A Telemach SIM card is a great option for staying connected while traveling in Slovenia and Croatia. This blog post covers everything you need to know, from the best plans for tourists to how to top up and activate your SIM or eSIM. Whether you need data for maps or calls to stay in touch, Telemach offers flexible solutions for a smooth travel experience. Read on to find the right option for your trip!
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Telemach in Europe
Telemach is a prominent telecommunications provider operating in Slovenia and Croatia, offering services that cater to residents and tourists. Here’s a quick overview of Telemach’s presence in these countries:
Slovenia:
- Market Position: Leads Slovenia’s broadband market with a 30.8% share (2020).
- Network: Largest Next-Generation Network (NGN), offering speeds up to 1 Gbps, with plans for 10 Gbps.
- Services: Mobile, broadband, and EON TV with 45+ pay-TV channels.
Croatia:
- Network Expansion: Upgraded 1,200+ mobile stations, expanding a 10 Gbps optical network to major cities.
- 5G Services: Near-nationwide coverage and competitive mobile plans.
In general, Telemach’s strong networks and diverse services make it a great option for staying connected in Slovenia and Croatia.
II. Telemach’s coverage and speed in Europe
Telemach offers reliable 5G connectivity and competitive speeds in Croatia and Slovenia. Below is a detailed summary of its performance:
| Country | 5G Coverage Experience (Score) | Average Download Speed | Average Upload Speed | Speed Assessment |
| Croatia | 2.5 out of 10 | 74.7 Mbps | 19.1 Mbps | Fast |
| Slovenia | 1.3 out of 10 | 44.5 Mbps | 11.2 Mbps | Moderate |
As you can see, Telemach performs exceptionally well in Croatia, with a strong 5G coverage score of 2.5 and fast speeds. In Slovenia, its 1.3 score reflects moderate but consistent performance, making it a reliable option for travelers in both countries.
III. Telemach connectivity options for travelers to the EU
Whether you’re visiting Croatia, Slovenia, or elsewhere in the EU, Telemach offers multiple connectivity solutions. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you decide which option fits your needs:
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid SIM | Physical SIM card offering voice, text, and data. | – Affordable local rates – Includes a local number for calls and SMS | – Requires SIM swap – May need a passport to purchase |
| eSIM | Digital SIM downloaded to your phone for internet access. | – No physical SIM needed – Instant activation | Requires eSIM-compatible device |
| Roaming | Use your home country’s SIM on the Telemach network. | – Keep your current number – No need for new setup | – Can be expensive – Depends on your carrier’s international roaming rates |
| Mobile Hotspot | Portable Wi-Fi device connected to Telemach’s network. | – Connect multiple devices – No SIM card swapping required | – Extra device to carry – Rental or purchase costs can add up |
Recommendation: For convenience, eSIM is ideal. If your device doesn't support eSIM, go with a prepaid SIM card. Roaming and mobile hotspots are better suited for travelers with specific preferences.
IV. Best Telemach SIM cards for tourists & costs
Telemach provides budget-friendly SIM card options for tourists in Croatia and Slovenia, ranging from €4 to €9.99 (~ $4.24 to $10.59). These plans are tailored to fit different travel durations and data needs. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Country | Plan Name | Data | Validity Period | Price (EUR/USD) | Extras |
| Croatia | NET2GO PLUS | Unlimited | 10 days | €9.95 (~$10.55) | 200 local minutes, 4G/5G speed |
| SIM2GO | 10 GB | 30 days | €9.95 (~$10.55) | 200 local minutes, 4G/5G speed | |
| Slovenia | NET2GO with a SIM card | Unlimited for 4 days | N/A | €4 (~$4.24) | Short-term connectivity |
| NET2GO SIM (Preloaded 100GB) | 100 GB (9.5 GB in EU/EEA) | 30 days | €9.99 (~$10.59) | Suitable for longer trips |
Recommendation: Choose NET2GO PLUS in Croatia or NET2GO with a SIM card in Slovenia for short trips and high data needs. For extended stays or large data allowances, the SIM2GO in Croatia or NET2GO Preloaded 100GB in Slovenia are the best options.
V. Does Telemach support eSIM?
YES. Telemach supports eSIM in both Croatia and Slovenia, making it a convenient option for travelers. In Croatia, Telemach offers tourist-friendly eSIM plans like NET2GO, with unlimited data and local minutes.
Slovenia also provides eSIM services, though specific tourist plans may not be available. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, consider using a single international eSIM for smooth coverage across Europe. This saves you the hassle of switching SIM cards in different places.
VI. Where can you buy a Telemach SIM card?
1. Where to buy a Telemach SIM card for travel
- Zagreb Airport (Croatia) – Tisak kiosks are in the arrival hall.
- Ljubljana Airport (Slovenia) – Sold at convenience stores and kiosks in the terminal.
- Telemach Stores – Located in major cities like Zagreb and Ljubljana for SIM cards and support.
- R-Kiosks and Newsstands – Find Telemach SIM cards at outlets like Tisak and iNovine.
- Supermarkets – Available at large grocery chains in Croatia and Slovenia.
2. Where to buy an Telemach eSIM
- Telemach Websites: Visit the Telemach website for each country to purchase and activate an eSIM.
- International eSIM Providers: europe-esim.com is a top choice for travelers exploring multiple European countries. We offer flexible plans covering 50+ countries, allowing great connectivity without physical SIM cards.
The eSIM platform is user-friendly, enabling quick setup with just a QR code. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, eSIMs provide reliable service and eliminate the need for visiting physical stores.
VII. How to use Telemach SIM card and eSIM
1. How to Install and Activate a Telemach SIM Card
- Insert the SIM Card: Place the Telemach SIM into your unlocked phone’s SIM slot.
- Power On Your Device: Turn on your phone to automatically detect the new SIM.
- Automatic Activation: When you call, send an SMS, or access the internet, the SIM activates.
- Configuration Messages: You might receive setup messages; follow any on-screen instructions to complete the process.
2. How to Install and Activate a Telemach eSIM Slovenia/Hrvatska
- Obtain the eSIM QR Code: Purchase the eSIM online or at a Telemach store to receive a QR code.
- Connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Scan the QR Code: On your device, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan and scan the QR code.
- Download and Activate: The eSIM profile will download; follow any prompts to activate it.
- Set as Primary (if needed): If using multiple SIMs, designate the eSIM for data or calls as preferred.
Note: Please check your detailed instructions below:
VIII. Useful USSD codes for Telemach EU SIM
Managing your Telemach EU SIM or eSIM is easy with these handy USSD codes:
1. For Telemach Croatia SIM/eSIM
To check your balance with Telemach:
- Send an SMS with the word BALANCE to 13880.
- Dial *150# for a quick update.
- Use the Telemach App for a detailed overview.
You can also conveniently check your remaining data, plan details, and credit balance using these USSD codes.
2. For Telemach Estonia SIM/eSIM
- *123# – View your account balance.
- *123*14# – Check your remaining data balance.
- *123*25# – Track your used call minutes.
- *123*60# – See plan details and the date of your next payment.
- *181# – Check any outstanding payments.
- *125*2# – Activate call forwarding.
- *125*1# – Turn off call forwarding.
- *100# – Find the service center number.
- *101# – Retrieve your phone number.
IX. Telemach Call & SMS rates in the EU
Telemach follows the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” policy, meaning you can use your domestic rates for calls, SMS, and data while roaming in EU/EEA countries. Outgoing calls to EU/EEA numbers are charged as domestic calls, and receiving calls is free.
SMS sent to EU/EEA numbers are also billed at domestic rates. Data usage is included in your plan, but a fair usage policy applies, with extra charges of €0.0019/MB after exceeding the limit. Higher rates apply for non-EU/EEA roaming, so check Telemach’s price list before traveling.
X. How to top-up your Telemach SIM card
1. For Croatia SIM
- Telemach App – Quickly recharge with an international credit card.
- Website – Top-up online using your credit or debit card.
- Stores – Pay with cash or card at any Telemach retail location.
The minimum top-up amount is 25 HRK. App and online payments are processed instantly, while vouchers may take up to 24 hours to update your balance.
2. For Slovenia SIM
- Telemach App – Quickly top up your account using your debit or credit card.
- USSD Code – Recharge by dialing *121*CODE# (you’ll need a recharge code beforehand).
- Online Banking – Add credit via platforms like Netbank SI or NLB Klik using your phone number.
- Vouchers – Purchase recharge vouchers from Mercator stores, kiosks, and other retail locations across Slovenia.
XI. FAQs
What are the main Telemach SIM card options for tourists?
Telemach offers prepaid SIM cards like NET2GO PLUS in Croatia and NET2GO Preloaded 100GB in Slovenia, tailored for short-term or long-term stays with options for unlimited data or large data allowances.
Where can I buy a Telemach SIM card or eSIM?
You can buy Telemach SIM cards at airports like Zagreb Airport or Ljubljana Airport, at Telemach stores in major cities, kiosks, or order online at telemach.hr and telemach.si.
What’s the easiest way to top up a Telemach SIM or eSIM?
Use the Telemach App or website for instant top-ups with a credit card, or purchase vouchers from kiosks, supermarkets, or retail stores like Mercator in Slovenia.
What are the Telemach call and SMS rates in the EU?
Under the “Roam Like at Home” policy, outgoing calls and SMS to EU/EEA numbers are charged at domestic rates, while incoming calls are free. Data usage beyond the fair usage policy incurs €0.0019/MB.
XII. Final words
If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia or Croatia, a Telemach SIM card is a fantastic way to stay connected without breaking the bank. With reliable coverage, competitive speeds, and convenient eSIM options, Telemach makes exploring these beautiful countries easier than ever. Whether you’re navigating scenic routes or sharing your travel moments, Telemach has you covered!