How to Buy the Best eSIM for Italy

Italy is a dream destination for travellers. 

Popular cities like Milan, Florence, and Naples draw millions of visitors each year with major airports such as Rome’s Fiumicino (FCO), Milan’s Malpensa (MXP), and Venice’s Marco Polo (VCE) serving as major gateways into the country. 

The airport is also a good place to buy a SIM card. But here's the good news: you don't need to waste time at the airport. Just download an eSIM instead.

Here's how you can do it in just five simple steps.

First things first make sure your phone is eSIM compatible. Most modern smartphones, including the latest models from Apple, Samsung, and Google, come with eSIM capabilities. To check if your device supports eSIM, you can usually find this information in your phone’s settings under “Cellular” or “Network” options. Alternatively, you can check this up-to-date list of smartphones to confirm compatibility.

An unlocked phone can use SIM cards or eSIMs from any carrier, giving you the freedom to choose the best eSIM options available. If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you might face restrictions or additional charges when trying to use a different network.

You can check if your phone is unlocked in the settings under "Cellular" or "Network" options. Alternatively, contact your carrier to confirm. Check out this quick guide for more information. 

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Choosing your destination is the first step to finding the perfect eSIM for your travels. Most eSIM provider websites feature a search bar where you can type in your country (or region) or select from a dropdown menu.

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For example, Sim Local offers eSIM options for over 190 destinations, including popular destinations like Italy. 

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Many eSIM providers will let you choose plans for a specific country (like Italy), an entire region (like Europe), or a global plan that provides network coverage all over the world.

To make things simple, here are the three eSIM options from Sim Local and what they offer.

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For those who prefer a data-only plan, Sim Local offers a wide range of Italy eSIM plans from Smartroam. These are data-only eSIM plans that do not include calls and texts. Apps like WhatsApp and Instagram are great alternatives.

When you activate one of these plans, you’ll connect to local mobile networks including the Iliad, Vodafone Omnitel, and Wind Tre Italy, providing you with the best available coverage and speeds, from anywhere in Italy.

Data options range from 1GB to 20GB. Data tethering is allowed, which means you can use your phone as a hotspot for other devices. Choose a plan below to get your eSIM for Italy.

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If you're travelling outside of Italy, it's worth looking at an eSIM that works across Europe. Smartroam has an excellent eSIM bundle that cover most of Europe.

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The Orange Holiday Zen eSIM provides 12GB of data, which is perfect for short trips around Europe. It covers 36 countries, so you can stay connected as you hop from Italy to France, Spain, Germany, and beyond. This plan also includes unlimited calls and texts within Europe, making it a great all-around option for travellers.

12 GB eSIM

Europe

+Roaming

Orange FR

Duration

31 Days

Plan

Data/​Calls/​SMS

Speed

4G

Price

$21.50

Buy Now

Global Reach, Local Care

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For those needing more data, the Orange Holiday EU 30GB plan is a great choice. With 30GB of data, you can easily stream, browse, and stay connected without worrying about running out of data.

This plan also covers 36 countries and includes unlimited calls and texts in Europe, perfect if you're on a longer trip or need extra data. You also get 120 minutes of international calls, and 1000 texts.

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30 GB eSIM

Europe

+Roaming

Orange FR

Duration

31 Days

Plan

Data/​Calls/​SMS

Speed

4G

Price

$42.75

Buy Now

Global Reach, Local Care

If you're a heavy data user, the Orange Holiday EU 100GB plan is the ultimate option. With 100GB of data, you can enjoy high-speed internet (5G/LTE) across 42 countries without any problems.

It also includes unlimited calls and texts within Europe, plus 120 international minutes (and 1000 texts). This plan is perfect for digital nomads, social media bingers, or anyone who plans to use lots of data while hopping from country to country. 

100 GB eSIM

Europe

+Roaming

Orange FR

Duration

31 Days

Plan

Data/​Calls/​SMS

Speed

4G

Price

$53.50

Buy Now

Global Reach, Local Care

Top Seller

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Data tethering and hotspots are allowed with all of Orange’s European plans.

If your travels take you to Italy and beyond, there are plans out there tailored specifically for you, such as the Orange World 10GB eSIM plan. 

The Orange World eSIM plan provides up to 20GB of 4G/LTE data that can be used in 149 countries worldwide. 

This eSIM is compatible with any device, including phones, tablets, and hotspots. Whether you're in the Americas, Asia, Africa, or Oceania, the Orange World eSIM ensures you stay connected.

If 20GB isn't enough, or you plan to travel for more than 14 days, your eSIM provider should have an app where you can easily top up.

Download the Sim Local app here. 

20 GB eSIM

Global

+Roaming

Orange FR

Duration

31 Days

Plan

Data/​Calls/​SMS

Speed

4G

Price

$32.00

Buy Now

Global Reach, Local Care

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If you choose the right provider, activating and installing your chosen eSIM plan should be pretty effortless. Once the purchase is complete you should receive a QR code via email or directly on the provider’s website with guided instructions on next steps.

You’ll be prompted to add an eSIM plan in your phone’s settings or simply scan the QR code with your phone’s camera. You can find video tutorials on how to install an eSIM plan via our YouTube channel or on our website.

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If you experience any issues, contact our customer support team via WhatsApp.

Stay in touch the moment you arrive with a Sim Local eSIM, and pick the plan that fits your trip. Grab your eSIM for Italy today and enjoy hassle-free travel.