Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 06:16 am
Are you gearing up to visit Barcelona or any other city in Spain soon? To ensure a seamless experience, staying connected is essential. Our guide delves deep into the traditional and eSIM card options available at Barcelona-El Prat Airport.
Landing at Barcelona El Prat Airport and wondering if you can buy a sim card at Barcelona Airport? Yes, there are kiosks and vendors with Orange and MasMovil are the leading SIM card providers in Barcelona and Spain.
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 Barcelona. For eSIM options, you can opt for Holafly and Airalo.
🚗 Transportation Tips and How To’s: 4 Days Barcelona Itinerary, Barcelona Airport to Calella, Barcelona Airport to Sagrada Familia, Barcelona Airport to Las Ramblas and Barcelona Airport to Barcelona City Center
📌 Our Related Travel Guides on Buying a SIM Card in Barcelona Airport and Other Barcelona Insights:
For sim card guides, we’ve also written top sim cards to use for every country in the world to help you get the best connectivity, anywhere you want to travel.
WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA
You can sleep in a dorm room for €15-30. For mid-budget hotels prices start at €60-80 and if you want luxury hotels start from €120.
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 Getting a Barcelona Airport SIM Card
While several providers have kiosks at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, MasMovil stands out with its 50GB for 15,00€/30 days plan which is already great.
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 and get more data connection just look for the official stores in Barcelona.
If you’re considering an eSIM for Barcelona, Holafly, Airalo and Maya Mobile eSIM offer robust unlimited data packages.
Benefits of a Local SIM Card in Barcelona:
- Cost-Effective: Avoid hefty international roaming charges.
- Reliable Internet: Connect to Spain’s excellent 4G and 5G networks.
- Easy Communication: A Spanish number simplifies local interactions.
- Convenience: Top-up easily in-store or online.
Getting a Sim Card in Barcelona
Upon your arrival at Barcelona–El Prat Airport, a top priority for many visitors is securing reliable connectivity during their stay. Fortunately, multiple SIM card providers are available across the vast terminals of the airport, each offering a variety of enticing deals:
Vodafone – Buy Sim Card in Barcelona Airport
A significant player in the telecom market, Vodafone has stalls in both the main terminals. Their packages are attractive, with deals like a 50GB data package for just €10. Tourists might also be interested in their Prepago M package, which offers a substantial 100GB for 15,00€/28 days. Their variety ensures there’s something for everyone.
Tourist SIM: €15, 10GB Data with 50 minutes local calls and valid for 30 days.
Check the exact location to find Vodafone stores to buy a sim card in Barcelona.
Orange
With their recognizable branding, Orange has various plans catering to both data and call needs. Depending on the duration of the stay and data usage, tourists can select a plan that fits their demands.
Orange’s “Mundo” SIM is tailored for visitors. With unlimited data packages only for Spain for €37 but if you are traveling in Europe is 45 GB data.
Check the exact location to find Orange stores to buy a sim card in Barcelona.
Movistar
A powerhouse in Spanish telecommunications, Movistar has a strong presence at Barcelona Airport. Their dedicated store presents a variety of prepaid options suitable for tourists. Visitors can opt from diverse data packages, with the helpful guidance of Movistar’s friendly staff.
Prepaid Plan: €20 with 15GB Data, 80 minutes local calls and valid for 28 days.
Check the exact location to find Movistar stores to buy a sim card in Barcelona.
MasMovil
Available in the primary terminals, MasMovil stands out with its cost-effective prepaid plans. They offer deals like 50GB for 15,00€/30 days and a massive 120GB for 20,00€/30 days, making them a top pick for visitors concerned about value.
Check the exact location to find MasMovil stores to buy a sim card in Barcelona.
Navigating Barcelona-El Prat Airport (Sim Card Barcelona Airport)
Barcelona–El Prat Airport, with its modern design, can initially appear complex. However, SIM card outlets are strategically placed in the arrivals area, ensuring visitors can quickly purchase one after disembarking. Before diving into Barcelona’s rich culture, securing a local prepaid SIM card from these providers guarantees continuous connectivity without straining your budget.
The airport’s extensive layout can seem daunting, but here’s a quick guide:
- Vodafone: A Vodafone reseller is located in Terminal 1 at Barcelona-El Prat Airport. Travelers can find this reseller in the Tech & Fly store situated in the arrival hall of Terminal 1. Once in the arrival hall, the Tech & Fly store is visible right across, and inside, tourists can purchase physical prepaid SIM cards from Vodafone
- Orange: Orange SIM cards are available at a Tabacos convenience store located outside Terminal 1, just after exiting the sliding door on the right-hand side. The store sells physical prepaid Orange SIM cards, particularly convenient for tourists arriving at Terminal 1. Additionally, in Terminal 2, a store called Tienda del Viajero, also a baggage storage, sells Orange prepaid SIM cards. This store is located in the middle of Hall B
- Movistar: The information regarding a Movistar kiosk in Terminal 2 by the exit gates was not corroborated by the sources. However, a Movistar store can be found in the city, at Passeig de Gràcia, open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 9pm, where tourists can purchase SIM cards with various data plans
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Barcelona
- Airport Kiosks: Right after landing at Barcelona–El Prat Airport, you’ll find multiple kiosks and stores offering SIM cards tailored for tourists, with immediate activation.
- Shopping Malls: Major malls in Barcelona, like Diagonal Mar, Glòries, and L’Illa Diagonal, house stores where SIM cards can be procured and activated.
- Local Mobile Stores: Throughout Barcelona, you’ll discover stores for major Spanish mobile operators like Vodafone, Movistar, Orange, and Yoigo. They provide a broad spectrum of plans, some designed explicitly for tourists.
- Convenience Stores and Kiosks: Some local stores and newspaper kiosks also offer SIM cards from budget providers. While these are easy to find, the staff might not always be adept in SIM activation or explaining the plans.
- Online: For those who like to plan ahead, SIM cards can be purchased online before your journey. However, upon landing, you might need to visit a local store for registration and activation.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city, boasts comprehensive coverage from all primary network providers. Expect strong 4G connectivity and a rapidly expanding 5G network, especially in the urban districts.
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Barcelona
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi) offer enhanced voice quality and the ability to use voice services over 4G or WiFi connections. The availability depends on both your service provider and mobile device. Check compatibility before embarking on your trip.
5G NR in Barcelona
Barcelona leads in 5G deployment in Spain. Coverage is mainly focused within the city and populous suburbs. Refer to the latest coverage maps and confirm your device’s compatibility if relying on 5G is essential.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Barcelona:
- Airport Kiosks: Right after you land, you’ll find numerous SIM card options.
- Shopping Malls: Visit centers like La Vaguada or Plaza Norte 2.
- Local Mobile Stores: Find leading operators like Vodafone, Movistar, and Orange throughout Barcelona.
- Online: Buy beforehand, but you might need local store assistance for activation.
SIM Card Registration in Barcelona (Sim Card Barcelona Airport)
Like all of Spain, Barcelona requires SIM card registration. Tourists typically need to provide identification, often a passport, at the time of purchase. This links the SIM card to an individual for safety reasons. The process is efficient, and once completed, you’re primed to use your new SIM.
Comparing eSIMs in Barcelona – Sim Card Barcelona Airport
Maya eSIM Barcelona
- 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 Barcelona is particularly beneficial for short-term visitors who need basic data access.
👉🏽 GET MAYA MOBILE ESIM PLAN HERE
Holafly Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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.
EU Roaming and its Implications for Barcelona
Barcelona being one of Spain’s most visited cities, enjoys the perks of the 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 Barcelona:
- 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 Barcelona just as you would in your home country. This means your standard voice calls, SMS, and data charges remain the same while roaming in Barcelona.
- 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 Barcelona. To save on costs, consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival.
- Benefits for Locals: For Barcelona 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.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Barcelona
In summary, Mas Movil and Movistar offer competitive data packages for both short-term and long-term stays in Barcelona. However, if you’re staying in Barcelona 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 Barcelona, 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
FAQs – Buy Sim Card in Barcelona Airport
- Can you buy a SIM at Barcelona airport? Yes, there are multiple kiosks offering SIM cards tailored for tourists.
- How much is it to buy a sim card in Barcelona? Prices vary, but you can get a decent data package starting from 10€.
- Should I buy a sim card at the airport? Buying at the airport offers convenience, but sometimes local stores in the city might have more varied plans.
- Which sim card is best in Spain? It depends on your needs, but MasMovil, Vodafone, and Movistar are popular choices.
Related Searches Insights When Buying a Barcelona Sim Card
- Where to Buy SIM Card in Barcelona Airport: Numerous kiosks and retail stores are available immediately after landing.
- Best SIM Card in Barcelona Airport: While subjective, MasMovil and Vodafone are top contenders.
- eSIM Card Barcelona: Consider Airalo and Maya Mobile for comprehensive eSIM data plans.
- Spain SIM Card Airport: Almost all major Spanish airports have kiosks selling SIM cards.
- Vodafone Barcelona SIM Card: Vodafone is a major player and has outlets in both the airport and the city.
- Orange SIM Card Spain: Another major provider, Orange offers a range of plans suitable for tourists.
Our Final Words:
For affordable SIM card options in Barcelona, consider Mas Movil or Movistar’s prepaid SIM cards. If eSIMs are more your speed, Maya and Airalo have stellar offers.
👉🏽 Get your eSIM Plans Here:
- Holafly (Use Code: GAMINTRAVELER for unlimited data)
- Maya Mobile
- Airalo
Safe travels and enjoy your stay in Barcelona! 🌍🇪🇸
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 to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.