Italy is an awesome place to visit, as there is so much to see and do, whether you're wandering around Rome, or visit Pompeii, making pizza in Naples, drinking wine in Tuscany, hiking in the Dolomites, it's an amazing country.
But, whilst you're making those memories, you'll want to stay connected to love ones, and Instagram of course ;)
eSIMs are a game-changer for travelers—they’re easy to set up, budget-friendly, and let you hit the ground running as soon as you land.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 5 best eSIM providers for Italy, so you can choose the one that fits your needs...
In this guide I’m going to take you through:
Let’s get started …
Traditional SIM cards have been the go-to solution for connecting to mobile networks, especially when traveling.
However, they come with drawbacks like higher costs and limited flexibility.
This is where the modern eSIM steps in—a digital upgrade that enhances convenience and functionality.
Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded directly into your device, eliminating the need for removable chips.
With an eSIM, you can instantly switch to a local mobile provider upon arriving in a new country, without the hassle of finding and installing a physical SIM card.
eSIMs also offer a range of other advantages, such as cost savings and greater versatility, which we’ll dive into later in this guide.
Many mobile providers offer international plans that can be used in Italy, often referred to as "roaming."
This option allows you to stay connected to the internet without needing to replace your SIM card.
However, there are notable drawbacks.
These plans often come with high costs, where basic browsing can quickly amount to $15–$25 per day—or even more if you stream videos or engage in other data-heavy activities.
If you’re traveling to Italy for work, these costs can add up quickly.
Another challenge is connection quality. You might find inconsistent service, with speeds occasionally dropping to 3G. Many providers also impose speed caps, especially with frequent usage, which can lead to frustratingly slow internet—even for simple tasks like checking emails or searching on Google.
For example, when I use O2 in Italy, my data is capped at around 25 GB, and my speeds are throttled if I use too much data. Additionally, there are extra charges if I use my mobile data to hotspot other devices.
Here are the top reasons why eSIMs are the best choice for staying connected during your trip to Italy:
eSIMs are cheaper than roaming data and often more cost-effective than physical SIMs, which require an upfront cost for the card and a plan. Plus, you avoid extra fees if you need to switch networks.
With eSIMs, you can switch between networks without swapping physical SIM cards. They also let you quickly reconnect to your home network, perfect for staying in touch with family.
Activate your eSIM instantly—no need to hunt for a SIM card shop upon arrival. You’ll be online as soon as you land, ready to navigate and explore.
eSIMs let you keep your existing number, so there’s no need to inform anyone of a temporary number. It’s seamless, just like using WhatsApp.
Many eSIMs provide coverage beyond Italy, spanning multiple European countries. This means you won’t need to buy a new SIM every time you cross a border.
Everything is stored digitally, so you won’t lose a physical card or waste time searching for one. It’s a hassle-free solution for modern travelers.
I've been using Maya Mobile for a few years now, and I stand by them as one of my favourite eSIM providers. They've covered me Europe, the Caribbean, Faroe Islands and more. ,And, the offer the same great deals for Italy. They've got plans that range from 3GB to unlimited data.
Within their plans they have a "lite", standard and Max option. If your're just travelling and not doing anything work related, and you just need to search the web, use google maps, order food and taxis ect, then this is the best option for you.
Or if you're planning on catching up with emails, or working whilst out in Italy, then opt for the standard or Max as you're able to hot spot with those!
The eSIM is activated instantly and connects to Italy’s major networks like TIM and Vodafone, ensuring seamless coverage.
Their unlimited plans are a standout feature, perfect for heavy data users like remote workers, streamers, or social media enthusiasts. With their clear pricing and ease of use, Maya Mobile is a reliable choice for short and long-term travelers alike.
SIM Local offers practical and cost-effective eSIM plans for Italy, tailored for tourists who want to avoid roaming charges.
Their plans typically start with small data packages, which are ideal for light internet usage like maps and messaging. SIM Local emphasizes convenience, with eSIMs that are quick to activate and easy to top up if needed. While not as flashy as some competitors, they’re a solid option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t need unlimited data. Plus, you can try them for free, by option for their global plan. You can test out 1GB of data, and if you love it, then you can get more data for your Italian trip. They also offer a great value Europe plan, which includes Italy, and you can hotspot as you wish!
Firsty is a unique eSIM provider offering free data plans supported by ads. With Firsty, you can get 60 minutes of free internet by watching a 30-second ad, making it an intriguing choice for budget travelers.
For those who need uninterrupted service, their paid “Firsty Fast” plans offer affordable high-speed data at just €1 per day. While the free plan is limited in speed and duration, the paid options ensure reliable connectivity for heavier users.
Holafly is a well-known name in the eSIM world, offering unlimited data plans that are particularly attractive for long-term travelers. Their Italy-specific eSIM connects to major networks and ensures smooth connectivity across the country.
eSIM lans range from 5 to 90 days, making Holafly an excellent choice for both short visits and extended stays. With 24/7 customer support and an easy setup process, it’s a hassle-free solution for those who need consistent internet access. I think their strong point is definitely their unlimited data plans for excellent prices, but you can't hot spot their data which is a downfall in my eyes.
Pros of Holafly for Italy
Cons of Holafly for Italy
Airalo is a favorite among frequent travelers, offering affordable eSIM plans that cater to a wide range of needs. Their Italy-specific “Mamma Mia” eSIM connects to top Italian networks like TIM, Vodafone, and Wind Tre, ensuring excellent coverage. With plans starting as low as $5 for 1GB, Airalo is perfect for short-term visits or travelers on a budget. Their intuitive app also makes it easy to monitor data usage and recharge if needed.
Pros of Airlo for Italy
Cons of Airlo for Italy
All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIM:
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIM.
And that’s a wrap on our guide to the best eSIMs for traveling to and around Italy!
eSIMs are an incredibly useful tool for international travel and, in our opinion, an essential for anyone visiting Italy (or any other destination). (Check out Europe eSIM guide for MORE inspo!)
With eSIMs, you can enjoy high-speed connections at affordable prices.
Many plans come with unique advantages, such as regional bundles or generous data allowances for hotspotting to your other devices.
In this guide, we’ve explained why eSIMs are a superior choice compared to traditional SIM cards and highlighted five of the best eSIM providers for use in Italy.
So, which eSIM do you plan to use for your next trip?
Have a favorite provider we didn’t include in our list?
Comment below and share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you!
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