eSIM Hungary vs SIM Card Budapest: What’s Better for Travelers? [+Special Discount]

Planning a visit to Hungary? Whether you’re exploring Budapest’s vibrant cityscape, relaxing in its world-famous thermal baths, or venturing to charming towns like Debrecen or Miskolc, reliable internet is a must.

While traditional SIM cards are widely available, eSIM technology offers a faster, more convenient way to stay connected during your trip.

This guide tackles the key question: SIM Card or eSIM Hungary? We’ll share where to get a SIM card in Budapest, explain why eSIMs are the smarter choice, and show you our comparison table for the top eSIM plans for Hungary. Plus, we’ll help you unlock exclusive discounts for some eSIM plans.

Let’s start with some basic information!

Who are the Main Operators in Hungary?

The Hungarian telecom market is served by several key providers, all offering good coverage and competitive plans:

• Magyar Telekom (Telekom): Known for its extensive network and reliable service, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
• Yettel Hungary: Previously known as Telenor, Yettel is the second-largest operator in Hungary and is known for flexible data packages and competitive pricing.
• Vodafone Hungary: Offers competitive rates and flexible plans with excellent coverage in urban and rural areas.

These operators ensure you have access to stable and reliable connectivity throughout Budapest and beyond. 

Where Can I Get a SIM Card in Budapest?

If you prefer the traditional route, here are some common places to buy a SIM card in Budapest:

• Airports: Upon landing at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, you’ll find SIM cards available at retail kiosks in the arrivals area. These are convenient for travelers looking to get connected immediately, but may come with higher prices.
• Mobile Carrier Stores: In major cities like Budapest, Debrecen, and Szeged, you can visit stores operated by Hungary’s leading mobile providers such as Magyar Telekom, Yettel Hungary, and Vodafone. Staff can help you choose the best plan, but you’ll need to show a valid passport, and activation can take time.
• Convenience Stores: Many Tesco and Spar locations across Hungary stock prepaid SIM cards for Hungary. These are quick and easy to buy, but may require self-activation.
• Electronics Stores: Large retailers like MediaMarkt sell prepaid SIM cards from various operators, allowing you to compare plans and choose the one that best suits your needs.
  

SIM Card Budapest vs. eSIM: Why Choose an eSIM?

While purchasing a traditional SIM card in Budapest is an option, eSIMs offer a far more convenient and modern solution for short-term travelers.

But what exactly is an eSIM? An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that allows you to connect to mobile networks without the need for a physical SIM card. This means no fiddling with tiny cards or visiting stores to get connected.

Here’s why an eSIM is the smarter choice:

• Avoid Waiting in Line and Paperwork: Buying a physical SIM card in Hungary often requires a passport and, in some cases, a local address. With an eSIM, you can skip the paperwork, avoid long lines, and activate your plan in minutes.
• Instant Activation: Your eSIM is ready to use as soon as you arrive in Budapest. Unlike traditional SIM cards that you need to buy onsite, eSIMs can be bought prior to your trip, providing immediate connectivity upon landing.
• Keep Your Original Number: An eSIM allows you to retain your primary phone number, so you can make calls, send texts, and stay connected on WhatsApp without any disruptions or the need to inform your contacts of a new number.
• No Physical SIM Handling: An eSIM downloads directly to your smartphone, eliminating the need to swap SIM cards or risk losing your primary one
• Flexible Plans: eSIM providers offer short-term plans tailored specifically for tourists, making them ideal for weekend getaways or extended stays in Hungary.
• No Language barrier: Buying a SIM card in Hungary can sometimes be challenging, as not all store staff speak English fluently. With an eSIM, you can purchase and set up your plan online English or even in your own language, making the process stress-free and straightforward.

In short, eSIMs offer unparalleled convenience, flexibility, and reliability, making them the ideal choice for travelers exploring Budapest and beyond.

eSIM Hungary: Comparison Table for the Best eSIM Deals

Finding the right eSIM for Hungary depends on your data needs, trip length, and budget. To make your decision easier, we've compared the top eSIM providers, highlighting their pricing, features, and coverage so you can choose the best plan for your travels.

Why We Recommend eSIM in Hungary

Staying connected while traveling is essential, and top eSIM providers like Holafly, Esquik, Airalo, and Jetpac offer seamless connectivity and reliable service in Hungary. 

Whether you’re exploring Budapest’s historic streets or heading into the Hungarian countryside, these eSIMs ensure fast, hassle-free internet access throughout your journey.

Here’s why we recommend eSIM for travelers in Hungary:

• Trusted Global Providers: These eSIMs are widely used in hundreds of destinations, offering a dependable solution for international travelers.
• Instant Activation: Purchase and activate your eSIM within minutes, so you can connect as soon as you arrive in Hungary.
• Flexible Data Plans: From unlimited data options to short-term budget plans, providers offer choices to fit every travel need.
• Reliable Network Coverage: Providers connect to Hungary’s leading networks, including Yettel and Vodafone Hungary, ensuring strong coverage in Budapest, Debrecen, Miskolc, and beyond.

For travelers looking for affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use connectivity, Holafly, Esquik, Airalo, and Jetpac offer some of the best eSIM solutions for Hungary.

eSIM Hungary: Flexible Data Plans [+Special Discounts]

1. Holafly

Holafly offers flexible plans to meet your travel needs, with unlimited data options for worry-free connectivity. Simply choose the duration that suits you best.

Below is an overview of the most popular options:

• 3 Days Unlimited Data – €11.90
• 5 Days Unlimited Data – €18.90
• 7 Days Unlimited Data – €26.90
• 15 Days Unlimited Data – €46.90
• 20 Days Unlimited Data – €56.90

For the most up-to-date pricing and an exclusive 5% discount, visit Holafly’s website.

2. Esquik

Esquik provides affordable and high-speed eSIM plans, making it easy for travelers to stay connected throughout Hungary. With a range of flexible data options, you can select the plan that fits your trip length.

Check out the most popular Esquik eSIM plans for Hungary below:

• 7 Days 1 GB Data - €4.50
• 15 Days 2 GB Data - €7.50
• 30 Days 5 GB Data - €13.50
• 30 Days 10 GB Data - €22.00

For the latest pricing and an exclusive discount, visit Esquik’s website.

3. Airalo

Airalo’s eSIM plans offer a convenient and cost-effective way to access reliable internet while traveling in Hungary. Whether you’re staying for a few days or a longer trip, there’s a plan to suit your needs.

Here’s a look at Airalo’s top eSIM plans for Hungary:

• 7 Days 1 GB Data - €4.50
• 15 Days 2 GB Data - €7.50
• 30 Days 5 GB Data - €13.00
• 30 Days 10 GB Data - €21.00

Visit Airalo’s website for updated pricing and available plans.

4. Jetpac

Jetpac is ideal for budget travelers looking for low-cost, high-data eSIM plans in Hungary. Whether you need a short-term package or a long-term option, Jetpac provides great value with seamless activation.

Explore the most popular Jetpac eSIM plans for Hungary below:

• 4 Days 1 GB Data - €1.00
• 7 Days 3 GB Data - €5.00
• 30 Days 10 GB Data - €11.50
• 30 Days 15 GB Data - €14.50

For the latest deals and pricing, check Jetpac’s website.

How Does an eSIM for Hungary Work?

Setting up an eSIM is easy and perfect for travelers. Here’s how it works:

1. Check Compatibility: Make sure your smartphone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology.
2. Choose Your Plan: Visit the provider's website and pick a plan that fits your trip duration.
3. Receive Your eSIM: Instantly get your QR code or manual installation code via email.
4. Install Before Your Trip: Download the eSIM profile to your phone before departure, but activate it upon arrival in Budapest/Hungary to avoid early data usage.
5. Adjust Settings and Activate after arrival: Upon arrival in Hungary, turn off your local provider’s cellular data, and set up your phone to use eSIM's internet.

SIM Card Budapest vs eSIM Hungary: Conclusion

While a physical SIM card can provide connectivity, it’s often not the most practical solution for short-term visitors. Instead, an eSIM for Hungary eliminates the need for paperwork, physical cards, or store visits, making it a faster, easier option for travelers.

With an eSIM Hungary you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about finding or activating a physical SIM. Don't forget to check our comparison table to find out the best eSIM deal for you!