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Best Tourist Sim Cards in Albania in 2024

As a traveler exploring Albania, obtaining a sim card is essential to stay connected. With internet access on hand, navigating through new cities becomes effortless. Whether you’re seeking the best restaurants, searching for directions to your accommodation, booking a taxi, or sharing photos with your loved ones, having on-the-go internet makes the entire journey smoother.

While roaming is an option, the charges pile up quickly, especially for international travelers. Hence, we strongly suggest purchasing an eSIM or a local sim card to benefit from the local phone rates. The good news is, getting your hands on either of these in Albania is a breeze, but knowing which one to choose can make all the difference.

This guide offers everything you need to know about purchasing a sim card in Albania, including updated prices and the ultimate sim card guaranteed to meet your needs.

Table of Contents

Best sim card in albania for tourists.

If you are only visiting Albania then we would recommend the eSim offered by Airalo as the best sim card in Albania. For roughly the same price as a local sim card you can save the hassle of having to visit a store and wait for the card to be activated (this took us about an hour in total).

If you are planning to visit Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina and / or Serbia then we recommend purchasing a sim card from Vodafone. The Vodafone sim card here offers free roaming in the above countries which will save you the effort and cost of purchasing additional sim cards when you arrive there.

Similarly, if your phone does not support eSims (these days most phones do, including all iPhones since 2018), then we would again recommend purchasing a local sim card from a Vodafone store near your hotel.

Albania Sim Card Prices

A Tourist Sim Card in Albania costs between 1,500 and 1,800 LEK in April 2024, however, the exact price will often depend on the store you visit and the plan you choose.

Alternatively, an eSim in Albania will cost between $4.50 USD and $26 USD. This, again, depends on how much data you require and which eSim provider you choose.

I generally recommend this Airalo plan for most tourists visiting Albania which includes 3GB of data which is valid for 30 days and costs $11 USD.

Albania Sim Card Providers

In Albania, the main SIM card providers are Vodafone Albania, Telekom Albania, and ALBtelecom. Among these, Vodafone Albania, operating under the brand VodafoneOne Albania, stands out as one of the leading telecom companies in the country. VodafoneOne Albania offers a wide range of mobile services, including voice, data, and messaging, along with attractive prepaid and postpaid plans to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. With a robust network infrastructure, VodafoneOne Albania ensures seamless connectivity throughout Albania. Moreover, VodafoneOne Albania prides itself on providing exceptional customer service and innovative solutions, making it a preferred choice for many Albanian mobile users.

Vodafone Tourist Sim

Vodafone Albania is a leading telecom company that provides reliable and affordable tourist SIM cards. With excellent network coverage and high-speed internet, tourists can stay connected while exploring Albania’s rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. Vodafone’s tourist SIM cards offer convenient packages with generous data allowances, international calls, and SMS. Whether it’s sharing travel memories or staying in touch with loved ones back home, Vodafone ensures an incredible connectivity experience for tourists in Albania.

Vodafone Albania Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Vodafone tourist sim card in Albania is between 1500 LEK ($15 USD) and 1800 LEK ($18 USD) including a 200 LEK fee for the physical sim card..

The plan offered by Vodafone stores includes 8GB data + 2500 minutes or 22GB data + 3500 minutes valid for 30 days.

One Albania Tourist Sim

One Albania offers tourist sim cards for travelers visiting Albania. Their sim cards provide data, calls, and texts, allowing tourists to stay connected during their stay. With reliable network coverage, travelers can easily navigate through Albania’s stunning landscapes, explore historical sites, and share their experiences on social media. One Albania’s tourist sim cards are available at affordable prices, making it convenient for tourists to have access to seamless connectivity while enjoying all that Albania has to offer.

One Albania Albania Tourist Sim Price

The price of a One Albania tourist sim card in Albania is 1500 LEK ($15 USD)..

The plan offered by One Albania stores offers 15GB data + 500 minutes + 50 SMS valid for 21 days.

Tourist Sim

In Albania, tourist sim cards are widely available and popular among travelers. Telecom providers offer competitive packages with varying data and call allowances to cater to different needs. These sim cards can be easily purchased at airports, local shops, or online. With reliable network coverage, tourists can stay connected, browse the internet, and make calls without any hassle. Affordable prices and convenient options make these tourist sim cards a great choice for exploring beautiful Albania.

Albania Tourist Sim Price

The price of a tourist sim card in Albania is .

The plan offered by stores includes valid for .

How to Get a Sim Card in Albania

Identify mobile providers: Vodafone, One Albania and are your best options in Albania.

Find your nearest store: Locate a store or retailer by searching on Google Maps for your nearest store or asking at your hotel reception. I’ve never had issues finding a store as they can usually be found in major cities, shopping centers, or tourist areas. If possible, I always recommend to to avoid airports and head in to an official store in the city.

Bring the necessary documents: It is always a good idea to carry your passport or identification documents for sim card registration purposes. We’ve found most providers will need to confirm your identity to provide a sim card and it can be a major hassle to head to a store only to have to come back again later with your passport.

Choose your plan: Either request the plan you are after or consult with the staff in the store to select the right plan for you. My recommendations at the beginning of this guide are a good starting point, but the staff will usually be able to suggest the best option.

Pay and activate your card: Pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for you.

Test: It’s always a good idea to check that you can access the internet before you leave the store. I always search for something on Google then refresh my Instagram feed to check it’s working fine.

Where to Get a Sim Card in Albania

At the airport.

Buying a prepaid sim card for Albania at the airport is usually considered the most convenient option for travellers arriving by plane.

However, airport stores selling sim cards are almost guaranteed to charge inflated prices, so if you are a cost-conscious traveller then you should definitely buy your sim card from a store in the city center.

In addition to this, we would argue that buying physical sim cards at all aren’t particularly convenient now that most people use esim compatible phones. If you are looking for the most convenient option, then buying an esim before you arrive or with the airport wifi is much easier and will save you having to queue up or communicate with staff.

If you must purchase a sim card at the airport in Albania then you will be in luck. All major international airports in Albania have stores selling sim cards. Despite the prices being higher than normal, the staff are knowledgable and will be able to get you set up with the correct sim card relatively quickly.

If you want to avoid the inflated sim card prices you’ll find at the airport and your phone isn’t esim compatible, then you’re going to need to head in to a store to buy your sim card.

I recommend visiting one of the official retail stores of the mobile internet operators such as Vodafone, One Albania and . Your best option is to enter their names into Google Maps and find the branch closest to your hotel or accommodation. Typically the staff in the official stores in Albania are knowledgable and helpful which means you can ensure you’ll walk away with a functioning sim card.

Despite this, it’s always a good idea to check your internet is working before you leave the store by loading a Google search results page and your preferred social media app. You should also ensure you always bring your passport with you when purchasing a sim card in case they need to register it.

If you like to be prepared and would prefer to arrive in Albania with your sim card all sorted and your phone ready to connect to the internet immediately then you should look into purchasing a sim card online.

The first option is to buy your sim card in advance via SimOptions, which is a company that will prepare and ship a sim card directly to your door. It’s a reliable and effective service, but with the invention of eSims it’s becoming obsolete.

The better option is to purchase an eSim online. We’ve written more on that below!

Albania eSim

An eSim is a digital version of a traditional sim card and is most likely the future of connectivity for mobile devices. The convenience of no longer visiting a store, handing over your passport and purchasing a physical sim card is quickly making physical sim cards obsolete in favour of eSims.

We recommend Airalo’s eSim when travelling to Albania. The Airalo Albania eSim offers fast internet speeds, wide coverage and extremely competitive prices making it a far more compelling option than purchasing a physical sim card from any of the local sim card providers.

In order to get set up with an Airalo eSim , all you need to do is visit Airalo here and purchase the eSim online (the $11 USD plan is suitable for most travellers). Once you’ve purchased the sim card Airalo will email you instructions and a QR code. Following these instructions should take just a couple of minutes, then you’ll have a sim card in Albania without having to venture outside.

Airalo Albania

Our preferred eSim provider in Albania is Airalo . We used them, alongside a local sim card on another device, for our most recent trip to Albania and found the service to be equal to the local sim card but without the hassle of acquiring a sim card in a store.

Airalo’s Albania eSim uses the Vodafone to provide data and connect users to the internet. You can expect very good coverage and reliability with the Vodafonenetwork as they are amongst the best mobile internet operators in Albania.

Here are the plans and prices for Airalo’s Albania eSim:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $4.50 USD 2GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $8 USD 3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $11 USD 5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $15.50 USD 10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $26 USD

For most travellers we recommend the 3GB data plan for $11 USD which is valid for 30 days. Some travellers may prefer a larger plan, whilst travellers visiting for just a couple of days may be fine with a smaller plan.

Holafly Albania

An alternative eSim provider we can recommend is Holafly.

Holafly’s eSim is a suitable option for travellers who require large amounts of data, such as digital nomads and people who work online while they travel. All of Holafly’s Albania eSims offer unlimited data.

Holafly’s Albania eSim uses the Vodafonenetwork to provide data and connect users to the internet. This network will provide reliable speeds and coverage while in Albania

Here are the plans and prices for Holafly’s Albania eSim:

6GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $44 USD

What is an eSim?

An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM card, is a digital SIM card that is already incorporated into a device, like a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card to be inserted into or removed from the device.

Unlike traditional SIM cards, the eSIM is integrated into the hardware of the device and can be remotely activated and programmed by a mobile network operator. This enables users to switch between various mobile networks or plans without having to physically change SIM cards.

The convenience, flexibility, and user-friendliness of eSIM technology are especially advantageous for travelers or individuals who frequently switch between different mobile networks or travel internationally. It eliminates the need to buy and insert physical SIM cards, making it much easier to manage multiple mobile connections on a single device.

To activate an eSIM, users can either scan a QR code provided by their mobile network operator or manually enter the activation details. Once activated, the device can connect to the desired mobile network and enjoy voice calls, data usage, and messaging services just like with a typical SIM card.

Why Use an eSim?

Using an eSIM can be beneficial for various reasons, including:

– Convenience: No need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when switching networks or plans, making it ideal for frequent travelers. – Dual SIM functionality: Allows for having two active mobile numbers on one device, helpful for separating personal and work numbers or managing multiple phone lines. – Space-saving: Since eSIMs are embedded, it eliminates the need for a physical SIM card slot, freeing up space for smaller devices or additional components. – Remote provisioning: Activation and management of mobile plans can be done remotely without a physical SIM card or visiting a store, providing flexibility and convenience. – Future-proofing: With more networks and providers offering eSIM support, using an eSIM-compatible device ensures access to new services and offerings in the future.

In conclusion, eSIM technology offers flexibility, convenience, and future-proofing for mobile connectivity.

eSim Supported Phones

eSIM technology is becoming increasingly popular and is supported by a growing number of smartphones and other devices. Here are some examples of eSIM-compatible phones:

Apple iPhone series (iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, etc.): Apple was one of the early adopters of eSIM technology and offers support for eSIM on various iPhone models.

Google Pixel series (Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 5, etc.): Google’s Pixel smartphones also support eSIM functionality, allowing users to activate and use eSIMs.

Samsung Galaxy series (Galaxy S22, Galaxy Note 20, etc.): Many of Samsung’s flagship devices now come with eSIM support, enabling users to utilize eSIM technology.

OnePlus devices (OnePlus 7, OnePlus 8, etc.): OnePlus has included eSIM support in some of its smartphone models, offering users the flexibility of using eSIMs.

Motorola Razr (2020): The latest iteration of the iconic Motorola Razr features eSIM compatibility, enabling users to use eSIMs for cellular connectivity.

These are just a few examples, and the list of eSIM-compatible phones continues to expand as more manufacturers embrace this technology. There’s a very strong chance your phone supports eSims so if you’re unsure we recommend looking it up on our list of eSim supported phones .

How to Use an eSim

Using an eSim is new for many travellers, however, the good news is it’s surprisingly easy to get set up – even for the technologically challenged!

Here’s a general guide on how to use an eSIM:

Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Many newer smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other devices are eSIM compatible including all iPhones produced since 2018.

Obtain an eSIM: There are multiple ways to acquire an eSIM. You can purchase an eSIM online from a provider like Airalo (which we recommend) or directly from a mobile network operator. Some devices also allow you to scan a QR code provided by your carrier to download the eSIM profile.

Activate the eSIM: Your eSim provider will send you instructions to activate the sim. This will usually involve scanning a QR code, entering an activation code, or downloading the eSIM profile directly onto your device.

Set up the eSIM: Once activated, your device will guide you through the eSIM setup process. This typically involves selecting the eSIM as your preferred mobile plan, configuring settings like data roaming, and entering any necessary authentication details.

Enjoy the Connection: Once the eSIM is set up, you can use it as you would with a physical SIM card. Make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and use data services as needed. You can also switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. I've travelled all around the world, using and testing countless travel sim cards along the way. I'm the founder of and writer for Travel Sim Expert where I write guides to help travellers stay connected all around the world.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. Travel Sim Expert is a blog dedicated to helping you find the best sim card for you, no matter where you are or what your budget is. 

Learn More About Me

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Albania SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Oct 13, 2023 | Europe , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting Albania soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing an Albania SIM card .

Fortunately, Europe is one of the best places to buy a SIM card easily. You should be able to find a cheap SIM card pretty much anywhere in Europe. In fact, most data packages are affordable, which makes the whole thing easier!

This guide will explain where to buy a SIM card in Albania in person and online. We’ll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports them.

That said, if you’re traveling to other countries in Europe, you should be able to use the same SIM card because most SIM card providers also offer coverage in other European countries.

Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually need a SIM card in Albania. If you don’t mind not having Internet, you’ll likely find free Wifi in restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels.

That said, if you need data to get around, call an Uber, or translate Albanian – you may want to get a SIM card for your travels in Albania.

Note that your mobile phone provider may already offer Albania coverage if you’re European. If that’s the case, you won’t need a SIM card for your adventures in Albania.

Best SIM Cards In Albania

If you’re traveling in Albania, we recommend using a SIM card from Vodafone, One, ALBtelecom, or Airalo. (I’ll get back to Airalo later on, so keep reading to learn more!)

That said, if you’re planning on visiting other countries during your trip to Europe , you might want to make sure to pick an option that offers coverage in other European countries.

How To Buy A SIM Card In Albania

You can either buy a Europe prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind.

And, when you see a shop, you might also have limited options.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store. Note that you may need your passport to buy one.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival.

So, if you prefer to be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase a European prepaid SIM card online.

Now, let’s take a look at the data plans offered by Vodafone, One, and ALBtelecom.

Vodafone Albania SIM Cards

Vodafone offers several different types of plans:

• 300 MB, valid for 3 days for ALL 300 ($2.66)
• 1.5 GB, valid for 10 days for ALL 700 ($6.20)
•  5 GB, valid for 30 days for ALL 1500 ($13.29)
•  Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for ALL 2000 ($17.73)

One SIM Cards

One has one tourist plan available, which includes the following:

• 35 GB, valid for 21 days for ALL 2000 ($17.73)

ALBtelecom SIM Cards

ALBtelecom offers three different types of plans:

• 8 GB, valid for 30 days for ALL 1100 ($9.75)
• 24 GB, valid for 30 days for ALL 1300 ($11.52)
• 36 GB, valid for 30 days for ALL 1900 ($16.84)

Overall, we think Vodafone is the best option if you plan to buy your SIM card in person. That said, any would do if you can’t find their store!

How To Buy An Albania Prepaid SIM Card Online

If you wish to have your SIM card ready for your arrival, you could purchase it online or on websites like Amazon.

You’ll find different plans on Amazon. For example, OneSimCard works in more than 100+ countries and gives you data for $0.01 per MB. Albania is included.

But there are many other options worth considering, so have a look and make sure the countries you plan on visiting are listed.

Browse your options on Amazon

Another option is to purchase a prepaid European SIM card on SimOptions .

They currently offer 1 package that covers Albania.

• 5 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

Browse your options on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy an eSIM card for Europe.

How To Buy An eSIM Card For Albania

eSIM is a new concept allowing you to have a virtual SIM card inside your phone.

If your mobile phone supports eSIM cards – it’s definitely one of the best options to get data in Albania.

Curious? Learn more about eSIM for travelers on esimroamers.com .

I started using eSIM as soon as my mobile phone supported it. And I first tried it when visiting my family in Canada. To buy eSIMs, I usually use Airalo .

Keep reading to learn more about the best eSIMs in Albania.

Airalo Albania

If you want to buy an eSIM for Albania, you could purchase one on Airalo . This website offers many eSIM cards worldwide and special plans for Europe and Albania.

I’ve been using Airalo in Europe for several months, and it works fine.

Here are the options available :

• Hej Telecom: 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• Hej Telecom: 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $8
• Hej Telecom: 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11
• Hej Telecom: 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15.50
• Hej Telecom: 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $13
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $37
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days for $100
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days for $185

The options mentioned above are part of Eurolink and offer coverage in 39 countries, including Albania.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling in other countries that are not mentioned on the list, you can try Discover Global, which offers coverage in 87 countries, including Albania.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 60 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 180 days for $89

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country. Suppose you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip.

In that case, it might be because you’re connecting automatically to networks and need to select a network manually instead.

When you purchase the eSIM, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country.

Go to Airalo

Holafly Albania

Alternatively, you could look at your options on Holafly . You can read our Holafly review to learn more about this eSIM store. I’ve also tried this eSIM provider in Europe, and it worked fine. For Albania, they offer the following plan:

• 6 GB for 15 days for $44

Go to Holafly

Nomad Albania

Finally, Nomad is also a great eSIM provider. Here’s an overview of the plans available for Albania:

• 1GB, valid for 7 days for $20
• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $48
• 5GB, valid for 30 days for $54

Go to Nomad

Final Thoughts On SIM Cards In Albania

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in Albania or even an eSIM for your travels in Albania is pretty easy.

You’ll even be able to stay connected wherever you go in Europe without changing your SIM card, especially if you purchase a European SIM card .

I believe the eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in Albania if you wish to have data upon your arrival. This way, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a SIM card.

Obviously, you need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Georgia SIM cards
• Serbia SIM cards
• Estonia SIM cards

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Buying a SIM card in Albania

If you’re planning a trip to Albania and want to stay connected while exploring this beautiful Balkan gem, you’re in the right place.

We’re here to help you find the best SIM card for your trip to Albania .

In this guide, we will cover the main options available for tourists from local providers and from digital SIM cards – which you will see, can be incredibly handy!

Having a local SIM card for your trip to Albania can be a lifesaver , especially if you will be doing a road trip through the country.

RECOMMENDED

Need an esim.

If you’re short on time, check the options from our most recommended providers for mobile internet around the world: Airalo and Nomad.

Mobile operators in Albania

Albania currently has 2 active mobile providers , both offering prepaid SIM card options for tourists. They are:

• Vodafone Albania
• One Telecom Albania

Until 2023, there used to be a third mobile provider called ALB Telecom but they were bought and merged with One. Their plans have not been active since last year.

Prices of prepaid SIM cards in Albania

Vodafone prepaid sim cards for tourists in albania.

Vodafone is the number one mobile provider when it comes to SIM cards for tourists in Albania. Before the trip, we had read many different blogs and forums online and this was by far the most recommended option.

It is very easy to understand why. Vodafone Albania has many different prepaid SIM card options with very attractive pricing for tourists. Here is a summary of the options currently available:

My favorite thing about the Vodafone tourist SIM cards in Albania is how easy it is to get them . Vodafone stores are available all over Tirana so you can drop by and buy your SIM card as soon as you arrive.

I think they are a great option for tourists staying a short time in the country. If you need more information, check their website .

One Telecom Albania prepaid SIM card options

One Telecom also offers good options of prepaid SIM cards for tourists. 

As you can see below, they have the same prices as Vodafone but they offer fewer options – which means they are a good alternative if you will need a significant amount of data for your trip.

SIM card options offered by One Telecom Albania:

If you need more information, check out their website .

Where to buy a SIM card in Albania

You can buy a SIM card in Albania at the stores from mobile providers .

It is quite easy to find Vodafone and One Telecom stores in Tirana. You can use the Vodafone store locator to find the shop closest to you.

Can you buy a SIM card at Tirana International Airport?

You can buy a Vodafone SIM card at Tirana Airport. There is a small Vodafone shop located at the Arrivals Hall.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to buy One SIM card at Tirana International Airport at this moment. It is quite easy to find a store within the city center, but not at the airport. This is quite a pity in my opinion; I hope they change this soon!

Our recommended SIM card

Between the local options available, we recommend the prepaid SIM card offered by Vodafone .

Even though both mobile providers have the exact same price for offers of 40 GB or more, I like the fact that Vodafone offer also smaller packages which are more than sufficient for small trips to the country.

Another reason why I recommend Vodafone is that it is easier to buy their SIM cards. Most tourists arrive in Tirana and you can easily buy the Vodafone tourist SIM card directly at the airport.

However, if you will be traveling to multiple countries, I would consider buying an eSIM instead. Continue reading to understand why.

Buying a SIM card in Albania will work in the Balkans?

The countries of the Western Balkans have a no-roaming agreement which in theory should give us all access to zero-fee data roaming between them. 

In practice, that is not the case for prepaid SIM cards . 

Mobile providers have the right to define how their roaming policy works and none of the options available for prepaid SIM cards in Albania include free roaming.

So, for tourists and travelers like you and me, the best option for multi-country trips is to get an eSIM.

Don’t know what eSIMs are? Check our guide on eSIMs

Best eSIM for Albania

Over the years, we have tested many different brands for eSIMs. Some were great, some were terrible.

Right now, the only two companies we can truly recommend are Airalo and Nomad .

We have always had great experiences when using their mobile plans. They are super easy to get, you can install everything within minutes, and control your data through the app.

We always had good-quality connections when using either company and can truly recommend them.

Best SIM card for Albania and Montenegro

Many people visit Albania and Montenegro within the same trip, so what is the best SIM card option for both countries?

Unfortunately, none of the local providers in Albania or Montenegro offer free roaming with their prepaid SIM card plans. 

So, unless you will be staying for a long time and are willing to sign up for a long-term plan, the best option is to buy an eSIM .

Read more :

• Best SIM cards for Montenegro
• Best SIM cards for traveling the Balkans

FAQ – Best SIM card for traveling to Albania

Can you get 5g in albania.

Both Vodafone and One Telecom state that they offer 4G and 4G+ connection, but not 5G.

Do EU SIM cards work in Albania?

No. Since Albania is not part of the EU, most EU SIM cards will charge quite expensive roaming fees to be connected in Albania.

Buying a local SIM card or an eSIM are better option. Check the prices with Airalo .

Are roaming fees in Albania expensive?

Unless you have a plan that has no roaming fees for using data in Albania – which is available only within certain countries – roaming fees will be quite expensive .

I have personally never seen a case in which paying for roaming fees would be worth it. In Albania, this is especially true since the local mobile providers offer such price-effective offers. For only 20 EUR, you can get 40 GB of data which is more than enough for a regular tourist.

What is the best SIM card in Albania for remote workers?

Since Albania is quite an affordable destination, it is becoming quite a popular place for remote workers. 

This type of traveler typically needs higher data coverage to be able to work from anywhere. In this case, the 100 GB prepaid plan from Vodafone would be the best fit. If this amount of data isn’t enough, you can always buy additional data to top it up.

 Other SIM card guides for the Balkans

• Best SIM cards for Slovenia
• Best SIM cards for Serbia
• Best SIM cards for Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Best SIM cards for Croatia
• All our SIM card guides

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to the Balkans, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to the Balkan region on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.  
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.  

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Edin (Edo for friends like you) is the Slovenian half of Mauka. Even though Edo was born in Novo Mesto (Slovenia), he has Bosnian origins and has spent most of his life exploring the Balkan Region. Now, with Fernanda, he has expanded his travel borders to explore more of Europe, South America, and the rest of the world. He is the technical master behind the blog, but he also adventures as a writer when it comes to giving tips about destinations he is passionate about.

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Getting an Albania SIM Card in 2024: Prepaid SIM Card in Albania

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on Published: January 31, 2024  - Last updated: February 13, 2024

Categories albania , Sim Cards

Last updated on February 13th, 2024 at 10:04 am

Looking for the best Albania Sim Card for your next trip to Albania?

For the best sim card in Albania, One Albania sim card is our favorite for coverage and data packages. Looking at mobile eSIM alternatives? Go for Airalo

Table of Contents

What’s the Cheapest Sim Card in Albania?

The cheapest prepaid sim card in Albania with One Albania prepaid sim card for 1500 LEK which is around €12 with 20 GB data valid for 30 days.

Alternatives to Getting Cheap Data in Albania

You can find the cheapest Albanian eSim with Albania eSim prepaid for  $8 USD with 2 GB  data valid for 7 days ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). For $24 USD with 10 GB data valid for 30 days.

Ubigi Albania eSim for $8 USD with 1 GB data valid for 30 days and for $14 USD with 3 GB data valid for 30 days. ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). Holafly Albania eSim for $27 USD  if you use our code  GAMINTRAVELER  coming with  unlimited  data valid for 5 days.

WHERE TO STAY IN ALBANIA

You can stay in a dorm room or a room for less than  $10 USD  while you can stay in a budget hotel for as low as  $20-30 USD . There are so many to choose from depending on what type and how luxurious you want your stay to be starting from  $50 USD.

Book your accommodations in Albania through  Agoda  or  Booking

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance:  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of  Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review  and the comparison  Heymondo vs Genki

BEST ALBANIA SIM CARD FOR TOURIST COMPARED AND PREPAID SIM CARD IN ALBANIA

First thing we have to say about Albania prepaid sim card, internet and data connection is great. We recommend you buy an Albania sim card in the airport if you are in a hurry.

You can get an Albanian sim card in the kiosks or phone shops if you prefer affordable prices. And you aren’t worried of not having internet for a few hours until get to your destination in Albania.

BUYING PREPAID SIM CARD AIRPORT (SIM CARD TIRANA AIRPORT)

Getting a prepaid Albania sim card at Tirana airport is simple and easy. You can buy a sim card in Albania at Tirana International Airport . Make sure you are bringing your passport when buying in the airport, pick up service, or in a shop since it’s always required.

You can buy an Albanian sim card at Tirana airport with Vodafone prepaid sim card in Albania which is the most popular.

WHERE TO BUY THE BEST ALBANIA SIM CARD FOR TOURIST

You can buy a sim card in Albania almost anywhere from the airport to small cities. Seriously no kidding, there are phone kiosks and local shops willing to sell an Albania prepaid sim card. Just make sure that you present your foreign passport.

The main operators for a sim card in Albania are Vodafone, One (old Telekom) and ALBtelecom. If you are getting to Albania by bus from Montenegro, Serbia or North Macedonia you can also buy a sim card in Albania in the Bus Station or around the city in kiosks and phone shops.

BEST PREPAID ALBANIAN SIM CARD COMPARISON

We will focus in this prepaid sim card Albania comparison with Vodafone and One. Since these are our favorite Albania prepaid card that we have been using. For us there is no so much difference since the packages are similar.

Vodafone is the most popular Albania prepaid sim card for tourist and also for locals but One is also quite popular. The best thing about the data internet plan in Albania has similar prices. And the most important always high speed.

Vodafone Albania Sim Card

Vodafone Albania sim card is the largest operator in the country and the best coverage in the country. You can get a Vodafone prepaid sim card for  €5 coming with a credit of €3. Check here prices and packages in Vodafone website !

You can get for 1300 LEK which is around €11 with 8 GB data. And for 1600 LEK which is around €13 with 22 GB data.

One (Old Telekom) Albania Sim Card

One Albania sim card is the second largest phone operator in the country with great coverage. You can get an One prepaid sim card for €4 up to 8 GB  data valid for 30 days with local calls and SMS too at that price. Check here prices and packages in One website !

The coverage with One is really good and you will be able to connect everywhere in Albania. You can get for 1500 LEK which is around €12 with 20 GB data. And for 2000 LEK which is around €17 with 30 GB data.

MORE PREPAID SIM CARD ALBANIA

Apart from Vodafone and One we will give you prices and data plan for you to decide which one is the best sim card in Albania with ALBtelecom.

ALBTELECOM SIM CARD

ALBtelecom sim card Albania is the third largest Albania prepaid sim card. It will give you better prices than Vodafone and One.

The coverage is not so good as the others but working properly in Tirana and big towns in Albania. You will find more difficulties in remote areas in Albania.

You can get for 1500 LEK which is around €12 with 20 GB data. And for 3000 LEK which is around €24 with 4 0 GB data.

Mobile eSIM Alternatives to Best Sim Card In Albania

Airalo albania esim discount code.

You can find the cheapest Albania eSim with Airalo Albania eSim prepaid for  $4 USD with 1 GB  data valid for 7 days ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). For $14 USD with 5 GB data and for $24 USD with 10 GB data.

HOLAFLY ALBANIA ESIM DISCOUNT CODE

Holafly eSim Albania for $27 USD if you use our code  GAMINTRAVELER  coming with  unlimited  data valid for 5 days. For  $34 USD  with unlimited data for 7 days and for  $37 USD  with unlimited data valid for 10 days.

Nomad eSim Albania

Nomad eSim Albania for  $20 USD  with  1 GB  data valid for 7 days. Nomad eSim Albania prepaid starts at  $48 USD  with  3 GB  data and for  $54 USD  with  5 GB  data valid for 30 days.

MTX Connect eSim Albania

MTX Connect eSim Albania for  €24  with  4 GB  data valid for 14 days.

UBIGI ALBANIA ESIM

Ubigi Albania eSim for $8 USD with 1 GB data valid for 30 days and for $14 USD with 3 GB data valid for 30 days. ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ).

OUR FINAL THOUGHTS AND RECOMMENDATION ON BEST ALBANIA SIM CARD FOR TOURISTS

My Best Sim Card Albania Conclusion is getting the cheapest sim card in Albania with One prepaid sim card for 1500 LEK which is around €12 with 20 GB data valid for 30 days since it has great coverage. And prices are better with One prepaid sim card in Albania than in Vodafone Albania prepaid sim card.

If you are walking around the airport or the city and you see similar packages will be fine to buy other companies. Vodafone have more phone shops and it’s just little higher the price so it could be an option too.

You can find the cheapest Albanian eSim with Airalo Albania eSim prepaid for  $4 USD with 1 GB  data valid for 7 days ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). For $14 USD with 5 GB data and for $24 USD with 10 GB data.

Ubigi Albania eSim for $8 USD with 1 GB data valid for 30 days and for $14 USD with 3 GB data valid for 30 days. ( USING DISCOUNT CODE GAMINTRAVELER 10% ). Holafly Albania eSim for $27 USD  if you use our code  GAMINTRAVELER  coming with  unlimited  data valid for 5 days. For  $34 USD  with unlimited data for 7 days and for  $37 USD  with unlimited data valid for 10 days.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. By using our links, you will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys. 

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

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Staying Connected in Albania: A Guide to SIM Cards and Mobile Data

Planning a trip to Albania? Want to make sure you stay connected with your loved ones, keep up with your emails, and post those stunning Instagram pictures of your travels? Look no further, because we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about SIM cards and mobile data in Albania. From where to buy them to how to recharge them, we’ve got all the information you need to stay connected throughout your Albanian adventures. So grab your phone and let’s get started!

• Why getting a SIM Card in Albania is important for travelers

Benefits of having a local SIM Card in Albania

How to choose the right mobile carrier in albania, types of sim cards in albania, prepaid sim cards in albania: how they work and where to buy them, postpaid sim cards in albania: pros and cons, getting a sim card in albania: step-by-step guide, documents you need to get a sim card in albania, where to buy a sim card in albania, how to activate your sim card in albania, the best sim card providers in albania, top mobile data plans in albania, best data plans for travelers in albania, comparison of different mobile data plans in albania, frecuently asked question about staying connected in albania: a guide to sim cards and mobile data, can i use my mobile data in albania, which is the best network for roaming in albania, how much is data in albania, is mobile data tied to sim card.

Local SIM card is essential for travelers to Albania for staying connected without worrying about roaming charges and accessing the internet on their mobile devices.

The main benefits of having a local SIM card include using mobile data without worrying about roaming charges, contacting locals, staying connected with family and friends, and affordability of mobile plans in Albania.

Having a local number can make it easier to stay connected and make reservations while traveling.

Choosing the right mobile carrier in Albania requires considering coverage, pricing, and data allowances. Vodafone has the largest network coverage, One offers the cheapest rates, and Albtelecom is focused on fixed internet.

The best way to choose is by comparing the offers of the three providers and assessing which one meets the traveler’s needs best based on affordability, coverage, and data allowances.

Albania offers both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards for users to choose from. The main telecommunications companies in Albania are Vodafone, One, and ALBtelecom. These companies offer different plans and packages to fit the needs of consumers . In this article, we will discuss the differences between prepaid and postpaid SIM cards in Albania and where to buy them.

Prepaid SIM cards are ideal for those who want more control over their spending and usage. With prepaid SIM cards, users must load credit onto their account before they can make calls or use data. Prepaid SIM cards are available to purchase in Albania from kiosks, mobile phone shops or in the airport upon arrival.

One Albania offers a prepaid card with 20GB of data valid for 30 days for 1500 LEK (around €12). eSIM options are also available in Albania, with Airalo Albania eSim offering 1 GB of data valid for 7 days for $8 USD. Ubigi and Holafly Albania eSim are also options.

It is important to note that during peak season, mobile networks in Albania can become congested, resulting in slower internet speeds and limited coverage. It is recommended to use Wi-Fi networks during this time.

Postpaid SIM cards are ideal for users who need a consistent and reliable internet connection without having to worry about topping up credit frequently. With postpaid SIM cards, users will receive a monthly bill based on their usage. Postpaid SIM cards are available from the aforementioned telecommunication companies in Albania. ALBtelecom offers the cheapest postpaid SIM card plan with 500 LEK monthly.

The primary advantage of postpaid SIM cards is the ability to use data and make calls without worrying about running out of credit. However, it is important to be mindful of exceeding usage limits as this can result in higher monthly bills.

Overall, there are different options available when it comes to SIM cards in Albania. It is important to consider your usage patterns and budget to determine which option is best for you.

If you’re planning to visit Albania soon, getting a SIM card should be one of your top priorities to stay connected while exploring this beautiful country. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to get a SIM card in Albania, including documents required, where to buy and how to activate your SIM card .

To get a SIM card in Albania, you’ll need to present a valid passport or a photo ID card when purchasing from a store or kiosk. Without proper identification, you won’t be able to obtain a SIM card from any service provider in Albania.

There are several places where you can purchase a SIM card in Albania , including:

• Stores and kiosks owned by service providers such as Vodafone, One and ALBtelecom
• Airport kiosks and shops in Tirana

We recommend buying a SIM card at the airport as it’s quick and convenient with many options available for your telecom needs.

You can activate your SIM card in Albania by following these steps:

• Insert your SIM card into your phone
• Turn on your phone
• Enter the PIN provided with your SIM card
• Wait for the phone to connect to the network
• You should receive a confirmation message once the activation process is complete.

Vodafone is the leading provider in Albania with excellent coverage on 2G and 3G networks throughout the country, and the option of 4G/LTE in several cities. They offer prepaid plans with various data and call packages that can be added on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. You can also get special deals for the weekend and roaming packages to Europe and other destinations.

The One network also offers competitive pricing and wide coverage, including 4G/LTE coverage. They have active customer service support and offer both prepaid and monthly plans. ALBtelecom also offers mobile services, but their coverage is not as extensive as One or Vodafone.

Remember, during peak tourist season, the mobile networks in Albania may be congested, resulting in slower internet speeds and limited coverage . It’s always a good idea to utilize Wi-Fi networks whenever possible and plan out your data needs for smoother travel.

If you plan on travelling to Albania, it’s essential to get reliable and affordable mobile data plans to stay connected. Albania offers a range of data plans from prepaid cards to eSIMs, and different operators provide them. This article focuses on the most sought after data plans in Albania that cater to travellers.

According to the competitors, the most popular mobile operator in Albania is Vodafone . The company provides prepaid cards that offer different data plans to suit the traveller’s needs. You can get daily, weekly and monthly plans that cater to your data needs . Besides, Vodafone offers a prepaid card that comes with 300 Lekë in communication time and 500 SMS for a month. The default rate for data is 0.976 Lekë per 10KB .

If you’re looking for the best eSIM option , Airalo Albania eSIM provides 1GB of data for seven days at $8 USD. It’s a good option for travellers who need temporary data access . However, eSIM cards for prepaid plans are not yet available in Albania.

While Vodafone is the best mobile data plan for travellers in Albania, other operators offer competitive plans . One Albania provides 20GB of data for 1500 LEK valid for 30 days. ALB Telecom provides different packages of data, calls and SMS, and also allows buying international minutes. However, Vodafone offers the most comprehensive and flexible data plans that cater to travellers’ requirements .

It’s important to note that mobile internet speeds during summertime might not be optimal due to the high congestion in the networks. Therefore, it’s advisable to use Wi-Fi networks for a better connection.

Below is a table summarising the main features of the most popular mobile operators in Albania:

Connect to Albania’s internet with the best and most affordable pre-paid data plans available. Vodafone is the clear winner for travellers as it offers flexible data plans that suit every traveller’s needs . While other mobile operators may provide competitive data plans, Vodafone, One Albania and ALB Telecom are the most popular and reliable with an extensive network coverage .

Yes, you can use your mobile data in Albania. However, it is important to check with your mobile provider beforehand to ensure that your plan allows for international roaming. Albania has several mobile network operators such as Vodafone, Telekom Albania, and Albtelecom. It is advisable to purchase a local SIM card to avoid high roaming charges. Additionally, Albania has good 3G and 4G coverage in most urban areas, but it may be limited in rural or remote areas. To get the best coverage, make sure your phone is unlocked and supports the frequencies used in Albania. With a working mobile data connection, you can easily stay connected with family and friends, access maps, and stay up-to-date on the latest events and news.

Albania is a beautiful country in southeastern Europe that attracts many tourists every year. If you plan to visit Albania and want to stay connected through your phone, you might be wondering which is the best network for roaming. Here are some options to consider:

Vodafone Albania

Vodafone Albania is one of the largest mobile network operators in the country and offers roaming services for its customers. With Vodafone Albania, you can access high-quality voice and data services in more than 200 countries. The company also offers a range of roaming bundles and packages to help you save money while roaming.

Telekom Albania

Telekom Albania is another popular mobile network operator in Albania that offers roaming services. With Telekom Albania, you can access voice and data services in more than 200 countries. The company also offers a range of roaming packages and bundles to help you stay connected and save money.

Albtelecom is the national telecommunications company of Albania and offers roaming services for its customers. With Albtelecom, you can access voice and data services in more than 200 countries. The company also offers a range of roaming packages and bundles to help you stay connected and save money.

When it comes to choosing the best network for roaming in Albania, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. However, Vodafone Albania, Telekom Albania, and Albtelecom are all viable options that offer high-quality roaming services to keep you connected during your travels.

Albania Data Pricing: Data pricing in Albania can vary depending on the mobile network provider and the specific plan chosen. Generally, the cost of data in Albania ranges from 0.02 EUR to 0.06 EUR per MB. Some mobile network providers offer prepaid data packages with prices ranging from 1 EUR to 10 EUR, which can provide up to 1 GB of data. However, these prices may change and it is important to check with the specific mobile network provider for the most up-to-date pricing information. One can also find data plans with unlimited data depending on their needs. With these competitive pricing plans, Albania can be considered an affordable destination for data usage.

Mobile data is typically associated with a SIM card , which is a small chip inserted into a mobile device that allows it to communicate with a cellular network. This SIM card contains information about the user’s account, such as their phone number and data plan, as well as authentication keys that allow the device to access the network.

When a user wants to access mobile data, their device communicates with the network through the SIM card. The network checks the user’s account information and data plan to ensure they have access to the network and the appropriate amount of data. Once this is verified, the user can begin using mobile data.

It is important to note that while mobile data is tied to the SIM card, the SIM card is not necessarily tied to the device. Users can swap SIM cards between compatible devices, allowing them to use their mobile data on multiple devices or upgrade to a new device without losing their account information or data plan.

Overall, mobile data is tied to the SIM card rather than the device, making it easy for users to access their data plan on compatible devices.

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Mobile data is typically associated with a SIM card , which is a small chip inserted into a mobile device that allows it to communicate with a cellular network. This SIM card contains information about the user's account, such as their phone number and data plan, as well as authentication keys that allow the device to access the network.

When a user wants to access mobile data, their device communicates with the network through the SIM card. The network checks the user's account information and data plan to ensure they have access to the network and the appropriate amount of data. Once this is verified, the user can begin using mobile data.

Relacionados

Best Tourist Sim Cards in Albania – Everything Kou Need to Know

• Last Updated: January 14, 2024

Are you wondering what are the best tourist sim cards in Albania? In this post, I will compare all the providers and their plans and will tell you what was my favourite sim card provider in Albania and why.

Albania is increasingly becoming a popular destination for travellers, backpackers and vacationers. This stunning country boasts incredible landscapes, crystal clear beaches, spectacular mountains and some of the most fascinating historical towns.

So, are you planning a trip to Albania and want to know if you need a local Albanian sim card?

If you are staying in Albania for more than just a few days, getting a sim card in Albania is recommended. Roaming charges can drive up your phone bill, so having a local sim card will save you money, allow you to call all local services and the internet packages are excellent.

Did you get your travel insurance yet? Travel Insurance will let you travel with the peace of mind knowing that no matter what, your unexpected medical or travel emergencies are covered. I use Heymondo for a few reasons. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and get your quote.

Table of Contents

Why Should You Get a Local Sim Card While Travelling

With a local SIM card, you get prepaid minutes, text messages (not that anyone uses those anymore, haha) and data that you can use in that country. You need mobile data and calls for things like GPS (maps, location), emergencies, calling local guesthouses, taxis and so on.

With a local SIM card you can avoid high roaming bills on your return.

Often you even get some roaming options for neighbouring countries.

For example, when I arrived in North Macedonia, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my Albanian One SIM included a roaming package so I could get by until I bought my Macedonian card.

As I write this, I am in Belgrade, Serbia. And since I am only staying in the country for 3 days and Wi-Fi hotspots are widely available, I will not be buying the local sim card. But if I were to stay longer in Serbia and travel to non-urban areas, I definitely would.

Roaming in Balkans

Under the new Balkan roaming rules, all domestic volumes in the Western Balkan countries of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Serbia are valid up to the defined roaming cap.

I can confirm that my Bosnian card worked in Albania (until I bought an Albanian sim card) and my Albanian card worked in North Macedonia.

However, I did not use them long enough to see if it was worth keeping the original sim card. I always stayed longer than 2 weeks in each country, so it made sense for me to get a local sim card.

Consider an eSIM!

An alternative option that is gaining a lot of popularity is eSim. This is a great option as it will eliminate the need to get a different physical SIM card in each country. One of the most popular is Airalo eSIM . 

How does it work?

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card – a tiny chip integrated directly into a phone’s circuit board. Many newer phones have such a card along with the traditional SIM. However, you should check if your phone is equipped with it before purchasing the plan.

When you purchase a data plan from the Airalo marketplace , you can install the eSIM directly in the app, via a QR code or by manually entering your eSIM info. It only takes a few moments, and depending on the package, you’ll get a plan with a certain amount of mobile data for a certain amount of time.

Practical Tips :  Before purchasing a local sim card, ensure that your phone is unlocked so you can use different providers’ sim cards. These days majority of phones are unlocked, but it’s worth checking.

Where Can You Buy a SIM card in Albania.

You can buy a sim card in almost all towns in Albania as well as at Tirana airport. The majority of towns in Albania will have Vodafone, and One stores, often more than one. 

In many popular tourist destinations in Albania, you will also find pop-up stores on the streets selling local sim cards. You will have no issue buying a sim card in Albania.

You can pay by cash (I paid in both Lek and Euros) and only some will accept cards so check before buying.

Important – You will be asked for ID (passport or national ID) when purchasing any sim card in Albania. Most of the time a photo of a passport will be fine. 

Best Tourist Sim Cards in Albania (2024)

Sim card providers and tourist packages, one albania.

Formerly known as Telekom Albania, One is the second-largest carrier in Albania and my personal favourite. It has a good choice of short-term and long-term tourist packages, the app actually works and the top-up options are excellent.

Tourist packages for One Albania:

Currently One offers two different tourist packages:

40GB (1000 minutes and 1000 national SMS) valid for 15 days and costing 2300 Lek.

100GB (unlimited minutes and unlimited national SMS) valid for 21 days and costing 2900 Lek.

I recommend getting the first one. If you are staying for longer than 2 weeks in Albania you will then be able to top up your card and you will no longer be limited to tourist packages.

I for example topped up 5GB for 600Lek over the app. You can also pop into the shop and ask for current offers. Check the One Albania website for current tourist packages. 

Top-ups and credit checks: You can top up at all One Shops, by credit card online on One app or through another mobile phone (mobile number) by calling at +355681000141.

Pros: The app actually works, loads of data even on the cheapest package, great top-up packages, and good coverage.

Cons: Maybe slightly worse coverage than Vodafone, but I didn’t notice much difference.

Vodafone is still the market leader in Albania and this was the sim card I went with originally. Their tourist packages are excellent and you get more options than with One.

What made me change into One was how non-existent/mon functional the app was. It might work better on your phone or at the time you read this article, but I didn’t want to go to the shop every time I wanted to check my balance, how much data I had left or to top up. 

Tourist packages for Vodafone Albania:

Vodafone changed the packages in May 2023 and it is literally mimicking the One after:

Top-ups and credit checks: Recharges can be made by sending the 12-digit code of the scratch card via SMS to 141 or through calling 142 from a Vodafone mobile number or through Vodafone e-top-up. Check credit by sending an SMS for free with the text “Balance” to 141. Credit validity depends on the top-up amount.

Pros: The oldest and most reliable provider. According to many loyal users. 

Cons: Very glitchy app, at times not working at all

ALB Telecom

This provider has now merged with One Albania therefore I do not recommend looking into their offers. As it stands right now (2024) the two best tourist SIM card providers in Albania are One and Vodafone.

My Favourite Sim Card Provider in Albania

Having used both Vodafone and One, my personal recommendation for the best SIM card in Albania is One.

I liked their tourist package and the different top-up options, I always received excellent service in their stores and their app, although not the best app in the world, worked really well for what I needed it for. I was able to check my credit, top up my balance and choose a data package that suited me.

Even when I arrived in North Macedonia, I was still connected, so I can confirm that Balkan roaming works just fine.

I hope you found this guide to the best tourist sim cards in Albania useful. Albania is an incredible country and I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did. If you have any questions please ask in the comments and I will be happy to answer.

Until then, enjoy Albania and happy travels!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Exploring more of Albania?

This is my complete guide to all the wonderful things to do in Tirana , and in this post, you will find out where to stay in Tirana.

If you are visiting Shkoder, be sure to read my complete guide to all the wonderful things to do in Shkoder .  And if you are planning a visit to  Theth and hiking the Albanian Alps I have you covered too !

Heading to the beach? Great idea! Here is the list of  all the most beautiful beaches near Himare !

Finally, if you are wondering where to stay, here is  the list of then ost iconic hostels in Albania!

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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Buying a Sim Card at Tirana Airport in 2024

Are you planning a trip to Tirana and wondering if you can buy a sim card for traveling in Albania on arrival at Tirana International Airport? The short answer is yes. Don't waste money on high roaming charges or slow overseas data roaming plans!

This is a complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card at Tirana Airport. Find out where to buy a prepaid sim card, up to date prices as per April 2024, my recommendation, info about EU data roaming, the best e-sim cards for Albania and everything else you need to know before buying a sim card at Tirana Airport.

Traveling with a working data connection on your phone is so much more convenient and it makes your trip to Tirana much more fun.

One of the first things I do when planning my next trip abroad is finding out what is the best way to stay connected. It is a vital part of my travel planning. To save money on high roaming costs you can buy a prepaid sim card at Tirana Airport on arrival, but you can also order a sim card for Albania on the internet and arrive prepared.

Especially e-sim cards are recommend and super convenient. In fact e-sims are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Tirana and it also turns out to be cheaper than buying a sim card at Tirana Airport.

Traveltomtom also wrote a guide for finding the best e-sim card for your trip to Albania in 2024 .

Traveltomtom is on a journey to travel to every country in the world and everywhere I go I write sim card guides. That is why on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world: Romania ,  Bucharest , Prague, Czech Republic, United Kingdom , Ireland , Germany , Spain , Brazil , Argentina , Thailand , South Korea , Japan , China , Australia , New Zealand , Egypt and many more.

Traveltomtom also wrote an extensive guide for the best prepaid sim card for tourists in Albania , including 4G/5G coverage maps.

Is Tirana one of your stops in Europe and are you visiting multiple countries then you probably want to check out Traveltomtom's guide for the best sim cards for visiting Europe in 2024 .

Traveltomtom is the most complete sim card blog on the internet. Next time you are planning your trip abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid and e-sim card advice for your holiday destination. Bookmark me and leet me help you save money!

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends buying a One sim card at Tirana Airport, simply because it is cheapest. A physical prepaid sim card with 10 GB data is around $19 USD.

Albania is a cheap country to travel, surprisingly prepaid sim cards for tourists are not so cheap as expected.

Want to be online as soon as the plane lands? Then look into ordering an e-sim card for Albania online. Albania e-sim cards already start from just $4.5 USD. For more info check out Traveltomtom's Albania e-sim card guide for 2024 .

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If you are traveling onwards to other continents on this trip, for example to Turkey then there are also  international prepaid sim cards in the form of physical sim cards as well as e-sim cards which are valid in up to 141 countries around the world.

Be aware that the local prepaid sim cards you buy in Tirana, as well as e-sim cards and international sim cards only work in unlocked phones. If your phone is locked make sure to unlock your phone before your trip to Tirana. Contact your mobile internet provider in your home country if you are not sure about this.

Best e-sim cards for Albania

Local prepaid sim cards are not the only way to stay connected when traveling to the Tirana. The easiest way to get data on your phone when visiting Tirana is by ordering an e-sim card for Albania on the internet.

No need to visit a sim card store anymore on arrival at Tirana Airport. With an e-sim you are online as soon as the plane lands.

You instal an e-sim on your phone in a couple simple steps. Then once installed the e-sim instantly connects to an available network as soon as the plane touches the ground.

You can order an e-sim card for Tirana directly on the internet, you process the payment, receive a QR code, scan it, follow the instructions and instal the e-sim card in a couple simple steps. You are all set in less than 2 minutes.

For more detailed info and an answer to all FAQ about using e-sims check out Traveltomtom's guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for Albania in 2024 .

Airalo is a trusted e-sim card provider and Traveltomtom has used them in more than 50 countries around the world. Airalo has the following Albania e-sim card plans:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $8 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $15.5 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD

Click here for more info or to order a Albania e-sim card via Airalo .

These data-only Hej Telecom e-sim cards from Airalo operate on the 4G/LTE network in Albania of Vodafone and ONE. Data is only valid in Albania. Incoming and outgoing calling and texting is not supported.

SimOptions is another trusted e-sim card provider which is specialized in international e-sim cards including calling and texting. However, for Albania they only have data-only e-sims valid in Albania only.

Here are the SimOptions e-sim cards for Albania:

• 3 GB data for 15 days = $10.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for Albania via SimOptions .

Although Albania is in Europe, it is not part of the European Union and therefore the sim card for traveling to Europe are not valid in Albania.

There are many more e-sim cards available for Albania from for example: Holafly, Nomad, etc. Check out Traveltomtom's comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Albania in 2024 .

Before ordering an e-sim card for Albania make sure your phone is first of all unlocked. E-sim cards only work in unlocked phones. Second, make sure your phone is e-sim compatible. Pretty much all newer smartphones are e-sim card compatible.

Arrival at Tirana International Airport

Tirana International Airport is not that big and arriving is pretty straight forward. From the plane you are guided to passport control and after passport control there is immediately the baggage claim hall. There are only 4 small luggage belts and at the end of the hall there is the last customs check before you walk through the sliding doors and end up in the arrival hall.

The arrival hall is pretty big and spacious. There is a car rental and shuttle service, a cafeteria and 2 sim card shops.

There is free WiFi at Tirana Airport but it is terribly slow, so don't rely on the WiFi on arrival. Sending WhatsApp messages is no problem though.

Where to buy a sim card at Tirana Airport

It is impossible to miss the sim card shops at Tirana Airport because when you walk out of the sliding doors into the arrival hall there is a Vodafone store and a store from One right in front of you. It is impossible to miss these sim card shops.

Of course, both phone stores sell prepaid sim cards for tourists. You have to provide your passport or any form of ID when buying a sim card at Tirana Airport.

Shops are open 24 hours and you can pay by credit card or with cash.

Here is my YouTube video about my arrival at Tirana Airport and showing you exactly where you can buy a prepaid sim card for your trip to Albania.

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Heads up the prices for prepaid sim cards at Tirana Airport are pretty much the same if you buy a prepaid sim card in a phone store in the city center of Tirana. For more info check out Traveltomtom's guide about the best prepaid sim cards for Albania . 

Prices prepaid sim cards Tirana Airport

All the information below is up to date as of April 2024 and prices are in Albanian Lek: $1 USD = 94.5 Lek and 100 Lek = $1.06 USD.

 Vodafone Albania sells two prepaid sim cards for tourists, so called tourist packs:

• 40 GB data + 1,000 minutes for 15 days = 2,300 Lek - $24 USD
• 100 GB data + unlimited minutes for 21 days = 2,900 Lek - $31 USD

There is no EU data roaming included, but data is valid in all Western Balkan countries: Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo and North Macedonia.

When buying a Vodafone sim card at Tirana Airport you can choose to either get a physical prepaid sim card or an e-sim card. 

At One they sell the exact same tourist sim cards:

• 40 GB data + 1,000 minutes/sms for 15 days = 2,300 Lek - $24 USD
• 100 GB data + unlimited minutes/sms for 21 days = 2,900 Lek - $31 USD

But they also have a couple other prepaid sim card plans.

• 1 GB data + 400 minutes + 400 sms for 30 days = 1,000 Lek - $11 USD
• 10 GB data + unlimited minutes + 1,000 sms for 30 days = 1,500 Lek - $16 USD
• 25 GB data + unlimited minutes/sms for 30 days = 1,800 Lek - $19 USD
• 34 GB data + unlimited minutes/sms for 30 days = 2,100 Lek - $21 USD

For these prepaid sim card plans you will be charged an extra 300 Lek ($4 USD) for the registration of your new One sim card.

That makes it that the cheapest sim card for tourists at Tirana Airport with 10 GB data is 1,500 + 300 = 1,800 Lek ($19 USD).

When buying a One sim card at Tirana Airport you can only get a physical prepaid sim card, One does not provide e-sim cards for tourists.

Best sim card for tourists at Tirana Airport

So which sim card is the best? Vodafone or One...

The tourist packs from Vodafone and One are the exact same, but One has a slightly cheaper option that will cost you $19 USD and you get a sim card with 10 GB data.

It depends on how long you are staying in Tirana, but who needs 40 GB data for a city trip. Even if you visit Albania for 2 weeks, then you would have almost 3 GB data per day on a sim card with 40 GB data.

Traveltomtom's conclusion is that prepaid sim cards for tourists are pretty expensive at Tirana Airport, especially given the fact that Albania is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe. 

For my research for finding the best prepaid sim card in Albania I also compared the 4G/5G network coverage maps and found out that Vodafone has slightly better 4G/LTE network coverage around the country, but there is not much difference.

If you want to go for the cheapest option then get a One sim card, if you would like a tourist sim card then choose Vodafone.

But when we look at the e-sim cards for Albania  you can order on the internet then we see that you can also just order an Airalo e-sim card with 3 GB data for $11 USD . That is for example what I did. Since I only spent a couple days in Tirana I did not need that many Gigabytes.

Order a prepaid sim card for Albania online

Remember that e-sim cards can only be used in e-sim compatible phones. If your phone is not e-sim compatible and you want to order a sim card for Albania on the internet then you have to look into buying a physical international prepaid sim card.

These pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put them in your phone during your flight and you are online as soon as the plane touches the ground in Tirana. An international sim card connects automatically to an available network.

Arrive prepared in Tirana with an international prepaid sim card for Albania from SimOptions:

• 10 GB data valid in 124 countries for 14 days = $49.90 USD 

Click here for more info or to order an international physical prepaid sim card for Albania via SimOptions .

My experiences buying a sim card at Tirana Airport

So did I buy a One or a Vodafone prepaid sim card at Tirana Airport? No! Why not?

First of all I think the tourist sim cards at Tirana Airport are overpriced. Yes, you get a lot of Gigabytes, but who needs 40 or 100 GB on their trip to Albania!?

It is a smart way of the mobile internet providers to keep the price for tourist sim cards high and on top of that they both offer the EXACT SAME.

Traveltomtom prefers e-sim cards for traveling abroad so that I am online as soon as the plane lands and I don't need to visit a sim card store on arrival.

As mentioned before I ordered an Airalo e-sim card with 3 GB data for just $11 USD . Much cheaper, faster and more convenient, as I prefer to be online instantly on arrival. I mostly used the WiFi of the hotel and the bars and restaurants and it worked fine in most places.

How much data do you need?

I consider myself a very heavy data user, but even on a crazy day I won’t use more than 5 GB per day. On average I use about 2-3 GB per day, mostly on social media apps like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Snapchat, etc.

Always make sure you don’t have Google Drive or iCloud enabled on data, but only on WiFi. As well as automatic updates. Turn it off on data, so you are not uploading all your Albania holiday photos and videos directly to the cloud and using all your data. 

I am sure some of the above tips on how to stay connected when traveling to Tirana were helpful. If you have any questions then please leave me a comment below and I will try to help you out.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my 610K Instagram account or 1.2 Million TikTok account both called @traveltomtom. Follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to Tirana!

Some links in this article about buying a sim card at Tirana Airport are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Best Albania Tourist SIM Card: Stay Connected with Ease

When traveling to Albania, staying connected is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you need to navigate unfamiliar streets, share your adventures on social media, or stay in touch with loved ones back home, having a reliable SIM card is a must. Best Albania Tourist SIM Card

In this article, we will explore the best options for Albania tourist SIM cards, highlighting the benefits, features, and pricing of local operators to help you make an informed decision.

Why Choose an Albania Prepaid SIM Card?

Using a local SIM card when visiting Albania offers several advantages over international roaming or relying solely on Wi-Fi connections. Here’s why:

• Cost-effectiveness: International roaming charges can be exorbitant, leading to unexpected bills upon your return. By opting for a prepaid SIM card, you can control your expenses and enjoy more affordable rates for calls, texts, and data.
• Greater coverage: While Wi-Fi hotspots are available in certain areas, they may not be readily accessible throughout your journey. With a local SIM card, you’ll have reliable network coverage, allowing you to stay connected wherever you go in Albania.
• Flexibility and convenience: Local SIM cards are readily available at airports, convenience stores, and mobile operator outlets. They are easy to purchase, activate, and reload with credit, giving you the flexibility to choose the best plan that suits your communication needs.

Albania Local SIM Card Providers and Their Offers

1. vodafone albania.

With its extensive network coverage and competitive offers, Vodafone Albania is a popular choice among tourists. They offer various prepaid SIM card options tailored to meet different communication requirements. Here are some of their notable offers:

• Vodafone Tourist SIM Card : Designed exclusively for visitors, this SIM card comes with a generous data allowance, local and international minutes, and text messages. It allows you to stay connected and share your experiences without worrying about excessive costs.
• Pay-as-you-go Plans : If you prefer a more flexible approach, Vodafone Albania offers pay-as-you-go plans, allowing you to recharge with credit as needed. This option is suitable for those with sporadic communication needs or shorter trips.

2. Telekom Albania Best Albania Tourist SIM Card

Telekom Albania, another prominent operator, offers reliable services and attractive packages for tourists. Consider the following options when choosing their SIM card:

• Prepaid Tourist SIM Card : Tailored for travelers, this SIM card provides ample data, local minutes, and SMS for your stay in Albania. It ensures that you stay connected and can easily access all the information you need.
• Tourist Packages : Telekom Albania also offers tourist packages that combine data, calls, and messages, providing you with comprehensive communication solutions at affordable rates.

3. ALBtelecom

ALBtelecom is a well-established telecom provider in Albania, offering reliable services to both locals and visitors. Consider their offerings for a seamless communication experience:

• ALBtourist Prepaid SIM Card : This SIM card is specifically designed for tourists and comes with a generous data allowance, along with local minutes and texts. It ensures you can stay connected, browse the internet, and share your memories without interruptions.
• Data Packages : ALBtelecom also offers a range of data packages that cater to different data usage needs. Whether you require a small amount of data for light browsing or a larger package for streaming and uploading content, ALBtelecom has options to suit your requirements.

Comparison of Prices in Euros

To help you choose the best Albania tourist SIM card, let’s compare the prices of the aforementioned operators’ offerings:

Please note that these prices and offerings are subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to check with the operators for the most up-to-date information.

Tips for Choosing the Right SIM Card

• Consider your data needs : If you plan to use data-intensive applications like video streaming or uploading high-resolution photos, opt for a SIM card with a larger data allowance. However, if you primarily need basic internet access for emails and browsing, a smaller data package may suffice.
• Evaluate your calling requirements : Assess how often you’ll make local calls or need to contact international numbers. Choose a SIM card that offers sufficient local minutes and competitive rates for international calls if required.
• Check coverage : While major operators have extensive coverage in Albania, it’s worth ensuring that the areas you plan to visit are covered by your chosen operator.
• Consider package validity : Take note of the validity period of the SIM card and its associated packages. Ensure that it aligns with the duration of your stay to avoid any inconvenience or additional costs.

Unfortunately, none of these SIM cards you can buy online and get abroad.

Alertify: Your Trusted Roaming-as-a-Service Consultant

When it comes to seamless connectivity, Alertify is a leading consultant specializing in roaming-as-a-service solutions. They provide valuable insights, consulting services, and innovative solutions to help businesses and individuals optimize their mobile connectivity while traveling abroad.

Alertify’s range of services includes:

• Roaming Coverage Information: Alertify offers comprehensive information on network coverage, roaming rates, and available prepaid SIM cards in various countries, including Albania.
• Roaming Solutions for Businesses:  Alertify assists businesses in managing their roaming services, optimizing costs, and ensuring reliable connectivity for their employees.
• Roaming Alerts and Notifications:  With Alertify’s services, you can receive real-time alerts and notifications about your data usage, roaming rates, and available offers, helping you stay in control of your expenses.

By taking advantage of Alertify’s services, you can eliminate the stress of hunting for a SIM card upon arrival and focus on enjoying your time in Albania. With the convenience of having your SIM card in hand before departure, you can stay connected effortlessly and make the most of your trip.

Whether you’re an individual traveler or a business seeking reliable roaming solutions, Alertify is your trusted partner for hassle-free connectivity. Find the  best Croatia SIM cards/eSIM  for you.

When traveling to Albania, having a reliable and affordable SIM card is essential for staying connected and enjoying a seamless communication experience. Operators like Vodafone Albania, Telekom Albania, and ALBtelecom offer various options tailored for tourists, providing ample data, local minutes, and SMS at competitive prices.

Before making a decision, consider your data and calling needs, check coverage in your desired locations, and evaluate the package’s validity. By selecting the right Albania tourist SIM card, you can explore the country with peace of mind, knowing that you have a reliable means of communication at your fingertips.

Make the most of your Albanian adventure by staying connected effortlessly with a local SIM card. Enjoy sharing your experiences, navigating with ease, and keeping in touch with loved ones, all while embracing the beauty and hospitality of Albania.

Note: The prices mentioned in this article are for reference purposes only and are subject to change. Please verify the current prices and offerings with the respective operators.

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How to get a sim card in Albania? Where and Costs?

I received many questions asking “How to get a sim card in Albania?”. Therefore, I decided to write a helpful blog post about where you can buy a sim card in Albania and how much a sim card in Albania costs.

How to get a sim card in Albania? You can get a sim card in Albania at Vodafone, ALB Telecom or One Telecom. A basic mobile phone package costs 500 Leke (4.10 euros), which includes 50 minutes, 50 SMS and 50 MB Internet 3G/4G. You can buy a sim card at Tirana International Airport at the Vodafone store or ALB Telecom store.

In this blog post, I will compare the mobile packages from Vodafone, ALB Telecom and One Telecom, so that you can decide which store to visit. Furthermore, I will also list Internet-only packages. And I will give you a link to the store locators of the stores so that you can find the nearest store to your hotel.

Where can I buy a sim card in Albania?

You can buy a sim card in Albania at the Vodafone store, the ALB Telecom store or the One Telecom store.

Where can I buy a sim card at Tirana airport?

If you are flying to Tirana International Airport, you can buy a sim card at the airport. There are stores of Vodafone and ALB Telecom in the Arrivals Hall at the airport. When you arrive by aeroplane, you will first pass the passport control, then luggage collection and after that, you will go to the Arrivals Hall. In the Arrivals Hall, you will immediately see the Vodafone and ALB Telecom stores.

In case you do not have Albanian Leke currency with you, you can ask if they accept cash euros or foreign currency. If not, you can withdraw from the ATMs in the arrivals hall to pay for your sim card.

Where is the nearest sim card store in Albania?

If you did not buy a sim card at the airport, you can use the below store locators to find the nearest sim card store in Albania.

Vodafone has stores in all the big cities in Albania. You can check their store locator on the website, type in the city “Tirana” and search. You will see a Google Map with all the Vodafone stores in Albania. You can open the Vodafone store locator here: https://www.vodafone.al/en/store-locator/

ALB Telecom also has stores in all the big cities in Albania. You can open their store locator here: https://www.albtelecom.al/en/individual/customer-service/help-and-support-1/points-of-sale/

One Telecom one has stores in the capital city Tirana. You can see their stores here: https://www.one.al/dyqane/

How much does a sim card cost in Albania?

A basic sim card in Albania will cost you 500 Leke (4.10 euros). For 500 Leke, you will get a package that includes 50-150 national minutes, 50-150 SMS messages within Albania and the internet.

• Vodafone Basic Package Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 50 national minutes, 50 SMS national, 50 MB Internet 3G/4G
• ALB Telecom Super Start Package Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 150 national minutes, 150 SMS national, Unlimited internet
• One Unlimited S package Price: 600 Leke (4.95 euros) Included: 100 national minutes, 100 SMS national, Unlimited internet
• ALB Telecom Unlimited Super 800 Package Price: 800 Leke (6.60 euros) Included: 500 national minutes, 500 SMS national, Unlimited internet
• Vodafone 4G Start Package Price: 1000 Leke (8.25 euros) Included: 300 national minutes, 300 SMS national, 200 MB Internet 3G/4G, 100 MB Internet 4G
• One Unlimited M package Price: 1000 Leke (8.25 euros) Included: 400 national minutes, 400 SMS national, Unlimited internet

If you want to send international text messages, you will need to spend at least 1100 Leke (9.05 euros) on a sim card and mobile package. Because the cheaper packages only allow you to sent SMS text messages inside Albania.

• ALB Telecom Unlimited Super Package Price: 1100 Leke (9.05 euros) Included: 3000 national minutes, 500 SMS national / international, Unlimited internet
• One Unlimited L package Price: 1200 Leke (9.90 euros) Included: 2000 national minutes, 200 SMS national / international, Unlimited internet

If you want to make international phone calls, you can buy the ALB Telecom Super Package 1300 for 1300 Leke (10.70 euros), which includes 30 minutes of international calling. Or you can buy a cheap package and buy additional international calling minutes separately. I made a list of the add on packages below.

• ALB Telecom Super Package 1300 Price: 1300 Leke (10.70 euros) Included: 3000 national minutes, 600 SMS national / international, 6 GB Internet 3G/4G, 30 International Minutes
• ALB Telecom Unlimited Super 1300 package Price: 1300 Leke (10.70 euros) Included: 2000 national minutes, 1500 SMS national, unlimited internet
• ALB Telecom Gigastic Package Price: 1300 Leke (10.70 euros) Included: 600 national minutes, 600 SMS national, 16 GB Internet 3G/4G
• Vodafone 4G Go Package Price: 1600 Leke (13.20 euros) Included: 2500 national minutes, 200 SMS national, 3GB Internet, 1.5 GB Internet 4G
• Vodafone Gigamax package Price: 1500 Leke (12.35 euros) Included: 500 national minutes, 100 SMS national or international, 15 GB Internet, 10 International minutes, 5 GB Video Pass
• ALB Telecom Super Package 1900 Price: 1900 Leke (15.65 euros) Included: 3500 national minutes, 600 SMS national / international, 16 GB Internet 3G/4G, 120 International minutes
• ALB Telecom Unlimited Super 1900 Package Price: 1900 Leke (15.65 euros) Included: unlimited national minutes, 1500 SMS national / international, unlimited internet, 150 International minutes
• One Unlimited XL Package Price: 2000 Leke (16.50 euros) Included: unlimited national minutes, 500 SMS national / international, Unlimited internet

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What is the cheapest sim card package with unlimited internet?

If you are looking for a cheap sim card with unlimited internet, you can buy the ALB Telecom Super Start Package or the One Unlimited S package.

How is the WIFI coverage in Albania?

Wifi coverage in the bigger cities in Albania is good. In any of the big cities, like Tirana, Vlore or Saranda, you can use your mobile phone’s internet everywhere.

However, bear in mind that mobile internet does not always work in the remote mountain areas in Albania. To make sure you are well informed, I have inserted the WIFI coverage maps of Vodafone and ALB Telecom below.

As you can see ALB Telecom’s WIFI coverage map clearly shows they do not have coverage in the Albanian Alps, the East of Albania and around the border with Kosovo and North Macedonia.

Vodaphone’s coverage map shows they have better coverage, but still, there are areas, where there is no Internet coverage.

You can see the Wifi Coverage Map of Vodafone here: https://www.vodafone.al/en/coverage-checker/

You can see the Wifi Coverage Map of ALB Telecom here: https://www.albtelecom.al/en/individual/internet/albtelecom-wi-fi/coverage-map/

Does Albania have 4G?

Albania does have 4G in the big cities. There is 4G in Albania in Tirana, Durres, Shkoder, Saranda, Gjirokaster and Vlore. If you want to check another area in Albania that you are travelling to, you can check the WIFI coverage map of Vodafone: https://www.vodafone.al/en/coverage-checker/ and the WIFI coverage map of ALB Telecom: https://www.albtelecom.al/en/individual/internet/albtelecom-wi-fi/coverage-map/

If you want to buy a sim card in Albania with 4G, the cheapest option I found online was the Vodafone 4G Start Package for 1000 Leke (8.25 euros). Cheaper mobile packages did state they included internet but did not specify 4G.

How can I get internet on my phone in Albania?

If you only want internet on your phone in Albania, you can buy an internet-only package. Vodafone, ALB Telecom and One Telecom offer daily and weekly internet packages.

The cheapest way to have the only internet on your phone is by buying the Vodafone daily internet package, which costs 60 Leke per day (0.50 euro). For 0.50 euros, you will get 100 MB of daily internet. This package could work really well for you, if you are staying only a couple of days and you just need internet on your mobile phone.

• Vodafone Daily 100 MB package Price: 60 Leke (0.50 euro) per day Included: 100 MB daily Internet
• ALB Telecom Daily Internet package Price: 100 Leke (0.82 euro) per day Included: 0.5 GB daily internet
• One Daily Internet package Price: 200 Leke (1.65 euro) per day Included: 1 GB daily internet

If you are staying in Albania for a week and you only want internet on your phone, you can buy a weekly internet package. Both Vodafone and ALB Telecom offer a weeklong internet package for 300 Leke (2.50 euros) with 1 GB of internet. I would personally recommend Vodafone as their coverage is a bit better.

• Vodafone 1 GB Weekly package Price: 300 Leke (2.50 euros) per week Included: 1 GB Internet
• ALB Telecom Weekly Internet package Price: 300 Leke (2.50 euros) per week Included: 1 GB Internet
• One Weekly Internet package Price: 400 Leke (3.30 euros) per week Included: 2 GB Internet

If you are staying in Albania for a month, you can buy a monthly package for 4.10 euros. One Telecom offers a monthly package with 3 GB of the Internet, which is the better deal.

• ALB Telecom Monthly 500 Internet package Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 2 GB Internet
• One Internet Xtreme M package Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 3 GB Internet 3G/4G/4G+

How much does it cost to make International calls in Albania?

If you want to make International Calls when you are in Albania, you can add a package for 10 or 20 International Minutes on to your sim card. These packages for international minutes start from 200 Leke (1.65 euros). So it will definitely be much cheaper than using your international sim card or using the phone in your hotel.

• One International S+ Price: 200 Leke (1.65 euros) Included: 10 International Minutes
• ALB Telecom 10 International Minutes Price: 300 Leke (2.50 euros) Included: 10 International Minutes
• Vodafone 20 International Minutes Price: 300 Leke (2.50 euros) Included: 20 International Minutes
• One International M+ Price: 300 Leke (2.50 euros) Included: 20 International Minutes
• ALB Telecom 20 International Minutes Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 20 International Minutes
• One International L+ Price: 500 Leke (4.10 euros) Included: 40 International Minutes

Is roaming free in Albania?

If you want to use your mobile phone whilst abroad in Albania, you will be charged for roaming unless your sim card is from the Western Balkans.

As of July 2021, the Western Balkan countries have an agreement about roaming. So if you have a sim card from Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia or Kosovo, you do not have to pay roaming charges in Albania. So with a Western Balkans sim card, you can make phone calls and send messages paying the same price you would be charged at home in Albania.

However, if you have a sim card from Europe or another country in the world, you will still be charged roaming fees. Since Albania is not a part of the EU or the EEA. So if you use your EU/EEA sim card in Albania, you will need to pay extra fees if you use your mobile phone in Albania. Instead, you can buy a local sim card in Albania, which will be cheaper.

How can I get data from Albania?

If you want to get mobile data in Albania, so that you can use the internet on your smartphone or tablet without using the WIFI of your hotel, you can buy a cheap sim card in Albania.

The cheapest packages are the Vodafone Basic package and the ALB Telecom Super Start Package. Both packages cost 500 Leke (4.10) and include 50 MB of Internet 3G/4G. Actually, ALB Telecom states that their Super Start Package includes unlimited internet.

Is Vodafone roaming free in Albania?

Vodafone roaming is not free in Albania. Vodafone has a list of roaming destinations on their website here: https://www.vodafone.co.uk/mobile/global-roaming/destinations . If you open the link, you can see that Albania is in Vodafone’s Zone C.

And for Albania and all other countries on Vodafone’s roaming destination list, there are extra charges when roaming in Albania. You can see the extra charges in the table below.

Is there good Internet in Albania?

The internet is good in Albania in the big cities. If you want to buy a sim card in Albania, you can check the WIFI Coverage Map of Vodafone and the WIFI coverage map of ALB Telecom on their website. Vodafone WIFI Coverage Map: https://www.vodafone.al/en/coverage-checker/

ALB Telecom WIFI Coverage Map: https://www.albtelecom.al/en/individual/internet/albtelecom-wi-fi/coverage-map/

The WIFI Coverage maps show that there is internet in big cities, like Tirana, Elbasan, Shkoder, Durres, Berat, Vlore, Saranda and Gjirokaster. However, if you drive on the road between cities or visit remote mountain areas, you may not be able to use your mobile internet.

Guesthouses and hotels do have free WIFI of course. But I have heard from some of my clients that the WIFI works in the lobby of their hotel, but not in their hotel room.

How fast is the internet in Albania?

The internet is fast in the big cities in Albania. Large cities like Tirana, Durres, Shkoder, Saranda, Gjirokaster and Vlore has 4G internet if you buy a sim card from Vodafone or ALB Telecom. Other places in Albania are mostly over 3G Internet Coverage.

If you want to buy a sim card in Albania, you can check the WIFI Coverage Map of Vodafone and the WIFI coverage map of ALB Telecom on their website. Vodafone WIFI Coverage Map: https://www.vodafone.al/en/coverage-checker/

Is there WIFI in Albania?

There is WIFI in Albania in the bigger cities, like Tirana, Elbasan, Shkoder, Durres, Berat, Vlore, Saranda and Gjirokaster.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

Book your free  Albania Planning Session via Skype now, by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for you.

Purchasing a Local SIM Card in Albania-Travelers guide

Last Updated on October 28, 2022 by Rose Morah

Albania has three local SIM cards: Vodafone Albania , One , and ALBtelecom .

Vodafone Albania is the leading mobile network operator in Albania. Although it has the best coverage in the country, it is also the most expensive compared to its competitors. 

Where can you purchase a local SIM card in Albania

• You can purchase it immediately after you land at the airport.
• You can also buy from plenty of shops in town and around the country.

See also: List of Local SIM Cards in the European Countries .

Foreigners’ SIM card registration in Albania

Foreigners will only need to present their passports and a local address (where they will be staying) for registration. 

Note: Albania is not a member of the EU. Therefore, “Roam Like Home” does not apply.

Related : Purchasing a local sim card in Andorra .

Let’s dive more into the local Albania SIM cards.

Vodafone Albania

Buying a new Vodafone Albania SIM card will cost you around 800 Lekë. The sim comes with 500 free SMS and 00 Lekë initial communication time.

• List of Countries Included in AT&T International Calling .
• List of All Countries Included in Vodafone International .
• List of 210+ Countries covered by T-Mobile International Plan .

Let’s take a look at its data feature package:

To activate these plans, you will need to dial #123#

For data-only sim cards, they have these offers:

However, travelers can opt for a tourist plan. Vodafone Tourist plan offers the following:

Traveling to Albania and not sure if you should use Albania’s local SIM card, your home SIM card, or an international SIM card? 

Be sure to check out our guide to choosing the best SIM card when traveling .

Related : Purchasing a local sim card in Bulgaria .

One SIM Card

One SIM cards are affordable, and their SIM cards also come in different sizes.

Travelers may opt for a tourist plan. One Tourist plan offers the following:

See also The Cheapest Prepaid Sim Cards In Canada .

Hello there! My name is Rose. I’m passionate about electric cars and clean energy. My adventurous spirit and journalistic pursuits make each day fascinating and far greater. I consider traveling not just about the grandeur moments, but the little elements that transform the whole experience.

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Mirë se vjen në ONE ALBANIA!

Rrjeti ynë i besueshëm ONE po rritet vazhdimisht dhe po zgjeron kapacitetet, duke shkuar përtej dhe duke i dhënë përparësi inovacionit, përsosmërisë dhe përmirësimit të vazhdueshëm, për të ofruar shërbime superiore fikse, mobile e TV. Me teknologjinë më të madhe dhe më të fundit të fibrës optike, jemi të përkushtuar të lidhim familjet shqiptare duke e bërë ONE Albania portën kryesore drejt botës së internetit broadband! Rrjeti ynë Mobile është i shpejtë, i qëndrueshëm e i besueshëm, i certifikuar nga Omnitele si rrjeti me performancën më të lartë në vend dhe i gatshëm për të mbështetur rrjetin 5G, rrjetin e së ardhmes! Ne sjellim planet më të mira, komunikim pa limit, internet të shpejtë dhe një përvojë të përmirësuar në të gjitha pikat e kontaktit me klientin! Ne ju dëgjojmë, ju mbështesim, ju shoqërojmë kudo, me cilësi dhe profesionalizëm!

Best prepaid SIM card for Albania: which one to buy?

Having an internet connection for a cheap price during your trip to Albania is essential to enjoy an unparalleled experience. But how can I connect to the internet without using the expensive roaming service? Please note that Albania is outside the European roaming agreement. Therefore, if you want to connect to the internet, but do not want to pay the expensive roaming fees charged by your domestic operator, we recommend you use an Albanian SIM card.

With the Albania SIM card, you will be able to connect to the internet at a much more affordable price than other options such as roaming or Pocket WiFi. In addition to this, using the Albania SIM card during your trip will allow you to access a wide variety of advantages that will considerably improve your time in this country.

Where to buy a SIM card in Albania?

There are many places where you can buy your data SIM card for Albania, however, the best way to buy your SIM card is not at a physical point of sale, but through an online store. Which online store is the best? If you want to buy the best data SIM card for Albania, we recommend you to buy in Holafly’s online store, since in this store you will be able to receive benefits such as unlimited data, 24-hour customer service , data sharing, among others!

In addition to the online stores, you can buy your SIM card for Albania at the Mother Teresa International Airport or in the main shopping centers, such as the Toptani Shopping Center, Tirana Ring Center, or the Metropol Center.

Buy before you travel

As we mentioned before, buying in advance at online stores such as Holafly provides you with several advantages that considerably improve your experience in Albania. Below, we will show you some of the advantages you can have during your trip if you buy your SIM card in Holafly’s online store.

• Unlimited Data

With the Albania SIM card from Holafly, you will no longer have to worry about your data, since you will have an unlimited internet connection throughout your trip in 2G, which will allow you to receive and send messages on apps such as WhatsApp. In addition to unlimited data on 2G, this Albania SIM card also offers you 6 GB of internet on 4G so, you can browse your social media without any problem.

Forget about using cumbersome and expensive WiFi Pockets to connect to the internet during your trip to Albania. With Holafly’s SIM card you will be able to share data with your friends and travel companions, without using anything but your smartphone. This is because the SIM card allows you to create a private WiFi network that your friends can store and connect to.

• You keep your WhatsApp number

Don’t want to lose touch with your loved ones during your trip to Albania? If you want to stay connected with your friends and family while enjoying your trip, Holafly’s SIM card with data keeps your WhatsApp number as if you were at home. This is so that all the messages your contacts send you during your trip will reach you without any problem, and without the need for them to add you again with a new number.

• 24-hour customer service in English, French, German, Spanish and French.

If you have any doubts regarding your Albania Holafly SIM card during your trip to this country, or if at any time you had a problem, don’t worry, when you buy through Holafly’s online store you can get in contact with customer service, available 24-hours around the clock, which will answer and solve any doubt or problem you may have.

Holafly online store

Surely, throughout this article you have noticed the many advantages of buying on the Holafly online store, but do you know how? If you don’t know how to buy and use your Albania Holafly SIM card, don’t worry, we will explain below.

To purchase the Holafly SIM card with data for Albania, all you have to do is go to the official Holafly website, once there you proceed to complete the purchase and your SIM card is on its way to your home. In case you want to buy a Holafly SIM card for a different destination, the procedure is similar.

Buy upon arrival

If for some reason you weren’t able to buy your SIM card in advance, do not worry, you can also buy one at the international airport of Albania, or in one of its many shopping malls. However, the advantages of buying in physical establishments are quite few, and we will show them below.

• Slightly more affordable prices

Once you enter the international airport of Albania, you will notice that there is a wide variety of SIM cards at the stores located in this airport, this is an advantage, since, as there is a wide variety of cards, the price of the same is quite varied as well, which makes it quite likely to find a data SIM at a cheaper price.

Vodafone Albania Stores in Albania

If you want to be connected to the best internet network in Albania, we recommend using the prepaid data SIM cards of the telecommunications company Vodafone Albania, as this company is considered the largest in the country. For this very reason, the coverage of its internet networks is the largest, occupying the majority of the sovereign territory.

To connect to the internet through the telecommunications company Vodafone Albania , you must go to the international airport of Albania, or in the country’s shopping malls, and look for a SIM card that uses these internet networks.

How much does a SIM card cost to travel to Albania?

The price of the SIM card for your trip to Albania depends on the store where you buy it, but more than anything else, it depends on the amount of data you want to have and the number of days that data is valid for. Currently, Holafly online store only handles one type of Albania SIM card plan, which includes unlimited data on 2G and 6 GB of data on 4G.

Frequently Asked Questions about Albania SIM Card

During your trip to Albania you will find several options that, like the SIM card, allow you to connect to the internet, however, most of these options tend to be costly and impractical. Among these options are the roaming service, Pocket WiFi, and public WiFi.

The rates charged by cellphone operators for the roaming service in Albania usually vary a lot depending on the operator you use, however, in most cases the price per MB charged is $6.78 USD.

The most important thing to keep in mind when ordering your data SIM card for Albania is the number of days that your trip will last, this is important because based on this you can decide the number of days you want your data to be valid. Another essential aspect is the amount of data you need during your trip, if you are a person who consumes a lot or a little, one SIM card will be more convenient than another.

Don’t worry if you have a problem with your SIM card during your trip to Albania because if you bought the Holafly SIM card, you will have several customer service channels that will answer any questions and resolve any problems you may have with your SIM card. If your SIM card does not belong to Holafly, we recommend that you contact the seller who gave it to you or, failing that, the SIM card provider.

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Looking for a Albania SIM card to use for international travel in Albania or other countries in Europe? OneSimCard is an all-in-one Albania SIM card solution that gives you more. With OneSimCard, our international SIM card will provide you with low-cost prepaid Albania cell phone service as well as international cell phone roaming in 200+ other countries. You simply pay for the calls, texts and data you use and keep the same international cell phone number no matter which country you are in.

Instead of buying a local Albania SIM card at the airport that will expire quickly and can be very inconvenient to top-up, buy a OneSimCard global SIM card before you leave for your trip. While others search for mobile phone shops and wait in long lines to purchase local mobile service, you will be ready to use your international cell phone in Albania for calls, texts and data - the instant you land at the airport! If you only need a France data SIM card for internet connectivity, check out our new Data & Roam SIM. Our data SIM is a perfect solution for iPads, tablets, computers and MiFi hotspot devices worldwide.

Don't already have an unlocked GSM cell phone to use with our international SIM card in Albania? Then visit our international cell phone page to view available mobile devices. Albania cell phone rental is also an option for those who seldom travel to international destinations.

OneSimCard - is a perfect Albania SIM card solution for savvy travelers. Get OneSimCard today and start enjoying wireless freedom without the high cost.

Albania SIM card compatible devices

Using this Albania SIM card will require an unlocked GSM cell phone with the necessary network frequency bands listed in the table above. If your U.S. or Canadian GSM cell phone is currently locked to a carrier like AT&T, T-Mobile or Rogers, you should be able to contact them and request an unlock code. There are also third-party services, for example at your local mall, that will unlock your phone for you for a small one-time fee.

Please refer to the list of cell phones compatible with OneSimCard. Most unlocked GSM cell phones are compatible with international SIM cards from OneSimCard. If you do not currently have a compatible GSM unlocked cell phone for Albania, you can rent or purchase one from us.

Note: You will need an unlocked international cell phone even if you decide to purchase a local Albania SIM card from elsewhere upon arrival in Albania. In contrast to that, with Albania SIM card solution from OneSimCard you will be ready to make and receive calls before you arrive in Albania.

Albania SIM card activation

Activating your Albania SIM card is as simple as clicking a button in your online account. Activation can be done from anywhere using Internet.

Installing your Albania SIM card is the same as any other GSM sim card, please refer to your cellular device's manual for details.

If you have any questions about this Albania SIM card or using a cell phone in Albania, please contact our Customer Support department here .

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Best eSIM For Albania (Local & International Providers)

Searching for an eSIM for Albania?

At A Glance: Best eSim Providers in Albania

• BEST VALUE FOR MONEY Airalo
• BEST UNLIMITED DATA PLAN Maya Mobile
• BEST ESIM WITH PHONE NUMBER GlobaleSIM

ESIMs are a great way to save money when traveling in Albania. And below I have found the best Albania eSIMs for your upcoming trip.

Compare eSIM prices and data allowances and more from the top eSIM providers below.

ESIM Product Comparison

Airalo is one of the most common Albania eSIM providers and is well known for its cheap short-term data plans. I ended up settling on them for my 2 days passing through the country. I got the 3 GB plan for myself and Anna.

Albania offers the Hej Telecom eSim plans for Albania country start at just $4.5 (but it seems prices have risen by about $1 a GB lately and Albania is not the cheapest place to get data):

• 1 GB / 7 Days for $4.5
• 2 GB / 15 Days for $8
• 3 GB / 30 Days for $11
• 5 GB / 30 Days for $15.5
• 10 GB / 30 Days for $26
• 20 GB / 30 Days for $32  (this plan has since been removed)

Even the largest data pack for Albania from Airalo seems expensive at $2.6/GB , but the other providers cost even more. And it’s got more than enough data for an entire month in the country. Airalo’s Albania eSims provide you with access to both the best provider in the country: Vodafone. Although I did notice on Anna’s phone at some points that it swapped to One and back to Vodaphone.

Airalo Albania download speed – beach location

It’s worth noting that Vodafone is considered the best network operator in Albania, and you can get really fast speeds in more built-up areas. I used it on the beach one afternoon and got 150 Mbps download speed on Vodaphone !

Whereas when we were in the mountains it was obviously more limited and I got only 70 Mbps data download speed , which is still respectable for 4G in a country like Albania.

Airalo Albania download speed – remote location

Some people on the Albania eSIM Reddit group have complained about not being able to get connections with Airalo, so let me know if you have problems. I was ok when I traveled through there recently.

• Excellent value for money
• Access to two network operators
• Easy activation and top-ups
• The longest plan duration is 30 days

Maya Mobile

Maya Mobile is an excellent provider for travelers on longer trips in Albania. All Maya Mobile eSIM plans are valid for at least 30 days, and they’re only a little more expensive than Airalo’s plans, which is well worth it for the longer validity period.

They have small data packages and an Albania eSIM unlimited data plan to choose from:

• 1 GB / 30 Days for ‘$5
• 3 GB / 30 Days for $13
• 5 GB / 30 Days for $17
• 10 GB / 30 Days for $29
• Unlimited Data / 30 Days for $59

All Maya Mobile Albania eSIMs operate on the Vodafone network so that you will have access to the provider with the best coverage in the country. Also, Maya Mobile is the only provider that offers an unlimited data option for Albania, which is certainly worth considering if you need a large data allowance.

This provider allows data sharing on all their eSIMs, so you can share your Internet connection with friends and family while traveling. If you are also able to split the cost of the eSIM with two or three other people, the unlimited data plan is easily the best value for money you will find.

• Unlimited data plan
• Access to Vodafone network
• Great value for money
• No short-term data plans

Nomad is another eSIM provider that loves offering short-term data packs for almost every country you can imagine. They offer two types of Albania eSIM plans – those that operate on the Vodafone network and those that are operated by Truphone, an international network provider:

• 1 GB / 7 Days for $25
• 1 GB (Vodafone) / 7 Days for $10
• 3 GB / 30 Days for $40
• 3 GB (Vodafone) / 15 Days for $29
• 5 GB / 30 Days for $45
• 5 GB (Vodafone) / 15 Days for $20
• 10 GB (Vodafone) / 30 Days for $52

Nomad’s data plans are significantly more expensive than Airalo’s so I don’t recommend them. Especially because the plans are valid for shorter periods, and in my opinion, the cons outweigh the pros.

• Trusted and established eSim provider
• Multiple short-term data plans
• Very expensive data packs
• Most data plans are valid for less than a month

Holafly is an international eSIM provider best known for unlimited data plans. Unfortunately, Holafly doesn’t have an unlimited data plan for Albania. Instead, they only offer a plan with 6 GB valid for 15 days for the cost of $44, which is significantly more expensive than similar plans from Airalo , Maya Mobile , and even Nomad.

The advantages of the Holafly eSim plan are that you get access to the Vodafone network and you can create a hotspot to share your Internet connection, but the same can be said for the plans from other providers. Because of the high price point, I do not recommend the Holafly eSim to travelers in Albania.

• Data sharing is allowed
• Very expensive

BNESIM has the widest variety of data plans for an Albania eSim. There’s a total of 7 monthly plans you can choose from, which are similarly priced to Airalo’s plans:

• 1 GB / 30 Days for 3.12 Euros
• 3 GB / 30 Days for 9.1 Euros
• 5 GB / 30 Days for 14.69 Euros
• 10 GB / 30 Days for 28.08 Euros
• 20 GB / 30 Days for 54.93 Euros
• 50 GB / 30 Days for 117.94 Euros
• 100 GB / 30 Days for 194.69 Euros

In addition to these monthly plans, this eSim provider also offers daily plans and one-time packages that don’t expire. But, both the daily and one-time plans are more expensive than the monthly plans, so it doesn’t make too much sense to purchase them.

The only advantage of the one-time plans is that you can keep browsing the Internet as long as you still have mobile data on it, so it’s an option worth considering for longer stays in Albania.

• Affordable monthly plans
• Optional one-time and daily data plans
• Large data packs included
• The large data packs are quite expensive

GlobaleSIM offers six data packs for Albania, and they make it very easy to purchase more data if you ever need to top up your eSim:

• 500 MB / 5 Days for $3
• 1 GB / 7 Days for $6
• 2 GB / 10 Days for $10
• 3 GB / 14 Days for $14
• 5 GB / 21 Days for $18
• 10 GB / 30 Days for $30

Additionally, it’s possible to add voice minutes to this data plan. You can choose whether you want a US, UK, or Canadian phone number for one of the following packs:

• 100 minutes for $10
• 200 minutes for $17
• 300 minutes for $25

Adding voice minutes to your plan is not necessary, and you can still get the cheaper, data-only card if that is what you prefer. This is the only provider that offers a 5-day data pack for Albania, which is a decent option for travelers who are in the country for a short time. But all their other data plans are more expensive than comparable plans from Airalo, Maya Mobile, and even BNESIM, so they’re not one of our top picks.

• Optional phone number and voice minutes
• Cheapest short-term data plan
• One of the pricier providers

Benefits of Getting an eSim in Albania

Why should you bother with getting an eSim for your stay in Albania? Because it’s the only way to guarantee Internet access at your fingertips whenever you need it. Sure, you could use data roaming if you need to, but you would pay more for a few minutes of data roaming than for an eSim that’s valid for a week, so that’s certainly one of the benefits of an Albania eSim.

There’s also the fact that you can purchase an eSim online and activate it in just a few minutes, which is much more convenient than walking around a foreign city looking for a store that sells sim cards and eSims. Plus, you don’t have to remove your original sim card, worry about losing it, or try to remember where you put that tiny tool to eject the sim tray.

Local Mobile Operators Offering eSims in Albania

Vodafone is the only local provider in Albania that offers eSims. Anyone can get an eSim upon request, but it is necessary to find a local Vodaphone store and do it in person. You can’t purchase a physical sim card or a data pack online, so consider doing this only if it won’t take too much of your time.

The Vodafone packs for tourists are great value for money, especially because you get a phone number to make calls and send/receive texts locally. For $20 you can get 35 GB of mobile data, unlimited minutes, and unlimited texts to local numbers. There’s also a cheaper package for tourists, as well as a variety of daily and monthly data packs with local sim cards.

One Albania is another local provider to consider if you’re fine with a physical sim card. With a wide variety of prepaid packages, you can choose whether you want more minutes, texts, or just as much mobile data as possible.

Devices Compatible with eSim in Albania

Apple and Android devices that support eSims will all work with eSims in Albania. The first smartphones that featured this technology were the Apple iPhone XR, Google Pixel 3, and Samsung Galaxy S20. All the similar models released later will also support eSims, as well as some phones from other Android manufacturers.

If you want to check whether your smartphone is compatible with eSims, you can just dial *#06#. Doing this shows you a list of unique codes for your device; if you can see an EID number, it means that your phone supports an eSim. The lack of an EID number means that the device doesn’t support embedded sim cards, and you will need to pick up a traditional sim card instead.

Data Needed When Traveling to Albania

How much data you need for a trip to Albania mostly depends on how long you’re staying in the country. Your data usage habits should also be taken into consideration; if you can manage without streaming videos, you will be fine with smaller data packs. Up to 3 GB can be enough for trips up to two weeks if you can monitor and manage your data usage but consider plans with 5 GB or more if you want to use mobile data more liberally.

For stays up to 30 days, consider data plans that include at least 5 GB. Get a larger allowance if you want to share the data with others, work while you’re traveling, or even watch movies and stream music.

Also, consider unlimited data plans for data sharing and working. The one from Maya Mobile is excellent and not very expensive, especially if you can split the cost with fellow travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is esim available in albania.

Yes, eSim is available in Albania. Vodafone is the only local provider that offers eSims to its customers, and you should be able to purchase an eSim with a prepaid plan in any Vodafone store in Albania.

How much does an eSIM cost in Albania?

An eSim for Albania can cost a few dollars up to a few hundred dollars. It usually depends on the data allowance, but the cheapest eSim for Albania is $3 with 500 MB.

How do I activate my eSim in Albania?

To activate the eSim in Albania it should be enough just to turn on mobile data and start browsing the Internet. You need to set up the eSim first, which can be done through the network settings, usually by scanning a QR code. If you run into issues trying to set up and activate your Albania eSim, just contact the support team of the provider for a quick resolution.

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The 5 Best eSIMs for Albania in 2023

When you travel abroad, it is necessary to have internet. You may want to keep in touch with the people back home, and the best way to do it is through an eSIM.

You have decided to take a trip this 2023. Now we want to recommend a place that has become a wonderful tourist site: Albania. The country, located in the southeast of Europe, is home to fantastic Ottoman architecture and plenty of castles and museums.

The capital, Tirana, holds diverse cultural institutions. Spectacular flora and fauna, along with beautiful beaches, are also parts of this attractive destination.

Continue reading to find out more about Albania and the best eSIMs:

What Are The Best eSIMs for Albania?

What is the best esim for albania.

SimOptions is the leading company in mobile phone services, with coverage in over 200 destinations, and offering international eSIMs and SIM cards.

Buy an eSIM from SimOptions, pay it in advance (with no complicated contracts or hidden charges), and check emails, watch videos or listen to music, avoiding expensive roaming charges.

Now let’s take a look at the best eSIM for Albania:

30-Day Pass Global 3GB | $ 24.90 - 3GB

• Calls/SMS: No
• Credit Validity: 30 days

30-Day Pass Global 5GB | $ 34.90 - 5GB

Esim2fly global | $ 39.90 - 6gb.

• Credit Validity: 15 days

Sightseeing

Here we want to show you the best places to visit in Albania. Check out our top 5:

Tirana, Albania’s capital and biggest city, is an important cultural center, holding institutions like the National Theater and the National Theater of Ballet and Dancing. Along with the local organizations, there are some foreign cultural centers, from Germany, China, Italy, France, and Canada.

The city has become a colorful and attractive tourist site in the last 30 years, with several museums and art galleries, like the Museum of National History and BUNK´ART, hosting art installations. Mount Dajti offers splendid views of the city below. Plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars, make Tirana’s nightlife great.

If you crave wonderful sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a Mediterranean atmosphere, then the city of Himare is the right place to visit. This attractive tourist town offers a fantastic hilly coastline with great views over the sea.

On top of the hill, you will find the Old Town, with the beautiful Castle of Himare from 800 years BC, and ancient buildings full of Albanian history. For a relaxing afternoon and a gorgeous sunset, Livadhi Beach is expecting you, with markets, bars, and spectacular seafood.

Gjirokaster

Known as the City of Stone due to its curious local sheds covered with stones, Gjirokaster is a gorgeous place to visit. Situated in the south of Albania, the town is composed of an ancient side, close to mount Mali Gjere and modern neighborhoods on the valley of River Drin.

UNESCO declared the city a World Heritage Site in 2005, due to its fantastic Ottoman architecture. Fascinating Gjirokaster Castle, from the 12th century, with a military museum and an underground Cold War-era tunnel, is a must place to visit.

Famous Albanian writer Ismail Kadare’s house has been turned into a historical museum worth visiting.

The city of Kruje, located north of Tirana, has become a wonderful place to visit, showing a gorgeous natural environment and fantastic historic sites. Kruje Castle was once the home of Gjergi Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, who fought against the Ottoman Empire for 25 years.

Nowadays, the castle holds Skanderbeg National Museum and an impressive 15th-century church. The Ethnographic Museum presents exhibits showing work, customs, and traditions in rural Albania.

Butrint National Park

If you wish to experience a combination of cultural monuments and a natural environment at the same time, Butrint National Park in southern Albania is the place to visit.

The park is home to a diverse assemblage of flora and fauna, which inhabit a rainforest area with plenty of water -lakes, rivers, and wetlands. Butrint holds more than 800 species of plants and a great number of birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish.

The park also shows an important archeological site, including remnants of a Roman theater, from 300 BC, a Byzantine Baptistery from the 6th century, and ancient city walls. Butrint National Park has been protected by UNESCO since 1992. The park opens from 9 am to 4 pm.

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Albania Unlimited eSIM Plans Stay connected to family, friends, and apps 24/7 with no worries about running out of data in Albania. LITE Travel eSIM Best for Solo Travel 10 Unlimited *After the first 2 GB of daily high speed data, enjoy Unlimited LTE data at 1Mbps.   Coverage in Albania Wi-Fi Hotspot Not Included 5 - 30 Days Validity $ 18 USD 100% Money Back Guarantee Activate Now eSIM Tech Specs › STANDARD Travel eSIM Best for Wi-Fi Sharing 15 Unlimited *After the first 3 GB of daily high speed data, enjoy Unlimited LTE data at 1Mbps.   Coverage in Albania   Wi-Fi Hotspot Included 5 - 30 Days Validity $ 29 USD 100% Money Back Guarantee Activate Now eSIM Tech Specs › MAX Travel eSIM Best for Streaming 25 Unlimited *After the first 5 GB of daily high speed data, enjoy Unlimited LTE data at 1Mbps.   Coverage in Albania   Wi-Fi Hotspot Included 5 - 30 Days Validity $ 37 USD 100% Money Back Guarantee Activate Now eSIM Tech Specs ›

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What's The Best eSIM For Albania? We've Ranked the Top Providers in 2024

Jan Watermann

As a digital nomad, Jan is an expert in cross-border money transfers and internationalization. At Monito, he shares his knowledge by writing content geared primarily towards a German-speaking audience.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Known for its deep history, coastal Mediterranean towns, and mountain landscapes, Albania isn't popular with tourists without reason. If you're planning to visit the country soon, it should come as no surprise that you won't be able to call, SMS, or access the web on the go with your smartphone as you usually would at home, and if you do manage to get connected via roaming, it can result in hefty additional charges.

However, none of this means you should leave your smartphone at home. If your device is a newish model (i.e., from 2019 or later), there's a good chance it'll support an eSIM. These nifty digital SIM cards can be downloaded and installed before you travel, promising blazing-fast internet in Albania at a very low cost compared to roaming and great convenience compared to physical SIMs. In this guide, we explore everything you have to know about eSIMs in Albania and what the best deals might be for you.

Dodge sky-high roaming costs, unexpected data charges, or spotty service on your trip to Albania by using an eSIM from Airalo to connect directly to local network providers like Voda AL and One.al. ✨ If you're a new customer, use code MONITO15 to get 15% off your first Airalo eSIM, and if you're a returning customer, use MONITO10 to get 10% off today! Go to Airalo now to get started.

As we'll explore in more depth in this guide, when choosing an eSIM, you have two options. The first option is for you to go through a digital eSIM provider, and the second option is to purchase an eSIM directly from your network provider or carrier. We strongly recommend the first option. After all, with reputable online providers, you can always be sure you'll get good support, excellent rates, and quality instructions that normally exceed those of the big carriers.

According to our review and comparison of the best options on the market, here are the three best eSIM providers for Albania and other countries worldwide:

What's The Best eSIM for Albania?

• 01. Airalo: Best eSIM for Albania in general scroll down
• 02. Holafly: Best eSIM for Albania for great customer support scroll down
• 03. Yesim: A great alternative all around scroll down
• 04. Why using an eSIM is a great idea for Albania scroll down
• 05. What are the pros and cons of using an eSIM? scroll down
• 06. How to call from Albania scroll down
• 07. Recapping the best eSIMs for Albania scroll down
• 08. FAQ about the best eSIM for Albania scroll down

Best Overall: Airalo

Airalo  is an excellent eSIM provider for Albania . Its online platform offers global access to eSIMs through collaboration with big local telecom providers. In Albania, for example, Airalo works directly with Voda AL and One.al to provide you with high-speed coverage directly from their networks, wherever you are in the country.

Once-off prices for eSIMs for Albania range from $4.50 to $26 and include between 1 GB and 20 GB of data. Most travellers should be able to get by with these amounts without any problems. Setting up and activating your eSIM happens entirely on your smartphone and it's very quick – in our test, it took us just two minutes (watch our how-to video on YouTube to see how it's done). What's more, if you start running low on data during your trip, you can easily top this up via the Airalo app. This lets you save time and hassle compared to buying a physical SIM, where you'd usually need to stand in line at the counter to buy or top up your card or package.

We recommend Airalo in general, especially if you travel often. The service provides an excellent connectivity companion while you're abroad. To find out more about this excellent eSIM provider, take a look at our in-depth Airalo review .

Considering Airalo? Take advantage of the following special offers until the 31st of December 2024:

• New customer? Use the code   MONITO15   to claim a 15% discount on all Airalo eSIMs.  Ts & Cs  apply.
• Returning customer? Use the code  MONITO10  to claim a 10% discount on all Airalo eSIMs.

Go to Airalo now to get started! ✨

Best For Customer Support: Holafly

Holafly  is another trusted eSIM service which also offers eSIMs for Albania. The remarkable thing about Holafly is that it only provides packages with great customer support for Albania and other countries worldwide. Although these packages cost quite a bit more than the smaller Airalo packages, in return, they offer the certainty that you'll always be able to reach a human assistant within minutes.

For trips to Albania, Holafly's data packages cost between $29 and $79 once off for 2.5 to 15 GB of data, and are valid from five to 30 days. Like Airalo, Holafly also works with Albanian carriers, so you'll get coverage like a local no matter where you travel in the country (although in remote regions, coverage can become spotty).

Although Holafly offers unlimited data in most countries, its data plans in Albania are limited. In general, this makes Airalo a slightly cheaper choice of eSIM for traveling to Albania.

Although Holafly's packages are generally great if you'd like uncapped access to the web, it's worth remembering that most travellers don't usually need such a large sum of data and that normally, 5 GB to 10 GB, at most, should be enough for everyday travel needs in Albania like navigating, browsing, and using social media. Moreover, your speeds might be temporarily throttled if you use a very extensive amount of data (e.g., for non-stop HD streaming or downloading large files). During our test in the UK, this happened to us at around 4.5 GB of usage. Sadly, Holafly's fair use policies don't clearly outline when networks throttle speeds since it comes down to the individual network or carrier and the country you're browsing in.

If you're curious, we tested Holafly extensively to see if its data plans really live up to their 'unlimited' promise. The short answer? Yes, but there are a few things you should know. Take a look at our Holafly review to find out what they are.

Considering Holafly? Use the code  MONITO  at checkout to claim a 5% discount on all Holafly eSIMs. Go to Holafly now to get started! ✨

Another Reliable Alternative: Yesim

A smaller and newer company than Airalo and Holafly, Yesim  is a Swiss-based eSIM provider offering highly-rated eSIMs for countries around the globe. Their website and app are simple, straightforward, and easy to use, and over 300,000 customers have chosen their eSIMs so far.

Like its larger competitors, Yesim gives you a SIM card connecting to local carriers while you're abroad. It can be installed quickly and effortlessly right from the app or via a QR code sent to your email after purchase. Interestingly, alongside its eSIM service, Yesim also offers a virtual number service that allows you to get an online-only US (+1), Canadian (+1), or Israeli (+972) mobile phone number to use for apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, OpenAI, Binance, Tinder, or TikTok. These virtual numbers can be used for a flat fee of $2.75 per month.

Going back to eSIMs, Yesim's packages typically cost between $8 and $28 for 3 GB to 20 GB, but only the 10 GB and 20 GB data plans last longer than 30 days (here, plans of up to 60 days are possible to purchase). In our opinion, this makes Yesim's offers slightly less attractive than Airalo's for travel in general. However, it's worth remembering that Yesim's prices are often fractionally lower per gigabyte, so if you're looking for the best deal, make sure you visit Yesim's website and compare their prices to Airalo's.

How Do They Compare?

In the chart below, we've compared Airalo, Holafly, and Yesim based on a few factors you might find important on your trip to Albania or anywhere else in the world. As you'll see, the three are very competitive, with differences normally being slight. If you'd like to compare Holafly and Airalo directly, take a look at our side-by-side review of the two too.

Correct as of 8 March, 2024

Do I Need a SIM Card in Albania?

No, you don't need a SIM card as a tourist in Albania, but having one will enable you to make phone calls and SMSes and not to rely solely on public or hotel WiFi to access the web.

A good place to start would be to review your contract from your mobile network provider before you travel to Albania. Most contracts are limited to use just within your home country (or within the European Union if you live in an EU country). For all other countries, so-called 'roaming charges' typically apply. However, there is one exception: specific contracts sometimes allow you to use your data worldwide. If you have a global internet contract, you can also use it in Albania without unexpected roaming charges.

Otherwise, although precise roaming charges differ according to your network provider, the fees for using mobile internet in Albania are typically around $2 or $3 per 6 MB (six megabytes) of data used, though they could be higher still. For example, if you wanted to download an average-sized app from the Google Play Store onto your Android smartphone, you'd use around 24 MB and pay $8 to $10 in roaming charges. It should, therefore, be clear that roaming with your regular SIM card in Albania is generally not worthwhile and can lead to enormous costs. As we'll see in a moment, it's significantly cheaper to purchase a local Albanian SIM card once you arrive or, better yet, an eSIM before you travel.

💳 Planning to use your credit or debit card on your Albanian trip? You'll probably pay much more than you think in hidden exchange rate fees every time you tap your card or withdraw cash. Get a free global account and debit card with Revolut to avoid these fees and save money. Check out our ranking of the best prepaid travel debit cards to find out more about how you can save.

What Are eSIMs, Anyway?

Simply put, eSIMs are regular SIM cards that don't require inserting an actual microchip into your device while providing the same benefits. Newer smartphones (but also smartwatches, tablets, and other devices) can be equipped with eSIMs, and since you don't need an actual SIM card to install an eSIM, you can also get one before your trip to Albania. To do this, all you have to do is visit an online eSIM service, purchase the eSIM you want, and follow the instructions to download and install it onto your device.

Like regular SIM cards, prepaid eSIMs come bundled with a certain fixed amount of data, SMSes, or telephone minutes, which you can use at your leisure while travelling. You get to choose the package you want, and you can generally also extend your eSIM's validity easily right from an app.

Pros of Using an eSIM

In general, eSIMs have numerous advantages and are often a better alternative to using a regular SIM card for most tourists. In our opinion, the most significant advantages include:

• internet immediately upon arrival in Albania,
• no negotiating with SIM card sellers at the airport,
• transparent and fair pricing,
• online extension is often possible,
• credit card payment is possible,
• local telecom provider networks are used.

In our opinion, there are only a few reasons against using an eSIM when travelling to Albania (which we'll discuss below), and in most instances, we're sure that it's a far better deal than using your normal SIM card from your home country on Albanian networks.

Cons of Using an eSIM

As we've already seen, eSIMs have very few drawbacks and are an excellent option for accessing mobile internet on your Albanian vacation.

However, one disadvantage is the slightly higher upfront cost than physical SIM cards. That said, eSIMs are still comparatively cheap, especially for use in Albania from abroad. In our opinion, the significantly higher level of comfort and the possibility of having access to the internet immediately upon arrival are worth the extra pennies. Another disadvantage is related to installation, where the process may be unfamiliar to you if you've never installed an eSIM before. However, if you follow the instructions carefully, you'll be fine.

Finally, there's the issue of compatibility: not all devices support eSIMs . If your device was released before late 2019, we recommend double-checking on the internet or contacting a representative from an eSIM service to confirm whether your device is compatible before you purchase an eSIM. In general, the following devices will support eSIMs though:

• iPhone 11 or later
• iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or iPhone SE
• iPad 7th generation or later ,
• Galaxy S20 or later
• Google Pixel 3 or later
• and many other devices (see our full list of compatible devices )

Can I Call From Albania With an eSIM?

Yes, you can call abroad from Albania with an eSIM , but once again, using your regular network provider and SIM card could result in surprisingly high calling charges at the end of the month (we've personally encountered as high as $4 per minute!). Fortunately, you can call abroad without the high costs, and there are three ways of doing this. We go through each below:

1. Voice-Over-IP (VoIP) With Data

In most cases, eSIM packages are loaded with mobile data, not with minutes or airtime. However, using your data, you can use web-based apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, FaceTime and others to stay in touch with family and friends abroad while in Albania.

2. eSIMs With Airtime

Some eSIM services offer talk and text packages alongside normal data packages. These allow you to make direct phone calls or SMSes via local networks in Albania to your home country for only a slightly higher fee than regular data packages. Not all eSIM services offer this service though, but some, like Wraptel , do.

3. International Calling Apps

If you plan to make calls from Albania (or anywhere else abroad) fairly regularly, then your most reliable and affordable option will be to use a third-party app. In our opinion, Rebtel is by far the best service out there , offering low rates and providing you with local Albanian phone numbers with which you can make calls abroad as though they were completely domestic.

Although it's popular, we typically don't recommend using Google Fi for this purpose unless you plan to go back and forth from the United States regularly (since Google Fi is only available to Americans and will not work if you spend over 90 days abroad per year). In general, Rebtel's rates are more affordable than Google Fi's too. To learn more about our first-hand experience with Google Fi, look at our in-depth review .

Recap: All About eSIMs in Albania

Are you planning a trip in Albania, and do you have a modern smartphone? Then, you should certainly at least consider getting an eSIM. In our opinion, they offer almost nothing but advantages and are generally far superior to using your regular SIM card.

To find the right provider for eSIMs in Albania, you should compare the available options. As we've seen, we recommend looking primarily at the network provider and the price. Depending on how long you want to stay in Albania, Airalo, Holafly or possibly Yesim are the best choices. To recap, here are what each can offer you:

• Airalo : Best eSIM for Albania overall,
• Holafly : Best eSIM for great customer support in Albania,
• Yesim : Good alternative to Airalo.
• Wraptel : Best eSIM for airtime and SMSes.
• Rebtel : Best calling service for international calls.

FAQ About The Best eSIM For Albania

Yes, eSIMs are safe to use in Albania. That's because commercial eSIM technology adheres to international security and encryption standards to store and securely access your mobile network information.

Generally, yes, but it depends on your individual needs. While eSIMs offer the advantage of remotely purchasing a SIM before you travel, making them convenient for frequent travellers, physical SIMs might still be preferable for you if you have an older smartphone model, for example.

No, eSIMs generally aren't free, with the cost in Albania varying based on mobile service providers and their pricing plans. However, you can generally expect to pay upwards of $4.50 to purchase an eSIM with a minimal data package for Albania.

Yes, you can use an eSIM on a locked phone, provided your phone is compatible with eSIM technology.

Yes, an eSIM can generally be used for calling from Albania, especially when paired with voice-over-IP services that connect to the internet, like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Google Messenger. If you'd like to call or SMS, consider finding an eSIM deal that includes airtime or minutes or use a service like Rebtel , which, for a tiny fee, provides you with a local number in place of your overseas contact's foreign number, making calling abroad significantly cheaper.

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Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.