Staying connected in Hungary is essential for navigating, sharing moments, and keeping in touch. A Hungary SIM card gives you reliable internet access, local call options, and saves you from costly roaming fees. In this guide, you’ll find all the details – from top providers and plans to where to buy and activate your SIM – making it easy to stay connected throughout your Hungarian journey.
Table of Contents
I. Why choose a prepaid Hungary SIM card over roaming?
International roaming can quickly become a budget-buster, with unexpected charges piling up whenever you check your maps or scroll through social media. A Hungarian tourist SIM card offers a more practical solution, especially such as:
- Affordable local rates instead of expensive roaming fees
- Reliable coverage across Hungary’s major cities and towns
- Large data allowances at reasonable prices
- Access to local phone numbers for booking restaurants or accommodations
- Freedom to use your phone without constantly watching data usage
- Better network speeds compared to throttled roaming connections
II. Hungary SIM card type – Which is the best for tourists?
With a Hungary SIM card, you can choose between two primary options: prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs. Here’s a detailed insight of each type to help you decide which suits your needs best:
1. Physical Hungary SIM card
A physical SIM card is a tangible chip inserted into your phone, providing access to local mobile networks. Using Hungary local SIM card has been a popular choice with visitors due to its conveniences:
- Works with most unlocked mobile phones.
- Purchase and use instantly upon arrival.
- Offers options for data, calls, and texts.
Although offering several advantages, there are some drawbacks when using local SIM cards:
- Requires swapping out your existing SIM card.
- Risk of losing your home SIM card when removed.
- May need to visit specific stores or kiosks to purchase.
2. Hungary eSIM
An eSIM Hungary is a digital SIM embedded in your device, allowing you to download and activate a mobile plan without a physical card. Hungary eSIM now has changed the way visitors connect to the internet, here is why:
- No need to remove your current SIM; manage multiple profiles digitally.
- Purchase and activate online before or upon arrival.
- Reduces plastic waste associated with physical SIM cards.
Although offering several advantages, eSIM has drawbacks:
- Only newer smartphones support eSIM functionality.
- Often limited to data services, with calls and texts via apps.
- Initial setup may be unfamiliar to some users.
Important Note: To use a Hungary eSIM, make sure that your cell phone is:
- Unlocked (to receive signals from Hungary's mobile network operators)
- eSIM-compatible: Only newer phone models support eSIM. See a full list of eSIM-supported devices.
III. How much does a Hungary prepaid tourist SIM card cost?
Hungary tourist SIM cards range from $2.40 to $26, offering different levels of data, voice minutes, and SMS benefits. Here’s a detailed breakdown of popular options:
| SIM Card | Cost | Data | Voice Minutes | SMS | Validity |
| Telekom Tourist SIM | ~$14 | 10 GB | 300 | 300 | 30 days |
| Telekom Tourist SIM+ | ~$20 | 20 GB | 500 | 500 | 30 days |
| Telekom Tourist SIM Premium | ~$26 | 30 GB | 1,000 | 1,000 | 30 days |
| Vodafone TUTI100 | ~$2.40 | 100 MB | None | None | 30 days |
| Yettel 1GB Pay As You Go | ~$3 | 1 GB | None | None | 30 days |
| Yettel 3GB Pay As You Go | ~$8 | 3 GB | None | None | 30 days |
| Yettel 5GB Pay As You Go | ~$10 | 5 GB | 25 | None | 30 days |
| Yettel 0GB Pay As You Go | ~$1.50 | None | None | None | 30 days |
🔊 Recommendation:
The Telekom Tourist SIM Premium is ideal for tourists who need ample data (30 GB) and a significant amount of voice minutes and SMS, making it suitable for extended stays or higher data usage. The Yettel 1GB or 3GB plans offer affordable alternatives for budget-conscious travelers with modest data needs.
IV. Hungary eSIM – Alternative to SIM card with unlimited data/data and calls for Hungary
If you want to skip the search for a physical SIM card shop in Hungary, Hungary eSIM is exactly what you need. This digital SIM solution lets you connect before you even land in Hungary, eliminating the need to hunt for a physical SIM card at the airport or navigate local stores.
As the #1 eSIM provider in Hungary, europe-esim.com offers reliable Hungary eSIM packages specifically designed for travelers to Hungary. Our plans run on 3 major Hungarian networks, including Yettel, T-Mobile (formerly Telekom), and Vodafone, ensuring solid travel coverage.
Our Hungary eSIM plans come with flexible options to suit different travel needs:
- Data packages ranging from 500MB/day to unlimited data
- Validity periods for multiple plans
- Data speeds up to 4G/LTE/5G
- Instant delivery within 5 minutes of purchase
Plans that may interest you
V. Buying a prepaid SIM card in Hungary – Where to buy?
There are 3 ways to get a SIM card in Hungary for tourists: online, at the airport, and in physical stores. Below, let’s explore each method.
1. Online
Purchasing a SIM card online before your trip offers convenience and peace of mind. Several providers allow you to order a SIM card to be delivered to your home or picked up upon arrival. This ensures you’re connected as soon as you land.
2. Airport
Upon arrival at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, you can find SIM cards at:
- Vodafone Store: Located in Terminal 2B, near gate B, offering various prepaid options.
- Relay Convenience Stores: These stores are present in Terminal 2A and Terminal 2B and offer SIM cards from different operators.
Purchasing at the airport is convenient, though prices may be higher than other locations.
3. Physical Stores
Hungary SIM card also can be found at:
- Official Mobile Operator Stores: Yettel, Vodafone, and T-Mobile stores.
- Electronics Retailers: Media Markt, Euronics, or BestByte
- Supermarkets and Convenience Stores: Tesco, Spar, or Auchan
- Gas Stations: MOL, OMV, or Shell
VI. How to use a Hungary SIM card
Activating your Hungary SIM card is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to get connected:
1. Insert the SIM Card: Begin by inserting the SIM card into your unlocked mobile phone. Ensure your device is compatible with the SIM card’s size (standard, micro, or nano).
2. Wait for Network Detection: After powering on your phone, it should automatically detect the local network. This may take a few moments.
3. Activate the SIM: Some SIM cards require activation. This can often be done by dialing a specific number, sending a text message, or following instructions provided by the carrier.
4. Check Your Balance and Plan: After activation, verify your balance and plan details:
- Telekom Hungary: Dial *102# to check your balance.
- Yettel Hungary: Dial *111# to check your balance.
- Vodafone Hungary:
- In the MyVodafone application
- On the website Vodafone. It will be free of charge.
- With an SMS code – it will cost HUF 25; MAX customers can get it free of charge. In this case, please send the right code to number 171 in a message like below:
- For your tariff plan, actual primary balance and credit expiry date (and MAX customers can get their tariff bonuses with this code): FEI
- For your credit bonus balance: BALANCE
- Call 171 – it will cost HUF 19.
VII. How much mobile data do you need when traveling to Hungary?
Deciding how much data you’ll need in Hungary depends on how you plan to use your phone. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right amount:
- For Basic Use (1-2 GB): Perfect for short trips if you mainly need directions, quick browsing, and messaging.
- For Moderate Use (3-5 GB): Good for sharing photos, browsing social media occasionally, and staying connected.
- For Heavy Use (5-10+ GB): Ideal if you’re frequently online, using maps, making video calls, or streaming content.
Data-Saving Tips:
- Use WiFi when possible, especially in hotels, restaurants, and public spaces.
- Download maps for offline use with Google Maps so you don’t rely solely on mobile data.
- Take advantage of unlimited WhatsApp messaging if your SIM card includes it.
VIII. Best mobile operators in Hungary
Based on recent evaluations, Magyar Telekom is the leading provider, offering extensive coverage and high-speed internet services. Here’s a comparison of the main operators:
| Operator | Coverage (0-10 points) | Download Speed | Upload Speed | Customer Service |
| Magyar Telekom | 7.6 | 38.8 | 15.4 | Reliable |
| Yettel Hungary | 7.3 | 42.9 | 14.1 | Good |
| Vodafone Hungary | 7.5 | 24.4 | 10.1 | Satisfactory |
(source: Opensignal’s report in February 2024)
IX. Tips on using prepaid SIM cards in Hungary
Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying a prepaid Hungary SIM card:
- Take a photo of your SIM card number and any activation codes before inserting – these are important if you need support.
- Download your carrier’s app for easy balance checking and top-ups.
- Set up data usage warnings in your phone settings to avoid unexpectedly running out.
- Save emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency), 104 (ambulance), 107 (police).
- Consider buying your SIM card outside tourist hotspots for better prices – local carrier shops in residential areas often charge less.
X. FAQs about buying a Hungary SIM card
Where can I purchase a Hungarian SIM card upon arrival?
You can buy SIM cards at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, official mobile operator stores like Magyar Telekom, Vodafone, and Yettel, as well as electronics retailers and supermarkets.
Do I need to provide identification to buy a SIM card in Hungary?
Yes, Hungarian regulations require you to present a valid passport or ID when purchasing a SIM card.
Can I use my Hungarian SIM card in other European countries?
Yes, Hungary is part of the European Union, and many Hungarian SIM cards offer free or low-cost roaming within EU countries.
How do I check my balance on a Hungarian SIM card?
For Magyar Telekom, dial *102#; for Yettel, dial *111#; and for Vodafone, use the MyVodafone app or call 171.
XI. Final Words
In summary, getting a Hungary SIM card is essential for affordable, reliable connectivity while traveling. Research the providers and plans that fit your usage and itinerary. If your device supports eSIM, consider an eSIM Europe option for instant activation without needing a physical card. Staying connected with an Hungary SIM or eSIM Hungary will make navigation and communication smoother throughout your travels