Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is the main international airport serving Portugal’s capital city. As a popular European destination, Lisbon sees millions of travelers passing through this airport each year. Many visitors choose to get a local SIM card at Lisbon Airport during their trip to stay connected with affordable data, calls, and texts. This guide will provide detailed information on the different SIM card options at Lisbon Airport and tips for an easy SIM purchase.

SIM card at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport

There are several locations at Lisbon Airport to purchase a SIM card after arriving:

1. Vodafone

At the Vodafone store, you can purchase prepaid SIM card packages for tourists. The staff is available to help you set up the SIM card and get it activated. In case you arrive outside the store’s opening hours, Vodafone also has a vending machine located near the store where you can purchase a SIM card.

Vodafone’s prepaid SIM cards are 5G ready, providing high-speed mobile data connectivity for your travels in Portugal. The Vodafone store is a convenient option for purchasing a SIM card right when you arrive at Lisbon Airport.

  • Terminal 1 – Arrivals – Before Security. Opening hours: 7:00 – 23:00
  • Terminal 1 – Departures – Before Security. Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00
  • Terminal 1 – Baggage Area – After Security. Opening hours: 6:00 – 21:00
Vodafone store at Lisbon Airport
Vodafone store at Lisbon Airport

2. Money Exchange

In addition to the Vodafone store, there are also a couple of currency exchange stores in the Arrival Hall at Lisbon Airport that sell prepaid SIM cards.

One of these is located right next to the tourist information center in the main Arrival Hall. This is a rather small currency exchange counter that also offers prepaid SIM card options.

Another currency exchange store can be found near luggage belt 8, and this one also has a Lycamobile sign, indicating they sell Lycamobile SIM cards.

  • Terminal 1 – Arrivals – Before Security. Opening from 5:00 to 1:00
  • Terminal 1 – Boarding Gate 15 – After Security. Opening from 6:00 to 19:00
  • Terminal 1 – Central Plaza – After Security. Opening from 5:00 to 24:00
  • Terminal 1 – Luggage Collection Room – After Security. Opening from 5:00 to 24:00

When purchasing your SIM, be sure to ask about data amounts, validity periods, and included calls/texts for each plan option to choose the best one for your needs. Also, confirm if registration is required for SIM activation.

II. Lisbon Airport SIM Card Options and Costs

The main Portugal mobile networks with prepaid SIM cards available at Lisbon Airport are Vodafone and NOS. Here is an overview of plan options and costs from each provider:

SIM Card Provider Data Plan Price 
Vodafone 10GB data in Europe + 500 mins/SMS + 50 intl mins/SMS for 30 days €25 (~US$27)
Vodafone Unlimited data (no EU roaming) for 30 days (hotspot available) €35 (~US$38)
Currency Exchange (Lycamobile) 25GB data + 1000 mins/SMS for 30 days €10 (~US$11)

Both Vodafone and NOS have very competitive prepaid data rates compared to other European countries. Their unlimited data SIM plans available at Lisbon Airport offer great value if you need lots of data during your trip. Be sure to show your passport when purchasing a SIM card at Lisbon Airport.

III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Lisbon Airport

Buying and setting up a SIM card at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport is quick and convenient if you come prepared with a few key items:

  • Unlocked Phone – Your phone must be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card abroad. Contact your home provider in advance to request an unlock code. iPhones can normally be unlocked easily through provider account settings.
  • SIM Card Size Adapter – Portugal uses the standard SIM size. If you have a phone requiring a micro or nano SIM, be sure to bring an adapter. Adapters can easily be purchased online before your trip.
  • Passport – When purchasing a prepaid SIM card, you must show your passport as ID to register the SIM card. Airlines also require passport identification when boarding flights to Portugal.
  • Cash/Debit Card – Have Euros cash or a debit card available for payment when buying your SIM card. Most shops accept credit cards as well but may charge an extra fee. ATMs are also available at the airport.

Coming prepared with the above items allows for a quick, hassle-free SIM card purchase after your flight lands in Lisbon.

IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Lisbon Airport

best esim for portugal
Best eSIM for Portugal

Arriving at Lisbon Airport? Ditch the hassle of physical SIM cards and switch to a convenient eSIM instead. With an eSIM, you can instantly connect to local mobile networks in Portugal without having to wait in line for a SIM card. Simply download your eSIM before your trip and you’ll be ready to go as soon as you land. eSIM offers seamless connectivity, greater flexibility, and no risk of lost or damaged SIM cards. It’s the modern, fuss-free way to stay connected at Lisbon Airport and beyond.

Benefits of eSIM at Lisbon Airport:

  • Instant connectivity upon arrival – no waiting for a SIM card
  • Easily switch between local and home mobile plans
  • No risk of lost or damaged physical SIM cards
  • Avoid SIM card slot limitations on your device
  • Simple digital setup before you travel

Say goodbye to SIM card slot limitations and physical SIM swaps – eSIM is the future of mobile roaming for savvy travelers. Get your eSIM now and enjoy the convenience at Lisbon Airport.

Ditch the SIM card hassle at Lisbon Airport
Get your eSIM and stay connected evermore!
Buy my eSIM

V. FAQs

Can I buy a SIM card at Lisbon Airport?

Yes, you can buy a SIM card at Lisbon Airport. There are multiple mobile provider stores such as Vodafone Portugal and convenience stores throughout the terminals where you can purchase a prepaid SIM with data, local calling, and SMS packages.

Can I get a SIM card at Lisbon Airport with unlimited data?

Yes, both Vodafone and NOS offer prepaid SIM card plans with unlimited 4G LTE data at Lisbon Airport. Prices are around €25 and plans are valid for 30 days. This is great value compared to many other European countries.

How long does the SIM card registration process take at Lisbon Airport?

If you have your passport and other documents ready, the registration and activation process normally takes only 5-10 minutes at most. English-speaking staff can assist at Vodafone, NOS, and some other shops.

Can I use a Lisbon SIM across Europe?

Portugal prepaid SIMs include European roaming capabilities, allowing you to use your data, calls, and texts when traveling across the EU. Additional roaming charges may apply in some countries.

Are there other mobile providers selling SIM card at Lisbon Airport?

Aside from the major networks Vodafone and NOS, some smaller virtual network operators also offer SIM cards at Lisbon Airport such as Lycamobile. However, data rates/speeds may be slower on these networks.

VI. Final Words

Getting connected with a local SIM card at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport upon arrival makes travel easier across Portugal. Choose from great value Vodafone and NOS prepaid plans, remember to bring a passport and SIM adapter, and unlock your device in advance. Alternatively, using the convenience of an eSIM provider will allow instant connectivity. With various solid options, staying mobile in Lisbon is simple and affordable.