Staying connected while traveling in Europe is easier with a Tele2 SIM card or eSIM. Known for its reliable coverage and budget-friendly plans, Tele2 is a trusted choice for tourists exploring Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the best option for your trip.

I. Quick facts about Tele2 in Europe

Tele2 is a key telecom player in Northern and Eastern Europe, offering reliable services and competitive pricing catering to locals and tourists. If you’re traveling through Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania, Tele2 is a practical choice for staying connected.

Here’s a quick overview of Tele2 in Europe:

Market Position & Reach:

• Operates in 4 countries with a strong customer base exceeding 17 million.
• Second-largest telecom operator in Sweden and the Baltics.
• Known for offering budget-friendly packages across all regions.

Key Services: Offers mobile voice, data, and broadband services, an expanding 5G network in major cities across four countries, tourist-friendly prepaid SIM and eSIM options, and digital account management through mobile apps. 

Notable Highlights by Region:

• Sweden: Headquarters of Tele2; first to launch 5G services and maintain the strongest market presence.
• Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania): Unified service strategy; market leader in mobile data usage with robust 4G networks in both cities and rural areas.

Tele2’s smooth connectivity and transparent pricing make it a go-to option for travelers. Whether navigating the vibrant streets of Riga or the serene landscapes of Sweden, their dependable network ensures you’re always connected, no matter where your adventures take you.

II. Tele2 coverage and speed in Europe

Tele2 operates in several countries, offering varying levels of coverage and speed. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if Tele2 suits your destination:

Country	4G Coverage	5G Availability	Average Download Speed	Average Upload Speed	Notes
Sweden	99.9%	Major Cities	10-80 Mbps	5-40 Mbps	Extensive 4G coverage; 5G expanding in urban areas.
Estonia	98%	Limited	10-50Mbps	5-30 Mbps	Reliable 4G; 5G rollout in progress.
Latvia	98%	Limited	10-50 Mbps	5-30 Mbps	Strong 4G presence; 5G in select areas.
Lithuania	99%	Limited	10-50 Mbps	5-30 Mbps	Comprehensive 4G; 5G emerging.

III. Tele2 connectivity options for travelers to the EU

When traveling to the EU, staying connected is essential. Tele2 offers several options to keep you online:

Connectivity Option	Description	Pros	Cons
Prepaid SIM Card	Purchase a physical SIM card with a set amount of data, calls, and texts.	– Easy to obtain upon arrival- No long-term commitment- Control over expenses	– Requires a SIM-compatible, unlocked phone- Physical handling and potential loss
eSIM	A digital SIM downloaded directly to your compatible device.	– No physical card needed- Quick setup- Can store multiple profiles	– Requires eSIM-compatible device- May involve setup complexities for some users
Roaming	Use your existing Tele2 SIM card with international roaming services.	– No need to change SIM cards- Retain your current number	– Potentially high costs- Dependent on Tele2’s roaming agreements and coverage
Mobile Hotspot	Rent or purchase a portable device that provides Wi-Fi by connecting to local networks.	– Connect multiple devices- No need to change phone settings	– Additional device to carry- Rental or purchase costs- Battery life limitations

Recommendation: If you have a compatible device, go for the eSIM. It’s quick to set up, doesn’t require a physical card, and is perfect for seamless connectivity across the EU. For other needs, prepaid SIM cards are simple, while mobile hotspots work well for groups. Roaming is convenient but can get expensive.

IV. Best Tele2 SIM cards for tourists & costs

Tele2 offers plans ranging from basic data packages to comprehensive unlimited solutions. Their tourist-friendly plans typically include EU roaming capabilities at reasonable prices.

Country	Plan Name	Data	Calls	Messages	Validity	Price (USD)
Estonia	Starting	250MB	–	10 SMS	30 days	~$1
	Starting Plus	3GB	300 mins	30 SMS	30 days	~$4
	Internet Card	Unlimited	–	–	10 days	~$10
Latvia	Internet for a Day	Unlimited in Latvia + 459MB EEA	–	–	1 day	~$3.5
	Week for Internet+	Unlimited in Latvia + 3.2GB EEA	30 mins in Latvia & EEA	Unlimited	7 days	~$7
	Week for All	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	7 days	~$8
Lithuania	Data-Only SIM	5GB-25GB	–	–	30 days	~$6-$25
Sweden	Basic Plan	5GB	Local calls included	SMS included	1 month	$15
	Annual Plan	100GB	Local calls included	SMS included	12 months	$25/month

V. Does Tele2 support eSIM?

YES, Tele2 supports eSIM in several European countries, including Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The service is primarily available for postpaid customers, though some markets also offer prepaid eSIM options. 

To activate a Tele2 eSIM, you can either visit a physical store or use the Tele2 app/website to get a QR code for installation, depending on your location and plan type.

VI. Where can you buy a Tele2 SIM card?

1. Where to buy a Tele2 prepaid SIM card for travel

• Airports: Available at Stockholm Arlanda Airport (Sweden) and Riga Airport (Latvia).
• Tele2 Stores: Visit stores in cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, or Riga for support and tourist plans.
• Convenience Stores: Find Tele2 SIM cards at 7-Eleven, Pressbyrån (Sweden), and Rimi (Latvia).
• Online: Order directly from the Tele2 website of that specific country.

2. Where to buy a Tele2 eSIM

• Tele2 Website: Order from the website of that country or buy at the store.
• International eSIM Providers: Use a trusted platform like europe-esim.com to get an eSIM. We offer various plans tailored for Europe, with smooth setup and activation.

Key features:

• Coverage across 50+ European countries.
• Plans with unlimited high-speed data for 3 – 30 days.
• Easy activation – just a few minutes using a QR code.
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees, starting from $12.50.
• 24/7 customer support to assist during your travels.

Experience effortless connectivity with europe-esim.com, ensuring you stay connected without delays or hassles.

VII. How to use Tele2 SIM card and eSIM

1. How to install and activate a Tele2 SIM card

• Insert the SIM Card: Place the Tele2 SIM card into your device’s SIM slot.
• Power On Device: Turn on your device.
• Automatic Activation: For most Tele2 SIM cards, activation occurs automatically upon insertion.

2. How to install and activate Tele2 eSIM

• Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM functionality.
• Order eSIM: Log in to the Mitt Tele2 app or website, select your subscription, and choose to order a new eSIM.
• Activation:
  • Digital Activation: A green “Activate your eSIM” button will appear in the Mitt Tele2 app after ordering. Click it and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • QR Code Activation: If you opt for a QR code, it will be mailed within 2-3 business days. Once received, scan the QR code with your device and follow the setup instructions.

VIII. Useful USSD codes for Tele2 EU SIM/eSIM

• Check Balance: Dial *105# to view your current account balance.
• Check Remaining Minutes, SMS, and Data: Dial *155*0# to see your remaining package allowances.
• Check Your Phone Number: Dial *201# to display your own phone number.
• Check Current Tariff Plan: Dial *107# to get information about your current tariff plan.
• Check Connected Paid Services: Dial *153# to view any active paid services on your account.
• Activate “Promised Payment”: Dial 1221# to request a credit advance if your balance is low.
• Top-Up Account Using Voucher: Dial 106# to add credit using a prepaid voucher.
• Access Tele2 Services Menu: Dial *111# to open the Tele2 services menu for additional options.

Please note that USSD codes can vary by country and specific Tele2 services. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official Tele2 website or contact their customer support.

IX. Tele2 Call & SMS rates in the EU

As of May 15, 2019, the European Union implemented caps on intra-EU communications to protect consumers from excessive charges. This regulation ensures that calls made from one EU country to another are capped at €0.19 per minute, and SMS messages are €0.06 each, excluding VAT.
Tele2 adheres to these EU regulations, offering competitive rates for calls and SMS within the EU. This compliance ensures travelers can communicate across EU countries without worrying about unexpected costs.

Tele2’s EU Call and SMS Rates

Below is a table summarizing Tele2’s call and SMS rates within the EU:

Service	Rate (Excluding VAT)
Outgoing Calls	€0.19 per minute
SMS	€0.06 per message

X. How to top-up your Tele2 SIM card

There are 3 main ways to top-up your Tele2 SIM card. 

1. Online Top-Up:

• Tele2 Website: Visit the official Tele2 website of your country.
• Log In: Access your account using your phone number and password.
• Select Top-Up: Choose the amount and complete the payment using a credit or debit card.

2. Mobile App:

• Download the App: Install the Tele2 app from your device’s app store.
• Log In: Enter your account credentials.
• Top-Up: Select the top-up option, choose the amount, and proceed with the payment.

3. Third-Party Services:

• Online Platforms: Services like Ding allow you to top up Tele2 numbers internationally.
• Process: Visit the platform’s website, select Tele2, enter the phone number, choose the amount, and complete the payment.

Always use official Tele2 channels or trusted partners to avoid potential issues. For country-specific top-up methods and detailed instructions, refer to the official Tele2 website or contact their customer support.

XI. How to check your Tele2 account usage and balance

Here is how to check your Tele2 balance in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Sweden:

1. Estonia:

• USSD Code: Dial *245# to check your balance.
• Customer Service: Call 1818 for account information.
• Tele2 App: Log in to the Tele2 app for detailed account information.

2. Latvia:

• USSD Code: Dial *120# to check your balance.
• Customer Service: Call 29202010 and select option 1, or text ‘i’ to 29202010 to receive your balance via SMS.
• Tele2 App: Use the Mans LMT (My LMT) app to monitor your balance and usage.

3. Lithuania:

• USSD Code: Dial *245# to check your balance.
• Customer Service: Call 1818 for account information.
• Tele2 App: Access your account details through the Tele2 app.

4. Sweden:

• USSD Code: Dial *111# to access the Tele2 services menu and check your balance.
• Customer Service: Call 90 222 for assistance with your account.
• Tele2 App: Use the Tele2 app to view your balance and manage your account.

XII. FAQs

XIII. Final words

This blog post generally aims to simplify choosing the right Tele2 SIM card or eSIM for travel. Tele2 provides excellent coverage and affordable plans, making it an ideal choice for staying connected in Sweden, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Whether you opt for a physical SIM or a digital eSIM, Tele2 ensures smooth connectivity throughout the journey. Have a good trip!