Roaming, a local SIM or an eSIM?
There are three options, each with its own strengths. The right one depends on where your mobile plan comes from, how long you are staying and whether you need a local number. Our guide to eSIM, local SIM or roaming compares them in detail.
Roaming on your current plan
If your mobile plan comes from a European Union country, roaming in Spain is usually charged as it would be at home under the ‘Roam like at home’ rule, within the limits set by your provider. Check how much data is included when roaming: it can be less than your domestic allowance. If you are coming from outside the EU, roaming can be costly, so look into it before you leave.
A Spanish SIM card
A local SIM gives you a Spanish number, useful for a longer stay or if people need to reach you locally. You can buy one in a shop or online, often with ID, and it replaces your usual SIM if your phone does not support dual SIM. Offers are presented in Spanish.
A data eSIM
The Alizeoo eSIM provides mobile data only: no phone number and no standard calls, but WhatsApp, FaceTime and other internet calling apps work. You install it before you travel and your usual SIM stays available for calls and texts. It suits travellers from outside the EU, or anyone who needs more data than their roaming allowance offers. Your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked: check with our compatibility guide.
Networks and coverage in Spain
The main Spanish mobile operators are Movistar, Orange and Vodafone, alongside several others. The country has both 4G and 5G. Alizeoo plans for Spain run on partner operators, currently Movistar, Vodafone and Orange; the exact networks for each plan are listed on its page, as they can change. 5G depends on the plan, the partner operator and your phone: without it, you connect over 4G.
Coverage is good in the cities and along the popular stretches of coast. The signal can drop:
- in some mountain areas, such as the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada;
- in sparsely populated inland regions, between villages;
- in tunnels and basements.
For the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, check the list of countries and territories on the plan page before you buy. If you lose your connection where the network should be available, our guide my eSIM has no signal takes you through the fixes in order.
Public Wi-Fi in Spain
Many cafés, hotels, restaurants and public places offer free Wi-Fi. It is handy for downloading a map or making a video call, but it is often open. Keep a few good habits:
- do not enter card details on an open network;
- check the exact network name with staff;
- use your mobile data for payments and for your accounts.
Useful apps
- The Renfe app, to check timetables and buy train tickets.
- Map and transport apps, which are all you need to get around by metro and bus in the big cities.
- Messaging apps such as WhatsApp, very handy for keeping in touch with your accommodation or a car hire firm, which work over the eSIM’s data.
Installing and activating your eSIM
Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi a few days before you leave. The exact menus are explained in our iPhone and Android guides.
- Choose a Spain plan: the QR code and installation link arrive by email and in your account.
- Before you leave, on Wi-Fi: scan the QR code or tap ‘Install in one tap’, then name the line Alizeoo.
- When you arrive: select Alizeoo for mobile data and turn on data roaming for that line.
- Turn off data and roaming on your usual SIM, leaving it active for calls and texts.
The plan’s validity usually starts the first time you connect in Spain; the plan page says so. To use your usual number and the eSIM side by side, follow our dual SIM guide.
Once the eSIM is installed, do not delete it: it usually cannot be reinstalled with the same QR code. Each eSIM can only be installed on one device.
How much data should you get?
If you mainly use messaging, maps and bookings, your usage stays light. Video, frequent video calls and posting photos and clips push it up. If you want to connect a laptop or tablet, check that tethering is allowed: this is shown on the plan page. The estimator on our Spain eSIM page helps you choose a suitable allowance for your trip.
Before you go
- If you are travelling from the EU, check first what your provider includes for roaming.
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
- Check on the plan page that the islands you are visiting are covered.
- Download offline maps for journeys inland or into the mountains.
- Also passing through Portugal or France? Plan your multi-country trip.
Compare durations and allowances on the plans for Spain page. Prices include tax and are shown in US dollars.