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How to buy a Switzerland SIM card: Traveler’s guide
Skis? Check. Hiking boots? Packed. Extra luggage to fill with Swiss chocolate? Obviously. SIM card and data plan? …Uh oh. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about SIM cards for Switzerland.
Switzerland, with its stunning mountains, charming villages, and world-class cities, is a dream destination for many. To make the most of your trip, you’ll need internet access to find your way, make reservations, and stay in touch with loved ones on the go. The best way to do this is by having the right SIM card for Switzerland.
In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about Switzerland SIM cards—from prices and buying tips to exploring eSIM options and the top providers.
We cover the features, advantages, and where and how to get it so you can make the best decision! We’ll also share an eSIM alternative which may be a better fit for your trip.
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Where can I get a SIM card for Switzerland?
Almost everyone has used a SIM card at least once in their lives and many continuously do day-to-day. We all know that we need a data plan to stay connected for work and personal reasons. But what about abroad? Getting a SIM card is not the same when you’re a foreigner. Just because it’s different from back home doesn’t mean It’s impossible, you can even get an data SIM! Let’s take a look at some options.
Getting a SIM card for your trip to Switzerland is a must—but figuring out the best place to find one can be tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the options available to travelers.
You can:
- Buy your data SIM card once you arrive in Switzerland at the airport.
- Wait until you’ve settled in and buy one locally in Switzerland.
- Get your data SIM card before you travel, via an online store.
There’s also a fourth option—unlimited data eSIMs—to consider, but more on that shortly.
For now, let’s look at your three options for buying a physical SIM card for your Swiss adventure.
1. Get a Switzerland SIM card at the airport
Purchasing a prepaid SIM card in one of Switzerland’s airports means you can get connected shortly after landing. You can easily find SIM card stores like Swisscom and Salt in the airport shopping mall, located just after you clear customs and collect your baggage.
To purchase a SIM card, ensure your phone is unlocked and ready to accept a new SIM. You need to check whether your phone requires a standard, micro, or nano SIM and have your passport or ID for registration.
Additionally, be prepared to pay with local currency, credit/debit card, or another accepted payment method.
One thing to keep in mind when purchasing a SIM card and plan from an airport store is that you’ll likely be paying more for the convenience of doing so.
Just like with any purchase made in an airport, you’ll pay a higher price than you would elsewhere.
2. Get a Switzerland SIM card at convenience stores
Convenience stores, such as Coop, Migros, and various kiosks, are located throughout Switzerland—including city centers, tourist spots, and transportation hubs.
You’ll typically find a section dedicated to mobile accessories and SIM cards, often near the checkout area. Here, you can choose from a variety of Swiss SIM card operators.
Select a card that fits your requirements. Then, you’ll need to show your ID or passport for registration, as required by Swiss regulations.
Insert the SIM card into your phone and either follow on-screen prompts or call a specific number to complete the activation process.
This is a good option if you’re happy to pay roaming charges from when you land until you get your new SIM card, or if you’re confident in your ability to get around before getting your international data.
3. Purchase your SIM card before you travel
Now, if you’d prefer to get stuck into your Swiss adventure from the second you land—and avoid the hassle of sorting out a SIM card and data plan in Switzerland—your best bet is to buy before you fly:
- You’ll be able to enjoy your destination with a connection. Whichever route you decide to go, whether the digital or physical SIM card, a data connection helps you get around, translate from the local language and find the best touristic hotspots!
- For anyone in the world. When you buy from an online provider, they know who their customers are and know what they need. There are plenty of options with data, talk time and even SMS for those who want to stay connected all the time, and even with hotspot data.
- Secure choice. Getting your unlimited data SIM card or eSIM from a trusted online operator ensures you never have to connect to risky public WiFi networks. You’ll have a private connection, and can even add a VPN to your plan to ensure you’re 100% secure.
Many online stores, both local and international, offer a variety of SIM cards in Switzerland for tourists. One potential disadvantage of ordering a SIM card online is delivery delays.
If the SIM card doesn’t arrive before your trip, you might be left without a reliable connection in Switzerland. Also, if you face activation or compatibility issues, fixing them remotely can be more challenging than resolving them in person.
Alternatively, you can also opt for a digital SIM card from Holafly. You won’t have to wait to receive a package or delivery. You just have to go to their website, select your designation and wait for the QR code for the installation and activation. The entire process takes around five minutes and you’re good to go!
Best Switzerland SIM cards
Ready to buy your SIM card now you know that buying before you fly is your best bet? Great, here are some top options—including a virtual SIM card from Holafly.
Sunrise SIM card for Switzerland
Sunrise is one of the leading mobile network providers in Switzerland, known for its extensive coverage and reliable service. Sunrise also supports easy activation and top-up processes. It offers:
- Daily unlimited data at CHF 2.50 ($2.97) per 24 hours for unlimited data and chat.
- Mobile subscriptions starting at CHF 30.95/month ($37) for unlimited 5G surfing, calling, and SMS.
Sunrise’s extensive coverage is what makes it stand out, but keep in mind that Holafly data plans use this network to provide internet to its customers.
Swisscom SIM card for Switzerland
Swisscom is one of Switzerland’s premier mobile network providers. Their prepaid SIM cards cost CHF 19.90 and include CHF 20 credit upon activation. This makes it convenient to start using immediately without needing an additional top-up.
Swisscom offers several data plans tailored to different needs:
- 500 MB for 30 days at CHF 6.90 ($8.19).
- 2 GB for 30 days at CHF 19.90 ($23.62).
- 5 GB for 30 days at CHF 34.90 ($41.42).
You can buy it either in physical or online stores.
Salt SIM card for Switzerland
This operator is pretty new, but nonetheless a popular choice among tourists in Switzerland. A Salt prepaid SIM card is available for free, but it requires a top-up with one of their data or voice plans to activate. Here are some of the key data plans offered by Salt:
- Unlimited data-only plans at CHF 35 per month ($41.54).
- Unlimited data, calls, and SMS at CHF 59.95 per month ($71.17).
Unlimited data across Europe, calls, and SMS within Switzerland at CHF 89.95 per month
You can buy your Salt SIM card online, or from a physical shop in Switzerland.
How much does a prepaid data SIM card in Switzerland cost?
The cost of a prepaid SIM card is as low as $22 for 2 GB and up to $45 for 5 GB. This price depends on what plans you need and how long you’ll be using it.
Most prepaid SIM cards come with a small amount of data, minutes, and texts so you can use your cell phone in Switzerland. To get more data, you’ll need to buy extra packages.
However, when opting for an eSIM, you can get unlimited data for a flat fee. With the Holafly eSIM for Switzerland, there are no hidden fees and no surprises. You buy, scan and connect! Easy-peasy, let’s take a look.
Use an eSIM as an alternative for your Switzerland SIM card
An eSIM—or embedded SIM—is a virtual SIM card embedded in your phone’s hardware. It’s only when you buy and activate an eSIM plan that this virtual SIM works. It doesn’t need a physical card or installation—it’s as simple as scanning a QR code and activating the eSIM.
Holafly’s Switzerland eSIM offers excellent coverage and connectivity across Switzerland. It’s fully flexible, meaning you’re not confined by strict plans and timeframes and can be activated as soon as you land.
This card brings you benefits like:
- Unlimited data plans are available
- High-speed connection (3G/4G/LTE/5G) from Sunrise LLC and Salt Mobile SA
- Easy activation process through a QR code
- 24-hour service and support via chat or email
- Recharge your eSIM through top-ups for more days
- You buy it and receive the instructions immediately
- Hotspot and enjoy 500 MB per day to share with others
- You will connect to the best Swiss networks from Sunrise
- You can use both the eSIM and your SIM card if you have to
- You keep your WhatsApp number, so you can still use this app
Plus, if you opt for an eSIM for Europe, you will get internet in over 40 European destinations—not just Switzerland! It’s an ideal choice if you’re planning a European tour.
One thing to keep in mind with these eSIMs is that they don’t offer a phone line—it’s data-only. That being said, you can still use WhatsApp on your existing number and communicate with loved ones that way. You also need to ensure your phone is eSIM compatible—but many phones are nowadays.
Sound good? We agree—especially at these rates:
| Days of use | Cellular data | Price (USD) |
| 1 | Unlimited data | $5.90 |
| 5 | Unlimited data | $20.90 |
| 10 | Unlimited data | $36.90 |
| 15 | Unlimited data | $50.90 |
| 20 | Unlimited data | $61.90 |
| 30 | Unlimited data | $74.90 |
| 60 | Unlimited data | $106.90 |
| 90 | Unlimited data | $138.90 |
The Holafly eSIM for Switzerland is an excellent option for people in Latin America, Europe or the USA. You acquire it, wait until you land at your destination, activate the data plan, and… that’s it! Now you have an internet connection in Switzerland!
Last minute Swiss plans? No problem
Holafly’s eSIM delivers instant, reliable internet right to your phone. No hidden fees, no contracts, just pure convenience. Get your Holafly eSIM for Switzerland
Which is the best eSIM for Switzerland?
While there are many top eSIMs in Switzerland, the ideal option is Holafly. With Holafly, you get free instant shipping, easy installation and activation instructions, unlimited data, 500 MB daily for hotspots, and if you have any problems, you have 24-hour chat service and support.
An alternative for longer journeys, remote workers, and students is Holafly Connect. With 170+ destinations covered in a single, monthly-rolling plan, you’ll never have to think about accidental roaming fees or SIM swapping again. Simply choose between the three subscription options, activate in minutes, and you’re ready to travel the world:
- Unlimited data and hotspot: $64.90/month
- 25 GB: $49.90/month
- 10 GB: $39.90/month
Recommendations for choosing the best SIM for Switzerland
By now, you should have a strong overview of what options you’ve got for staying connected when traveling to Switzerland. Here’s a quick recap:
- Sorting your card before starting your travels will save you time and money as opposed to buying it at the airport or locally.
- You can opt for a physical SIM card from a Swiss provider, or a virtual SIM card from Holafly.
- A physical card requires planning, as you need to give it time to arrive before you jet off.
- An eSIM can be purchased and activated in minutes, no matter where you are in the world.
On your way to Switzerland? Grab that SIM, or eSIM, first!
So, that’s your Swiss SIM, or eSIM, sorted!
Now it’s time to focus on the real reason you’re traveling: epic mountain views, world-class chocolate, and unforgettable experiences. With Holafly’s pocket-sized data plan, you’re ready to conquer the Alps, share stunning pics, and stay connected with loved ones without breaking the bank.
Your Swiss adventure starts today.
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Based in Mumbai, Sharan Kaur Phillora has 6+ years of experience in the B2B writing industry. She has written for brands like Pocket52, Nexweave, Maze, NaNLABS, and Userpilot. When she's not working, Sharan can be found immersed in murder mystery novels or exploring Mumbai's streets on her bicycle in search of the perfect slice of pizza.
