Prepaid SIM Cards France
- Updated: May 13, 2023 | Published: May 8, 2023
Staying connected while traveling in France is essential for navigating new cities, sharing your experiences, and keeping in touch with loved ones.
One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to do this is by using a prepaid SIM card designed specifically for France. In this article, we’ll discuss some popular French prepaid SIM card options for travelers.
Best SIM Cards for France
Orange
Orange is the largest mobile network operator in France and offers a variety of prepaid SIM card options for travelers. Their “Orange Holiday” SIM card includes:
- 20GB of high-speed 4G data within France.
- Unlimited calls and texts within France.
- 2 hours of international calls and 1,000 international texts.
- Coverage throughout France, including popular tourist destinations.
SFR
SFR is another popular mobile network operator in France, providing prepaid SIM cards for travelers. Their “SFR La Carte” card features:
- Various data, voice, and text allowance options, which can be customized based on your needs.
- Coverage across France, including major cities and tourist areas.
- International call and text options available as add-ons.
Bouygues Telecom
Bouygues Telecom is a leading mobile network operator in France that offers prepaid SIM cards for visitors. Their “Carte Prepayee” card includes:
- A selection of data, voice, and text allowances that can be chosen based on your requirements.
- Comprehensive coverage throughout France.
- International call and text options available for purchase.
Free Mobile
Free Mobile is a popular mobile network operator in France, known for its competitive rates and innovative plans. They offer prepaid SIM cards with:
- A range of data, voice, and text allowances to suit your needs.
- Nationwide coverage in France.
- Options for international calls and texts.
Purchasing and Activating Your French Prepaid SIM Card
Upon arrival in France, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card at the airport, authorized retailers such as supermarkets, electronic stores, or mobile network operator shops. To activate your SIM card, you’ll need to provide your passport as identification.
Once activated, you can top up your credit and purchase additional data packages as needed.
France SIM Card Alternatives
International SIM Cards
International SIM cards provide coverage in multiple countries, including France, and can be a convenient option if you plan to visit several destinations during your trip. Some popular international SIM card providers with coverage in France include:
- OneSimCard: Offers voice, text, and data services with coverage in over 200 countries, including France.
- WorldSIM: Provides a range of data, voice, and text plans with coverage in France and other European countries.
- TravelSim: Offers international SIM cards with competitive rates for voice, text, and data services in France and other countries worldwide.
eSIMs
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that can be activated without the need for a physical card. eSIMs are compatible with newer smartphones and devices, such as the iPhone XS and later models, Google Pixel devices, and Samsung Galaxy S20 series, among others.
eSIMs offer a more flexible and convenient solution for travelers, as you can easily switch between plans and carriers without the need to replace a physical SIM card.
Some mobile network operators and eSIM providers offer plans with coverage in France, including:
- Ubigi: Provides eSIM data plans for France and other European countries, with a range of data allowances and validity periods.
- Truphone: Offers eSIM data plans for multiple countries, including France, with various data allowances and durations.
Portable Wi-Fi Devices
Portable Wi-Fi devices, also known as pocket Wi-Fi or MiFi, allow you to connect multiple devices to a mobile hotspot, providing internet access wherever you go. These devices can be rented or purchased and are a suitable alternative if your device is not compatible with local SIM cards or eSIMs. Some portable Wi-Fi providers that offer coverage in France include:
- Travel Wi-Fi: Offers pocket Wi-Fi devices for rent, with coverage in France and other European countries.
- My Webspot: Provides portable Wi-Fi devices for rent, with 4G coverage in France and other European destinations.
- Skyroam: Offers portable Wi-Fi devices for purchase or rent, with coverage in France and over 130 countries worldwide.
Tips for Choosing the Right Prepaid SIM Card for France
Data Allowance
Voice and Text Options
Network Coverage
Duration of Stay
International Roaming
Ease of Top-Up
Device Compatibility
Activation Process
Prepaid SIM cards offer a convenient way for international visitors to stay connected while exploring France.
With a variety of plans from providers such as Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile, there are options to suit every traveler’s needs.
By using a local prepaid SIM card during your trip to France, you can enjoy a more convenient and worry-free mobile experience while staying connected with your loved ones and exploring this beautiful country.
How To Order an eSIM
Compare eSIMs
Compare and find the most suitable travel eSIM for your needs and purchase it directly with the provider.
Receive eSIM via email/app
You will receive the eSIM profile within a few minutes in a separate e-mail or you can directly access it in the provider’s app.
Install eSIM
Scan the eSIM QR code in the mail with the camera function of your smartphone and follow the instructions on the screen. The profile will be set up automatically.
Free roaming abroad
You can now use the eSIM abroad!
Why Choose an eSIM?
Sustainable
The eSIM works digitally only, so fewer resources are used than with the classic SIM card.
Digital
The new eSIM can easily be digitally uploaded to your smartphone. It’s quick and saves the environment.
Fast Installation
Your eSIM profile is sent easily and conveniently by email. This means you will receive your digital eSIM much faster than a physical SIM Card by post.
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