Your detailed Guide to Getting an Andorra SIM card

Using a local Andorra SIM card is one of the best connectivity options for staying in touch while traveling in Andorra. Our guide will equip you with everything you need to know about getting an Andorra SIM card: top mobile providers, how to purchase a SIM, available plan options, and practical tips for using it seamlessly and having a smooth journey in Andorra.

I. Why choose a prepaid Andorra SIM card over roaming?

While data usage can add up quickly when roaming, SIM cards are a much more affordable choice as you can elect a data/call plan that fits your travel needs in Andorra, rather than being limited to your home carrier’s roaming options.

For practical alternatives, use an Andorra SIM card for better rates and reliable coverage. Here is why:

• Local Rates: Affordable calls, texts, and data within Andorra and avoid international roaming costs for visitors.
• Reliable Coverage: Strong, consistent network across Andorra’s regions.
• Flexibility: Prepaid options allow control over usage without long-term contracts.
• Hotspot Capability: Use as a mobile hotspot for other devices.

In short, the Andorra SIM card is a great option to avoid high roaming fees, ensuring reliable connectivity for navigation, communication, and online access.

II. Andorra SIM card type – Which is the best for tourists?

For tourists visiting Andorra, there are two options: the traditional Physical SIM and the digital eSIM. Each one has its benefits and drawbacks. 

1. Prepaid Andorra SIM card

A physical SIM card is a removable card inserted into your phone, providing access to local Andorra networks for data, calls, and texts.

Using a prepaid Andorra SIM card has several benefits:

• Cost-effective: local SIM cards have reasonable prices than other connectivity options (roaming or pocket wifi)
• Wide Compatibility: Works with most unlocked devices, ensuring dependable access.
• Easy to Find and Use: Available at Andorran stores, airports, and kiosks, with straightforward prepaid options.

• Stable Connection: Often offers strong, reliable coverage, even in rural areas.

Although brings visitors several advantages, physical SIM card still has drawbacks:

• Requires Local Purchase: Must be bought upon arrival, adding a step to your travel process.
• Physical Handling: This involves swapping out your current SIM, which may mean losing access to your regular number.

2. Prepaid eSIM for Andorra

An eSIM is a digital SIM that can be downloaded directly to compatible phones, allowing local network access without a physical card.
eSIMs offer the same connectivity benefits as physical SIMs but are convenient as you can activate them remotely.

• Instant Setup: Download and activate before arrival, so you’re connected immediately.
• No Physical Card Needed: Keeps your primary SIM in place, allowing dual-SIM functionality.
• Flexibility: Convenient and flexible, ideal for any trip length, and suitable for those who want to travel to multiple countries with diverse eSIM plans

III. How much does an Andorra SIM Card cost?

As the sole telecommunications provider in Andorra, Andorra Telecom offers options for different needs, here’s an overview of their main offerings:

Plan Type	Price	Data	Local Calls	SMS	Validity	Additional Notes
S Rate Plan (Prepaid)	$9	1 GB	20 minutes	$0.17 per SMS	30 days	Unlimited local calls and texts. International calls: $0.53/min. Speeds were reduced to 64 Kbps after data limit.
M Rate Plan (Prepaid)	$19	3 GB	20 minutes	$0.17 per SMS	30 days	Unlimited local calls and texts. International calls: $0.53/min. Speeds were reduced to 64 Kbps after data limit.

Note: For the most accurate and detailed information on Andorra Telecom’s SIM card plans, please visit their official website.

So visitors to Andorra can expect to pay between $10-22 for a month of prepaid service. This pricing is mid-range compared to other European countries, offering reasonable value considering Andorra’s status as a small, mountainous country. For most tourists, the S Rate at around $11 should be sufficient for a short stay, while the M Rate at about $21.50 provides more data for longer visits or heavy internet usage.

IV. Andorra eSIM – Alternative to SIM card with unlimited data/data and calls for Andorra

Andorra SIM cards have been a popular choice for staying connected with Andorra visitors. However, Andorra eSIM has now changed the way people use the internet. 

If you’re looking for flexibility, speed, and ease of access, then Andorra eSIM might be the best data solution for your travel in Andorra.

Consider buying Andorra eSIM from europe-esim.com as a reliable provider that helps you access the Internet through the leading network operator, ensuring you stay connected throughout your stay.

Plans that may interest you

While using Andorra eSIM costs slightly more than a physical Andorra SIM card, it is more convenient for tourists because of the advantages of instant activation, flexibility in switching providers, and no need to manage a physical card.

Why you should choose Andorra eSIM:

• Offer diverse eSIM plans for any travel goals with wide coverage across Andorra
• The eSIM setup process is immediate and remote as you can receive a QR code in 5-10 minutes after purchase
• Get continuous customer support to assist with setup, technical issues

V. Buying a prepaid SIM card in Andorra – Where to buy?

You can easily buy an Andorra SIM card from these places:

1. Online

You can order an Andorra SIM card directly from Andorra Telecom’s official website. Andorra Telecom offers prepaid SIM cards with data packages ranging from 1 GB to 3 GB, priced between $10 – 21.

2. Airport

Buying an Andorra-specific SIM card at the airport can be challenging, as Andorra does not have an international airport of its own. Most travelers arrive via airports in nearby countries, such as Barcelona El Prat (Spain), Toulouse Blagnac (France), or Perpignan Airport (France).

While you can purchase SIM cards at these airports, they are typically from Spanish or French providers like Orange, Vodafone, or Movistar. These will work in Andorra but incur high roaming charges, as Andorra is not part of the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” agreement.

3. Physical stores 

You can buy an Andorra SIM Card from Andorra Telecom’s office in the country and also some local shops may offer prepaid SIM cards (though availability can vary and price might be high). 

VI. How to use Andorra SIM card

Here are the step-by-step instructions for activating an Andorra SIM card

• Buy an Andorra SIM card at an Andorra Telecom store with your passport.
• Insert SIM in an unlocked device.
• Set APN:

• iOS: Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Network – APN: “internet”
• Android: Settings > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names – APN: “internet”
• Restart the device to activate.

Follow these steps and your SIM will be ready to use!

VII. How much mobile data do you need when traveling to Andorra?

The amount of mobile data needed in Andorra depends on how you plan to use it:

• Minimal Use (1-3 GB): Ideal for travelers using data primarily for maps, occasional browsing, and social media checks. This amount typically covers a 1-5 day trip with light usage.
• Moderate Use (3-5 GB): Suitable for more frequent browsing, navigation, and sharing of photos on social media. A 3-5 GB plan is often enough for a week-long stay with moderate activity.
• High Use (10+ GB): Best for those who stream videos, make frequent video calls, or use data intensively. A plan with 10+ GB will cover heavy usage for a longer stay (2+ weeks).
• Unlimited Data: For extended trips or if you need continuous connectivity without limits, unlimited data offers peace of mind and flexibility.

Recommendation: For most tourists in Andorra, a 3-5 GB plan should comfortably meet their needs over a one-week trip.

VIII. Best mobile operators in Andorra

In Andorra, Andorra Telecom is the only telecommunications provider. Here is some information about Andorra Telecom’s services, coverage, and speed. 

Category	Details
Provider	Andorra Telecom
Services	Mobile telephony, internet, and digital television
Coverage	Extensive, reaching approximately 99% of the population
Average Download Speed	184.37 Mbps
Average Upload Speed	108.22 Mbps

In summary, Andorra Telecom provides excellent coverage and high-speed internet services, however, the costs are relatively higher due to its monopoly status.

IX. Tips on using prepaid SIM cards in Andorra

Here are some tips to help you save data while using an Andorra SIM Card:

• Enable data saver mode on your phone
• Use offline maps (download Google Maps for Andorra before travel)
• Disable background app refresh
• Turn off automatic app updates
• You can set a daily or monthly limit on your phone to avoid excessive data use.

By following these tips, you can stay connected in Andorra without exceeding your data limits on a prepaid SIM card.

X. FAQs about buying an Andorra SIM card

XI. Conclusion

This guide already took you through everything you need to know, from getting an Andorra SIM card right through to ensuring your phone stays on for the duration of your stay. Also consider checking out an Andorra eSIM for even more convenience and ease on your trip!