Mobile internet

Will my phone work in Europe?

The short answer is yes, your phone will work in Europe. Learn more about being prepared before you travel to Europe.

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon and wondering, “Will my phone work in Europe?“, the good news is, yes! While your phone most definitely will work in Europe, there are some things you need to be aware of before travelling.

This article discusses the essentials of using your phone in Europe, including how to unlock your phone and stay connected through various options, like international roaming, local European SIM cards, pocket WiFi devices, and a travel eSIM.

In this article

Can I use my phone in Europe?

Yes, in most cases, you can use your phone in Europe as normal, but before you start thinking about ways to get connected, you’ll need to make sure your device is unlocked.

A locked mobile phone is tied to a specific mobile carrier (AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile, for example). This means, even if you have an international data plan in place for your trip to Europe, it won’t work unless you unlock your device.

How do I check if my phone will work in Europe?

You can check whether your phone is unlocked by calling your carrier or heading to your phone’s settings and following these steps.

For unlocking and using your iPhone in Europe:

Go to Settings → General → About → Scroll down until you find Carrier Lock → If you see “SIM Locked” your iPhone is locked. If you see “No SIM restrictions”, your iPhone is unlocked and ready to use an eSIM.

For unlocking and using your Android in Europe:

Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network Operators → Turn off Select automatically to view available operators. If you only see your carrier name, your phone is locked, but if you see names of several providers different from yours, your Android is unlocked.

Next, check frequency band compatibility. American cell phones use different frequencies from cell phones in Europe. Most modern smartphones are GSM capable, which is Europe’s standard, but older phones may not work.

Check your device’s technical specs online to see if it supports Europe’s main frequency bands:

900 MHz and 1800 MHz for 2G (voice calls and text messages)
2100 MHz for 3G
800 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2600 MHz for 4G LTE

Once your phone is unlocked to accept foreign carriers and compatible with European frequency bands, all you need is an international data plan.

Below, we cover the four main ways to use your phone and get mobile internet in Europe: roaming, physical SIM cards, eSIMs, and pocket WiFis.

How to use your phone in Europe

There are four main ways to stay connected when using your phone in Europe. Each option has pros and cons depending on whether you’re traveling to one country or multiple EU countries, data usage needs, or trying to avoid high roaming charges.

Roaming

International roaming services from your home carrier will let you keep your SIM card and home mobile phone number while traveling abroad. You can activate data roaming services with any major US carrier (T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T, for example). We cover this in more detail below.

Does T-Mobile work in Europe?

Yes, if you’re on T-Mobile’s international roaming-inclusive monthly plan – Experience Beyond – you can enjoy 15 GB of data in Europe and other destinations.

If you’re not on this plan, you can opt for international passes with 1-30 day durations, starting at $5 (USD) (512 MB) and ending at $50 (15 GB).

Does Verizon work in Europe?

Yes, Verizon’s international roaming services include a Monthly International Plan that offers unlimited data, talk, and text message allowances in Europe and other destinations.

If you’re not on this plan, you can purchase a Travel Pass with a daily $12 charge to use unlimited data, talk, and text in Europe.

Does AT&T work in Europe?

Yes, but AT&T’s international roaming-inclusive monthly plans only include Latin American countries and not Europe.

For a trip to Europe, you’ll need a $12 daily roaming pass, which gives you access to your regular balance of calls, texts, and data.

eSIM

Travel eSIMs are the modern version of physical SIM cards and are increasing in popularity – for good reason. Most modern smartphones are eSIM-compatible, and you can conveniently buy and install an unlimited data eSIM for Europe before your trip, activate it instantly, and have mobile data the moment you land.

This is often the best way to use your phone in Europe, especially if you don’t want to deal with finding a new SIM card in each EU country, facing high roaming charges, or carrying around a pocket WiFi device. Holafly’s eSIM for Europe offers unlimited data for as low as $1.55/day!

You can match your plan to your vacation (between one and 90 days) and enjoy fast and reliable internet, no roaming charges or unexpected fees, and 24/7 customer support.

Physical SIM

Buying a SIM card is a good way to get local rates and good cell phone service in Europe. However, this comes with certain downsides, such as swapping your SIM card for a Europe SIM card, changing your number, and hunting down local SIM card stores.

The SIM registration process takes 15 minutes to an hour, and sometimes even longer in touristy seasons. To make a well-informed decision, check out our guide on the best European SIM cards.

Pocket WiFi

A pocket WiFi device is a small and portable mobile hotspot that allows you to access WiFi signals anywhere. It is ideal if you have multiple mobile devices or if you’re travelling in a large group.

However, pocket WiFi in Europe can be expensive, with rent and data package purchases amounting to $200+. Plus, you’ll have to carry it around and keep it charged.

A better alternative is Holafly Plans, a monthly eSIM subscription. This is Holafly’s digital version of a pocket WiFi, and it offers unlimited data in over 170 destinations. This makes it the best option if you’re on a Euro trip, travelling in a group, or have multiple devices to connect.

Top tips for using your phone in Europe

From avoiding unnecessary data roaming fees to staying connected without overspending, these tips will help you get the most out of using your phone in Europe.

Check if your phone is unlocked before travel (essential if you plan to use a local SIM card or roaming services).
Download offline Google Maps.
Keep your US SIM card in a safe place.
Monitor your data usage, especially if on a limited data plan, to avoid hitting limits.
Do you need a converter for my cell phone in Europe? No, most modern smartphones use chargers that work with European voltage. You’ll only need a plug adaptor to fit European outlets.

Will your phone work in Europe? The verdict

So, will your phone work in Europe? In most cases, yes! As long as your mobile device is unlocked and supports European frequency bands, you’re good to go.

You’ll still have to select a way to stay connected. Each option has advantages, whether you choose international roaming, a local SIM card, pocket WiFi, or an eSIM for Europe. But if you’re looking for a simple, reliable solution that works across multiple EU countries without the stress of changing SIM cards or data plans, Holafly’s eSIM for Europe is the best bet.

Instant high-speed, no need for a physical SIM card, unlimited data, and matching your plan to your vacation are some of the many reasons why it’s the best choice for those who wish to travel with peace of mind.

If you’d like to know more about using your phone in other countries, check out our blogs on:

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Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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