A Yettel SIM card is a great choice for staying connected while traveling in Hungary and Bulgaria. With affordable plans, reliable coverage, and convenient eSIM options, it’s designed to make your trip easier than ever. This guide provides all the details you need, from where to buy a SIM to choosing the best plan for your travels. Stay connected and enjoy stable communication throughout your European adventure!
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Yettel in Europe
Yettel is Bulgaria and Hungary’s leading mobile network operator, offering reliable coverage and innovative services for residents and tourists. Established in 2022 after rebranding from Telenor, Yettel focuses on customer-centric mobile and internet solutions.
- Market Presence:
- Bulgaria: Serves over 3.2 million users, making it a top player in mobile telecommunications.
- Hungary: Second-largest mobile provider by revenue and subscribers.
- Network:
- Bulgaria: 99% population coverage with an award-winning network recognized for excellence.
- Hungary: Pioneered 4G LTE and rapidly expanding 5G coverage with over 300 base stations.
- Services: Offers mobile telephony, internet plans, and eSIM technology, catering to individuals and businesses.
Yettel’s strong market presence and advanced technology make it a reliable choice for staying connected while traveling in Bulgaria and Hungary.
II. Yettel’s coverage and speed in Europe
Yettel operates in Bulgaria and Hungary, delivering reliable connectivity for travelers. Below is a summary of its coverage and speed performance in these two countries following latest Opensignal report:
| Country | Coverage Experience (Score) | Average Download Speed | Average Upload Speed | Speed Assessment |
| Bulgaria | 6.5 out of 10 | 65.4 Mbps | 15.4 Mbps | Moderate |
| Hungary | 7.3 out of 10 | 42.9 Mbps | 14.1 Mbps | Consistent |
As you can see, Yettel provides consistent performance in both countries, with stronger coverage experience in Hungary. While speeds in Bulgaria are slightly faster, both destinations benefit from Yettel’s dependable network, making it a convenient choice for tourists.
III. Yettel connectivity options for travelers to the EU
When traveling to the EU, staying connected is essential. Yettel offers several options to ensure you have good connectivity during your trip. Here’s a breakdown of 4 methods: Prepaid SIM Cards, eSIMs, Roaming Services, and Mobile Hotspots.
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
| Prepaid Yettel SIM card | A physical SIM card purchased upon arrival, providing local data, calls, and texts. | – Local rates for data and calls. – Easy to top up. | – Requires a SIM-unlocked phone. – May involve registration processes. |
| Yettel eSIM | A digital SIM activated via QR code, offering data plans without a physical card. | – Instant activation. – No need to swap physical SIMs. | – Not all devices support eSIM. |
| Roaming | Using your home country’s SIM card to access services abroad, often at additional costs. | – Convenient; no need to change SIMs. – Retain your home number. | – Can incur high fees. – Dependent on home carrier’s agreements. |
| Mobile Hotspot | A portable device that provides Wi-Fi by connecting to local networks. | – Connect multiple devices. – No need to modify phone settings. | – Additional device to carry. – Requires charging. |
Each option has its advantages and drawbacks. Consider your device compatibility, budget, and data needs to choose the best method for staying connected during your EU travels.
IV. Best Yettel SIM cards for tourists & costs
For Hungary, the price starts at around $1.50 and goes up to $10, while in Bulgaria, the range is $15 to $75. Below are detailed tables showcasing the plans available in each country:
1. Hungary Yettel SIM Cards
| Plan | Data Included | Voice Credit (HUF/USD) | Validity | EU Roaming (HUF/USD) | Price (HUF/USD) | Minute/SMS Fee (HUF/USD) |
| Prepaid with Extra Voice Credit | 0 GB | 1,000 HUF (~$2.60) | 5 days | 1,000 HUF (~$2.60) | 500 HUF (~$1.30) | 30 HUF (~$0.08) |
| Prepaid 3 GB with Extra Voice Credit | 3 GB | 3,000 HUF (~$7.80) | 5 days | 3 GB data + 3,000 HUF (~$7.80) | 1,500 HUF (~$3.90) | 30 HUF (~$0.08) |
| Prepaid 10 GB with Extra Voice Credit | 10 GB | 6,000 HUF (~$15.60) | 5 days | 6 GB data + 6,000 HUF (~$15.60) | 3,000 HUF (~$7.80) | 30 HUF (~$0.08) |
2. Bulgaria Yettel SIM Cards
| Prepaid Plan | Price (USD) | Data Allowance | Calling (Local/International) | Validity Period |
| Plan 1 | $15 | 5GB | Unlimited local calls | 30 days |
| Plan 2 | $25 | 10GB | Unlimited local calls | 30 days |
| Plan 3 | $35 | 20GB | Unlimited local calls | 30 days |
| Plan 4 | $50 | 30GB | Unlimited local calls | 30 days |
| Plan 5 | $75 | 50GB | Unlimited local calls | 30 days |
Note: You can access the website to find updated pricing plans.
V. Does Yettel support eSIM?
YES, Yettel supports eSIM in both Hungary and Bulgaria. In Hungary, Yettel made eSIM available to all customers in 2022, enabling smooth activation with any mobile plan, which is still currently available for residents. In Bulgaria, you can easily replace your physical SIM with an Yetel eSIM at any Yettel store, eSIM from Yettel is not available for prepaid plans.
For travelers exploring multiple countries, an international eSIM that uses Yettel’s network can save you the hassle of switching SIMs. Just ensure your device supports eSIM before you travel!
VI. Where can you buy a Yettel SIM card?
1. Where to buy a Yettel SIM card Bulgaria/Hungary for travel
If you are a foreigner, you can only activate your purchased card using your passport at a Yettel store or another physical location:
- Airports: Available at Budapest Airport (Hungary) and Sofia Airport (Bulgaria) in kiosks or convenience stores.
- Yettel Stores: Located in major cities like Budapest, Debrecen (Hungary), Sofia, and Varna (Bulgaria).
- Partner Outlets: Sold at kiosks, newsstands, and retail chains like Technopolis.
2. Where to buy a Yettel Bulgaria/Hungary eSIM
- Official store: This is the most reliable place to get one, but you might need to show your identification, which can be inconvenient.
- International eSIM Providers: europe-esim.com is an excellent choice for stable European connectivity. We offer flexible plans that work with Yettel’s network in Hungary and Bulgaria, ensuring reliable service throughout your travels.
With just a quick scan of a QR code, you can activate your eSIM instantly – no physical SIM card is needed. europe-esim.com is ideal for travelers exploring multiple countries, offering coverage in 40+ European destinations. Whether you’re on a short trip or a long journey, our user-friendly platform makes staying connected effortless!
VII. How to use Yettel SIM card and eSIM
1. How to Install and Activate a Yettel SIM Card
- Insert the SIM: Place the Yettel SIM card into your phone’s SIM slot.
- Activate the SIM: Follow the instructions provided with the SIM package or visit a Yettel store for activation assistance.
- Select a Plan: Choose your desired plan by dialing the activation code (provided in the package) or using the Yettel app.
- Top-Up Balance: Recharge your SIM at kiosks, online, or via the Yettel app to keep your plan active.
2. How to Install and Activate a Yettel eSIM
- Purchase and Activate: Buy the eSIM online from Yettel or a trusted provider like europe-esim.com. Follow the email instructions to download the eSIM profile.
- Scan QR Code: Open your phone’s eSIM settings, scan the QR code provided, and install the eSIM profile.
- Select as Default: In your phone’s network settings, set the Yettel eSIM as your primary data or calling line.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM functionality before purchasing.
Note: Please check your detailed instructions below:
VIII. Useful USSD codes for Yettel EU SIM
1. For Yettel Hungary SIM
- *111# – Check your account balance and validity.
- *121# – View and manage prepaid plans.
- *311# – For postpaid users to check outstanding balances.
- *100*1# – Activate mobile data services.
- *100*0# – Disable mobile data if not needed.
2. For Yettel Bulgaria SIM
- *111# – Check your account balance and its validity.
- *222# – Check how much data you have left.
- *101# – View outstanding payments on your account.
- *121*1# – Enable international roaming services.
- *121*0# – Turn off roaming when you’re back home.
Tip: Dial these codes directly on your phone’s dial pad for fast access to your account settings and service updates.
IX. Yettel Call & SMS rates in the EU
When traveling within the EU, Yettel provides affordable call and SMS rates under the “Roam Like at Home” policy. Calls from Hungary to any EU country cost approximately $0.24 per minute, while sending an SMS is about $0.07 per message.
In Bulgaria, outgoing calls to EU destinations are around $1.88 per minute, and sending an SMS costs $0.43 per message. These rates allow you to stay connected across Europe without worrying about high roaming charges.
Always double-check current rates before traveling, as prices may vary slightly depending on the plan and any additional fees.
X. How to top-up your Yettel SIM card
1. For Hungary SIM
Recharging your Yettel prepaid SIM or eSIM is simple, with several options tailored for convenience:
- Yettel App or Website: Recharge online in just a few clicks, available 24/7.
- Vouchers: Found at major grocery chains, petrol stations, and local kiosks across Hungary and Bulgaria.
- ATMs: Select ATMs support direct top-ups; just follow the on-screen prompts.
- Yettel Stores: Use contactless payment or cash at official Yettel locations for assistance with recharging.
The minimum top-up amount is around $4 USD. Always check your balance and recharge before your validity ends to keep your plan active.
2. For Slovenia SIM
You can recharge your Yettel prepaid SIM or eSIM using these methods:
- Vouchers: Buy scratch-off vouchers in 6 BGN, 10 BGN, 20 BGN, or 40 BGN denominations at Yettel stores or authorized retailers. Dial *115*PIN# to add credit.
- Yettel App/Website: Instantly recharge online by entering your number and payment details.
- ATMs: Use participating ATMs in Bulgaria. Select “Mobile Top-Up,” enter your Yettel number, and confirm the amount.
- In-Store: Recharge at Yettel stores using cash or card.
The minimum recharge amount is 6 BGN (about $3.30 USD). To avoid service interruptions, recharge before your validity ends.
XI. FAQs
Does Yettel support eSIM for tourists?
Yettel currently does not support eSIM in both Hungary and Bulgaria. You can activate an eSIM online or at Yettel stores. It’s a great option for tourists with compatible devices, offering instant activation without needing a physical SIM.
What are the best Yettel SIM card plans for tourists?
In Hungary, plans range from $1.50 for basic SIMs to $10 for 5GB of data and 25 minutes of calls. In Bulgaria, plans start at $15 for 5GB of data and go up to $75 for 50GB with unlimited local calls, all valid for 30 days.
How do I recharge my Yettel prepaid SIM or eSIM?
You can recharge through the Yettel app or website, buy vouchers at local stores (6 BGN and above), use participating ATMs, or visit a Yettel store. The minimum top-up amount is approximately $4 USD.
What are Yettel’s call and SMS rates in the EU?
Calls from Hungary cost about $0.24 per minute, and SMS is $0.07. In Bulgaria, calls are $1.88 per minute, and SMS costs $0.43. These rates follow the EU’s “Roam Like at Home” policy for affordable connectivity.
XII. Final words
To wrap it up, a Yettel SIM card is a great travel buddy for anyone visiting Hungary or Bulgaria. With affordable plans, strong coverage, and easy eSIM options, staying connected has never been simpler. Just pick the plan that fits your trip, and you’re all set for a worry-free adventure across Europe!