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WindTre SIM Cards & eSIM: Detailed Guides for Tourists

WindTre is among the best mobile network operators in Italy providing simple SIM cards and eSIM connectivity for foreigners.

This guide provides complete information about using WindTre while traveling to Italy such as the coverage, speed, different SIM card alternatives available, whether there is an eSIM or not, the costs involved and an illustrated procedure of activating this facility.

Table of Contents

1. Quick facts about WindTre

• WindTre is the result of a 2016 merger between Wind and 3 Italia, combining two major Italian networks.
• It has more than thirty-one million mobile customer base, which makes it the second-largest operator after TIM in Italy.
• WindTre relies on 4G LTE and legacy 3G networks, with good coverage across national boundaries.
• Average 4G download speeds of around 45Mbps and peak speeds up to 300Mbps in some area.
• Apart from pre-paid and post paid mobile plans, WindTre has Home broadband services.

When travelling to Italy, tourists are able to buy WindTre SIM cards and eSIM profiles either online or from stores.

2. WindTre Coverage & Speed in Italy

2.1. windtre coverage in italy.

According to Opensignal’s May 2023 report on Italy’s mobile network experience.

• The second-worst 4G coverage is among the five national operators at WindTre with a 10 point-scale value of 8.7. For WindTre users, there is a likelihood of experiencing poor quality communication and slow data speeds in weak 4G coverage zones.
• The 5G coverage of WindTre has a score of 7.2, meaning that there are more chances of users connecting to 5G networks in big cities.

WindTre does not have a wide coverage like several other national operators though it has greatly improved in the past few years. In the next year, the company will continue investing in expanding the 5G network and improving coverage as well.

2.2. WindTre speed

According to Opensignal’s May 2023 report on Italy’s mobile network experience, WindTre users saw average overall download speeds of 32.4Mbps and average overall upload speeds of 10.8Mbps. This places WindTre second in terms of average download speed and upload speed, behind Vodafone but ahead of TIM, Iliad, and Fastweb.

The speed on WindTre depends on the region. WindTre holds the most averagespeed downloads in the Nord Est and Nord Ovest regions, while Vodafone comes with the highest speed of downloads in the Centro and Sud regions.

Generally, WindTre has a good speed, but not the fastest among Italian players. Nevertheless, WindTre has invested much into enhancing its networks; hence speed will be enhanced within the next few years.

3. WindTre connectivity options for travelers to Italy

Overall, the eSIM is a convenient option for travelers to Italy, especially those who have a phone that supports it. However, it is important to note that not all mobile providers offer eSIMs, and eSIMs may require activation.

4. Best WindTre SIM cards for tourists & cost

WindTre Tourist Pass is a prepaid SIM card designed specifically for tourists visiting Italy. WindTre Tourist Pass is a great option for travelers who need to stay connected while in Italy. It offers a good amount of data and minutes for a reasonable price. Additionally, the SIM card is self-deactivating, so you don’t have to worry about overspending.

5. Does WindTre Italy support eSIM?

Yes, WindTre offers prepaid eSIM profiles but only for business customers and costs around 10 USD. 

If you want to use eSIM on your trip to Italy,  you can purchase one from italy-esim.com . Purchase an eSIM plan before your trip and you’ll receive instant activation – just scan the QR code on arrival. Say goodbye to roaming fees and high costs. Make italy-esim.com your one-stop shop for affordable and seamless connectivity while traveling in Italy.

6. Where can you buy WindTre SIM card and eSIM?

There are multiple ways of getting a WindTre SIM card or eSIM to remain online with mobile phone operators across Italy and around the world where WiFi coverage is minimal.

6.1 Where to buy WindTre SIM for Italy:

You can buy a WindTre SIM for Italy at a number of different places, including:

• WindTre stores:  These are good locations to purchase WindTre SIM as you will have the largest selection available and will be able to talk to staff for assistance. WindTre stores are literally on every Italian road; hence, you should easily locate one that’s nearby.
• Supermarkets:  WindTre SIM cards are stocked in many Italian supermarkets. This is a convenient choice if you are already buying your groceries or other supplies.
• Electronics stores:  WindTre SIM cards are also purchased in electronics stores like MediaWorld and Euronics. This is also appropriate where you intend to purchase a new smartphone at the same instance.
• Tobacco shops:  Italian tobacco shops are known as “tabacchi””. Several tabacchi in Italy sell WindTre SIM cards. A useful alternative is to buy a SIM card at a tabacchi when you are around it.
• Online:  WindTre sells its SIM cards online from its website too. This can be very helpful if you need to pre-order a SIM card before your arrival in Italy.

If you purchase a WindTre SIM card you must present your passport or other type of identification. Finally, you will select your mobile plan. WindTre has several options, you should therefore find something to fit your requirement and pocket.

6.2 Where to buy WindTre Italy eSIM:

You have to go for Windtre eSIM in WINDTRE stores. You will, then, receive a physical voucher containing a QR code that you’ll use to load the eSim profile into your phone.

Get your Italy eSIM delivered straight to your phone with just a click. No roaming fees or sim card swaps. Purchase affordable plans from $6 at italy-esim.com . Simply buy, receive QR code and scan it upon arrival in Italy. Stay connected without registration or hassle!

7. How to activate WindTre Italy SIM/eSIM

Now that you have purchased your WindTre SIM card or eSIM, the next important step is learning how to properly activate it so you can start enjoying mobile service and data on WindTre’s networks in Italy.

7.1 How to activate WindTre Italy SIM:

To use your WindTre Tourist Pass, simply insert the SIM card into your phone and turn it on. You will then be able to access the internet and make calls using your included data and minutes.

You can check your data and minutes balance by sending an SMS to 4155 with the text DATI or MINUTI.

7.2 How to activate WindTre Italy eSIM:

The eSIM will be activated within 24 hours of WINDTRE receiving the data.

If you wish, you can enable/disable the PIN through the smartphone menu, and remember that if the code is entered incorrectly three times in a row, the eSIM will be blocked.

8. WindTre Italy Call & SMS Rates

Please note that the exchange rate may fluctuate, so the actual cost of your calls and SMS may vary slightly.

For prepaid packs, minutes and texts often included. Rates otherwise reasonable for a EU network. Roaming free within the EU.

9. Useful USSD codes for WindTre Italy SIM/eSIM

How to check your WindTre balance?

• Text BALANCE to 4155.
• Call 4242 from your WindTre number and follow the prompts.
• Check on the WindTre app.

Standard codes work on both SIMs and eSIMs. Useful for monitoring usage.

10. How to top-up WindTre Italy SIM/eSIM

Several ways to add more data or extend validity on WindTre:

• Online – Recharge using WindTre website or app
• Vouchers – Enter top-up code from voucher purchased
• Stores – Top up at WindTre stores and other retailers
• ATM – Add funds via cash or card at ATM
• MyWind app – Top up through integrated app wallet

Just activate additional data pack or validity extension as needed. Equally easy for SIM and eSIM.

11. Alternatives to WindTre Italy

Some other good Italy SIM card options:

• TIM – Largest network with best coverage
• Vodafone – Fast speeds and reliable connectivity
• iliad – Budget prepaid plans, low rates
• italy-esim.com – Great value tourist eSIM plans.

Do some research to compare Italian carriers when planning your trip. But WindTre makes a solid choice overall.

12. FAQs about WindTre Italy

Does windtre offer 5g service.

WindTre has started initial 5G rollouts in Italy but coverage remains minimal. 4G LTE provides faster speeds for now.

How long does activation take?

WindTre SIMs and eSIMs activate within minutes once installed and connected.

Can I roam WindTre in Europe?

Yes, WindTre has EU roaming so you can use it freely when traveling around Europe.

Is there an expiry date?

Tourist SIMs expire after 7 or 30 days depending on pack. All Digital SIMs expire after 90 days unless topped up.

13. Final Words

WindTre is a great connectivity choice when visiting Italy, has robust coverage, decent rates, multiple prepaid SIMs and e-SIM plans, and lots of vendors’ shops. Affordable options are available either using regular Sim cards or even eSIMs. The coverage of Italy helps you to be in touch even in remote areas. Make sure to follow the guidelines provided for the best WindTre Italy SIM or eSIM.

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Buying guide: The best SIM card in Italy for tourists

Traveling without a mobile connection seems like a thing of the past. In this article, we will help you  choose the perfect Italian SIM card for your next trip  abroad. We will cover the four mobile providers in Italy and give advice on their plans. We’ll also provide an overview of each provider’s features so that you can make an informed decision about which plan is right for you. 

Let’s get it started!

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Need an esim.

If you’re short on time, check the options from our most recommended providers for mobile internet around the world: Airalo and Nomad.

Italian SIM Card companies available

When it comes to finding the best Italian SIM card for your next trip, there are four main providers available.  Vodafone, Windtre  (formerly Wind and 3),  Tim , and  Iliad  all offer prepaid SIM cards with different plans designed to meet the needs of travelers. Let’s take a look at each of them.

Vodafone SIM Card options for tourists

Vodafone is one of the most traditional mobile providers in Italy and offers excellent coverage throughout the country. They have many different offers for people who live in Italy (most of them require an Italian bank or local document). For tourists, they currently have only one offer available, the  Vodafone Dolce Vita,  which includes:

• 30 GB in Italy (15 GB in the EU)
• 600 minutes domestic and to many international destinations
• Valid for: 30 days
• No activation cost

Price : €24.99

This SIM card is sold exclusively to tourists traveling in Italy and it is basically the only prepaid option they have available. You will need to present an official ID document when making your purchase.

Check all options from Vodafone Italy here.

Windtre SIM Card options for tourists

Windtre is the result of a merger between two established mobile providers in Italy, Wind and 3. The merger expanded the wireless network coverage in Italy and provided customers with better services at competitive prices. Since 2017, we have always gotten prepaid SIM cards in Italy from Wind and we must say that we are still happy with the options they continue to offer after the rebrand.

The best prepaid SIM card for tourists from Windtre is called “ Tourist Pass ” and it includes:

• 20GB (13.7 GB in EU)
• 100 minutes in Italy and 100 international minutes

Price : €14.99 + €10 activation cost

Click here to read more about Windtre tourist offer.

Tim SIM Card options for tourists

TIM is another popular mobile provider in Italy that offers both prepaid and postpaid plans. They currently have one prepaid SIM card designed for tourists which is called  Tim Tourist . It includes the following:

• 50 Giga (no EU coverage)
• 200 minutes to call in Italy and abroad

One important thing to mention is that Tim does not offer EU coverage with their prepaid SIM card plan. Even though there is a rule of no data roaming in the EU, mobile providers are entitled to limit their plan availability outside of the country and it is exactly what they do.

Read more about Tim’s SIM card options.

Iliad SIM Card options for tourists

Iliad is a new mobile provider in Italy that entered the market in 2018 and has become very popular among Italian citizens and tourists. They came to shake up the market, offering  very affordable prices . They have two offers of SIM cards that would be suitable for tourists:

• 150 GB data in Italy (10 GB EU roaming)
• Unlimited minutes/sms in Europe, the USA, Canada, the UK, and 60 other countries
• Valid for: 1 month

Price : €9.99 + €9.99 activation cost

• 300 GB data in Italy (13 GB EU roaming)
• Calls and SMS in Italy and Europa for €0.28/min and €0.28/SMS
• Valid for: 1 month 

Price : €13.99 + €9.99 activation cost

Iliad’s prices for prepaid SIM cards in Italy are the cheapest you will find, but make sure you buy just a one-month deal and not a long-term plan.

Read more about the Iliad offers here.

Which is the best prepaid SIM card in Italy for tourists?

Now that you know all the options available, it is clear that  Iliad offers the cheapest prepaid SIM card in Italy  for tourists.

However, there is a catch. Iliad’s plan is an amazing deal but their  data coverage in the EU is limited , so if you will be traveling to multiple countries, it may not be the best offer for you. If this is your case, it may be worth considering an international SIM card instead (more on that later).

For traveling only within Italy, Iliad is currently the best option for getting a local SIM card.

Where to buy a SIM card in Italy

There are two ways you can buy a SIM card for your trip to Italy:

The easiest way to buy a prepaid SIM card in Italy is by going to any  official mobile operator’s store . Just pick the provider you like best and check where they have the closest store. Most of them will also help you set up the phone and activate the SIM card for you.

Newspaper stands and small local markets also normally sell prepaid SIM cards and additional credits, if you need those.

Even though some of the Italian mobile providers offer the possibility to purchase SIM cards through their website, in our experience, this never works. We once tried buying online and there were so many errors with processing and with the order that we decided to give up.

If you want to buy your SIM card online to avoid the hassle of looking for a store when you arrive in Italy, the  best option is to get an e-SIM instead .

Don’t know what are e-SIMs?  Read our blog to know how e-SIMs work

Best SIM card if you will be traveling to multiple countries

Even though you can clearly get affordable deals on prepaid SIM cards in Italy using the local providers, they, unfortunately, don’t offer a lot of data on other EU countries. If you will be traveling to multiple countries, we recommend considering an  international SIM card instead .

We have tried many options for SIM cards in the past and our  favorite two brands are  Airalo and Nomad . They both sell e-SIMs that work internationally. You simply select the destinations you will be visiting during your trip and you can buy a mobile plan that is tailored to your needs.

The internet speed is very good and being able to activate your phone as soon as you land is a lifesaver.

Most popular questions about SIM cards in Italy

Can i buy a sim card at the airport when i arrive in italy.

Yes, you can buy a prepaid SIM card at the airport. However, the prices and offers at airports are normally  much more expensive  than at regular stores.

If you want to get connected as soon as you land, consider getting an  e-SIM instead .

Do you need an ID to buy a SIM card in Italy?

Yes,  you will need a valid ID  to buy a SIM card in Italy. This can be either your passport or an Italian ID card. Some of the stores also accept other forms of identification such as driver’s licenses. Just make sure to bring it with you when getting the SIM card.

Tourists are not able to get long-term mobile plans because they require you to present proof of residence or have an account at an Italian bank. So make sure you are looking into prepaid SIM cards and not long-term plans.

How do I activate my SIM card in Italy?

As you have seen, most of the prepaid SIM cards in Italy come with an additional activation fee. The people who work at the store usually help you get started, but in general, it is very straightforward. You can just  put the SIM card  into your phone and  follow the guidelines  on how to select or activate the specific plan you bought.

It is very important that you activate your specific plan right away, otherwise, you will consume data with the general fees, which are usually very high.

Isn’t there free roaming within the EU? Why is the EU data coverage so limited with Italian providers?

Yes, there is free roaming within the EU since the law was passed in 2017. However, that does not mean that the data plan you have in your home country will be fully available abroad. What local mobile providers do is limit the availability of EU data coverage to only a part of the total plan.

The best way to avoid this limitation is by  buying an international SIM card . Check  Airalo  or  Nomad  for the best options.

Read also :  All our SIM card guides

Will I pay for the roaming in Italy?

Yes, you will pay roaming in Italy,  unless your SIM card specifically provides EU data coverage . Make sure to read carefully about the limitations of your specific plan before traveling abroad.

Most American mobile providers do not offer EU data coverage unless you purchase an additional plan. In this case,  buying an e-SIM  is often more affordable.

If you are from the UK, make sure you check with your local provider as British phone companies tend to offer good deals for EU data coverage now and then.  Buying an e-SIM  is also a good option if you will be coming from the UK so you don’t have to worry about roaming.

Final tip : make sure you read carefully about roaming fees before traveling abroad – these can vary significantly depending on your provider and home country. Roaming fees are no joke and they accumulate very quickly, which can cause a big headache once you come back home.

Now that you know all about the SIM card options in Italy, it’s time for you to get connected while visiting this beautiful country. We hope this guide has helped you get informed so you can make the best decision for yourself.

Happy travels!

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Italy, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Italy on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

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Buying SIM Cards in Italy in 2024: Best Guide for Tourists and Ex-Pats

Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Michela

Whether you are visiting Italy as a tourist, studying abroad, or making the big move, buying a SIM card in Italy is likely the right choice for your budget and phone coverage abroad.

There are many reasons to get a SIM card in Italy to help facilitate travel or easing life in a new country. Having been a tourist in previous years and now a local, I’ve learned a lot about using my phone with Italian SIM cards!

This easy to use guide will answer every question you have about SIM cards in Italy!

Don’t leave for the Italian vacation of your dreams having forgotten to pack something! Download my curated Italy packing guide – a cute & helpful way to prepare for your trip!

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What is a SIM Card & Why Do You Need a SIM Card in Italy

A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is a tiny memory card inserted into our phones that allows the phone provider to identify you as a customer and charge you. It also can store information from your phone, like contacts.

There are a ton of reasons why you would want to purchase a SIM card in Italy, whether you are traveling or you’re a new expat in Italy .

• International phone plans through your home provider are likely way more expensive than buying a local SIM card.
• You’ll want to keep in touch with your family and friends and have access to data roaming.
• Avoid being stuck in an emergency situation without a working phone.
• Coverage is likely better from a local provider than your international provider.
• You can’t rely on finding free WiFi everywhere in Italy.

Figuring out your phone plan is one of the first steps you should take as a new expat and part of the overall moving abroad checklist you should be using to ensure a smooth transition into your life abroad.

Can tourists get SIM cards in Italy? Yes! Tourists can get SIM cards in Italy either by signing up for prepaid SIM cards from large providers, regular pay-as-you-go SIM cards or international eSIMs.

Where You Can Buy a SIM Card in Italy

Before I list where you can buy your Italian SIM card, know this: you have to buy it in person.

To legally purchase a SIM card in Italy, you have to present photo ID . For this reason, I do not recommend buying SIM cards online.

There are some providers that allow you to buy the SIM card online, but you would still need to register it in person.

Pro Tip: One of the most convenient places with SIM cards available to purchase in Italy as a tourist is at the airport. Don’t do it! It’s an overpriced tourist trap!

The best way to buy a SIM card in Italy is to go directly to the store of your chosen phone provider. You can find stores in shopping malls and city centers.

Usually when I traveled to Italy (before I lived here), I would end up using my international phone plan for the first few days I arrive in the country as I waited for the SIM to be activated.

This is why, if you’re only traveling to Italy for a short amount of time , like a week, then you may just find it’s easier to pay for your international plan with your domestic provider. Buying a SIM card in Italy is still a cheaper option, but you may lose precious vacation time to go to the phone provider store and wait to activate the SIM.

Italy’s Phone Providers with the Best SIM cards for Tourists & Locals

There are a lot of different phone providers that offer specific tourist SIM Cards in Italy. The most popular are TIM , Vodafone Italy , and WindTre. (Note: I’ve linked English versions of the websites where possible, but you may have to use Google Translate for Italian web pages.)

If you’re going to Italy on vacation as a tourist , then I recommend going with one of these three main providers. They have the more detailed packages for tourists, and the process is very simple to sign up with them.

If you’re living in Italy , then looking into one of the smaller providers could mean lots of savings over time. Some of the smaller providers are branches of the larger ones and run on the larger networks (aka Vodafone and ho Mobile use the same network), so your coverage and customer service are just as good.

Here are smaller providers with cheaper prices that offer good coverage as well including:

• ho Mobile (My provider)
• Iliad – becoming a faster growing, still inexpensive option.
• PosteMobile
• Kena (If you translate this site there is lots of thorough information about how their SIM works specifically.)

T IM Tourist

Vodafone Holiday

WindTre Tourist Pass

What You Need In Order to Purchase an Italian SIM Card

To get a SIM card in Italy, you will need:

• To be at least 16 years old.
• A photo ID so bring your passport!
• A Codice Fiscale. This is a tax code to used for identification in Italy. If you’re living in Italy, you will want to sign up for your Codice Fiscale ASAP through the Agenzia dell’Entrate . If you are a tourist, the phone company will create a Codice Fiscale for you on the spot in-store while you’re purchasing your SIM card.

e-SIMs in Italy

Beyond a physical SIM card, there are now e-SIMs .

e-SIMs, or electronic SIM cards, can be purchased online and allow more flexibility in plan options, country usage and being able to skip the normal SIM card purchase process.

Order your e-SIM online, receive a QR code, scan it and complete setup.

Sounds easy right? It is, but the catch here is that your phone needs to be e-SIM compatible.

Good to know: Many e-SIMs for Italy only cover data and not calls and texting.

How Much SIM cards in Italy Cost

Many companies offer prepaid SIM Cards in Italy that are affordable and ideal for short-term stays .

If you’re staying long-term in Italy, for example studying abroad or moving, prepaid packages may mean you overpay for a SIM card. It is likely cheaper for you to sign up for a phone plan and pay-as-you-go.

A SIM card in Italy comprises two different costs : first, an activation fee usually around the 10 euro mark, and second, a monthly or top-off payment that will differ depending on the plan you sign up for.

For example, with my ho Mobile plan, there was a €9.99 activation fee, and the monthly phone bill price is €6.99. I’ll explain more about this in the next section!

Ricarica or Recharging Your Account

Download your phone provider’s app to easily track how much data you have left for the month.

The “ residuo ” is the amount of money you have left as credit to pay for your monthly phone bill.

The amount (in my case, €6.99) is automatically deducted from this residuo when you pay through the phone app/internet account.

If the residuo amount drops into the negative, all you have to do is “ ricarica ” or top-off your account with the amount of your choice.

I personally always top-off the minimum amount (€5) in case I ever need to stop using the SIM. This way, I don’t have money left over in the residuo .

You can also buy credit in person at places like grocery stores in Italy or “tabaccheria” but be aware you will likely need to pay for it in cash.

In some cases you can also choose to sign up for a pay-by-month plan rather than topping off your account. Although It’s usually a hassle to exit these contracts since you can’t just cancel them on your own. So, pay-by-month is the most flexible option.

How to Activate an Italian SIM Card

Once you’ve signed up for your SIM card it’s now time to activate it so you have a working phone!

Likely, you’ll be signing up in person and the clerk will install and activate the card for you.

You can also do it yourself by making an account with the phone provider, but this is really for particular cases. For example, when I moved to Italy, my family already had an extra SIM card for me to use but because I was not an Italian citizen (yet!), so they used their documents to make the phone account under their name while signing me up through the app.

In order to activate an Italian SIM card, your phone must be “unlocked.” What this means is that sometimes US or foreign phone providers will lock the phone so that it can only be used with that provider. You’ll have to go to them first to make sure they unlock it for you.

The last thing to keep in mind is that your phone will not work immediately. It will take up to 48 hours for the SIM card to activate and for you to start using the data and coverage of your Italian phone plan!

Do you need to change your phone number if you switch to an Italian SIM card? Will you lose information on your phone?

Having an Italian SIM Card means you will now have an Italian phone number . Make sure to keep your original SIM card from your home provider for when your trip is over.

Pro tip : Keep your original SIM card in a safe place, like your wallet or where you keep important documents like your passport.

Switching to an Italian SIM card does not mean you will lose any information on your phone. The only change I had to make on my iPhone when switching to an Italian SIM card was choosing if I wanted to update my FaceTime and WhatsApp number to be my new Italian phone number.

You can try to keep it your old phone number, but it may not work.

The PIN and the PUK: What are they and what do you do with them?

On the card from which you pop out your new SIM, there are two important 4-digit codes: the PIN and the PUK.

When using a SIM card in Italy, every time you turn off your phone and turn it back on, you will have to unlock your SIM card.

This is an extra measure of privacy and security. Enter the four digit PIN code and voila, it’s unlocked! You also have the option to change the 4-digit pin to something you can remember more easily.

I recommend holding onto that card in a safe place, like your wallet, so you don’t have a chance of forgetting it.

After three attempts to unlock your phone with the PIN, you’ll then only be able to unlock it with the PUK code. This is the backup code and should also be kept super secret!

Free EU Roaming

Because Italy is a part of the European Union, almost every member country in Europe has a partner phone provider with Italy’s phone providers. This means free EU roaming – just make sure to turn data roaming on in your phone settings!

This means your phone will work if you travel outside of Italy to another EU country. However, keep in mind not every country in Europe is in the EU. I traveled to Switzerland just across the Italian border and my phone didn’t work the entire trip!

Other Useful Italy Guides

Day-to-day life and travel in Italy is not just the fun activities and breathtaking landscapes! It is also the practical aspects of getting around a new place.

Check out some of these other helpful “life in Italy” guides to prepare you for travels or life abroad!

• How to Use Buses in Italy
• The Best Places to Live in Italy According to Your Lifestyle
• How to Move to Italy from the USA
• Driving in Italy Guide

The SGTD Take

Buying a SIM card in Italy in 2024 is a relatively straightforward process, but there are significant differences to how Italian phone plans work in comparison to where I’m from, the United States.

The best part is that they are an inexpensive way to stay connected to home. Whether you are living in Italy or traveling the country for longer than a week, it’s a worthy process to go through to save money and not have to rely on free WiFi, which is still limited outside of hotels and restaurants.

Have other questions? Leave them in a comment!

Italy Trip Planning Resources

• Accommodation : For Italy, I mainly use Booking.com to search and book places to stay.
• Booking flights : I like to search for flights through Skyscanner , but I also book direct depending on the airline.
• Activities & experiences : For things to do that require a ticket, and for more unique trip activities, I use Musement .
• Road trip : For renting a car, I get the best prices by comparing companies with AutoEurope . I then use ViaMichelin to estimate road trip costs and Autostrade.it to find gas stations/have live updates on traffic.
• Transportation : Traveling by public transportation is a great way to see Italy. I use Trenitalia or Trainline to book tickets for trains and Flixbus for long-haul bus trips.
• Need help planning an itinerary? Fill out my form for a custom itinerary request !

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I hope this updated guide to buying a SIM card in Italy in 2024 helps you navigate this confusing process and put you at ease before your trip!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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Good information about Buy a SIM Card in Italy

I’m glad you found it helpful! 🙂

Hey, following your tips I bought an HO Mobile SIM card. I just think it is worth mentioning that I picked mine in a Edicola and I got three cards instead of just one. For each card, once acrtivated, you and your friend get 5 euros credit. So, if you are travel with someone else, it may be a great idea.

That’s great to know, thanks for sharing! 🙂

THANK YOU! This was very useful.

I’m glad you found it helpful, thanks for reading! 🙂

Very helpful, many thanks

No problem, happy you’ve found it useful! 🙂

Thanks for info. I am currently in Italy, all together for five weeks. I did go to Vodafone and purchased a SIM card the day after I arrived and have an Italian number. I’m not tech savvy, so excuse me if my following question seems naive: What will happen to texts or vmail messages that people will leave on my US number, when I have the Vodafone sim card installed while I’m in Italy? For instance, I get lots of texts back home, many do not have WhatsApp or even know I’m away. They will be sending me texts. What happens to those texts and/or vmails? When I get back home, and reinsert my US sim card, what happens? Thanks in advance.

I hope you are enjoying your time in Italy! As for your US SIM card and phone number, you would have to reinsert the SIM into your phone to see any messages or calls that have arrived there. The texts and calls will all remain on your SIM card even while you are not using it, so it is important to store it in a safe place that you will remember!

Once you reinsert it, if you send a text or make a call (depending on your phone plan), your phone service provider will reactivate your plan.

So, you’ll still have all the messages you receive to your US number on your US SIM card whenever you choose to reinsert it. If you wanted to reinsert it now to let people know about your travels, you just have to be aware that you could be charged by your US phone service provider and remember your Italian SIM card pin for when you reinsert the Italian SIM. I hope that this is all clear and let me know if you have any other questions! 🙂

My daughter will be in Italy on a student visa. Short-term, only a few months. Do you know if this impacts the need for a codice fiscale (i.e., will she need to get one on her own, or will they treat her as a tourist and create one at the phone store)?

When I studied abroad, I signed up for a phone plan in which they created the codice fiscale for me at the phone provider store! It basically worked as a pay-as-you-go system, so I would just recharge the account once a month to keep the plan going. I believe this will work also for your daughter.

Now, if you want to be safe, you can easily get a codice fiscale, either before coming to Italy or upon arrival. If you want to get it before coming to Italy, you can do so through your local Italian embassy/consulate. Or, once you get to Italy, you fill out this form and submit it to the local office of the Agenzia delle Entrate.

As I said, she should also be fine just walking into the phone store and explaining she needs a SIM card as a tourist for a couple months! I hope this information is helpful!

we are arriving Bari on 03/09/2022 .we need prepaid sim card for samsung galaxi 21S at least 10 GB and about 600 minutes phone calls for two weeks not expensive. can you help us with this?

Based on your needs, I found a couple of options for you:

– TIM in viaggio pass : 10 GB with 500 minutes for calls and 500 texts, valid for 30 days and costs €20 – Iliad Prepaid SIM card : €7.99 per month for 80 GB of data and unlimited texts and calls, the catch is that Iliad stores are usually a bit harder to locate since it is a smaller brand

I believe Vodafone may also have a good offer for your needs, but I couldn’t find the information on their website. Regardless, I recommend buying your SIM card in person in Bari at one of the phone providers’ stores so that they can help you install and activate the SIM card and so that you can get the best deal (the stores are always a better deal than tourist traps like the airport stands). I hope this information helps and that you have a great trip!

Hi Michela, Thanks for the useful information! Does it always take 48 hours for tourist SIM cards of any service provider to activate? That seems like a major drawback, considering I will only be in Italy for a short time and constantly on the move. Is there no way to get a SIM card that activates immediately?

I’m glad you found the post helpful! I believe phone providers say 24-48 hours for activation, but in reality, when I did it, it was activated within less than 24 hours. I’ve even read about people having their SIM activated and ready for use within an hour of purchasing it! The best thing to do to get the SIM to be activated as quickly as possible is to get it at a phone provider store and not try to buy your own and activate it yourself. Usually, if you can go to a store and get help from a clerk to do the whole registration and activation process for you, the SIM card will be ready to use faster!

SIM card will be ready … Thanks for the useful information! Does it always take 48 hours for tourist Sim cards of any service provider to activate?

Hi Krishan, thanks for reading! Yes, for nearly every carrier it will take 24-48 hours to start working!

Hi Michela, Thank you for sharing all this info! Do you know which of the providers offer a prepaid sim card thst can be used in different countries in Europe? I am planing to travel to France, UK& Spain, and hope to find one provider that will support all of these countries, without having to change sim cards.

Hi Naama. The SIM cards from any of the main providers should work in Europe but they have limited amounts of data. You would have to speak directly with the provider to understand how you could buy more data/calls/messages!

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Tourist Pass - Offer for tourists

• 13,7 GB in the member countries of the European Union
• 100 minutes to everyone and 100 international minutes
• self-deactivating offer

for 30 days

The exclusive offer is reserved to foreign citizens. Read in Italian

The advantages of your offer

Call and navigate.

Used up your offer before its 30-day expiry? Renew it with RESTART by sending an SMS to 4033 with the text PASS RESTART.

No limitations

Talk and navigate in Italy and abroad for 30 days with no limitations.

Everything in an app

Download the WINDTRE app and select Italian or English language to manage your line.

100 Minutes to call abroad to fixed and mobile numbers in the following 55 countries:

Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Colombia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, UK, Greece, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iceland, Israel, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Mongolia, Norway, New Zealand, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Czech Republic, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, US, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea, Hungary, Thailand.

Informazioni utili

How to activate.

Visit a WINDTRE store You will receive an SMS to confirm that the option has been activated. Remember that by activating the service, you accept WINDTRE's current General Contractual Conditions for telecommunications services.

WINDTRE reminds you

CHECK YOUR USAGE Download and visit the WINDTRE app to check all the details and see how much of your offer you've used. You can check how much voice bonus you have left whenever you want: check your data usage by sending an SMS to 4155 with the text DATI. WINDTRE REMINDS YOU Offer reserved for foreign citizens. Offert Cost is €14.99. SIM COST €10 offers excluded. 

The offer will be automatically deactivated after 30 days. The offer cannot be reactivated on the same SIM. The 100 minutes are valid in Italy, and the 100 international minutes are valid to call the following countries: Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Brazil, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Colombia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, UK, Greece, Guam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iceland, Israel, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Mongolia, Norway, New Zealand, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Czech Republic, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, US, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea, Hungary, Thailand. INTERNET - NO EXTRA THRESHOLD COSTS Once you've used up your available full speed data, you can continue connecting at a reduced speed of 128 kb/s with no extra costs. Actual navigation speed may vary and depends on numerous factors, including: the type of mobile network available in the access location, the level of mobile coverage, the intensity of traffic on the mobile transport and access network, the number of requests on the website visited, the characteristics of the server where the page is hosted, the device, operating system and browser you are using to navigate, the communication protocol and the type of page requested. RESTART The new RESTART service. Used up your offer before its 30-day expiry? Renew it straight away by sending an SMS to 4033 with the text PASS RESTART TI HO CERCATO  is included free in the offers. The service that informs you of calls received when your telephone was switched off, out of reach or when you were engaged in another conversation.  VOICEMAIL Already active on the SIM. Listening to Voicemail in Italy and the European Union is free of charge for the new SIM cards. To listen to it, just dial 4200 for FREE from your Smartphone in Italy and in the European Union. To customise it or find out about costs abroad, visit the dedicated section. To deactivate call transfers, just type ##004# SEND. To customise it or find out about costs abroad, visit the dedicated page. HOT SPOT NAVIGATION   You can use the internet traffic included in your offer with other Wi-Fi connected devices at no additional cost. EU ROAMING You may also use your national offer in the member countries of the European Union within the limits provided for by the policies of correct use defined in accordance with European Regulation 2016/2286. See conditions of use and countries of validity. For the United Kingdom, at the moment and until expressly stated otherwise, WINDTRE applies the same pricing as for countries within the European Union. INCOMPATIBILITIES Tourist Pass is not compatible with the other Call Your Country and Noi International offers or any other options including national bonus minutes, SMS and GB for Optionals, Internet Cube Medium, Cube Large, Giga International, and Telefono Incluso offers. 

Service conditions of use and traffic limitations

Service conditions of use and traffic limitations As set out in the General Contractual Conditions available in full, WINDTRE reserves the right to suspend all or part of the service if used improperly or if the customer exceeds reasonable thresholds for personal use. You will receive a notification in advance of any suspension. The limitations are: For all offers including Voice minutes and SMS  1. daily outgoing traffic per SIM not exceeding 160 minutes and/or 200 SMS/MMS 2. monthly outgoing traffic per SIM not exceeding 1250 call minutes and/or 2000 SMS/MMS 3. daily/monthly outgoing traffic (minutes and/or SMS/MMS) per SIM to other operators not exceeding 60% of the total outgoing traffic, and not more than 50% of total traffic to mobile numbers 4. daily/monthly outgoing traffic (minutes and/or SMS/MMS) per SIM to a single operator other than WIND not exceeding 40% of the total outgoing traffic, and not more than 30% of total traffic to mobile numbers 5. daily/monthly outgoing traffic (minutes and/or SMS/MMS) per SIM to WIND users not exceeding 80% of total outgoing traffic 6. daily outgoing or incoming traffic used for automatic top-up purposes not exceeding two hours of conversation and 50 SMS or MMS For all offers with unlimited Calls and SMS included Parameters 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 above do not apply, and usage will count as personal use of the Service if it meets the following parameters: 7. daily outgoing calls or SMS to other operators not exceeding 60% of total outgoing calls or SMS 8. no more than 3 (three) outgoing calls or SMS to other operators per day for each call or SMS received from other operators; warnings for exceeding this limit will not be applied automatically You can find details of the traffic used in the fixed/mobile Client Area and the WINDTRE app. You can check the traffic received using the functions on your smartphone.

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WINDTRE Travel Pass: new Roaming options for those traveling to some countries of the Middle East

The FIFA  World Cup Qatar 2022 ™ will be played from 20 November to 18 December. Italy failed to make it to the FIFA World Cup for the second time in a row after a shock loss to North Macedonia in the playoff semifinal. If you are Italian and going anyway to visit Qatar 2022, this is a reminder that WINDTRE has added new countries in which it is possible to activate the Roaming option called Travel Pass, dedicated to those traveling abroad and outside the European Union, in particular with new bundles of minutes, SMS and GB monthly or weekly for the Middle East. WINDTRE Travel Pass

WINDTRE Travel Pass provides a series of weekly and monthly Roaming options dedicated to customers traveling abroad in the countries included in the offer.

WINDTRE Travel Pass is therefore suitable for customers traveling outside the countries of the European Union (and in the United Kingdom for now), where instead Roaming can be used at no additional cost under the same national conditions for minutes and SMS, while for data there is a monthly limit based on the cost of the mobile offer.

The option can be activated by both new customers and existing WINDTRE customers with an active offer. The activation cost, charged to the residual credit of your SIM, is equal to  1.99 euros.

In any case, the customer will still have to pay a  weekly or monthly price when he arrives in one of the included countries provided for by the option (at the first traffic event). Depending on the country you are in and the payment method chosen by the customer, Travel Pass offers different packages.

New Middle East Travel Pass Options WINDTRE Travel Pass

Therefore, starting this autumn , 23 September 2022, the operator has introduced new packages dedicated to some Middle Eastern countries, in particular Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. WINDTRE Travel Pass

In all these new countries, it will be possible to obtain the following bundles thanks to WINDTRE Travel Pass:

• Middle East weekly including  30 minutes and 2 Giga  each week;
• Middle East monthly including 70 minutes, 20 SMS and 4 Giga per month.

Regardless of the country in which you are located, among those included in the Middle East, the WINDTRE customer always pays a cost of 14.99 euros every week or  29.99 euros every month depending on the activated version.

The other options for the countries of Asia

On the WINDTRE website, the new Middle East Travel Pass is part of the offers for Asia (as there are all Western Asian countries), which also includes other packages for other countries of the Asian continent.

Countries included with Travel Pass Asia are Turkey, Israel, China, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Philippines and Japan. Depending on the country they visit, customers can get the following bundles:

• Turkey and Israel weekly  including  30 minutes and 2 Giga  each week;
• Turkey and Israel monthly  with included  100 minutes and 5 Giga  per month;
• China and India weekly  including  20 minutes and 2 Giga  each week;
• China and India monthly with monthly included 40 minutes and 4 Giga ;
• South Asia (Bangladesh, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sri Lanka) weekly  including  50 minutes and 2 Giga  each week;
• South Asia (Bangladesh, Thailand, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sri Lanka) monthly with 100 minutes, 200 SMS and 4 Giga included each month ;
• East Asia (Philippines and Japan) weekly  including  50 minutes and 2 Giga  each week;
• East Asia (Philippines and Japan) monthly with included  100 minutes, 20 SMS and 4 Giga every month.

In all Asian countries listed, the WINDTRE Travel Pass option costs € 14.99 each week in the weekly version or  € 29.99 per month with the monthly version.

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Police say he got on a plane using a photo of a girl’s boarding pass. Now he faces a felony charge

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A Texas man is accused of trying to sneak on board a flight by taking a photo of another passenger’s boarding pass, and authorities say he was caught because the flight was full and he didn’t have a place to sit.

Now the man faces a felony charge of being a stowaway on an aircraft.

Wicliff Yves Fleurizard of George, Texas, was arrested Sunday after boarding a Delta Air Lines plane in Salt Lake City for a flight to Austin, Texas, federal prosecutors in Utah said.

According to a police officer’s affidavit filed in federal district court, Fleurizard boarded the plane and opened the door to a storage space for emergency equipment. A flight attendant helped him get to the lavatory in the front of the plane.

After everyone else boarded, Fleurizard moved to a lavatory in the back of the plane. When he exited — at this point, the plane had started to taxi to the runway — he told a flight attendant that he was in seat 21F.

There was already somebody in seat 21F, a girl traveling alone, and the flight attendant confirmed that she was a ticketed passenger.

When the crew searched, Fleurizard’s name didn’t pop up in records for the Austin-bound flight “or any other Delta Flight for that matter,” according to the affidavit.

The plane returned to the gate, where officers were waiting.

According to the complaint, a review of surveillance footage from the boarding area showed Fleurizard taking pictures of several passengers’ phones and boarding passes when they weren’t looking, then using his phone as a boarding pass to get on the plane.

It turned out that a friend gave Fleurizard a buddy pass to fly on Southwest Airlines, but two previous flights were full and he was re-booked on a flight later Sunday, according to the police officer.

No attorney was listed for the man.

Man sneaked photos of boarding passes to get on Delta plane, complaint says

A Texas man is accused of photographing other passengers’ boarding passes to sneak onto a Delta Air Lines flight from Salt Lake City on Sunday, leading to his arrest on a felony charge after flight attendants recognized suspicious circumstances before takeoff.

Wicliff Yves Fleurizard, 26, of George, Tex., managed to board a flight to Austin using a photo of a female minor’s boarding pass that he secretly took when she was not looking, according to a criminal complaint filed at the U.S. District Court of Utah.

Surveillance footage from Salt Lake City International Airport showed Fleurizard taking photos of multiple passengers’ phones or mobile boarding passes near the flight’s gate, the complaint states. When a female minor attempted to board, a Delta gate agent discovered that the system showed she was already on the plane. She had been traveling alone using a ticket purchased by her father, according to the court filing.

Once on the plane, Fleurizard’s behavior before takeoff caught the attention of flight attendants. He attempted to open the emergency equipment storage door, leading one staff member to guide him to the lavatory at the front of the aircraft. Then he “spent a significant amount of time” in the bathroom while others boarded, and switched to the lavatory at the back of the plane after all passengers had entered the plane and the doors were secured, the complaint states.

As the plane began to taxi to the runway, Fleurizard indicated his seat to a flight attendant, but it was already occupied. Flight staff looked up his name in their Guest Service Tool system but were unable to find any Delta reservation matching his name.

The plane returned to the gate, where Salt Lake City police officers met with Fleurizard. He told law enforcement officers that he had been on a snowboarding trip to Park City, Utah, and that he had tried to get home using a Southwest Airlines “buddy pass” that a friend had given him, according to the court filing.

Fleurizard told police officers that he had tried to board two Southwest flights on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning using his ticket, but both were overbooked and could not provide him a seat. The airline reassigned him for the third time to a flight at 3 p.m. Sunday, but Fleurizard left the Southwest boarding area, the complaint states.

Fleurizard then attempted to take the Delta Air Lines flight, which was scheduled to take off hours earlier than the Southwest ticket, at 9:50 a.m., according to FlightAware .

“Fleurizard admitted he had made a mistake and was only trying to get home,” the court filing states. He now has one count of a felony charge for being a stowaway on an aircraft.

A lawyer for Fleurizard was not listed in public court documents as of Wednesday evening.

Delta Air Lines, the Transportation Security Administration, Salt Lake City International Airport and the Salt Lake City Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.