Do not be stuck with high roaming tariffs or search for an accessible network connection. When it comes to getting a SIM card, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport is particularly easy as you can get one the moment you set foot in Hungary allowing you a better way to get data and make affordable calls during your time in this country.
In this guide, you will find recommendations for where to purchase a SIM Card at Ferenc Liszt International Airport, the options from the Hungarian providers, as well as some useful tips for having a convenient and connected Hungary experience.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Just arrived in Budapest and looking forward to some sightseeing. Arranging for a local SIM card, and piggybacking as soon as one arrives at the airport is the only way to avoid having to use costly roaming or staying stranded looking for Wi-Fi connectivity. The Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport has a couple of shops where you can get a SIM card so that you can post your experiences in Hungary once you get there.
Relay
Relay is an international newsagent and convenience store with branches all around the world and a branch in the SkyCourt which is the main transfer zone between Terminals 2A and 2B. It sells at least one SIM card of a key Hungarian operator so you can get yourself a SIM card and other travel necessities from here.
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
- Location: SkyCourt (connecting area between Terminals 2A and 2B)
- Language Support: English and Hungarian
- Recommendation: Convenient due to its central location and long opening hours, but the SIM card selection might be limited.
WHSmith
Another very popular newsagent and bookstore chain, WHSmith plc, sells SIM card in Terminal 2A. This can be useful if you are at that terminal and looking for a SIM card and something to read in the car.
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Location: Terminal 2A, Arrivals Hall
- Language Support: English and Hungarian
- Recommendation: Convenient for Terminal 2A arrivals, but check the available providers and plans to ensure they meet your needs.
Telekom Kiosk
Actually, if you do not mind going to a mobile operator company directly, you can go to Telekom, it used to be T-Mobile and they have a kiosk at Terminal 2B. Here they sell different SIM cards and they are prepaid SIM card that has different qualities including data quality and data validity.
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
- Location: Terminal 2B, Arrivals Hall
- Language Support: English and Hungarian
- Recommendation: A good option if you prefer Telekom and want dedicated service, but only available in Terminal 2B and with more limited hours.
Important Notes:
- Terminal Differences: Note that SIM card availability and provider options might vary between Terminal 2A and 2B.
- Activation: The staff at these locations can usually help you activate your SIM card.
- Payment: Most kiosks and stores accept major credit cards and Hungarian Forints (HUF).
All necessary SIM cards may be purchased at any of these convenient locations and you can start your exciting Hungarian journey with a steady internet connection!
II. Budapest Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Here’s a table summarizing the typical SIM card options you can expect to find at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport:
Yettel:
- 50 GB data + 25 minutes for 30 days: ~$54
- Unlimited data + 50 minutes for 30 days: ~$65
Telekom:
- Travel SIM 10 days: 20 GB data in Hungary and the EU for ~ $27
- Travel SIM 30 days: 100 GB data (50 GB usable in the EU) for ~ $40
Notes:
- In some cases they might differ, it depends from retailer to retailer and from the running promotion.
- When obtaining a SIM card, bare in mind that some companies may ask for your passport for registration.
- Check the compatibility of the SIM card ad network technology of your device is compatible, for instance, has 4G/5G capability.
Based on your needs and your data specifications you will easily match with the right SIM card for your trip and for enjoying the enchanting attractions that Hungary offers.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a Budapest Airport SIM Card
The best ways to get a SIM card at Budapest Airport are extremely easy but if one takes a little zest, then things can become very comfortable. Here’s what you should have ready:
- Passport or ID: When you want to register your SIM card, you will be required to produce your passport or any other official form of identification that transforms you, like that used in Hungary.
- Unlocked phone: If you are going to have a physical SIM card, first check whether your phone is unlocked. This makes it a carrier-independent device and users can install SIM cards from other carriers.
- Payment method: Configuration of payment method: Generally most of the kiosks in the airport accept Visa, and MasterCard credit cards, as well as the local currency, Hungarian Forints (HUF). In casual conversation watch your p’s and q’s you never know when you might need that five dollar bill for tips.
- Know your data needs: Before you go, have an estimate of how many databases you anticipate you will use depending on your travel nature and frequency of use. This will assist you in making the appropriate decision when making a decision on the data package to purchase.
Ensuring these entails, you will be positioned well to buy and activate your sim card soon after you arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport.
IV. Hungary eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Ferenc Liszt International Airport
eSIM technology has become increasingly popular as a convenient substitute for standard SIM cards. With Hungary eSIM, it’s important to consider whether an eSIM might be more suitable for your requirements compared to a physical SIM card.
- Instead of scrambling to find a physical SIM card as soon as you arrive, you can easily activate your eSIM digitally via a QR code or an app. This means you can get connected right away, which is especially handy for late-night arrivals or during off-peak times.
- Additionally, eSIMs let you manage several profiles effortlessly. You can seamlessly switch between your home network and a local plan in Iceland, ensuring you stay reachable for important calls and messages while you’re on the go.
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- Check whether your smartphone or tablet is compatible with eSIM functionality. Most newer models from major brands (like Apple, Google, and Samsung) support eSIM; however, older versions may not. The eSIM-compatible device list.
- If your device does not support eSIM, then purchasing a physical SIM card remains your best bet for connectivity.
Staying freely in Hungary with Hungary eSIM from europe-esim.com!
V. FAQs
Are SIM card kiosks open 24/7 at Budapest Airport?
Unfortunately, no. SIM card kiosks and stores at Budapest Airport generally have limited operating hours, typically closing by 10:00 PM. If you get there in the evening for instance, you may only be able to buy a SIM card the following morning or you can purchase an eSIM online that is activated immediately.
Can I buy a SIM card at Budapest Airport if I arrive late at night?
As has been noted earlier, if one gets there late, then there may be very little one can do. Ensure to look at the operating hours of individual stores (Relay, WHSmith, Telekom) before proceeding or getting an eSIM for an instant connection.
Do the SIM card kiosks/stores at Budapest Airport accept credit cards?
Yes, the majority of SIM cards are sold at kiosks and shops in Budapest Airport that includes credit card options such as; Visa and MasterCard, as well as cash payments in HUF.
Where can I find SIM card kiosks/stores in the airport?
Prepaid SIM cards are easily purchasable from the kiosks and stores situated available at the Arrivals Halls of terminals 2A & 2B commonly near baggage claim gates and exit gates. Search for current logos of Telekom, Vodafone, and other mobile operators such as Yettel, Relay, or WHSmith.
VI. Final Words
Before you embark on your trip to Budapest to get to soak up the rich culture and fantastic landmarks, you must connect to avoid some hassles during your travels. In Budapest Airport, you can access connectivity with no hassle as buying a local SIM card or even an eSIM is easy. There is nothing more exciting than having too many choices from Hungary’s most popular telecom companies browsing the crowded cities, documenting your discoveries on social networks, or just voice calling your friends and family.