurich’s appeal spans from its financial significance to its picturesque landscapes. To engage with its efficient public transport, high-end shopping, and lakeside attractions, being constantly online is crucial. Despite available Wi-Fi, a local SIM guarantees ongoing connectivity.
Benefits include:
- Adventure: Find off-the-beaten-path eateries or viewpoints through local insights.
- Translation: Effortlessly communicate in German or French with online tools.
- Safe Travel: Navigate Zurich confidently with GPS guidance.
- Instant Sharing: Share your Swiss experiences in real time with loved ones.
Can I Buy a SIM Card at Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport (ZRH) – SIM Card Locations and Options
At Zurich Airport, you can find SIM cards from the three main Swiss service providers: Swisscom, Salt, and Sunrise. These providers have shops at the airport, making it convenient for travelers to purchase a SIM card upon arrival.
Just landing you will be able to book your taxi, Uber and check online before getting to your hotel. If you aren’t in a hurry and you want to save a few bucks just look for the official stores in Zurich.
Top Providers For A Zurich Sim Card
Swisscom Zurich Sim Card
Recommended for its comprehensive coverage and simple data plans the best coverage for sim card in Zurich. A Swisscom prepaid SIM card costs around 20 CHF ($22 USD), which includes 20 CHF credit that can be used fo 7 days of unlimited data.
Check the exact location to find Swisscom stores to buy a sim card in Zurich.
Salt Zurich Sim Card
Salt is known for its affordable data plans and good value for international calls. Salt offers a 10GB data bundle for 17 CHF, valid for 30 days, with the option to use the remaining credit for calls and SMS. Salt is the cheapest sim card in Zurich.
Check the exact location to find Salt stores to buy a sim card in Zurich.
Sunrise Zurich Sim Card
Suitable for longer stays or heavy data usage. They offer a plan for 50 CHF, which includes unlimited data and calls for 30 days.
All three providers offer SIM cards with varying benefits in terms of data, local and international calls, and coverage.
Check the exact location to find Sunrise stores to buy a sim card in Zurich.
Purchasing a SIM Card
You can purchase SIM cards at Zurich Airport in the shops located near the airport shopping area. Swisscom and Salt stores are easily accessible and open from 08.00 am to 09.00 pm, accepting international credit cards.
E-SIM Cards – Best Alternatives to Physical SIM Card Zurich Airport
As an alternative to traditional SIM cards, e-SIM cards are available and can be a convenient and cheaper option for staying connected in Switzerland. E-SIM cards for Switzerland start from as low as $4.5 USD for 1GB of data for 7 days.
Airalo – Zurich Airport eSIM
Airalo offers an eSIM for Zurich Airport, ideal for travelers seeking flexible data usage without needing unlimited data. The Airalo Poland plan provides consistent speeds and extensive coverage, making it a great choice for those who need intermittent data access.
Airalo eSIM plans for Zurich include:
$4.5 USD for 1GB, valid for 7 Days
$8 USD for 2GB, valid for 15 Days
$10 USD for 3GB, valid for 30 Days
$14.5 USD for 5GB, valid for 30 Days
$24 USD for 10GB, valid for 30 Days
$38 USD for 20GB, valid for 30 Days
These plans are perfect for travelers who need data occasionally, with the flexibility to choose a plan that suits their duration of stay and data needs.
Holafly – Zurich Airport eSIM
Holafly is known for its unlimited data plans in various countries, including Poland. The Holafly eSIM plan for Zurich Airport is comprehensive, offering continuous connectivity.
Remember to check your device’s compatibility with eSIM before purchase.
Holafly’s unlimited high-speed data packages for Zurich start at $19 USD for 5 Days, with other options available for longer stays.
See all of Holafly eSIM’s unlimited data plans below:
Unlimited Data for 5 Days for $21 USD
Unlimited Data for 7 Days for $29 USD
Unlimited Data for 10 Days for $37 USD
Unlimited Data for 15 Days for $51 USD
Unlimited Data for 20 Days for $62 USD
Unlimited Data for 30 Days for $75 USD
Unlimited Data for 60 Days for $107 USD
Unlimited Data for 90 Days for $139 USD
Maya Mobile eSIM
Maya Mobile provides a flexible alternative for Zurich travelers, with plans ranging from smaller data packages to unlimited options. Maya Mobile eSIM for Zurich includes:
3GB for $9 USD for 5 Days
5GB for $11 USD for 5 Days
10GB for $19 USD for 5 Days
20GB for $27 USD for 5 Days
Unlimited Data for $19 for 5 Days
Additionally, Maya Mobile offers unlimited data plans for Zurich Airport:
Unlimited Data for $19 USD for 5 Days – Ideal for solo travelers, with 2GB of high-speed internet daily, followed by unlimited LTE at 1Mbps.
Unlimited Data for $29 USD for 5 Days – Includes Wi-Fi hotspot, 3GB of high-speed internet daily, then unlimited LTE at 1Mbps.
Unlimited Data for $39 USD for 5 Days – Includes Wi-Fi hotspot, 5GB of high-speed daily, then unlimited LTE at 1Mbps.
Considerations
- Swiss SIM cards may not include EU roaming, so they are mostly valid for use within Switzerland.
- When buying a SIM card, you will need to present your ID for registration.
- It’s advisable to compare the offers of different providers to find the best deal for your needs.
Personal Stories with a Local SIM in Zurich
In Zurich, my local SIM was invaluable, especially during my visit to the picturesque Lake Zurich. I could instantly upload photos and share my experiences with friends and family back home.
A visit to the Swiss National Museum was greatly enhanced as I used my phone to access detailed information about the exhibits I was viewing. Navigating to Uetliberg mountain for a panoramic view of Zurich was a breeze with my GPS, all thanks to the reliable connectivity of my local SIM.
Final Thoughts on Zurich Airport SIM Card
For Zurich Airport, Swisscom and Salt are top choices for SIM cards, while Airalo and Holafly are recommended for eSIMs.
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About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.