Staying connected while traveling through Europe is simple with an A1 SIM Card or eSIM. Offering reliable coverage in countries like Austria, Croatia, and Slovenia, A1 is a great option for tourists who want easy access to mobile data and calls. With flexible plans and smooth activation, you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about staying connected. This guide will help you choose the best A1 option for your travels!
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about A1 in Europe
A1 is a major mobile provider in 6 European countries, making it a popular choice for travelers. With wide network coverage and flexible plans, this is one of the best choices when traveling to Europe.
Here are some quick facts about it:
- Countries: A1 operates in Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Belarus, Serbia, and Slovenia.
- Market Size: A1 has 24 million customers across 6 countries. In Austria, it controls 40% of the market, making it the largest provider.
- Network Coverage: A1 covers 99% with 4G and is quickly expanding 5G. In Austria, 50% of people already have access to 5G, with full coverage expected by 2025. Croatia and Slovenia also have 5G in key tourist spots.
- Services: Offers mobile plans, broadband, and eSIMs for tourists.
In conclusion, A1’s extensive coverage and diverse service offerings make it an ideal choice across Central and Eastern Europe. Their strong network presence and easy-to-use SIM and eSIM options ensure you stay engaged effortlessly during your travels.
II. A1 coverage and speed in Europe
A1 is one of the most reliable mobile operators across Central and Eastern Europe. The table below provides a snapshot of its coverage and network speeds in key countries:
| Country | Coverage | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Comment |
| Austria | 99% 4G, 50% 5G; full 5G by 2025 | 50-70 Mbps (5G) | 12-13 Mbps (5G) | Fast speeds; strong coverage in cities like Vienna. |
| Bulgaria | 99.4% 4G, 5G in key cities & resorts | 30-50 Mbps (4G) | 10-20 Mbps (4G) | Reliable speeds, especially in tourist spots. |
| Croatia | 99% 4G, 85% 5G by year-end | 200-250 Mbps (5G) | 40-50 Mbps (5G) | Strong performance in coastal tourist areas. |
| Belarus | 99% 4G | 30-40 Mbps (4G) | 10-20 Mbps (4G) | No 5G yet; decent 4G speeds. |
| Serbia | 99% 4G, 5G expanding in cities | 150-200 Mbps (5G) | 30-40 Mbps (5G) | Fast 5G speeds in popular tourist spots. |
| Slovenia | 99% 4G, 73% 5G, 99% by 2025 | 200-250 Mbps (5G) | 40-50 Mbps (5G) | Strong speeds in cities like Ljubljana and Bled. |
As you can see, A1 provides excellent coverage, particularly in Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia, where 5G is expanding rapidly. Austria offers the best speeds, making it ideal for tourists coming to Austria. Belarus relies on 4G, with slower speeds compared to the rest.
When choosing a mobile service, consider your destination’s 4G or 5G availability to ensure the best connectivity during your trip.
III. A1 connectivity options for travelers to the EU
A1 offers several connectivity options that are convenient and flexible, depending on your needs. Below is an overview of the 4 main methods: prepaid SIM cards, eSIMs, roaming, and mobile hotspots.
| Options | Description | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid SIM Card | A traditional SIM card with prepaid credit for calls, texts, and data. |
- Easy to find in airports or stores - Control over costs - No long-term commitment |
- Requires SIM -Compatible phone - Limited to one device |
| eSIM | A digital SIM that can be activated without a physical card, ideal for travelers. |
- No need for a physical SIM card - Instant activation - Can be used on multiple devices |
Not all phones support eSIM |
| Roaming | Use your home country’s SIM with A1’s partner networks in the EU. |
- No need to switch SIMs - Convenient for short trips |
- Expensive if not on an EU - Friendly roaming plan - May have high fees |
| Mobile Hotspot | A portable device that provides internet access to multiple devices. |
- Connect multiple devices - Great for families or groups - Can work in remote areas |
- Requires separate device - Can be bulky to carry around - Needs recharging |
Recommendation: Choose your A1 connectivity option based on your trip length and needs:
- Short trips: eSIM or roaming are quick and easy options.
- Longer trips: Prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs offer better value and flexibility.
- Group travel: Use a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to share the internet across devices.
IV. Best A1 SIM cards for tourists & costs
Below is the table comparing all A1 SIM card plans for tourists and costs in the 6 countries that A1 covers.
| Country | Tourist SIM | Price (~USD) | Data | Validity | Calling & Texting |
| Austria | A1 Vienna SIM Card Tourist | ~$15.7 | 10GB | 7 days | 1000 mins, 1000 texts, free incoming calls |
| A1 Austria Prepaid Surf | ~$20 | 20GB | 30 days | Data only | |
| A1 Fun Young SIM Card | ~$15 | 20GB | 30 days | 1000 mins, 1000 texts | |
| Bulgaria | Tourist SIM 20GB | $6.21 | 20GB | 30 days | Domestic calls under 0.30 BGN/min |
| Tourist SIM 30GB | $9.32 | 30GB | 60 days | Domestic calls under 0.30 BGN/min | |
| Tourist SIM 50GB | $15.53 | 50GB | 90 days | Domestic calls under 0.30 BGN/min | |
| Croatia | A1 Tourist SIM | ~$11 | Unlimited data at 5G speed | 10 days | 100 minutes, 100 SMS |
| Pay 1 Get 2 | ~$11 | Unlimited 4G/LTE | 10 days | N/A | |
| Belarus | No Limits 2.0 | ~$15 (BYN 29.99) | Unlimited data | 30 days | 600 mins to domestic networks |
| Serbia | Prepaid Tourist SIM | ~$3.40 | 20GB | 3 days | Local calls included |
| Slovenia | Go! XS | ~$5.20 | 2GB | 3 days | N/A |
| Go! S | ~$10.40 | 7GB | 30 days | EU roaming included | |
| Go! M | ~$15.60 | 15GB | 30 days | EU roaming included |
V. Does A1 support eSIM?
Yes, A1 supports eSIM, allowing customers to activate service on compatible devices without a physical SIM card. This can be convenient for travelers needing coverage across A1’s network in countries like Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia.
When choosing an eSIM plan for use with A1, review details like data, roaming, and pricing to find the right fit. The flexibility of eSIM makes it a useful option for those requiring mobile service in A1’s coverage areas.
VI. Where can you buy an A1 SIM card?
1. Where to buy an A1 SIM card for travel
You can easily find A1 SIM cards at these locations:
- A1 stores – Look for official A1 shops in major cities across Austria, Croatia, Belarus, Bulgaria, and Slovenia. They offer a full range of prepaid SIM options.
- Convenience stores – Many local shops and newsstands in A1-serviced countries stock prepaid A1 SIM cards.
- Supermarkets – Major chains like Spar, Billa, and Hofer often carry A1 prepaid SIMs.
- Electronics retailers – stores like MediaMarkt and Saturn usually have A1 SIM cards in stock.
- Airport kiosks – Most international airports in A1 countries have shops selling SIM cards right after arrival.
Pro tip: When buying in person, bring your passport and accommodation details. The staff will help you set up your SIM card on the spot.
2. Where to buy an A1 eSIM
A1 eSIM profiles are available through:
- A1 website – Visit your destination country’s A1 website to purchase and activate eSIM plans digitally.
- International eSIM providers – Providers like europe-esim.com offer A1 network access through their eSIM services.
Experience seamless connectivity across Europe with our A1 network eSIM from Europe-esim.com. Our eSIM plans offer extensive coverage in over 50 countries, ensuring you stay connected no matter where your travels take you.
With flexible options including unlimited data and local phone numbers, you can enjoy reliable high-speed internet and make calls without the hassle of physical SIM cards or roaming charges. Activate your eSIM in minutes and enjoy the freedom to explore Europe with confidence, backed by our 24/7 multilingual customer support.
Stay connected, stay supported, and make the most of your European adventure with our A1 network eSIM!
Note: To use an A1 eSIM, ensure your device is eSIM-compatible and running recent software. Most newer iPhones and Android phones support eSIM technology.
VII. How to use A1 SIM card and eSIM
1. How to install and activate an A1 SIM card
- Step 1: Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone.
- Step 2: Power on your phone to automatically detect the network.
- Step 3: Activate the SIM by calling or visiting A1’s website.
- Step 4: Configure APN settings if necessary, and start using the SIM
2. How to install and activate A1 eSIM
- Step 1: After purchasing, receive your eSIM QR code via email.
- Step 2: Go to your phone settings, select “Mobile Data” or “Cellular,” and tap “Set Up Cellular.”
- Step 3: Scan the QR code, and the eSIM profile will install automatically.
- Step 4: Follow any on-screen prompts to complete activation, which may include entering a confirmation code.
- Step 5: Once activated, your eSIM is ready for calls, texts, and data, with no physical SIM required.
Note: Please check your detailed instructions below:
IX. A1 Call & SMS rates in the EU
When using an A1 SIM card or eSIM across the EU, the call and SMS rates are generally standardized under the EU’s roaming regulations, but there are still slight differences depending on the country. Here’s a general overview of A1’s rates for calls and SMS within the EU:
| Service Type | Rate (EUR) | Rate (USD) |
| Calls within the EU | €0.19/min | $0.22/min |
| Calls to non-EU countries | Varies (up to €2) | Varies (up to $2.30) |
| SMS within the EU | €0.08/SMS | $0.10/SMS |
| SMS to non-EU countries | €0.19/SMS | $0.22/SMS |
Note: There are no additional roaming fees due to the "Roam Like at Home" policy when calling or texting within the EU.
X. How to top-up your A1 SIM card
Topping up your A1 SIM card is easy and can be done in a few simple ways:
- Top-Up Voucher: Purchase a voucher from A1 stores, supermarkets, or convenience shops. Dial 102VoucherCode# on your phone to redeem it.
- Online Recharge: You can top up with your credit or debit card using the Moj A1 app or the A1 website.
- Retailer Recharge: At participating retail locations, provide your phone number, and the cashier will top up your SIM directly.
- Balance Check: Dial *101# to check your balance instantly.
XI. How to check your A1 account usage and balance
- USSD Code: Dial *101# to see your balance and available data or minutes instantly.
- Moj A1 App: The Moj A1 app allows you to check usage, top up your balance, and manage services easily on your phone.
- Online: Log into your A1 account on the official website for a detailed balance and usage history.
- Customer Service: Call 0800 091 091 for a balance check (free for prepaid users).
XII. FAQs
How do I top-up my A1 prepaid SIM card?
You can top-up your A1 prepaid SIM card by purchasing a voucher from A1 stores, supermarkets, or petrol stations. Enter the code using 102VoucherCode#, or recharge online through the Moj A1 app.
Where can I buy an A1 SIM card Croatia?
A1 SIM cards are available at airports, supermarkets, kiosks, and official A1 stores in Croatia. You can also purchase them online and have them delivered to your address.
How do I check my balance on an A1 SIM card?
You can check your balance by dialing *101# or through the Moj A1 app. Both methods provide real-time updates on your remaining data, calls, and SMS.
Does A1 offer eSIMs for tourists?
Yes, A1 offers eSIMs in several countries, including Austria, Croatia, and Bulgaria. You can purchase them online or at A1 stores. Before buying, ensure your device is eSIM-compatible.
XIII. Final words
We hope this guide has given you a clear understanding of using an A1 SIM Card during your travels in Europe. Staying connected has never been easier with its reliable network and flexible plans. Whether with a SIM card or eSIM, A1 offers great options to suit every traveler’s needs. Have a great trip!