Stay Connected in the Netherlands: KPN SIM card & eSIM Guide

This guide thoroughly examines KPN SIM card and eSIM, focusing on essential information for visitors to the Netherlands. You’ll find precise details about plans, pricing, coverage, and activation procedures—all presented without unnecessary elaboration.

I. Quick facts about KPN in Europe

KPN (Koninklijke KPN N.V.) is the Netherlands’ leading telecommunications provider, focusing exclusively on the Dutch market.

• EU Roaming: Free “Roam Like at Home” policy for calls, texts, and data within EU countries.
• Fiber Network Expansion: Plans to connect 80% of Dutch households to fiber-optic network by 2026.
• 5G Leadership: Acquired 100 MHz spectrum in the 3.5 GHz band in 2024 for enhanced 5G coverage.
• Sustainability Leader: Climate-neutral since 2015, with significant investments in green energy.

KPN combines reliable connectivity with strong environmental commitments, establishing itself as a prominent figure in European telecommunications.

II. KPN coverage and speed in Europe

1. KPN coverage 

KPN network achieves 99.4% coverage in the Netherlands, which means customers can make calls and use the internet almost everywhere.

• 4G Coverage: 99.3% of the country, providing high-speed mobile internet
• 5G Coverage: Actively expanding network toward nationwide coverage

In short, with KPN’s wide 4G and growing 5G coverage for visitors.

2. KPN speed

Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data, KPN was awarded “Netherland’s Fastest Mobile Network” for Q1–Q2 2023.

• Speed Score™: 126.63
• Median Download Speed: 136.12 Mbps
• Median Upload Speed: 21.45 Mbps

With the fastest download and upload speeds in the country, KPN is ideal for travelers needing consistent, high-performance mobile data on the go.

III. KPN Connectivity options for travelers to the EU

Visitors traveling in Netherlands can opt for many connectivity options provided by KPN including: SIM Card, eSIM, International Roaming, and Wi-fi Hotspots.

Option	Description	Pros	Cons
KPN SIM Card	A traditional, physical SIM card that grants access to local EU mobile networks, offering dependable coverage for calls, messages, and internet browsing.	Affordable, easy to use, wide coverage.	Requires swapping SIM, limited to one device.
KPN eSIM	An digital alternative to the physical SIM, it integrates into compatible devices, providing the same connectivity benefits without the need for hardware.	No physical SIM needed, quick setup, same benefits as SIM.	Limited to eSIM devices, activation needs the internet.
International Roaming	Allows KPN customers to use their existing plan for data, calls, and texts across EU countries.	Seamless, no extra charges in the EU, convenient.	Only for KPN users, charges may apply outside the EU.
Wi-Fi Hotspot	A portable device that establishes a private wireless network, allowing multiple devices to share a single connection	Connects multiple devices, secure, group-friendly.	Requires a device purchase/rent, battery-dependent.

The best connectivity option depends on your trip length and data usage habit, here is an overview:

• Frequent Short Visits: Roaming – Easy to reactivate for KPN users, no repurchase needed.
• Short Trips (1–7 Days): eSIM – Affordable, quick setup, no physical SIM required.
• Long Trips (Over a Week): eSIM or Prepaid SIM – Cost-effective with large data options.
• Group Travel: Wi-Fi Hotspot – Budget-friendly, connects multiple devices securely.

IV. Best KPN SIM cards for tourists & costs

Below are some of the best KPN tourist SIM options for tourists:

KPN SIM Card	Price (USD)	Data	Local calls	Messages	Validity
KPN Prepaid SIM	~$4	–	60 minutes	60 SMS	30 days
	~$10	1GB	–	–	30 days
	~$10	500MB	60 minutes	60 SMS	30 days
KPN Prepaid SIM Card	€4.99 ($5.25)	None (add-on required)	Pay-as-you-go	Pay-as-you-go	Active with credit
1 GB Data Bundle	€10 ($10.50)	1 GB	N/A	N/A	30 days
2 GB Data Bundle	€15 ($15.75)	2 GB	N/A	N/A	30 days
5 GB Data Bundle	€20 ($21.00)	5 GB	N/A	N/A	30 days
YourTravel SIM 5GB eSIM	€19.99/€24.99~($21/$26)	5 GB	Not included	Not included	15 days/31 days
YourTravel SIM 20GB eSIM	€29.99/€34.99~($31/$37)	20 GB	Not included	Not included	15 days/31 days
YourTravel SIM 50GB eSIM	€39.99/€44.99~($42/$47)	50 GB	Not included	Not included	15 days/31 days

In short, KPN’s Prepaid SIM is ideal for those needing calls, texts, and data flexibility, while the TravelSIM eSIM is perfect for data-only users with seamless digital activation and wide European coverage. 

V. Does KPN support eSIM?

Yes, KPN supports eSIM technology. 

Their support includes their TravelSIM eSIM service. It offers quick online setup and large data plans for use across Europe. 

However, choose a physical KPN SIM card only if you need to make local calls or send SMS.

VI. Where can you buy a KPN SIM card & eSIM?

1. Where to buy KPN SIM card for travel

You can purchase a KPN SIM card for travel at various locations throughout the Netherlands:

• KPN Stores: Located in major cities, these stores offer a range of prepaid options and assistance with activation.
• Supermarkets: Chains like Albert Heijn and Jumbo stock KPN SIM card, providing convenient access during regular shopping hours.
• Fuel Stations: Outlets such as Shell and Texaco carry KPN SIM card, making it easy to purchase one while on the road.
• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: For immediate connectivity upon arrival, Airport Telecom or vending machines dispense KPN SIM cards at Amsterdam Airport.

2. Where to buy KPN eSIM

• KPN Official Website: Visitors can buy directly from KPN Website for authentic products and support.
• International eSIM Providers: Providers like europe-esim.com offer eSIM with KPN network access through their eSIM services.

Choose europe-esim.com for its effortless process, enabling users to buy, scan, and connect without SIM swaps. It offers extensive coverage on reliable high-speed local networks across the Netherlands, with affordable, flexible plans from 3 days to a month. The service is versatile, including data-only or plans with a Netherlands phone number for calls and texts, ensuring seamless connectivity while traveling.

Get your eSIM from europe-esim.com today and experience hassle-free, high-speed internet for your travel!

VII. How to use KPN SIM card and eSIM

Here are some steps to activate tour KPN SIM card and eSIM KPN:

1. How to install and activate a KPN SIM card

To install and activate your KPN SIM card:

• Insert the SIM: Place the SIM card in your device and power it on.
• Activate: For prepaid cards, activation is automatic upon first use in the Netherlands.
• Configure Device Settings:If your device doesn’t automatically connect to the KPN network, manually select it in your device’s network settings.
• Test Connectivity: Make a test call or access the internet to confirm activation.

For further assistance, Visit KPN Support for help.

2. How to install and activate KPN eSIM

To install and activate your KPN eSIM:

1. Check Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM. Most modern iPhones and select Android devices are compatible.
2. Log in to MijnKPN: Open the MijnKPN app, go to “Mobiel,” and select your mobile number.
3. Request eSIM: Choose “Simkaart vervangen” (Replace SIM card) and select eSIM.
4. Verify: Enter the verification code sent via SMS to your current number.
5. Install eSIM Profile: Follow the app’s instructions to download and install the eSIM on your device.
6. Test: Confirm activation by making a call or using mobile data.

IX. KPN Call & SMS rates in EU

When using your KPN prepaid SIM card within the European Union (EU), the following rates apply:

• Outgoing Calls: €0.23 ($0.24) per minute.
• Incoming Calls: €0.12 ($0.24) per minute.
• SMS: €0.07 ($0.24) per message.

These rates are consistent with the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” regulations, allowing you to use your mobile services across EU countries at the same cost as in the Netherlands.

X. How to top-up your KPN SIM card

You can top-up your KPN SIM card at:

• KPN Stores/Retailers: Purchase top-up vouchers at KPN stores across the Netherlands, then scan or enter the code to recharge.
• Online: Top up through KPN website using iDEAL, credit card, or PayPal.
• KPN Prepaid App: Download the app to manage your account and top up directly.
• Automatic Top-up: Schedule regular top-ups through the KPN Prepaid App or MijnKPN on your preferred date each month.

Most users find the KPN Prepaid App or website most convenient, offering quick recharge with multiple payment options.

XI. How to check your KPN account usage and balance

To monitor your KPN account usage and balance, you have several convenient options:

•  KPN Prepaid App: Download the KPN Prepaid App to view your remaining minutes, MBs, and text messages. The app also displays the validity of your bundles and incurred costs.
• USSD Codes:

• Dial *101# and press the call button to check your prepaid balance.
• For bonus credit, dial *107#.
• Alternatively, send a free SMS with the word “SALDO” to 1266 to receive your balance information.
• MijnKPN: Log in to your MijnKPN account via the website or app to access detailed information about your usage and balance. This platform provides comprehensive insights into your account.

These methods ensure you can easily stay informed about your KPN account status.

XII. FAQs

XIII. Final words

This guide has equipped you with all critical information about KPN’s mobile solutions for tourists. Whether you opt for a KPN SIM card, eSIM KPN, or purchase from a third-party provider like Europe eSIM, you now have the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision and stay connected during your Dutch travels.