Buying a local SIM card is essential for staying connected in Cyprus. With a Cyprus SIM card, you’ll have a local phone number, reliable data access, and affordable calling rates. This guide walks through the entire process, so you can get set up quickly and focus on enjoying your time in the country.
Table of Contents
I. Why choose a prepaid Cyprus SIM card over roaming?
Using a local SIM card while traveling to countries like Cyprus is often more economical and practical than roaming. It gives you access to affordable data and local calls without the risk of high roaming charges or unpredictable fees.
Here are some benefits of using a Cyprus SIM card
- Cost Savings: Generally cheaper for data and local calls than roaming.
- Data Packages: Generous data allowances tailored for tourists.
- Network Quality: Direct access to local networks for better coverage and speed.
- Local Number: Easier and cheaper for making local calls.
II. Cyprus SIM card type – Which is the best for tourists?
When choosing a SIM card type in Cyprus, you have two main options: a physical SIM card and a virtual (Cyprus eSIM)
1. Prepaid Cyprus SIM card
A SIM card is a small, removable chip that goes in your phone’s SIM slot. It contains your phone number and network identification details, enabling your device to connect to the local network.
Using a Cyprus SIM card offers a smooth and reliable connection during your travel in Cyprus:
- Widely available at local shops, airports, and kiosks in Cyprus.
- Compatible with almost all unlocked phones.
- Easily swapped out if you need a replacement.
However, be aware of these disadvantages of Cyprus SIM:
- Requires a physical store visit to purchase and install.
- You need to keep track of the small SIM card, which could be lost or damaged.
- Limited flexibility if you want to switch between multiple numbers or plans quickly.
2. Prepaid eSIM for Cyprus
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is built into compatible phones and activated through software rather than by inserting a physical card.
A Cyprus eSIM offers many benefits for travelers such as:
- Convenient to set up online before or after arrival in Cyprus.
- Instant activation without needing to visit a physical store.
- Allows switching between multiple numbers or plans easily on the same device.
However, there are still some drawbacks:
- Only compatible with newer, eSIM-enabled phones.
- Switching phones requires re-downloading and activating the eSIM on the new device.
🔔 Important Note: To use eSIM, make sure that your cell phone is:
- Unlocked (to receive signals from Cyprus mobile network operators)
- eSIM-compatible: Ensure your phone supports eSIM before purchasing. Check this eSIM-compatible list before you buy.
III. How much does a Cyprus prepaid tourist SIM card/ eSIM cost?
A Cyprus SIM card with data packages ranges from €7 ($7.53) for smaller plans up to €52 ($55.90) for larger options.
In the table below, you’ll find a comparison of Cyprus prepaid SIM card options offered by major Cypriot providers, including Cytamobile-Vodafone, and PrimeTel:
| Provider | Plan Name | Data Allowance | Validity | Additional Credit | Prices |
| Cyta Vodafone | Cyta Tourist eSIM | 20GB | 30 days | 50MB upon activation | $10.99 |
| PrimeTel | Combo Top-up 1 | 60GB | 30 days | 600 mins, 600 SMS, €2 credit | $11.00 |
| Combo Top-up 2 | 250GB | 30 days | 2500 mins, 2500 SMS, €2 credit | $22.00 | |
| Cyprus eSIM | Data-only | Daily 1GB | 3 days | $6.00 | |
| Daily 3GB | 3 days | $13.90 | |||
| 10 GB | 10 days | $16.50 | |||
| Data with Calls | 12GB – 70GB | 14 days/ 28 days | Unlimited calls and SMS within Europe, 2 hours of global calls, 1,000 global SMS. | Starts at $21.90 |
Note: For the most current information, please visit the official websites of the providers or contact their customer service directly.
In summary, for reliable coverage across Cyprus, Epic is recommended. For budget-friendly options, Cytamobile-Vodafone provides good value and flexible data plans for SIM cards for Cyprus.
IV. Cyprus eSIM – Alternative to SIM card with unlimited data/data and calls for Cyprus
Using a SIM card in Cyprus is a convenient way to stay connected, offering reliable coverage, and affordable plans, especially with EU roaming benefits. However, drawbacks like SIM registration requirements, and compatibility issues with locked phones may arise.
For an even easier alternative, consider an eSIM Cyprus. This hassle-free, flexible way to stay connected while traveling eliminates the need for a physical Cyprus SIM card for tourists. With quick activation, eSIMs are ready to use instantly, allowing seamless access to data upon arrival.
Stay connected in Cyprus instantly with Cyprus eSIM
V. Buying a prepaid SIM card in Cyprus – Where to buy?
You can buy a Cyprus prepaid SIM Card from three main places: online, airport, and physical stores.
1. Online
Cyprus SIM cards can be found online on official provider websites (such as Cyta, Epic, and Primetel) and various online retailers (like SIMOptions and SimCorner). There are lots of plans for Cyprus, starting from around $2.
2. Airport
Visitors can purchase a SIM card for Cyprus upon arrival at the country’s main international airports: Larnaca International Airport (LCA) and Paphos International Airport (PFO). There are some kiosks, booths, or convenience stores that offer Cyprus SIM cards.
3. Physical stores
Visitors coming to Cyprus can purchase a Cyprus SIM card at various physical locations, including official provider stores (Cyta, Epic, Primetel), convenience stores, or supermarkets like Alphamega and Sklavenitis may offer SIM cards at their customer service desks or electronics sections.
VI. How to use a Cyprus SIM card
To activate a SIM card for Cyprus, follow these general steps (specific steps may vary by provider):
- Insert SIM: Power off, insert SIM, power on.
- Activate
- Cyta (Cytamobile-Vodafone): After inserting the SIM, call 1882 to activate it.
- Epic (formerly MTN): Insert SIM, restart the phone, and allow auto configuration.
- PrimeTel: Insert the SIM card, restart your device, and follow any prompts for activation.
- Top-Up: Add credit online, via app, or with a voucher.
- Set Up APN (If Needed): Sometimes, you may need to adjust your phone’s APN settings. This is typically sent by the provider via SMS after activation.
Once activated, your Cyprus SIM card should be ready to use for calls, texts, and data.
VII. How much mobile data do you need when traveling to Cyprus?
To determine how much mobile data you might need while traveling in Cyprus, you need to consider your average data use by activity:
- Navigation (Google Maps): ~5-10 MB per hour
- Social Media Browsing: ~100-150 MB per hour
- Photo/Video Uploading: ~5 MB per photo, ~50-100 MB per minute of HD video
- Streaming (YouTube, Spotify): ~300 MB per hour for music, ~700 MB per hour for HD video
- General Web Browsing: ~60 MB per hour
The table below estimates the amount of mobile data you might need during a trip to Cyprus, depending on typical travel activities and internet usage patterns.
| Usage Type | Activities Included | Estimated Data Needed (per week) |
| Light User | Basic maps, messaging, minimal social media | 1-2 GB |
| Moderate User | Regular social media, map use, occasional photo/video uploads | 3-5 GB |
| Heavy User | Frequent streaming, high-resolution uploads, video calls | 10+ GB |
For most travelers, a 3-5 GB plan should provide ample coverage for navigation, social media, and occasional uploads. However, if you anticipate frequent video streaming, uploads, or remote work, consider a 10 GB or unlimited plan for a worry-free experience.
VIII. Best mobile operators in Cyprus
Cyprus’s internet services are reliable, Cyprus ranked 32nd globally for mobile internet speeds (according Speedchecker) . In Cyprus, the primary mobile network operators are Cyta-Vodafone, Epic, and PrimeTel.
| Feature | Cytamobile-Vodafone | Epic | PrimeTel |
| Coverage | Nationwide, including rural areas | Urban and suburban focus | Good in cities, limited rurally |
| Download Speed | 31.43 Mbps | 55.90 Mbps | 26.01 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | 9.55 Mbps | 17.62 Mbps | 8.52 Mbps |
| Tourist Plans | Data-heavy, easy activation | Generous, flexible setup | Customizable options |
| Pricing | Premium | Competitive | Affordable |
| Customer Satisfaction | High, reliable service | Positive, great value | Favorable, flexible plans |
| Best For | Coverage and reliability | Speed and affordability | Budget-friendly options |
In conclusion, Epic is the leader in speed, with Cyta-Vodafone and PrimeTel following. Coverage is extensive across all networks but is most robust for Cyta-Vodafone and Epic.
IX. Tips on using prepaid SIM cards in Cyprus
Here are practical tips to help you manage and save mobile data while using a Cyprus SIM card.
- Download offline maps before your trip.
- Restrict background data for non-essential apps.
- Lower streaming quality (e.g., YouTube, Netflix).
- Turn off auto-updates for apps.
- Use data-saving browsers (e.g., Opera Mini).
- Check data usage regularly in phone settings.
- Enable data saver mode on your phone.
Following these tips can help you stay connected in Cyprus without using excessive data.
X. FAQs about getting a local Cyprus SIM card
Can I keep my original number while using a Cyprus SIM?
No, you generally cannot keep your original phone number when using a SIM card for Cyprus as it gives you a Cyprus number. To stay reachable on your original number, consider using a dual SIM
Can I use my Cyprus SIM card in other EU countries?
Yes, as Cyprus is in the EU, most SIM plans offer EU-wide roaming. However, check the specifics of your plan, as data caps and terms may vary by provider.
How do I check my remaining balance and data usage?
Dial your provider’s balance-checking code or use their app.
USSD Code:
Cyta (Cytamobile-Vodafone): Dial *110#
Epic (formerly MTN): Dial *133#
PrimeTel: Dial *133#
XI. Conclusion
Therefore, following this guide, one can get a very easily accessible SIM card for Cyrus, and you will have flawless connectivity during your visit. To make your Cyprus trip more comfortable, consider Cyprus eSIM for tourists from Europe eSIM.