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Travel Mobil Optionen - Basispakete

Auch außerhalb der EU günstig in Verbindung bleiben. Unsere Basispakete für Daten, Telefonie und SMS sind die ideale Grundversorgung für Ihren Urlaub. Sie rechnen sich schon ab der 11. Telefonie-Minute.

1 GB Internetnutzung

Nach Verbrauch sind Datenpässe buchbar

60 Min. Telefonie

Nach Verbrauch gelten reduzierte Folgepreise

Travel Mobil Basic

In 14 Ländern außerhalb der EU buchbar, z. B. USA und Türkei.

14,95 € mtl.

1 Monat Laufzeit, endet automatisch

Travel Mobil Basic World

In fast alle anderen Ländern außerhalb der EU buchbar.

29,95 € mtl.

Travel Mobil Optionen - Komfortpakete

Ihr Mobilfunk Komplett-Paket außerhalb der EU: Nehmen Sie das Datenvolumen Ihres Inlandstarifs mit in den Urlaub - Handynutzung wie gewohnt, fast wie zuhause.

Surfen wie zuhause

Datenvolumen Ihres Inlandstarifs mitnehmen

500 Min. Telefonie pro Tag

500 SMS pro Tag

Travel Mobil

49,95 € mtl.

Travel Mobil World

In über 60 weitere Ländern außerhalb der EU buchbar.

99,95 € mtl.

Ihre Vorteile

Sorglos und sicher reisen.

Mit den Travel Mobil Optionen bleiben Sie auch auf Reisen jederzeit für Ihre Liebsten unter der eigenen Rufnummer erreichbar. Sie können überall sicher und kontaktlos mit dem Handy bezahlen, im Urlaub immer entspannt surfen und telefonieren und sind damit auch für Notfälle gerüstet.

Bequeme Vorbereitung

Sie können die für Sie geeignete Option auswählen und bereits jetzt vorab über unsere Hotline 2022 zum Wunschtermin buchen. Die Travel Mobil Optionen stehen Ihnen ganz flexibel für einen Monat zur Verfügung und laufen automatisch aus. Sie müssen sich keine Gedanken um weitere Kosten machen.

Bestmögliche Netzabdeckung

In den meisten Ländern kooperiert die Telekom mit mehreren Mobilfunkanbietern. Dadurch haben Sie - unabhängig von WLAN-Netzen - jederzeit und an jedem Ort die bestmögliche Netzabdeckung.

Günstig und einfach in Kontakt bleiben

Mit unseren Travel Mobil Optionen schonen Sie Ihr Reisebudget, denn die Basispakete lohnen sich bereits ab 11 Minuten Telefonie außerhalb der EU. Zusätzlich sind die Folgepreise nach Verbrauch der Budgets für Telefonie und SMS viel günstiger als ohne Option. Und obendrauf gibt es noch 1 GB für mobile Internetnutzung. Mit den Komfortpaketen können Sie fast wie von zuhause aus telefonieren sowie surfen und Ihre Urlaubserinnerungen direkt mit Ihren Liebsten teilen. Einfacher und günstiger geht es kaum.

So einfach buchen Sie unsere Travel Mobil Optionen

Wunschtermin über die kostenlose hotline buchen.

Rufen Sie uns im Inland unter der kostenlosen Rufnummer 0800330 2202 (Kurzwahl 2202 ) an. Im Ausland können Sie uns unter +49 171252 2088 erreichen, kostenlos mit Ihrem Telekom-Smartphone. Wir benötigen die Information, welche Option Sie buchen möchten. Gerne richten wir Ihnen dann die gewünschte Option zum entsprechenden Zeitpunkt ein.

Sofortbuchung über Kundencenter & MeinMagenta-App

Sie können die gewünschte Option auch über das Kundencenter oder die MeinMagenta App bequem selbst buchen. Bitte loggen Sie sich wie gewohnt mit Ihren Zugangsdaten ein und wählen den entsprechenden MagentaMobil Vertrag aus, zu dem Sie Travel Mobil hinzufügen möchten.

Wählen Sie entsprechend aus den buchbaren Optionen aus und durchlaufen den Bestellprozess.

Sie erhalten eine SMS, sobald die Option nutzbar ist, meist wenige Minuten nach abgeschlossener Buchung.

Sofortbuchung per SMS

Senden Sie einfach einen SMS-Code an die Rufnummer 2992 . Die Codes lauten: TRMBB für Travel Mobil Basic TRMOB für Travel Mobil TRMBW für Travel Mobil Basic World TRMOW für Travel Mobil World Sie erhalten dann eine Bestätigungs-SMS. Ihre via SMS gebuchte Option wird automatisch nach einem Monat beendet.

Voraussetzung für die Nutzung der Travel Mobil Optionen ist die vorhandene Option Travel & Surf sowie ein aktueller MagentaMobil Tarif.

Alle Preisinformationen für Ihr Reiseland

Sie möchten ins Ausland telefonieren und sich über die Preise informieren? Einfach das Zielland im Preis-Navigator eingeben! Sie erhalten alle Informationen zu buchbaren Datenpässen und Optionen sowie zu Preisen für Telefonie und SMS, im Ausland und von Deutschland ins Ausland.

Häufig gestellte Fragen zu den Travel Mobil Optionen

Welche travel mobil option ist für mich die richtige.

Zunächst schauen Sie, mit welcher Travel Mobil Option Ihr Reiseland abgedeckt wird. So kommen für Länder wie Australien, Neuseeland, China oder Thailand nur die World Optionen in Frage. Dann entscheiden Sie, wie intensiv Sie im Reiseland Ihr Handy nutzen möchten. Möchten Sie sich keine Gedanken um die Mobilfunknutzung machen und benötigen eher viel Datenvolumen? Dann sind Travel Mobil bzw. Travel Mobil World die richtige Wahl. Damit können Sie das Telekom-Datenvolumen Ihres Inlandstarifs mit ins Ausland nehmen und dort surfen und telefonieren, wie Sie es von zuhause gewohnt sind. Wenn Ihnen ein 1 GB Internetnutzung, 60 Minuten Telefonie und 100 SMS als Basispaket ausreichen, dann sind unsere Basic Optionen genau das Richtige für Sie - optimal für Mobile Payment, das Versenden von Textnachrichten per Whatsapp, Google Maps Navigation unterwegs oder die gelegentliche Nutzung von Social Media. Für mehr Highspeed-Datenvolumen können Sie jederzeit einen Travel & Surf Pass dazu buchen. Und wenn das Minuten- oder SMS-Budget verbraucht ist, haben Sie mit den Travel Mobil Basic Optionen vergünstigte Nutzungspreise. Falls Sie sich nicht sicher sind, empfehlen wir Ihnen zunächst die Basic-Optionen. Die lohnen sich schon ab 11 Minuten Telefonie oder geringer Internetnutzung. Damit behalten Sie Ihre Mobilfunk-Kosten auch außerhalb der EU bequem im Griff.

Was passiert, wenn ich mit Travel Mobil oder Travel Mobil World bei Reiseantritt bereits mein Datenvolumen verbraucht habe?

Für diesen Fall kann innerhalb der ersten 30 Tage nach Buchung einmalig ein kostenloser SpeedOn Pass gebucht werden. Damit stehen 1 GB für 30 Tage zur Verfügung. Nach Verbrauch des SpeedOn Passes bzw. des Inlandsvolumens wird die Bandbreite im jeweiligen Kalendermonat auf max. 64 KBit/s im Download und 16 KBit/s im Upload beschränkt. Zur Wiederherstellung der maximal verfügbaren Bandbreite sind SpeedOn Pässe aus dem Inland buchbar. Zu Beginn des nächsten Kalendermonats steht wieder das volle Inlandsvolumen zur Verfügung.

Wie erfahre ich, wann bei Nutzung von Travel Mobil Basic und Travel Mobil Basic World die Inklusivleistungen verbraucht sind?

Nach Verbrauch der Minuten- und SMS-Budgets erfolgt keine Benachrichtigung. Am besten prüfen Sie in Ihrer Anrufliste die verbrauchten Telefonminuten (abgehend und ankommend) sowie in Ihren Nachrichten die Anzahl der versendeten SMSen. Der Verbrauch des Datenbudgets ist über pass.telekom.de einsehbar. Für Full-Speed-Datenroaming oder nach Verbrauch von 1 GB sind jederzeit Travel & Surf Pässe buchbar.

Welche Alternativen gibt es zu den beiden Optionen?

Telefonate und SMS werden außerhalb Europas nach Verbrauch (d.h. je Minute oder SMS) abgerechnet. Die jeweiligen Preise für Ihr Reiseland finden Sie hier . Für die mobile Datennutzung außerhalb Europas können Sie auch unsere günstigen Travel & Surf Pässe buchen. Diese sind unter www.pass.telekom.de buchbar, sobald Sie in Ihrem Reiseland angekommen sind. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter Travel & Surf .

Wie kann ich die Option bei einer Vorabbuchung stornieren?

Rufen Sie einfach unsere Hotline an (Kurzwahl 2202 ) und lassen Sie die Option stornieren. Eine Vorabbuchung ist bis drei Stunden vor Beginn der Gültigkeit jederzeit stornierbar.

Entstehen zusätzliche Kosten für ankommende Anrufe im Ausland, wenn ich eine Travel Mobil Option nutze?

Innerhalb des jeweils zur Verfügung stehenden Minuten-Budgets entstehen keine zusätzlichen Kosten für ankommende Anrufe, auch nicht für eventuelle Zuschläge lokaler Netzbetreiber.

Gelten die Travel Mobil Optionen auch für WLAN Call?

Nein, die Optionen gelten nicht für Telefonate über WLAN Call. Das bedeutet, dass für Telefonate über WLAN Call zusätzliche Kosten anfallen können. Wir empfehlen daher, im Ausland WLAN Call zu deaktivieren, wenn Sie Travel Mobil oder Travel Mobil World gebucht haben. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter WLAN Call im Ausland .

Was genau bedeutet eine Laufzeit von einem Monat?

Die Option gilt immer bis inklusive des Vortages des Folgemonats. Wenn Sie z. B. am 15.3. um 17:00 deutscher Zeit die Option buchen, beginnt die Laufzeit der Option schon an diesem Tag, ca. 60 Minuten nach Ihrer Buchung. Sie erhalten von uns eine SMS zur Bestätigung, dass die Option startet. Bei einem Monat Laufzeit endet die Option dann am 14.4. um 23:59, immer nach deutscher Zeit.

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T-Mobile Travel Plans: The Best International Cell Phone Plans

Published April 5, 2023

Written by:

Nick Hilden

Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast,...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

International cell phone plans got a major shakeup in 2020: T-Mobile bought Sprint, one of the best international providers.

Now T-Mobile’s travel plans rule the global cell phone game.

Below we’ll take a look at the new Magenta travel plans from T-Mobile, as well as a few alternatives, to see which are the best options for international travelers.

Disclaimer : This is not a paid endorsement of T-Mobile, Sprint, or any cell phone company listed below. Any positive—or negative—review is my own opinion.

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T-Mobile Travel Plans: Magenta and Magenta MAX

The new T-Mobile international plan comes in two tiers: Magenta and Magenta MAX .

The basic Magenta is similar to the old T-Mobile One plan in terms of price and what’s included in the package. The MAX steps things up a notch.

The new T-Mobile travel plans start at $70/line. The price per line decreases with each line added: $60/line for two lines, $40/line for three lines, and $35/line for four lines.

The Magenta MAX is priced at $85 for one line, $70/line for two lines, $55/line for three lines, and $50/line for four lines.

In other words, the more lines you add, the less you pay per line. You’ll get a better price if you need several lines for your whole family.

In this article, we’ll look specifically at what’s offered in the single-line plans.

T-Mobile Magenta

• Unlimited talk and text
• Unlimited 5G and 4G LTE when within the T-Mobile Network
• 100GB of premium data
• Netflix Basic
• Taxes and fees included
• 5GB high-speed data then unlimited use at 3G speeds
• SD streaming
• Extended Range 5G
• Ultra Capacity 5G

T-Mobile Magenta MAX

• Unlimited premium data
• Netflix Basic (1 line) or Standard (2+ lines)
• 40GB high-speed data then unlimited use at 3G speeds
• Up to 4k UHD streaming

With Sprint out of the way, T-Mobile’s travel abroad plans are now the most reliable international cell phone plans available. Unfortunately, they come with a pretty big price jump from the $50 customers used to pay for the old T-Mobile One and Sprint international plans). But, T-Mobile’s coverage is extensive, spanning over 210 countries. I’ve used it in rural Vietnam, for example, and enjoyed surprisingly good service.

While the company claims that you’ll always have at least 3G speeds, in some regions of the world they will lag below that. When you do have 3G, your phone service is almost like what you’re used to. Allow for extra time to do the little things you take for granted like loading Instagram or refreshing your browser. Consider the lag time a disincentive to using your phone. You’re traveling! Get back out there and do something cool in real life.

T-Mobile also used to provide data “kickbacks” that would give customers with $10 credits for using less than two gigabytes of data in a billing cycle, but now that offer is only available to customers who signed up before April 2018.

Verdict: T-Mobile is your best choice for travel. Arguably your only choice.

If you want to connect to decently fast internet without any extra work anywhere in the world, choose T-Mobile as your provider. You’ll be online and have a working phone from the moment you arrive. No extra set up required. Land, turn on your phone, and you’re ready to go.

Keep reading for more alternatives if traveling with T-Mobile won’t work for you.

International Cell Phone Alternatives

With Sprint out of the way, T-Mobile has emerged unrivaled as the best international cell phone provider. While Verizon and AT&T both offer global plans, neither stacks up to T-Mobile’s plan. I’ll review Verizon and AT&T international roaming plans, just to be thorough, but they are identical, and they’re both bad.

AT&T International Day Pass

You can pay $10 a day for AT&T’s International Day Pass . That’s a lot, even if you’re only traveling for a week. This plan is full of restrictions, overages, and fine print. For example, you aren’t allowed to use more than 50% of your typical data usage. Here’s a direct quote from their site:

“If you have apps running in the background that use data, you’ll be charged the daily fee.”

You only get charged for the days you use it, but you’re going to forget and accidentally open one link, and boom—$10. Avoid this plan like the plague.

AT&T Passport International Plan

This is an interesting option, but only if you don’t plan on using it. For $40 (in addition to your monthly bill), AT&T Passport gives you unlimited text, $1 calls (woof), and 200MB of data. But overages apply: $0.25 per MB. No one thinks about the amount of data they use, so you will go over this plan quickly. If you accidentally watch a YouTube video, you’re screwed.

You can pay more for more data ($60 for 300MB, $120 for 800MB) but even on the $120 plan you still have overage fees ($0.15 per MB). That’s insanity. Avoid AT&T abroad.

Verizon International Travel Pass

Verizon’s TravelPass is basically the same as AT&T—$10/day (on top of your plan) for international roaming—but has even worse overage fees and charges. Verizon charges $25 for going over 100MB.

Monthly plans are available as well, with two options:

• $25/month: For 100MB of data, $1.79 per minute talk, 50 cents per text sent and 5 cents per text received
• $40/month: For 100MB of data, 100 minutes, 100 texts to send and unlimited texts to receive

Did you read that carefully? You have to pay to receive texts .

AT&T and Verizon’s fees might be tolerable if you’re traveling abroad for a weekend but not for multiple weeks. If you’re traveling long-term, you need a better solution.

If none of these international roaming plans will work for you, consider going rogue and getting your own SIM card in-country.

Get Your Own SIM Card

The first step to getting a compatible SIM card is unlocking your phone. Relax, unlocking isn’t as hard as it used to be. In fact, unlocking your phone is completely legal. Most providers will even do it for you if you qualify.

Note: Unlocking a phone is not the same thing as “jailbreaking” your phone. Jailbreaking means running apps, programs, or an unapproved operating system on the phone. Jailbreaking your phone also won’t let you switch carriers.

Compatibility: Unlocked Phones, GSM, and SIM Cards

Every cell phone company uses either a GSM or CDMA network. T-Mobile and AT&T use GSM. Sprint and Verizon operate on CDMA. Find out which network the country you’re traveling to uses and plan accordingly. Even unlocked phones won’t work on the wrong network, and you can’t just swap in a new SIM card either. The issue is the frequency the phone uses.

Quad-Band Phones

To further complicate things, even if you’re GSM compatible, your phone still might not work. US and Canadian phones operate on the 850/1900 GSM band, while most other GSM countries use the 900/1800 band. That means you need a quad-band GSM phone.

The new Google Pixel is a sweet unlocked phone with access to the Google Fi network. This phone is a little fringe right now but worth investigating if you’re tech savvy.

All of this sounds more technical than it is. Old school burner phones are often quad-band GSM compatible. Just double-check your make and model to be sure. For Europe, however, you don’t need to do anything; you’re fine.

International SIM Cards

The FCC ruled in 2015 that cell phone companies have to unlock phones when a contract runs out or you pay off your phone. It’s the law (at least for now). That rule is why phone companies got smart and launched those new “free upgrade every year” plans. Yearly upgrades keep unlocked phones off the market and make sure you stay loyal with a new leased phone every year.

If you have an unlocked, GSM-compatible phone, you’re good to go. Research local cell phone plans, buy a SIM card, and never worry about data overages and roaming fees. You will have to cancel your US plan or pay double while you’re traveling, which is always a bummer.

WiFi Calling Apps

Sometimes the best international phone plan is no plan at all. Put your phone on airplane mode, enjoy the benefits of spectacular battery life, and get used to riding the WiFi train if (and when) you can connect.

Tethering your usage to WiFi is a hassle, especially if you’re a working digital nomad , but here are a few essentials that every traveler should have on their phone.

WhatsApp is the king of WiFi calling and texting because it’s free, easy to use, and just plain works. Enjoy free calling to friends and family from anywhere (almost), free document sharing, group messages, voice messages, video chat, and even a “Moments” feature like Snapchat and Instagram.

Download WhatsApp if you’re leaving the country. Actually, download the app even if you aren’t traveling. WhatsApp is a great way to stay in touch with your international friends.

Google Voice

Google Voice lets you message and call people from a Google-assigned number in your phone. You’re already using Google for a ton of stuff, so incorporating Voice into your international phone strategy is a cinch.

Just download the app and enjoy transcribed voicemails, group messages, and international calling. All you need is a WiFi signal.

Travel with T-Mobile

International roaming plans can be complicated (AT&T and Verizon especially), so I’ll simplify it for you. Find a domestic carrier with rates and roaming data you can stomach, then never second guess staying in touch while abroad.

While digital nomads have a few options for making calls, the bottom line is that T-Mobile offers the only international cell phone plan that’s worth your money.

To summarize:

• The T-Mobile Magenta and Magenta MAX international plans provide the most reliable service.
• AT&T and Verizon are expensive and full of overages.
• WhatsApp is still king of WiFi calling.
• SIM cards aren’t that complicated, just do a little research.

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Pacific Northwest native Nick Hilden is a travel and culture writer whose work has appeared in Afar, the Daily Beast, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Health, Fodor’s, Popular Science, Scientific American, Thrillist, Vice, Runner’s World, and many, many more. He’s carried a Tortuga Outbreaker through year after year of traveling to places like Turkey, Tunisia, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, Serbia, France, Italy, Greece, Mexico, all across the U.S., and beyond. You can follow his travels via Instagram @nick.hilden.

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Best international phone plans in 2024 — what travelers need to know

Heading overseas? Find out what your cellphone provider charges if you use your phone

• T-Mobile phone plans
• Verizon phone plans
• AT&T phone plans
• Google Fi plans
• Other options
• Device compatibility and eSims
• 5G coverage when traveling

Before your summer travels overseas, you should look into whether you've got one of the best international phone plans for staying connected during your upcoming adventures. In the U.S., all the major wireless carriers offer some kind of travel benefit with their best cell phone plans , but they also have supplementary packages for travelers to augment the data plan you already have in place. The trick is to make sure those options keep you covered around the globe.

1. T-Mobile : Best choice for travelers 2. Verizon : TravelPass options 3. AT&T : Best for travel in Latin and Central America 4. Google Fi : An underrated traveling companion 5. Other options : Other international phone plans to consider

The best international phone plans will let you make calls and browse the web when you're in another country (though there might be a fee on top of your normal monthly rate, depending on which carrier you use). Different plans might cover different countries, and how long you plan on traveling could also impact your choice of plans. Your method of travel — be it by plane or cruise ship — also affects which plan is best for you.

All of these are things for globetrotters to consider when shopping for wireless coverage. You're going to want one of the best unlimited data plans since they tend to offer the most travel-related perks. If you haven't travelled internationally in a while, it's smart to double-check what options are out there since the best phone carriers have overhauled their plans and packages available to travelers.

Here’s a look at the travel policies and perks for the three top U.S carriers along with information on Google Fi, which offers a plan that definitely appeals to frequent travelers.

T-Mobile international phone plans

T-Mobile offers an expanded array of plans, though most of its unlimited data plan options have some benefits for overseas travel. Subscribe to Magenta, Magenta Max, Go5G, Go5G Plus or Go5G Next, and you enjoy unlimited data and texting in more than 215 countries around the world. If you want to place or receive calls, you’ll be subject to the local rate depending on where you want to go. You don’t need to notify T-Mobile of your travel for your overseas benefits to kick in.

T-Mobile Go5G Plus Plan | Unlimited Data | $90/month T-Mobile's Go5G Plus plan has the edge over Magenta Max for world travelers, even if the latter plan is $5 cheaper for a single line. That's because Go5G Plus customers get more data when traveling in Mexico and Canada (15GB vs. 10GB for Magenta Max) and 10GB more hotspot data. Otherwise, the two plans are identical: You can use your data in 215-plus countries at no extra cost. The first 5GB of data you use use will be high-speed data (with 5G speeds supported where available). The cheaper Go5G and Magenta plans ($75/month and $70/month, respectively) also feature travel benefits, including high-speed data in 11 European countries. Otherwise, data speeds are capped at 256 kbps.

Travel perks in current plans: As part of T-Mobile's Beyond Connected program, data speeds now reach 256 kbps when you're overseas. If you subscribe to either the standard Magenta or Go5G plans and you're in one of 11 European countries, you can enjoy 5GB of high-speed data every month, thanks to a partnership with T-Mobile parent Deutsche Telecom.

The perk gets better when you upgrade to either Magenta Max or Go5G Plus, both of which cost $15 more a month than their respective base plans. In that case, you can benefit from 5GB of high-speed data in 215 countries.

Go5G Next, T-Mobile's most expensive plan at $100/month for a single line, has the same travel benefits as Go5G Plus, but adds the ability to upgrade your phone every year. If that's not important to you, stick with Go5G Plus and pay $10 less each month on your wireless bill.

T-Mobile customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi on American, Delta, Alaska Airlines and United flights. Magenta Max and Go5G Plus subscribers get full texting and Wi-Fi with streaming during flights, where wireless is available. If you go with the standard Magenta or Go5G option, you're covered on four flights per year with full streaming, plus unlimited texting; after those four flights, you can stream one hour of video. Delta SkyMiles members also get free Wi-Fi on domestic U.S. flights courtesy of T-Mobile — even if they get their wireless service from another carrier.

In Mexico and Canada, T-Mobile allows you to use up to 5GB of data whether you've got Magenta or Magenta Max; speeds are slowed to 2G after that. Go5G customers get 10GB of data in those two countries, while Go5G Plus members enjoy 15GB.

T-Mobile includes travel benefits in two of its remaining senior plans, with identical travel perks between the $100 Go5G Plus 55 option and the $120 Go5G Next 55 plan. (Note that those monthly prices cover two lines of data; one line of either Plus or Next cost $70 and $80, respectively.) Travel perks include high-speed data and text when you travel abroad, plus unlimited in-flight connectivity. When you travel to Canada or Mexico, you get 15GB of high-speed data. Both plans also include a year's membership to AAA for road travel in the U.S.

If you opt for T-Mobile's lower cost Essentials unlimited plan, you'll get 2G roaming in Canada and Mexico, but have to pay for data elsewhere.

Trip-specific passes: T-Mobile offers International Pass options for travelers who want high-speed data during lengthier stays overseas. A 5GB International Pass gives you that much high-speed data along with unlimited calling for 10 days. It costs $35. T-Mobile's $50 International Pass increases high-speed data to 15GB and extends the length of the pass to 30 days. The carrier also offers a $5 daily pass that gives you 512MB of high-speed data, and unlimited calling between the 215 or so Simple Global destinations. 

Cruise rates: Pricing on cruises will vary according to which cruise you’re taking. You can check T-Mobile’s site to see what your pricing will be.

Verizon international phone plans

Verizon phones generally work all over the world, especially if you've got a phone built in the last few years. But where you travel significantly influences how much you’ll have to pay. As for which is the best Verizon phone plan for travelers, that all depends on how frequently you go overseas. There's a clear choice for regular globetrotters, but Verizon's less expensive offerings allow you to tack on travel benefits, too.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Data | $90/month Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan offers the most benefits for world travelers. Verizon promises "full international connectivity," meaning you'll be able to use talk and text for free when overseas; you also get 10GB of high-speed data every month that you can use in other countries. Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, so unless you take frequent trips, you may be better served by Unlimited Plus ($80/month for one line) or Unlimited Welcome ($65/month). Those two plans can add on a $10/month Travel Pass options that provides three days of talk, text and data when you're overseas. You can drop the Travel Pass add-on from your plan in months were you don't need it. Verizon lets family plans mix and match lines so one person can get Unlimited Ultimate, while the others subscribe to the cheaper options.

Travel perks in current plans: Of Verizon's three unlimited plans, the best for frequent travelers is the Unlimited Ultimate option, which lets you use talk and text in other countries just like you would in the U.S. You also get 10GB of high-speed data to use overseas every month.

Unfortunately, Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, costing $90 a month for one line. (And that's after a discount for enrolling autopay.) There are cheaper options — Unlimited Welcome and Unlimited Plus — that include travel perks. Both plans let you text internationally to 200-plus countries. You can also use LTE data when traveling in Mexico and Canada. You're limited to 0.5GB of data consumption per day in those two countries before your speeds are slowed to 2G, and you can't use more than half of your talk, text and data in those countries over a 60-day period.

In addition to the base Welcome Unlimited and Unlimited Plus packages, you can opt for $10 monthly add-ons for your Verizon plan — some covering streaming services, another providing hotspot data and so on. The relevant package is Verizon's $10/month 3 TravelPass Days add-on, which saves you $20 a month on travel benefits as you pick up three passes during monthly billing cycles. You can accrue up to 36 passes for using talk, text and data when traveling overseas.

Unlimited Welcome starts at $65/month for one line, while Unlimited Plus is $80. If you have a family plan, you can mix and match so that different lines of data subscribe to different plans — helpful if there's one person in the family who travels a lot and would benefit from the Unlimited Ultimate perks.

Trip-specific passes: Let's talk a little bit more about the TravelPass . It's Verizon's daily option for international coverage, and it’ll cost you $5 per day per device for each day you’re out of the country if you travel to Mexico or Canada and don't have an unlimited plan. In 185 other countries — including China, France and Germany — Verizon charges $10 per device per day. TravelPass gets you 2GB of 5G data, and unlimited data at 3G speeds after that; the passes also come with unlimited talk and text.

If you know you’ll be traveling for a bit more time, consider Verizon’s monthly option, which the carrier recommends for trips lasting at least 10 days. International Monthly Plans at Verizon cost $100/month, but in exchange, you get 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and 20GB of high-speed data. (Use that, and you get unlimited data at 3G speeds.)

Verizon also offers pay-as-you-go pricing for international travel. You’ll pay 99 cents per minute in Canada and Mexico, Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands. Rates go up to $1.79 in 130-plus countries and $2.99 in 80 other places. Each text message you send will cost you 50 cents, and each received text will set you back 5 cents. Your data will be charged at a rate of $2.05 per megabyte no matter where you are.

Cruise rates: Pay-as-you go rates on cruise ships cost $1.99 for each minute of talk and 50 cents for every sent text message. You’ll pay 5 cents per message received. Verizon has a data plan for cruise passengers, too, with $30/day giving you 500MB of data plus unlimited texting and 50 minutes of talk time. For in-flight connectivity, you can opt for the same pay-as-you-go rates for cruise trips or you can pay $20 per day for unlimited data.

AT&T international phone plans

AT&T also comes with varied international pricing depending on where you want to go. Canada and Mexico travel is covered in many top AT&T plans, and if you pay up for the Unlimited Premium option, you can use your plan in many Central and South American countries. Traveling elsewhere? Then you had best look into AT&T's travel passes.

AT&T Unlimited Premium| Unlimited Data | $85.99/month It's AT&T's most expensive unlimited plan, but Unlimited Premium has the best perk for travelers — you can use your talk, text and data at no extra cost in 20 Latin American countries.  As with other AT&T unlimited options, you also enjoy talk, text and data coverage when traveling in Canada and Mexico.

Travel perks in current plans: If you’re heading to Mexico or Canada, AT&T already covers all of your voice, data and text with its four different unlimited plans — Starter, Extra, Premium and the entry-level Value Plus option. AT&T offers a lone tiered data plan with 4GB of data that you can use in Canada and Mexico (though roaming may be at 2G speeds). Both unlimited and tiered data plans feature unlimited texting to 120-plus countries.

The Unlimited Premium plan is the best option for travelers headed to the Americas, as you'll be able to enjoy unlimited text, talk and data at no additional cost in 20 Central and South American countries. 

If you do a lot of international calling from home, AT&T offers unlimited calling to 85-plus countries from the U.S. for $15 per month for each line. Calls to another 140-plus countries get discounted rates under this plan.

Trip-specific passes: For anyone off to Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America or the Asia Pacific region on a short jaunt, AT&T recommends its $10-a-day International Day Pass, which comes with unlimited talk and text and data governed by your plan. (Note that each device you take overseas will need its own Day Pass.) That service is available in 210-plus countries, and you can add extra phones for just $5 a day.

You'll never have to pay for more than 10 days of day passes on any one bill, even if your trip lasts longer. International Day Passes also kick in automatically when you use your phone abroad — you get a text message letting you know you're covered.

Cruise rates: On cruises , AT&T offers a $60/month Cruise Basic plan that covers 100 minutes of talk and unlimited texting while also offering 100MB of data. Need more of everything? Then try the Cruise Plus plan ($100/month), which includes 1GB of data on top of unlimited talk and text. 

Google Fi international phone plans

If you do a lot of international traveling, don't ignore Google Fi Wireless , the wireless service set up by Google that uses cellular towers of T-Mobile and US Cellular to provide coverage. International travel is built into two of Google Fi's plans — the Unlimited Plus and Flexible options.

Google Unlimited Plus| Unlimited Data | $65/month The Unlimited Plus plan is the way to go with Google Fi, as you can use your data at no extra cost when traveling overseas. Google Fi customers who pay by the gigabyte of data used are also eligible for this perk.

Travel perks in current plans: You've got two options with Google Fi — tiered data through the company's Flexible plan or a pair of unlimited data options. Flexible coverage costs $20 a month for talk and text plus $10 for each GB of data you use. (Data usage is rounded off to the nearest megabyte so you only pay for the data you consume.) Google stops charging you after you use 6GB a month, meaning you'll never pay more than $80. 

If you find unlimited data plans more appealing, Google has you covered there, too — it also offers a $65 Unlimited Plus option that rolls in unlimited talk, text and data. Unlimited Plus subscribers now get a year of YouTube Premium as a perk. 

The real benefit to either Unlimited Plus or Flexible is that those plans cover you when you're traveling in 200-plus countries. When you're overseas, Google Fi charges the same rate for data usage, whether you're on an unlimited data plan or paying by the gigabyte. Voice calls cost 20 cents (though calls placed over Wi-Fi are free) and you get unlimited SMS messaging. 

Alas, Google's $50/month Simply Unlimited plan is not eligible for the free data perk when traveling. That said, all three of Google Fi's plans let you use talk, text and data in Mexico and Canada.

Google Fi is even more appealing now that Google has opened up service to all phones, including iPhones. Note that phones optimized for Google Fi — Google's Pixel phones (currently the Pixel 8 , Pixel 8 Pro , Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a )  along with a selection of Samsung phones and Motorola budget devices — can switch seamlessly between cellular networks and Google's Wi-Fi hotspots, while other phones cannot.

Trip-specific passes: Unlike the other carriers here, Google Fi doesn't offer travel passes for extended trips. Your only option is to get coverage through the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans.

Cruise rates: Google Fi is not available when you're at sea — only when you're on land in one of the 200-plus countries covered by the carrier.

Other international phone plan options

Discount carriers typically don't provide much in the way of benefits for travelers, but there are some exceptions. The most noteworthy alternative is Visible , which has expanded the travel perks for subscribers to its $45/month Visible Plus plan .

Visible is owned by Verizon and uses its parent company's network for coverage. The Visible Plus plan features unlimited data, including access to Verizon's high-speed 5G network. Travelers will be particularly interested in the unlimited talk, text and 2GB of daily data available through Visible Plus when traveling in Canada and Mexico. Visible Plus customers are also eligible for one free Global Pass day per month, in which they can use talk, text and data at no charge in 140 countries. Globla Passes normally cost $10.

Best international phone plan: Device compatibility and eSims

Traveling overseas used to mean checking to see if your phone would be compatible once you set foot in another country. But those days are drawing to a close now that 3G networks are shutting down, eliminating much of the distinction between phones that work on either GSM and CDMA. If you've got a recent smartphone that connects to LTE, chances are strong it's going to work just fine in other countries. (You still might want to confirm that your phone works on the LTE bands available in the country you're heading to prior to your trip, just to avoid any unpleasant surprises.)

Many phones now support electronic SIM cards or eSIM technology, where you no longer need to swap in a local SIM card to make your smartphone work with an overseas network. (Since the iPhone 14 , Apple devices sold in the U.S. only feature eSIM support — that includes the newer iPhone 15 models.) One of our editors took an international trip using an eSIM for her phone and found it easy to setup and use with a local network — in fact, she plans to use the eSIM approach on all future travel. 

That said, not every country supports eSIM. And depending on your phone carrier in the U.S., you might already have options that cover your phone use in other countries.

International phone plans: What about 5G?

As noted above, many of the plans that offer international travel either have you connect at whatever speed is available locally or at a reduced speed in cases where you're drawing from your own data plan. But what if you've got a 5G phone that can connect to faster networks overseas?

For the most part, we'd expect your phone to operate as before, either at whatever speed the local network offers or a capped speed if that's part of your carrier's travel plans. However, in a few instances, U.S. phone carriers have started making deals with overseas wireless providers that allow their customers to access 5G speeds when roaming. You should check with your carrier for information about the country you're going to travel in.

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Best T-Mobile Cell Phone Plans 2024

If you want to use the nation's largest 5G network, you have a few plan options to choose from.

Best overall

Best for families, best prepaid pick, best on a budget.

1. Best overall 2. Best for families 3. Best value 4. Best prepaid pick 5. Best on a budget

T-Mobile is home to the nation's largest and fastest 5G network, and with each of its plans coming with full 5G connectivity, you have plenty of options. 

Whether you're looking for a cheap plan with enough data to get by or a massive unlimited plan for constant HD streaming, T-Mobile has a good fit. 

T-Mobile's Magenta MAX plan is the best of the network, with unlimited premium data and HD video streaming and a massive 40GB of mobile hotspot data so you can stream to your heart's content.

• Carrier deals: Verizon | AT&T | T-Mobile | Mint Mobile | Visible

1. Magenta MAX

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

T-Mobile didn't name Magenta MAX its "best plan ever" for no good reason. This newest addition to the T-Mobile lineup was created with the savvy 5G smartphone user in mind. Though it costs $85 per month for a single line, taxes and fees are already included, and the price drops significantly when you add a few lines thanks to T-Mobile's "third line on us." Still, this is T-Mobile's most expensive plan and will make the most sense to heavy users.

Magenta MAX comes with unlimited premium data so you'll get as much speed as a tower can manage regardless of how much data you use. Of course, you'll also get standard T-Mobile features like unlimited talk and text, scam call blocking, T-Mobile Tuesdays discounts, and great benefits for frequent travelers, such as international texting to 210+ countries, unlimited talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada—including 5GB of 4G LTE data and once that's been consumed unlimited 2G—and unlimited texting and WiFi with Gogo in-flight. Magenta MAX even offers unlimited 2G data when traveling abroad with speeds up to 256kbps and no roaming charges.

Magenta MAX comes with Netflix bundled in with a single SD screen for one line and HD for two screens with two or more lines. This is made even nicer by Magenta MAX's lack of streaming quality restrictions. Though the average person probably doesn't need quite so much data and cool features, T-Mobile's Magenta MAX is an excellent choice for anyone who doesn't want even the slightest constraint when it comes to using their smartphone.

T-Mobile's Magenta plan is one of the best cheap phone plans you can get, making it an excellent option for a family plan. You'll get most of the same features as you would with the Magenta MAX plan with some intelligent cuts that many won't even notice. Magenta starts at $70 per month for a single line with savings for multiple lines. It's also nice that taxes and fees are included, so there are no surprises on your bill.

With the Magenta plan, you'll get a whopping 100GB of premium data, which is much more than enough for your average smartphone user, and 5GB of high-speed mobile hotspot data (later unlimited at 3G speeds). And it wouldn't be a family plan if it didn't come with Netflix on Us. This plan comes with Netflix Basic, so one screen SD, as long as you have more than two lines. Unlike the Magenta MAX plan, video streaming quality is limited to SD (480p), so if HD is a must, you'll have to upgrade plans or buy an HD day pass.

3. Essentials

T-Mobile's Essentials plan is one of the most affordable, especially when it comes to a single line. For $60 per month, you'll get all the core necessities you need out of a phone plan. Remember that this price doesn't include taxes and fees, so your final price may be more than expected.

For most people, the Essentials plan's 50GB of premium data will be more than what's essential. If you only use your mobile hotspot data every so often, then unlimited data at 3G speeds will suffice for basic browsing, email, and social media. But if you're someone that's frequently working from your laptop with no (or spotty) WiFi, then faster mobile hotspot data could be useful.

This plan doesn't have as many international benefits as Magenta, either. You'll still be able to text internationally and with unlimited usage in Mexico and Canada at up to 128kbps speeds. Unfortunately, this plan doesn't let you use your data anywhere else abroad, and it doesn't have fun perks like Gogo in-flight texting and WiFi. T-Mobile's Essentials does what it says it will: give you the essentials.

4. Mint Mobile

Long considered one of the best MVNO carriers around, Mint Mobile is now wholly owned by T-Mobile. While we aren’t sure how this acquisition will affect the carrier in the future, at this time, you can still get outstanding T-Mobile service for as little as $15 per month. 

The carrier lets you purchase your wireless service in 3, 6, and 12-month increments of time, with additional savings the more you buy. There are four monthly data plans available — 5GB, 15GB, 20GB, and Unlimited (with speeds that decrease after 40GB) — and all plans come with unlimited talk and text, free calling to Mexico and Canada, no contracts or hidden fees, and of course, nationwide 5G coverage provided by T-Mobile. Mint even offers a 7-day free trial so you can try out the carrier alongside your existing wireless service with no hassle whatsoever.  

5. Connect by T-Mobile

Starting at $10 per month, T-Mobile Connect is one of the cheapest prepaid plans you can get with T-Mobile. You can pick between 3GB, 6GB, or 12GB of data, but either way, you'll get unlimited talk, text, and mobile hotspot data at full speeds until you reach your data amount. The cheapest plan has 1GB of data, 1000 minutes, and 1000 texts. Once you've reached your monthly data allotment, you can buy an add-on data pass. It's a great plan for someone who doesn't need too much data and wants a simple plan without frills at a fantastic price.

One neat feature about T-Mobile Connect is that you'll get an annual data upgrade of 500MB for five years after you've started the plan (at no extra cost). However, taxes and fees aren't included, so you can expect your monthly bill to be slightly higher than the plan price, depending on which data allotment you pick. But if you don't use lots of data in the first place and want something basic, you won't find a better price with T-Mobile.

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Which T-Mobile plan is best? 

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Before signing up with T-Mobile, you should always check the network's coverage map and make sure you'll get great service in your area. If you're set on joining the un-carrier, then Magenta MAX is one of the best T-Mobile plans out there. Though this plan isn't for everyone, it'll certainly impress those who are constantly connected and devour data. Do you really need unlimited premium data? Probably not, but it's nice to know that your speeds will never slow down and that you also have a very generous amount of 40GB mobile hotspot data.

If you find that you don't use too much data regularly, then T-Mobile's Essentials plan will give you the best value and everything that you need. It's a great option for a single line or for families (as is the Magenta plan), and you'll still have premium data, access to 5G, and unlimited mobile hotspot data. But if you're on a budget and need something simple, Mint Mobile is the new kid on the block with flexible and affordable plans on T-Mobile's incredible network. But no matter which T-Mobile plan you pick, you're guaranteed to stay connected with the nation's leader in 5G coverage and speed.

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5 of the Best International Cell Phone Plans 2024

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You come home from vacation. You’re relaxed. You’re refreshed. Then you check your cell phone bill and find that you owe $800.

International roaming rates are nothing to mess around with, so it’s important to know what you’re on the hook for before you travel abroad. We surveyed the mobile landscape to find carriers and plans that are friendly to out-of-country travelers.

Some choices below are add-ons to an existing plan, paid either daily or monthly when needed, while others are monthly service plans that include good international access in their features.

International roaming plans: postpaid

Plan: International Day Pass.

Price: $10 per day for first line, $5 for additional lines used in the same 24-hour period, on top of your regular phone plan cost. Requires an AT&T unlimited, AT&T 4 GB, or Mobile Share plan.

At a glance: Calls from and between the U.S. and included countries are free.

Things to know: Once you have signed up, it activates automatically when you travel.

Plan: Go5G.

Price: $80 per month, $5 autopay discount available.

At a glance: Talk is at a flat 25 cents per minute in more than 215 countries. Unlimited texting and up to 5GB of high-speed data in Canada and Mexico. Unlimited data at 256Kbps speeds in more than 215 other countries.

Things to know: Price includes taxes and fees, but add-ons such as insurance or device payments are still assessed. You can upgrade to Go5G Plus for $15 per month, per line to get extra features, including 4K video streaming, 50GB of mobile hot spot data, faster data speeds in more than 215 countries and unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi on some flights.

Plan: International Monthly Plan.

Price: $100 per line per month.

At a glance: The plan includes unlimited data plus 250 minutes of talk and unlimited texts. It can be used in more than 210 countries.

Things to know: If you don’t opt in to the international plan, then you will be charged “pay as you go” rates when you travel overseas. Looking for options? Verizon also offers a cruise-specific plan for $20 a month or the Travel Pass for $10 per day, which comes with unlimited calls, texts and data.

» Learn more: What to know about electronics insurance

International roaming: prepaid

Google fi wireless.

Plan: Flexible.

Price: $20 per month, plus $10 per GB of data. Taxes and fees are extra.

At a glance: Unlimited talk and text in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Unlimited texting while abroad. High-speed data is a flat $10 per gigabyte, even when roaming internationally, but speeds are slower after 15GB of use.

Things to know: Texts and data in more than 200 countries for the same price you pay at home. Calls are an additional cost. The Flexible plan includes bill protection, where usage is free after you hit a certain monthly threshold — 6GB for one line, 10GB for two lines, 12GB for three lines, 14GB for four lines and 16GB for five lines. Google Fi uses the T-Mobile network and does not slow down speeds even when the network is busy.

Plan: International Connect and eSIM.

Price: For $10 additional per month on any Boost plan, International Connect adds calling to more than 120 countries and texting to more than 200. It requires using an eSIM card on an unlocked phone; once you have an eSIM you can add data for as low as $5 for 1GB over a seven-day timeframe. Use Boost’s country list to identify specific costs for data packages.

At a glance: An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate roaming services without needing a physical SIM card. A Dual SIM option supports two numbers at the same time, such as separate numbers for personal and business use.

Things to know: ESIM cards only provide access to data; you will not be able to call or text unless you add International Connect or use internet-based apps or services like Skype or FaceTime.

METHODOLOGY

We surveyed major international roaming cell phone plans, checking the price of the international roaming option, data costs, and the price of international calls and texts.

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The Best International Phone Plans for Travelers

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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Comb the web for a bit, and it’s not hard to find horror stories of overseas cell phone usage gone wrong, with people paying more for data than they did for their airfare or accidentally spending a month’s rent on background app refreshes. Data download fee disasters seem almost to be a rite of passage for many modern travelers. And with public Wi-Fi networks becoming riskier and riskier, you want to make sure you are also safely connected abroad now too.

Mobile hotspots are a way to beat these fees outright—but if renting still another piece of metal is going too far, or if you think a basic roaming plan will cover you, I’ve gathered details and pricing information about the best international phone plans from five major providers.

International Phone Plans: What You Need to Know

When you travel abroad, you will usually be connecting to the cell towers of third-party providers other than your own cell phone company. This means that your cellular provider must pay an access or connection fee to that third-party network, a cost it will pass on to you, usually at a markup. These fees typically show up on your phone bill as “international roaming data” fees.

These costs apply to everything you do with your phone—phone calls, text messages, and, importantly, data usage of all kinds. On this last item of data usage, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll.

That means that viewing and downloading email, browsing the web, viewing social media, and mapping all incur data charges, as do applications that we sometimes assume to be “free,” such as Skype and WhatsApp.

A simple example: While traveling without an international phone plan, you know that making calls while overseas costs extra, so instead you use your WhatsApp number to make calls. Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp is using cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate. How much does that cost?

On AT&T, international usage costs with no plan in Europe are as follows:

• Phone calls: $2.00/minute (no charge for incoming calls)
• Texts: $0.50 per text and $2.05/MB (no charge for incoming texts)
• Data: $2.05/MB

WhatsApp’s data use depends on whether you are on a 2G, 3G, or 4G network, but on 4G this study by AndroidAuthority puts WhatsApp calling data use at about 750 kilobytes per minute, so a one-minute call using WhatsApp will cost you about $1.50.

Meanwhile, Google Maps uses about six megabytes every 10 minutes , a cost of $12 to go a few miles in your car.

Clearly, data usage can get very costly very fast. To get around that, here are your options for the best international phone plans as of early 2020.

International Phone Plans with AT&T

Of its several international phone plans, AT&T’s simplest offering is the International Day Pass , which is available in more than 100 countries and costs $10/day for unlimited calling and texting as well as whatever data plan you have at home. One nice feature of AT&T’s plan is that you are charged only for days on which you use the package, so if you are on Wi-Fi all day or never turn on your phone, you save the $10.

Note that Mexico and Canada are included in some AT&T plans, so you don’t need an international package in those countries.

For longer trips, AT&T has two Passport plans . One offers 2GB of data for $70/month and the other offers 6GB for $140/month, including unlimited texting and phone calls for 35 cents a minute.

International Phone Plans with Google Fi

Google Fi is a newcomer to the wireless market, and isn’t for everyone; you won’t get the full benefits of the plan unless you have one of six compatible phone models, including Pixels and select Moto and LG phones. Currently, Google Fi is in beta testing for iPhones and works in part with many Android models.

Google Fi’s international phone plan, the main draw for many customers, is extremely straightforward: “Data abroad costs the same as at home.”

Google Fi offers both an unlimited plan, starting at $70 for one line, and a flexible plan, which costs $20/month for unlimited domestic calls and texts, $10/GB per month for data, and $15/month for an extra person to share your data plan. Internationally, the only substantive difference is that voice calls cost 20 cents per minute; otherwise, your international plan is the same as your domestic plan.

An important caveat is that if you are outside the 200 destinations where Google Fi is available, you will have to get a local SIM card; otherwise, you will not be able to use your device unless you’re on Wi-Fi.

International Phone Plans with  Sprint

Sprint is among the companies that include international connectivity in their standard plans. All Sprint plans that have Sprint Global Roaming enabled include free basic data and unlimited texting in 200 destinations; calls cost 25 cents per minute.

Note that while there is no extra charge for Sprint Global Roaming, you must take the step of adding it to your plan to qualify for the benefits.

The free data comes at up to 2G speeds, which may seem slow compared to what you are used to at home. For faster data speeds, Sprint’s Global Roaming package offers 4G LTE data for $5/day or $25/week in most destinations (it’s $2/day or $10/week in Mexico and Canada, and $10/day or $50/week in China).

International Phone Plans with T-Mobile

T-Mobile has carved out a niche for itself by offering only unlimited plans at fixed prices depending on how many phone numbers you have, starting at $30/line for four lines. T-Mobile also piles on some unexpected benefits with the Magenta plan, including unlimited streaming, in-flight texting, and one hour of data on Gogo-enabled flights.

For travelers, the most interesting element is that texting and data in more than 210 countries are wholly included in the Magenta or Magenta Plus plan.

Even the Essentials plan includes texting abroad as well as 2GB of data outside of coverage areas in Mexico and Canada. The downside, though, is that the standard overseas speed on the Essentials plan is much, much slower than normal connectivity at home. For faster speeds, T-Mobile has two options. The Magenta plan gives you data and texting abroad and an hour of in-flight Wi-Fi, for $5 more per month. Magenta Plus costs $13 extra per month and gives you double the data speed and unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi, as well as 5GB of 4G data in Mexico and Canada, HD streaming, and some other features such as voicemail to text. See T-Mobile’s website for more details on its phone plans.

International Phone Plans with Verizon

Verizon’s Unlimited Together – North America plan includes unlimited calls, texts, and data in Mexico and Canada—one catch being that after you download 512 MB of data, speeds will be reduced to 2G levels. Otherwise, Verizon’s TravelPass plan is very similar to AT&T’s, with a $10 charge per day, per device to get the same plan you have at home. If you are not on one of the unlimited plans at home, Verizon charges $5/day for coverage in Mexico and Canada.

Verizon also offers monthly international travel plans ranging from $70/month for 100 minutes, 100 sent texts, and 0.5GB of data to $130/month for 250 minutes, 1,000 sent texts, and 2GB of data in more than 185 countries. Pay-as-you-go rates vary for texting and calling, but the standard data charge is $2.05/MB. See this page for all options.

Alternatives to International Phone Plans

If you are going abroad for an extended period of time, you may want to consider some other options to an international phone plan.

Using Your Own Phone with an International SIM Card

If you would still like to use your personal phone abroad, then consider purchasing a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM card) to use in your own cell phone while you’re traveling internationally. A SIM card is the part of a cell phone that holds the identity information and other personal data; if you switch your own SIM card for one that you purchase in another country, you can have all the benefits of a local phone (such as low in-country calling rates and a local phone number) without having to buy a whole new phone.

You can also purchase an international SIM card that can be used in many different countries. This is a good bet for multi-country trips or for travelers who travel regularly to many different regions around the world. However, the option of replacing the SIM card is only available on unlocked phones. Ask your phone company if your phone’s SIM card can be unlocked.

You can purchase prepaid international and country-specific SIM cards from websites such as Cellular Abroad , Telestial , or OneSimCard . As always, you’ll want to do some comparison shopping before you purchase to find the best rates for the country or countries you’ll be visiting.

Pros: Rather than buying a whole new phone, you can simply buy a SIM card for your existing phone — which is cheaper and takes up less space in your luggage. You’ll enjoy low local rates for calls, texts, and data within whichever country you’re visiting.

Purchasing an International Cell Phone

Depending on your destination country, you may be able to purchase a local phone with a domestic calling plan. Local plans are often similar to the one you have on your current cell phone; domestic rates are cheap, and the most basic cell phone models are quite affordable.

Research cell phone companies in the country you will visit or look for a local cell phone store. Just make sure that the carrier you choose is popular and well known. Do not buy a cell phone from someone on the street just because you think you’re getting a “deal.”

Frequent travelers who spend a lot of time in one international location will be best served by purchasing a phone in their destination. Students studying abroad and travelers with international vacation homes or family in another country should also consider purchasing an international cell phone.

Pros: You’ll enjoy low rates for calling within a foreign country.

Cons: Fees may be quite high for calling the United States.

You may run into a language barrier when trying to buy a phone. If you don’t fully understand the contract you are signing, do not sign your name.

Renting a Cell Phone

If your phone doesn’t work abroad or you don’t want the hassle of adding and removing a pricey international plan, you may want to look into renting a cell phone through a service such as Cellular Abroad , TravelCell , or TripTel . The company mails you a phone, and your rental includes a return shipping label so you can return the phone after your trip.

The phone you’ll receive will be a local phone, good for making calls in the country in which you are traveling. However, if you are spending more than a week or two in one destination overseas, you may save money by purchasing a local phone and subscribing to a local phone plan, as rates for renting a phone can quickly surpass the cost of a cheap cell phone in a few weeks. Also, domestic calling rates for rental phones may be higher than rates offered by local cell phone service providers.

Rates for rental phones are typically twofold; renters pay a daily, weekly or monthly fee for the cell phone rental and an additional fee for calling minutes. This means that even if you’re not using your phone, you can still be charged the minimum fee for the rental unit. Some rental phone plans have higher rates for calls outside the country, and some don’t—compare plans to see which is best for you. Incoming calls and texts on rental phones are your cheapest option, as they are often less expensive than outgoing calls (or even free). If you are using your rental phone to call home, have your friends and family call you at a designated time and you will save some cash.

Renting a cell phone is best if you’re making a lot of calls but not going on a lot of trips. On a single trip where you make just one or two calls, you may end up paying more for the actual cell phone rental than for the calling minutes.

Pros: If your usual cell phone won’t work overseas and you’re an infrequent traveler, you save money by renting a phone instead of buying one.

Cons: Beware of hidden charges. Minimum minute stipulations, charges for incoming calls, or steep roaming rates may apply to your rental. Always make sure you read and understand the fine print.

To avoid charges if you lose a rental phone, you may want to purchase rental insurance at an additional cost.

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More from SmarterTravel:

• 8 Innovative Phone Cases and Accessories for Travel
• Have an Old iPhone? Here’s the Airport Perk You’re Missing
• 12 Best Travel Gadgets for Any Trip

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.  Ashley Rossi contributed to this article.

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What’s the best international phone plan right now?

On my first trip to Japan, I decided to forgo international data on my cellphone. I figured I could rely on public Wi-Fi, but I regretted not having data on my phone when I became lost. From that experience, I learned to download offline maps and a translation app beforehand if I know I won't have data.

But now, I almost always have data when I travel via my international phone plan, or through a physical SIM I buy at my destination or an eSIM I purchase online.

There are many reasons why you may want to remain connected while abroad. In this guide, I'll compare the best international phone plans. Note that many plans function differently in Canada and Mexico from other international locations. This guide focuses on the best phone plans for U.S. residents who travel outside North America.

First things first: You might not need an international phone plan. If you primarily need data, using a different SIM on your trip may be the simplest and cheapest solution. Some apps even support text and voice communication over data connections.

If your device supports eSIM, you may be able to purchase a data plan for your destination through an app like Airalo . Over the past year, I've purchased and used the following Airalo eSIMs either to gain data in a destination not served by my primary international phone plan (Google Fi) or to get less-expensive data than what Google Fi provides:

• Global (84 countries) : 20 GB over 180 days for $89
• Japan : 20 GB over 30 days for $26
• France : 20 GB over 30 days for $36
• Fiji : Three GB over 30 days for $19.50
• U.S. : One GB over seven days for $4.50

If your device doesn't support eSIM, you could still purchase a local SIM card at your destination. For example, I bought a monthlong SIM card with unlimited high-speed data in Vietnam for less than $10. But data is significantly more expensive in some destinations, and it can be difficult to determine exactly what you're getting when you purchase a physical SIM card. As such, I've mostly stuck with a physical Google Fi SIM card and Airalo eSIMs instead of using local SIM cards.

If you plan to use eSIM or a local SIM card, you should ensure your phone is unlocked. A locked phone won't be able to accept any other SIM cards until it is unlocked.

Related: How TPG's Zach Griff avoids the pesky $10 daily roaming charges when traveling

• Cost for one line : $20 (plus taxes and fees) per month plus data usage costs for the Flexible plan or $65 (plus taxes and fees) per month for the Unlimited Plus plan
• Data abroad : $10 per GB (with free data after six GBs per month but slower speeds after 15 GBs in a month) in more than 200 destinations for the Flexible plan or free (but with slower speeds after 50 GBs in a month) in more than 200 destinations for the Unlimited Plus plan
• Voice abroad : 20 cents per minute from more than 200 destinations (and calls via Wi-Fi to the U.S., Canada and Mexico are free)
• Text abroad : Free from more than 200 destinations

I've used Google Fi as my primary cellphone plan for most of the past six years. I've had a few connectivity issues in the U.S. — where Google Fi currently uses the T-Mobile network — including in Tampa, Austin and New York City. However, I keep Google Fi primarily because I usually get high-speed data as soon as I turn airplane mode off, and I can seamlessly receive calls and texts on my U.S. number while traveling internationally.

You might be tempted to only use Google Fi when traveling outside the U.S., but doing so isn't a good idea. After all, the Google Fi terms of service state:

The services are offered only to residents of the United States. The Services must be primarily used in the United States (territories not included) and are not intended for extended international use. Further, the services are designed for use predominantly within our network. If your usage outside our network is excessive, abnormally high, or causes us to incur too much cost, we may, at our option and sole discretion, suspend your Google Fi account, terminate your service, or limit your use of roaming.

Google Fi has shut down some U.S. residents who used Google Fi primarily outside the U.S. So, I recommend avoiding extended international use and using Google Fi more in the U.S. than abroad if you don't want to get shut down. I buy eSIMs to decrease my Google Fi usage in some destinations, especially when I can purchase a package through Airalo for significantly less than $10 per GB (the amount I pay Google Fi for data on my Flexible plan).

Google Fi is the best international phone plan for U.S.-based travelers who want fast data without hassle while traveling abroad. Plans become slightly cheaper as you add more members. In my travels with Google Fi since 2016, I've only failed to get any service in three locations: parts of Alaska, the all-inclusive resort I lived out of for a month in the Dominican Republic and Liberia .

Related: Can you use your cellphone on a cruise?

• Cost for one line : $60 per month for the Essentials plan, $70 per month for the Magenta plan, $75 per month for the Go5G plan, $85 per month for the Magenta Max plan and $90 per month for the Go 5G Plus plan
• Data abroad : Free for up to five GB of high-speed data (in 11 European countries for the Magenta and Go5G plans, and in more than 215 countries and destinations for the Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans) and then free for up to 256 kilobits per second in more than 215 countries and destinations for Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans (no data outside North America is included in the Essentials plan)
• Voice abroad : 25 cents per minute from more than 215 countries and destinations for the Essentials, Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans
• Text abroad : Free from more than 215 countries and destinations for the Essentials, Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans

Before using Google Fi in 2016, I relied on T-Mobile when traveling internationally until I grew tired of slow data speeds. However, the plans have improved, and many travelers swear by T-Mobile as their international phone and data plan . T-Mobile customers can avoid slow data by purchasing international passes to add to their existing plan as follows:

• International 1-day pass : 512 MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 24 hours for $5
• Five-GB international pass : Five GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 10 days for $35
• 15-GB international pass : 15 GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 30 days for $50

Long-term and frequent international travelers should note that T-Mobile says the following about its plans:

Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming.

Additionally, T-Mobile's terms and conditions state you are not permitted to use T-Mobile services if it "results in more than 50% of your voice and/or data usage being Off-Net (i.e., connected to another provider's network) for any 2 billing cycles within any 12-month period." There have been instances of T-Mobile shutting down travelers for roaming excessively . So, don't go with T-Mobile if your primary usage won't be domestically on T-Mobile's network.

Related: 6 reasons why Apple's entry-level iPhone 14s are great for travelers

Other international phone plans to consider

Finally, you may want to check your current provider's options if you only occasionally travel internationally. Here are some options that are available as optional add-ons for many AT&T and Verizon plans:

• AT&T international day pass : Pay an extra $10 per 24 hours for unlimited high-speed data, talk and text in more than 210 destinations. You'll only be charged for days (as determined by your local U.S. time zone) you use data, make or receive a call or send a text message while in a destination covered by the international day pass.
• Verizon TravelPass : Pay an extra $10 per day per line for unlimited calls, texts and data (data speeds decrease after two GBs in a day) in more than 210 countries. You'll only be charged for days you send or receive a call, send texts or use data while abroad.
• Verizon international monthly plan : Pay an extra $100 per month for 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and unlimited data (data speeds decrease after 20 GBs in a month) in more than 210 countries.

You could also check out U.S. Mobile's plans. U.S. Mobile plans don't include calling or texting from outside the U.S. Still, the Unlimited Premium plan offers up to 10 GB of international data, and most plans let you buy eSIMs for more than 100 countries from within the U.S. Mobile app.

Mint Mobile could also be a viable solution if you're on a budget and don't travel abroad frequently. Although Mint Mobile doesn't offer any international data, text or voice on its plans, you can purchase international roaming credits and then use them to text, talk and use data in more than 210 countries and destinations. Rates for talk, text and data vary based on the country you're visiting; they usually cost about 25 cents per minute for talk, 5 cents per text and 20 cents per MB of data. If you don't plan to use much data — after all, you'd be paying a massive $205 per GB in many countries — Mint Mobile could be a feasible option.

Most cellphone plans allow you to pay as you go for international use, but these rates are almost always excessive. As such, frequent international travelers should find a different solution because pay-as-you-go costs will add up quickly.

Related: Credit cards that cover cellphone loss and damage

Bottom line

Having a functioning international phone plan when traveling abroad is important for travelers who want to stay connected. Traveling as a digital nomad , I've found Google Fi is by far my best option for fast data, modestly priced calling and free texting in most destinations. However, I supplement my Google Fi plan with eSIMs in some destinations to gain access to less-expensive data.

If you already have T-Mobile or a plan that offers international add-ons, you may want to stick with your plan. Otherwise, it's worth considering an eSIM or a local SIM card. You can buy eSIMs ahead of your trip, and it's usually possible to pick up local SIM cards at the airport when you land in a new country.

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The Best Smart Phones to Use When You Travel

In this post, Dave Dean from Too Many Adapters shares his best tips and advice on how to pick the best smartphone for when you travel.

As a travel tech writer, I get asked about using smartphones for travel all the time. The minute we head overseas with our phones, we’re hit with a confusing mess of technical jargon, expensive roaming agreements, conflicting advice, and nonworking gear. Trying to discuss the nuances of GSM frequency bands or iPhone unlock codes with a mobile vendor in a dusty Cambodian town isn’t my idea of fun, and I doubt it’s yours either.

Since we all want our smartphones to work when we travel, I’ve put together this guide covering everything you need to know to get your smartphone working overseas — as well as the best smartphones for travel. It’s detailed, but not too complicated, and will save you money, time, and plenty of frustration!

The Best Travel Smartphones

Traveling with a Smartphone: Tips and Advice

This is an inexpensive way to stay connected with phone and data service while you travel. The downside is that you’ll have to change SIM cards every time you change countries, so you may end up carrying a stack of SIM cards around the world with you (though I like being reminded of all the places I’ve been!).

Here are some other tips for using your phone:

1. Only use Wi-Fi when possible – Your smartphone will still connect over Wi-Fi just fine, so replace calling with Skype or Google Voice, SMS with WhatsApp, and download a bunch of offline travel apps to use when you’re away from a signal. You’ll be surprised how well that approach can work, and not getting notifications all the time is quite refreshing.

You can download Google Maps and download the map of the city online then use it without Wi-Fi. Also, you can search for your destination in Google Maps and it still works when you don’t have Wi-Fi if your location is on. You can also take screenshots and save them.

Some cities even have free public Wi-Fi in parks and public spaces like airports and train stations. If you really need it, lots of international chains like McDonald’s and Starbucks have Wi-Fi if you buy something to eat or drink. Remember to be careful with your data on these open networks (a VPN is recommended).

2. Buy a budget smartphone – While there’s a lot of junk at the bottom of the smartphone range, there are a few decent phones for travelers under $200. My current favorite is the Motorola Moto G — you’ll want to buy a microSD card for some extra storage, but other than that it’s a reasonably speedy smartphone, with a battery that lasts all day. Tip: grab the “Global” version for maximum compatibility overseas. You’ll still need to buy local SIM cards to put in it.

3. Rent a phone – You can rent phones at airports and from various companies before you leave home, but I’d only consider it for a short trip to a specific country where my usual phone didn’t work. For anything other than that, it’s cheaper just to buy a new one.

4. Rent or buy a portable hotspot – Portable hotspots are small gadgets that create a wireless network and share a cellular data connection over it — you can typically connect 5 or 10 devices to the network you create. You can rent one for short trips at an inflated daily or weekly rate, or you can buy an unlocked hotspot and stick a local SIM card in it, just as if it were a phone. Your smartphone will treat this like any other Wi-Fi network.

Getting your smartphone to work overseas without coming home to a huge bill isn’t always a straightforward task. But with a bit of time and effort, you’ll know exactly what options you’ve got when you’re on the road and you’ll be able to use your phone overseas.

Do your research, avoid the rip-offs, buy one of the above best smartphones when you travel, and you’ll be able to stay in touch, stay connected, and stay Instagramming when you travel!

Dave runs Too Many Adapters , a site devoted to technology for travelers. A geek as long as he can remember, he worked in IT for 15 years. Now based out of a backpack long term, Dave writes about travel and tech from anywhere with half-decent Internet and a great view. You can also find him talking about the life of a long-term traveler at What’s Dave Doing?  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

Is It Safe in Moscow?

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When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
• Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
• Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

• It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
• If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
• Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
• Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
• Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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