Having a reliable internet connection while travel to Athens airport via local SIM cards is one of the most effective ways to stay connected in Greece.

In this guide, let’s dive into the comprehensive guide on where to buy, prices & plans of top Athens Airport SIM cards.

SIM card at Athens Airport

I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Athens Airport

There are several spots where Greece visitors can go and find a SIM card at Athens Airport:

  • You can find SIM cards for tourists at the SIM local stores at the Baggage Reclaim Area of Non-Schengen flights and in the Arrivals All Users Area near exit 1.
  • Upon your arrival, you will also encounter automated SIM card vending machines before proceeding to passport control andthe Satellite Terminal at the arrivals level.
  • Opening time: daily from 06:00 to 22:00.
SIM local at Athens Airport
SIM local at Athens Airport

*Operating hours may change due to unforeseen circumstances

Important Notes:

  • Availability: While these kiosks generally have good stock, availability might vary depending on the time of year and demand.
  • Activation: The staff at these kiosks can usually help you activate your SIM card on the spot.
  • Payment: Most kiosks accept credit cards and cash (Euros).

One can easily make that connection by seizing a SIM card at one of these places and soon as get off the plane, you embrace the world of connectivity ready to discover Athens and more.

II. Athens Airport SIM Card options and costs

The prices and plans of SIM cards at Athens International Airport can vary depending on the mobile operators and time:

For Prepaid SIM Starter Packs:

  • Cosmote: €9.90 – €19.90 ($11 – $22)
  • Vodafone: €9.90 – €29.90 ($11 – $33)
  • Wind: €9.90 – €19.90 ($11 – $22)

These starter packs generally include a basic amount of data (1-5GB), plus some credit for domestic calls/texts.

For Tourist/Travel Data Plans:

  • 5GB data valid for 7-15 days: Around €15 – €20 ($16 – $22)
  • 10GB+ data valid for 30 days: Around €20 – €30 ($22 – $33)

The tourist data plans focused more on data rather than voice/texts.

You can expect to pay between €10 – €30 ($11 – $33) at the Athens airport for a prepaid Greek SIM card that includes a decent data package to get you started for 1-4 weeks of travel.

It’s recommended to compare the plans at different operator stores, as occasional promotions may offer better data/pricing. 

Tips:

  • If unsure which of the SIM cards to take, do not hesitate to consult the particular store vendor. They will assist you choose the right plan for yourself depending on what you prefer and the amount of money that you are willing to spend.
  • Before buying a SIM card, ensure to put into consideration the amount of data offered by the card, how valid the data is and any other hidden charges to be met.

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

Getting a SIM card is very simple once one has landed in Athens International Airport; however, there are few measures that one can take to make it easier. Here’s what you should have ready:

  • Passport or ID: When registering your SIM card, don’t forget about the identification check; you will have to present your passport or any other governmental identification document, as it has been with other SIM cards that I used in Greece.
  • Unlocked phone: If you intend to rely on a physical SIM card then your phone should be unlocked. This means the use of SIM cards from other providers or it is not bound to a given carrier company.
  • Payment method: At the airport, most kiosks will take Visa, Mastercard, and Euros, so make sure to bring some just in case. Well, I guess it’s never a bad thing to have some money ‘saved up’ for a rainy, or more aptly, a rainy week.
  • Know your data needs: Learn approximately how much data you will require before you travel by contemplating your travel and activity patterns. This will assist in urging the right data package.

With these essentials ready you shall be in a position to purchase and activate the SIM card and almost immediately at Athens International Airport.

IV. Greece eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Athens International Airport

An eSIM is more or less an upgraded and more flexible version of the familiar plastic SIM card. An eSIM is an embedded version of SIMs that is virtually downloaded to your gadget as a means of enabling you to subscribe to a particular mobile plan.

Why eSIMs Are So Convenient:

  • Skip the hassle: No need to find a store, wait in line or handle a small SIM card.
  • Instant activation: Activate your eSIM as soon as you land and connect to the internet immediately.
  • Keep your number: You can keep your existing phone number while using an eSIM.
  • Flexibility: Store multiple eSIM profiles on your phone for different countries or carriers.

Important Notes about eSIMs:

  • Compatibility: eSIMs are compatible with newer iPhone models (iPhone XS and later) and a growing number of Android smartphones. Check your phone's specifications to ensure it supports eSIM with the eSIM-compatible device list.
  • Unlocked phone: Your phone must be unlocked to use an eSIM from a different carrier than your current one.

Europe-esim.com is one of the most reliable eSIM providers in Greece, specializing in customize-eSIM plans for visitors. Here is what Greece eSIM from europe-esim stand out:

  • Convenience & flexibility: Using eSIM saves time and inconveniences cause visitors don’t need to swap into a new physical SIM card. Moreover, tourists can buy eSIM online before arrival at
  • Cost-effective: If you plan on using data during your Greece travel, an eSIM can save your data budget on roaming fees.
  • Diverse options: Greece tourists can choose from multiple plans to choose the best suits for their needs and budget, and trip length.
Greece esim plans
Greece esim plans

V. FAQs

Are SIM card kiosks open 24/7 at Athens International Airport?

Sometimes some of the kiosks may be open for more hours than usual, but they do not work throughout the night. It’s best to plan your SIM card purchase within the typical operating hours of the kiosks, which are usually between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM.

Can I buy a SIM card at Athens Airport if I arrive late at night?

So, once you get there, especially if it’s late at night, there may not be much to choose from. While cutting down the costs, it is advised to, however, check the opening hours of the kiosks (Germanos, Vodafone, Cosmote) or else, one can simply buy an eSIM online and activate it as soon as they arrive.

Do the SIM card kiosks at Athens Airport accept credit cards?

Yes, virtually all the SIM card vendors at the Athens International Airport sell and use both Visa and master card credit cards as well as cash in Euros.

VI. Final words

Buying a SIM card at the Athens International Airport is one of the most efficient ways to guarantee that you will have an adequate Internet connection together with call services in Greece.

Consider using a Greece eSIM as your data solution, will help you move around comfortably, update friends and followers, and avoid being confused and lost.

2 thoughts on “Guide to Getting a SIM Card at Athens International Airport (ATH)

  1. Pingback: Your Guide to Cosmote Greece SIM Cards and eSIM 2024

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