Last updated on May 4th, 2024 at 02:18 pm
Looking to get a Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card for fast internet connection upon landing in Thessaloniki, Greece?
Landing at Thessaloniki Airport and wondering if you can buy a sim card at Thessaloniki Airport? Yes, there are kiosks and vendors with Cosmote one of the leading providers for SIM card in Thessaloniki and Greece.
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 Thessaloniki. For eSIM options, you can opt for Go for Holafly or Airalo.
If you are going from Thessaloniki Airport to the city center you should know that it will take 25 minutes by taxi and 45 minutes by public transportation.
Thessaloniki, blending the allure of its ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine history with a vibrant contemporary lifestyle, is a destination not to be missed in Greece. In Thessaloniki, providers like Cosmote and Vodafone offer the best SIM card options.
This guide is crucial to finding the ideal mobile connectivity solution, helping you stay connected and make the most of your time in Thessaloniki. While SIM card plans at Thessaloniki Airport may be pricier than in the city, the immediacy and convenience of getting your SIM Card plan at the airport are unmatched.
We cover all options in our guides below. Let’s explore the connectivity options available at Thessaloniki Airport.
Related Travel Guides:
- 16 Best Things to Do in Thessaloniki (Travel Guide)
- 25 Greek Traditional Breakfast
- 22 Things to know before visiting Greece
- Travel Insurance for Greece
WHERE TO STAY IN THESSALONIKI
You can stay in a dorm room or a room from €10-25, while you can stay in a budget hotel for as low as €50. There are so many to choose from depending on what type and how luxurious you want your stay to be starting from €100.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION
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 in Thessaloniki is Essential
Thessaloniki, where the rich tapestry of Greek history intertwines with a lively contemporary lifestyle, offers a truly immersive Greek experience. To fully embrace the spirit of this ancient yet dynamic city, a local SIM card is crucial for several reasons:
- Effortless Navigation: Easily find your way through Thessaloniki’s historic streets and landmarks like the White Tower and the Rotunda, with reliable GPS assistance enhancing your exploration.
- Cultural Immersion: Seamlessly translate local signages, menus, and conversations. This bridges the language gap and deepens your connection with the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Stay Connected: Instantly share your Thessaloniki adventures on social media, or keep in touch with your loved ones back home, ensuring you’re always connected.
- Emergency Access: In urgent situations, having a local number can be vital, providing quick access to local assistance and emergency services.
- Cost-Effective Communication: Avoid expensive roaming fees and enjoy local rates for calls, texts, and internet usage, making your communication more affordable.
Owning a local SIM card in Thessaloniki not only adds to your convenience but also enriches your travel experience, ensuring you stay connected and secure as you discover the historical and cultural riches of this vibrant Greek city.
Where to Find SIM Card Kiosks for Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card
Location of SIM Card Kiosks at Thessaloniki Airport
After clearing customs at Thessaloniki Airport, you can locate SIM card kiosks or shops in the arrivals area. You will find vendors selling Cosmote and Vodafone but it will be more expensive than buying a sim card in Thessaloniki city.
Physical Thessaloniki Prepaid SIM Card (Buy SIM Card in Thessaloniki Airport)
Connect Phone Store: This store is conveniently located in the arrivals area and caters to travelers. It offers SIM cards with internet and speaking time, suitable for use within Greece and abroad. The store’s opening hours align with airport operating hours, ensuring availability for most arriving passengers.
Top Recommendations for Thessaloniki SIM Card
For Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card in 2024, travelers have a few good SIM card options:
Cosmote Thessaloniki Sim Card
Cosmote is highly recommended for its superior 4G/5G network coverage in Greece and it’s the best coverage for sim card in Thessaloniki.
You can get for 14€ with 15 GB data valid for 30 days and for 20€ with 30 GB data valid for 30 days. Physical SIM cards can also be purchased, but you need to present your passport for registration.
Check out the exact location of Cosmote stores in Thessaloniki.
Vodafone Thessaloniki Sim Card
Vodafone is another excellent option and is known for offering great prepaid SIM cards for tourists since it will be the cheapest sim card in Thessaloniki. Prepaid plans start at €20 for 25 GB data and unlimited national calls.
Check out the exact location of Vodafone stores in Thessaloniki.
Nova Thessaloniki Sim Card
Nova Prepaid plans start at €10 for 10GB data not as good as Vodafone data packages. Check out the exact location of Nova stores in Thessaloniki.
At Thessaloniki Airport, the Connect Phone store in the arrivals area offers SIM cards for travelers, providing options for internet and calling within Greece, Europe, and other international destinations. This makes it convenient for visitors to acquire a SIM card right upon arrival.
- Major Greek Operators: Providers like Cosmote, Vodafone, and Nova offer prepaid SIM cards. These operators are known for their extensive network coverage and reliable service across Greece. The SIM cards typically include data and call options, with prices generally in line with what you would find at other major Greek airports.
- eSIM Options: For those preferring a more digital approach, eSIMs are offered by COSMOTE & What’s Up for prepaid customers. Other travel eSIM options are available from providers like Airalo, Alosim, and Holafly, which might offer more competitive prices compared to traditional SIM cards. These can be especially useful for travelers looking to avoid physical SIM cards or those seeking immediate connectivity upon arrival.
eSIM Options for Thessaloniki SIM Card (Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card)
Physical SIM cards are progressively giving way to eSIMs, presenting unmatched convenience. Here’s an in-depth look at the eSIMs available:
Benefits of eSIMs:
- Instant Activation: No more waiting for delivery. Scan a QR code, and you’re set.
- Space-Saving: eSIMs are integrated into phones, eliminating the risk of misplacement.
- Flexibility: Store multiple profiles for different countries and switch as required.
- Eco-Friendly: Opt for a sustainable digital alternative.
Airalo – Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card
Airalo is an eSIM marketplace offering a variety of data plans for different countries, facilitating seamless connectivity for travelers.
Airalo offers Greece Meraki Mobile eSIMs with the following options:
- 1 GB of data valid for 7 days at $5 USD.
- 2 GB of data valid for 15 days at $9 USD.
- 3 GB of data valid for 30 days at $12 USD.
- 5 GB of data valid for 30 days at $15 USD
Holafly
Holafly provides unlimited virtual SIM card options with calls included for Greece. The plans range from 5 to 90 days with prices starting at $19 USD and going up to $99 USD. Upon activating the eSIM, you’ll receive an Austrian (+43) phone number. The service connects to either Vodafone Greece or Cosmote depending on which has a better connection in your area.
Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile offers a range of prepaid and unlimited data eSIM plans for Greece with the following options:
- 3 GB Data Pass valid for 5 to 30 days at $0 USD.
- 5 GB Data Pass valid for 5 to 30 days at $0 USD.
- 10 GB Data Pass valid for 5 to 30 days at $0 USD.
- 20 GB Data Pass valid for 5 to 30 days at $0 USD.
- Unlimited Data Pass valid for 5 to 30 days at $0 USD.
- Europe+ Unlimited Data Pass (covering 30 countries) valid for 5 to 30 days at $18 USD
These eSIM options from Airalo, Holafly, and Maya Mobile provide a variety of data plans to cater to different user needs, offering flexibility and connectivity for travelers visiting Greece.
By choosing the right SIM card or eSIM option at Thessaloniki Airport, you can ensure seamless connectivity during your travels in Greece, enjoying the convenience of immediate internet access and the ability to communicate locally and internationally
Frequently Asked Questions: Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card
Where can I buy a SIM card at Thessaloniki Airport?
You can purchase a SIM card at the Connect Phone store located in the arrivals area of Thessaloniki Airport. This store offers a variety of SIM cards suitable for both Greece and international use.
What types of SIM cards are available at Thessaloniki Airport?
Major Greek operators like Cosmote, Vodafone, and Nova offer prepaid SIM cards at Thessaloniki Airport. These SIM cards typically include data and call options.
What do I need to purchase a SIM card at Thessaloniki Airport?
You will need to have your phone unlocked and present your passport as ID proof. It’s also advisable to have some Euros in cash, though card payments are generally accepted
Are eSIM options available at Thessaloniki Airport?
Yes, eSIMs are available from providers like COSMOTE & What’s Up. Travel eSIMs from providers like Airalo, Alosim, and Holafly are also options for those preferring a digital solution
Can I use my Thessaloniki Airport SIM card for EU roaming?
Yes, SIM cards bought at Thessaloniki Airport generally include EU roaming options. However, it’s advisable to check specific roaming policies and data speeds with the provider
What are the typical costs for SIM cards at Thessaloniki Airport?
The prices of SIM cards at Thessaloniki Airport are similar to those at other major Greek airports. The cost will vary depending on the provider and the data plan chosen
Is there customer support available for SIM card issues at Thessaloniki Airport?
Yes, customer support is available at the Connect Phone store in Thessaloniki Airport. If you face any issues with your SIM card, the staff at the store can assist you. Additionally, each mobile operator also has customer service that can be contacted for further support
How do I activate my SIM card purchased at Thessaloniki Airport?
Activation instructions are typically provided at the time of purchase. Store representatives can also assist with activation. For eSIMs, activation involves scanning a QR code and following the provided instructions
Are there any specific requirements for using a SIM card in Greece?
In Greece, it’s mandatory to provide identification, typically a passport, when purchasing a SIM card. This is part of the SIM card registration process required by law. Also, ensure that your phone is unlocked and compatible with the Greek mobile networks
Can I top up my SIM card purchased at Thessaloniki Airport?
Yes, you can top up your SIM card. Top-up options are available at various locations including kiosks, convenience stores, and sometimes online through the provider’s website or mobile app
What network coverage and internet speeds can I expect in Thessaloniki?
Thessaloniki has comprehensive 4G coverage, and the availability of 5G is expanding. The network performance and internet speeds are generally good, especially in urban and tourist areas
Is it more cost-effective to buy a SIM card at the airport or in the city?
While buying a SIM card at the airport is convenient for immediate connectivity, it might be slightly more expensive than purchasing one in the city. If you are not in urgent need of a SIM card, exploring options in the city might offer more economical choices
Final Thoughts on Thessaloniki Airport SIM Card and Thessaloniki SIM Card Options
As you wrap up your plans for a trip to Thessaloniki, ensuring you have the right mobile connectivity is crucial for a fulfilling experience in this historically rich Greek city.
Convenience at the Airport:
Thessaloniki Airport simplifies your connectivity needs by offering SIM cards from major operators like Cosmote, Vodafone, and Nova. These are available at the Connect Phone store in the arrivals area.
eSIM as an Alternative:
Travel eSIMs from providers like Airalo, Maya eSIM, and Holafly provide flexibility and often more competitive rates compared to traditional SIM cards.
Coverage and Speed:
Thessaloniki boasts strong 4G coverage and is progressively expanding its 5G network. This ensures excellent internet speeds and coverage, particularly in urban areas and popular tourist destinations.
EU Roaming:
Similar to German SIM cards, Greek SIM cards typically include EU roaming, facilitating seamless connectivity across other EU countries. This feature is particularly advantageous if your travel plans extend beyond Greece.
Local vs. Airport Purchase:
Purchasing a SIM card at the airport provides the convenience of immediate connectivity. However, you might find more diverse and possibly more economical options in the city. Weigh the need for instant access against potential savings and choices available within Thessaloniki.
Enhanced Experience:
Choosing a local SIM card or eSIM not only assures connectivity but also enriches your travel experience in Thessaloniki. It supports easy navigation, local communication, and a reliable internet connection, which are crucial for exploring the city’s numerous historical and cultural sights.
Opting for a traditional SIM card from a local carrier or an eSIM for its convenience ensures that your stay in Thessaloniki is both enjoyable and hassle-free. Having a reliable mobile connection is an indispensable part of your travel experience, enhancing your ability to explore and enjoy all that Thessaloniki has to offer.
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.