Staying connected while traveling in Denmark requires careful planning. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Denmark SIM cards: best provider, data package comparisons, most cost-effective options for different traveler types, activation tips, and money-saving strategies for your Denmark trip.
Table of Contents
I. Why choose a prepaid Denmark SIM card over roaming?
While many travelers opt for international roaming when visiting Denmark, this seemingly convenient choice often comes with significant drawbacks including high costs, slower data speeds, and unexpected hidden fees.
Instead, purchasing a Denmark SIM card not only saves money but also provides a more reliable connection, full access to local services, and the convenience of a Danish phone number.
Here are the key benefits of using a Denmark SIM card:
- Lower costs than international roaming
- Faster data speeds through direct local network access
- Better nationwide coverage across Denmark
- Denmark phone number for bookings and services
- Variety of plans to match your travel duration in Denmark
- Easy top-up options if needed
II. Denmark SIM card type – Which is the best for tourists?
When traveling in Denmark, visitors often have two options for Denmark prepaid SIM: physical SIM card and eSIM.
1. Prepaid Denmark SIM card
A prepaid Denmark SIM card is a traditional plastic chip you physically insert into your phone’s SIM tray. It stores your phone number and carrier info, letting you make calls, send texts, and use data in Denmark.
Using a Denmark SIM card offers several benefits:
- Works with most phones
- Available for immediate purchase at airports/shops
- Easy to switch between phones
However, it has some drawbacks:
- Requires physical installation/SIM removal
- Can be lost/damaged
- Limited to one device at a time
2. Prepaid eSIM for Denmark
A prepaid eSIM for Denmark is a built-in digital SIM that’s like having a virtual phone line downloaded to your device. It’s essentially a modern, space-age version of the traditional SIM that lives inside your phone’s chip.
A Denmark eSIM is widely chosen for many benefits:
- Instant digital activation
- No need to swap physical cards
- Can store multiple plans
- Can’t be lost or damaged
- Purchase before arrival
However, expect some disadvantages:
- Only works with modern/newer devices
- Can’t transfer to another phone easily
Important Note: To use eSIM, make sure that your cell phone is:
• Unlocked (to receive signals from Denmark mobile network operators)
• eSIM-compatible: Most modern models of cell phones support eSIM. See a full list of eSIM-supported devices.
III. How much does a Denmark prepaid tourist SIM card/ eSIM cost?
Denmark has 04 main mobile carriers and 02 mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs):
- TDC/YouSee,
- Telenor Denmark,
- Telia Denmark,
- 3 Denmark; and
- Lebara Mobile Mobile (MVNO of Telenor and Telia)
- Lycamobile (MVNO of Telia)
1. Buy Prepaid Lycamobile Denmark SIM Card Plans and Price
Here are various prepaid packages available for visitors using Lycamobile:
- Denmark SIM Only: 5GB + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark, valid for 30 days = $10.49 USD
- Denmark Explorer: 15GB + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark + 500 international minutes to call 50+ destinations, valid for 30 days = $20.99
- Denmark Unlimited: Unlimited data + unlimited calls and texts within Denmark + unlimited international minutes to call 50+ destinations, valid for 30 days = $31.49 USD
🔎 Important Note: Be aware that the prepaid SIM card of Lycamobile limits free EU roaming. So, you should use the Lycamobile plan for traveling in Denmark only, not for traveling around Europe.
Important Note: Be aware that the prepaid SIM card of Lycamobile limits free EU roaming. So, you should use the Lycamobile plan for traveling in Denmark only, not for traveling around Europe.
2. Buy Prepaid Lebara Mobile Denmark SIM Card Plans and Price
Data bundles of Lebara Mobile include:
- 20GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $7.24
- 60GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $14.53 USD
- 100GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $15.44USD
- 500GB of high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $35.16 USD
- Unlimited high-speed data, valid for 30 days = $42.26 USD
Important Note: These prepaid plans:
- Use the network of Telenor and Telia Denmark.
- Only work in Denmark, not other EU countries
- Have no access to 5G networks in Denmark
In short:
- If you only travel Denmark, then you can choose either Lycamobile or Lebara Mobile data packages. But, Lycamobile are slightly cheaper.
- If you travel onwards to Europe, do not use them because the data is limited (though there is EU roaming included), go for another option: an eSIM card.
IV. Denmark eSIM – Alternative to SIM card with unlimited data/data and calls for Denmark
Traditional mobile SIM card for travel in Denmark is a great choice. However, there are still some drawbacks as you need to locate a retail outlet, verify phone compatibility, and manage a small physical card that could potentially be misplaced.
A superior alternative is eSIM Denmark, a digital SIM integrated directly into your device. With numerous advantages, eSIMs are increasingly becoming the preferred option for international travelers due to their unparalleled convenience and adaptability.
For a smooth connectivity experience during your Danish travels, consider acquiring an eSIM from europe-esim.com to ensure reliable mobile service.
Plans that may interest you
V. Buying a prepaid Denmark SIM card- Where to buy?
Visitors in Denmark can buy a SIM card very easily from some places: online, at the airport, or from physical stores in the country.
1. Buying a prepaid Denmark SIM card online
You can purchase a physical Denmark SIM card online before your trip for added convenience. Many providers, including Lebara Mobile (MVNO of Telenor and Telia) and Lycamobile (MVNO of Telia) offer this option.
2. Buying a prepaid Denmark SIM card at the airport
Visitors can also conveniently buy a SIM card in Denmark upon arrival at major airports in Denmark, such as Copenhagen Airport. They are widely available at kiosks or vending machines. However, airport prices may be slightly higher, and you might need to queue at peak hours.
3. Buying a prepaid Denmark SIM card at physical stores
VI. How to use Denmark SIM card
Below is a step-by-step guide to help you activate a SIM card for Denmark:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports GSM and 4G/5G.
- Buy a SIM: Purchase at the airport, stores, or online (eSIM available).
- Insert SIM: Turn off your phone, insert the SIM, and power it back on.
- Activate: Follow SMS instructions or provider guidelines to activate.
- Set APN (if needed): Configure internet settings automatically or manually via provider instructions.
- Top Up: Recharge via app, website, or vouchers if needed.
By following these steps, you’ll have seamless connectivity throughout Denmark!
VII. How much mobile data do you need when traveling Denmark?
The amount of data you need for a Denmark trip depends on your activities and trip length. Here’s a breakdown of common activities and their estimated data requirements:
Activity | Estimated Data Usage per Hour | Usage Frequency | Recommended Data |
Navigation (Google Maps) | ~5 MB | Frequent (e.g., sightseeing daily) | 1-2 GB/week |
Social Media Browsing | ~100 MB | Moderate (2-3 hours/day) | 2-4 GB/week |
Streaming Music | ~70 MB | Regular (1-2 hours/day) | 1-2 GB/week |
Streaming Video (SD) | ~500 MB | Occasional (1 hour/day) | 3-5 GB/week |
Video Calls | ~300 MB | Rare (a few calls) | 1 GB/week |
General Web Browsing | ~60 MB | Light (1-2 hours/day) | 1-2 GB/week |
Email & Messaging | ~10 MB | Frequent (text-based use) | <1 GB/week |
🔎 Recommendations:
- Light Users (basic navigation, messaging, emails): 2-3 GB/week.
- Moderate Users (social media, occasional streaming): 5-7 GB/week.
- Heavy Users (video streaming, regular video calls): 10+ GB/week.
Overall, visitors to Denmark typically need 5-7 GB per week, balancing navigation, social media, and light streaming. Choose a SIM card Denmark that aligns with your needs, and enjoy exploring Denmark with ease!
VIII. Best mobile operators in Denmark
Denmark has many mobile operators with TDC Group (YouSee) being the top one, who offer the most extensive coverage and reliable service, ideal for nationwide use.
Criteria | TDC Group (YouSee) | Telenor Denmark | Telia Denmark | 3 (Hi3G Denmark) |
Coverage (4G/5G) | 99% | 98% | 99% | Urban-focused |
Average Download Speed | 145.45 Mbps | 147.49 Mbps | 163.41 Mbps | 145.50 Mbps |
Tourist Plan Features | Prepaid SIMs with extensive coverage | Budget-friendly prepaid options | Prepaid SIMs with streaming perks | Data-centric prepaid plans |
Pricing | Less competitive | Affordable | Less competitive | Affordable |
Customer Satisfaction | High | Good | Good | Moderate |
Best For | Nationwide use | Budget travelers | Entertainment | Urban tech users |
✨✨✨ The average download speed data is sourced from the November 2024 Speedtest Global Index report on Denmark's mobile network performance
Overall, for the best mobile experience in Denmark, TDC Group (YouSee) provides top coverage and reliability, while Telenor Denmark offers affordable plans with good service. Visitors who need high-speed data will benefit from 3 (Hi3G Denmark), and Telia Denmark.
IX. Tips on using prepaid SIM card in Denmark
Here are some tips to make the most of your SIM card Denmark, maximize your data usage and avoid unnecessary costs
- Preload maps, music, and videos while on Wi-Fi.
- Enable low-data mode or use lightweight apps.
- Lower video quality in streaming apps to save bandwidth.
- Turn off auto-updates and large file downloads.
- Monitor usage via your phone or the provider’s app to avoid overages.
- Save data and stay connected efficiently when traveling in Denmark!
X. FAQs about buying Denmark SIM cards
What network has the best 5G coverage?
TDC (YouSee) and 3 (Hi3G Denmark) offer excellent 5G speeds in urban areas. For broader 4G coverage, TDC is the best.
Can I keep my Denmark SIM card for future visits?
Prepaid SIM cards usually expire after 6-12 months of inactivity. Check the provider’s terms for specific details.
Can I use my Denmark SIM card in other EU countries?
Yes, most SIM cardsin Denmark include EU roaming
Will my phone work in Denmark?
Most modern smartphones work in Denmark, as the country uses GSM networks. Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports 4G or 5G bands.
What’s the internet speed like in Denmark?
Denmark has excellent internet infrastructure. Average mobile download speeds are over 100 Mbps, and Wi-Fi in public places is fast and reliable.
Can I tether my phone’s data in Denmark?
Yes, most prepaid plans allow tethering so you can share your mobile data with other devices.
XI. Conclusion
By now, Denmark visitors’ve gained an extensive understanding of SIM card Denmark options, from traditional prepaid SIM Card Denmark to eSIM Denmark. Reliable communication can significantly enhance your Danish experience, ensuring you stay connected with ease and confidence.