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What’s the best way to get mobile internet in Switzerland?
Switzerland’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cities offer something unforgettable for every traveler. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, these places in Switzerland deserve a spot on your list.
Since Switzerland is outside the European Union, roaming fees can skyrocket the moment you land and hail an Uber. But all hope is not lost — you can get mobile internet in Switzerland without paying for roaming.
This article covers affordable solutions for tourists to connect to mobile internet in Switzerland. We look into embedded SIM cards (eSIMs), virtual SIM cards, pocket WiFi, and free WiFi networks.
Let’s take a look at the different ways to stay connected when visiting Switzerland.
How to get mobile internet in Switzerland
eSIMs, prepaid SIM cards, pocket WiFi, and free WiFi are some of the most convenient solutions for tourists looking to stay connected in Switzerland without paying expensive roaming charges.
Some options provide better connection quality, while others are more budget-friendly — each comes with its own advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore each of them so you can make an informed decision for your trip.
eSIM for mobile internet in Switzerland
Virtual SIM cards, called eSIMs, are reliable options for stable, high-speed internet at affordable prices. For example, Holafly’s data eSIM for Switzerland partners with local Swiss provider Sunrise Communications AG to provide you with fast blazing internet speed and unlimited data while exploring the Land of Milk and Honey.
In addition to allowing you to use your phone in Switzerland without breaking the bank, an eSIM lets you keep your WhatsApp number to stay in touch with family and friends. Plus, it’s plastic-free and doesn’t require physically swapping SIM cards.
Installation and activation are simple: After purchasing, you’ll receive a QR code via email that you need to scan with your mobile phone. Then, follow the on-screen instructions, and you’ll have your Swiss eSIM up and running within minutes.
Advantages of Holafly eSIM for travel to Switzerland
The pros of using Holafly’s eSIM for Switzerland include:
- Simple and safe purchase: Order online with a secure payment platform — no activation fees, signatures, or subscriptions needed.
- Mobile hotspots for data sharing: Enjoy a 500 MB data tethering allowance per day.
- No delivery fees: Receive the eSIM quickly via email —no need to wait for shipping.
- Easy set-up: Receive an email with a QR code to activate your eSIM by simply scanning it.
- No SIM swapping: Keep your local SIM for calls and WhatsApp messages.
- Flexible plans: Get unlimited internet for the precise number of days you want.
- Reliable connection and coverage: Connect to the Sunrise 3G/4G/LTE mobile networks for reliable connectivity.
Limitations of Holafly eSIM for travel to Switzerland
While there are many benefits to using the Holafly Switzerland eSIM, there are also a few minor trade-offs, including:
- No SMS capability: You won’t be able to send SMS messages
- Internet-based calls only: Holafly enables calls through apps like WhatsApp or Skype, but not through traditional cellular networks.
- Requires device compatibility: Your cellphone must support eSIM technology.
Holafly eSIM plans and rates for Switzerland
All mobile plans include unlimited mobile data usage and start at $5.90 USD per day. Plans are fully customizable in terms of validity, allowing you to choose the perfect mobile plan length to cover your trip.
The longer the eSIM plan, the cheaper the price per day. For example, for a 10-day eSIM data plan, you’ll pay $3.69 daily. Are you staying two weeks abroad? The price per day drops to $3.42 per day.
With Holafly, you can choose from one-day eSIMs to 90-day plans and anything in between. Each plan includes a 500 MB daily data tethering allowance, so you can share your internet with other devices.
SIM card options for mobile internet in Switzerland
When you arrive in Switzerland, you can get a Switzerland prepaid SIM card at the airport or local shops from national operators like Salt Mobile, Swisscom, and Sunrise.
- Salt: Offers prepaid plans with national calls, SMS, and data bundles at fixed rates, plus top-off options for additional data.
- Swisscom: Provides customizable prepaid plans offering calls, SMS, and data packages.
- Sunrise Telecom: Includes prepaid plans for calls, SMS, and data within Switzerland. For use in other countries, rates vary, so review carefully before purchasing.
Pocket WiFi for mobile internet in Switzerland
Swiss Pocket WiFi allows you to connect to the internet on the go. This portable router fits in your pocket, so you can connect your mobile device to a secure internet connection wherever you travel.
While convenient, pocket WiFi can be a more expensive option to get mobile internet in Switzerland. You typically end up paying extra for deposit, rent, and insurance in case of damage or loss.
Here are some options:
- iSpot Connect: Provides internet with a four- to six-hour battery life. It’s compact — similar to a small computer mouse.
- Huawei: Uses a micro SIM card and is about the size of a smartphone.
Free WiFi for mobile internet in Switzerland
You can find free WiFi in Switzerland at airports, restaurants, bars, and libraries.
While convenient, free WiFi networks lack security and privacy. We recommend only using them when you don’t need to access sensitive information, such as banking details or personal profiles on social media and email.
- Swisscom hotspot network: Maps out free WiFi spots across the country. The map shows the address and name of premises, institutions, or universities offering this service. Swisscom offers access to some free WiFi networks, while others require a paid Swisscom mobile subscription.
- Hotels and establishments: Many accommodations, restaurants, and other businesses offer free WiFi to guests.
- Zurich and Geneva airports: Both airports offer one hour of free browsing.
If you’re still unsure of the best option for your browsing needs, check out the comparison below.
Comparison of options for mobile internet in Switzerland
The table below compares eSIMs, SIM cards, roaming, pocket WiFi, and free WiFi options in terms of pricing, ease of use, and core features.
| Features | Holafly Data eSIM | Prepaid SIM card | Roaming | Pocket WiFi | Free WiFi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair price | Yes | Yes | No | No | N/A |
| Quality connection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Unlimited data | Yes | Possible | Possible | No | Possible |
| Added costs | No | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Hotspot capability | Yes | Yes | Possible | Yes | No |
| Fee in case of loss | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Easy to use | Yes | Possible | Yes | No | Yes |
Ultimately, the best choice for Switzerland mobile internet depends on your expectations, needs, and budget. Each option offers unique benefits, so consider what fits your travel style and connectivity requirements.
What’s the best option for mobile internet in Switzerland?
Each option comes with advantages for different travel needs. For instance, pocket WiFi can work well if you’re traveling for work and need WiFi for your laptop. But if you’re planning to tour the cities or go on hiking trips, carrying an extra device — no matter how small — can be inconvenient.
If you’re looking for a reliable connection with no data caps, an eSIM could be a great option. It’s hassle-free — no risk of losing it, plastic-free, and you can keep your home SIM in your phone while traveling.
For travelers with devices that aren’t eSIM-compatible, a physical SIM card is another option.
The least recommended options for secure connectivity are free WiFi networks and roaming. Free WiFi can expose you to privacy risks, while roaming has high fees that can eat up your travel budget.
Stay connected in Switzerland with an eSIM designed for travelers
Join the million customers who have chosen Holafly!
With Holafly’s Switzerland eSIM, you’ll have access to high-speed internet with unlimited data, and data sharing at a lower price than pocket WiFi or international roaming.
Purchase your plan, scan the QR code, and you’re in. No data caps, hidden fees, or complicated set-up required.
Enjoy unlimited connectivity in Switzerland
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Living in Romania's only coastal city, Constanta, Stefania Manea has been in the content marketing space for 9 years. She discovered her passion for writing while studying Maritime Engineering, which led her to switch her career path and join the marketing industry. Since then, she has relentlessly written copy and content for renowned brands in the B2B SaaS landscape, including MarkUp.io, Toggl, MarineTraffic, Route4Me, and Insense. She values creativity, loves horror novels, and occasionally believes in ghosts!
