Bulgaria: Buy the Best eSIMs | 2024 Guide

Bulgaria – known for its opera singers, folk dances & John Atanasoff (inventor of the first digital computer).

It is also a popular travel destination because it is relatively inexpensive (especially compared to the Nordics).

But Bulgaria also has a lot to offer in terms of sights and attractions.

Sunny Beach is a beach well-known throughout Europe.

Those who love nature always recommend the Seven Rila Lakes.

And those in love with churches head to the Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila or Saint Alexander Nevsky Patriarch's Cathedral.

You should not be bored in Bulgaria.

While the country may be cheap, international roaming certainly will not be cheap.

Instead, if your phone supports eSIM, you may want to go with a travel eSIM to skip the queues in Bulgaria and avoid the SIM card registration bureaucracy.

So, how much do Bulgarian (travel) eSIMs cost?

You can get an eSIM for Bulgaria for as low as 6.50 USD and up to 99 USD from Airalo, Holafly & Nomad offering between 500 MB and unlimited data to be used locally, in Europe, or globally.

Original publication: 30th of July 2022. Last updated: 28th of October 2023.

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Table of Contents

In a Hurry? A Quick Introduction (+Discount Codes)

I will write about four eSIM providers that offer eSIMs for Bulgaria, regional eSIMs covering Bulgaria & eSIMs covering multiple countries (including Bulgaria, of course) and continents.

These eSIM providers are Airalo, Alosim, Holafly & Nomad.

Airalo, the largest eSIM store, has three eSIMs covering Bulgaria:

• Airalo Bultel eSIMs for Bulgaria: five eSIMs between 2.5 GB (seven days @ 6.30 USD) and 50 GB (30 days @ 30 USD)
• Airalo Eurolink eSIMs for Bulgaria and 38 other European countries: six eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 5 USD) and 100 GB (180 days @ 185 USD)
• Airalo Discover(+) eSIMs for Bulgaria and 130 other countries: 12 eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 9 USD/15 USD (+10 minutes/10 SMS)) and 20 GB (1 year @ 69 USD/89 USD (+200 minutes/200 SMS))

Use code NOV15 for 15% off if you have never purchased an Airalo eSIM before OR code NOV10 for 10% off if you are an existing Airalo user (valid until the 31st of October – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code).

Alosim, a rapidly growing eSIM store with competitively priced eSIMs, has two eSIMs covering Bulgaria:

• Alosim Bulgaria eSIMs: six eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 3.50 USD) and 20 GB (30 days @ 25 USD)
• Alosim Europe eSIMs for Bulgaria and 31 other European countries: five eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 5 USD) and 10 GB (30 days @ 37 USD)

You can use code PTW for 5% off any Alosim purchase (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want).

Holafly is known for its unlimited data eSIM offering, which it introduced in June 2022 and has been expanded to about 100 countries since. It has two eSIMs covering Bulgaria:

• Holafly Bulgaria eSIMs: eight eSIMs with unlimited data for five days (19 USD) to unlimited data for 90 days (99 USD)
• Holafly Europe eSIMs for Bulgaria and 31 other European countries: eight eSIMs with unlimited data for five days (19 USD) to unlimited data for 90 days (99 USD)

Pro tip: if you plan on visiting two or more European countries supported by the Holafly Europe eSIM, always go for the European one because the prices for country-specific and European eSIMs are literally the same.

If you use code PHONETRAVELWIZ, you will get 5% off your order (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want).

Nomad is an eSIM store that often has the lowest-priced eSIMs for its most generous data allowance ($:GB ratio) while selling eSIMs from multiple providers. It has three eSIMs covering Bulgaria:

• Nomad Bulgaria eSIMs: 10 eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 6 USD/8 USD) and 20 GB (30 days @ 33 USD)
• Nomad Europe eSIMs for Bulgaria and 29/34 other European countries: 11 eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 5 USD) and 20 GB (30 days @ 35 USD/45 USD)
• Nomad Global eSIMs for Bulgaria and 108/138 other countries: six eSIMs between 1 GB (seven days @ 19/25 USD) and 5 GB (30 days @ 45 USD/57 USD)

Use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad order.

Now that you have an overview of the eSIM providers I will write about, we will go through them alphabetically and cover all their options for Bulgaria.

But if you already have an eSIM store in mind, just click on the links next to jump to the respective sections: Airalo, Alosim, Holafly & Nomad.

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Airalo eSIMs for Bulgaria (Bultel, Eurolink & Discover+)

Currently, Airalo has three types of eSIMs that can be used in Bulgaria only or include Bulgaria:

• Bultel – Bulgaria only
• Eurolink – Bulgaria and 38 other European countries with 5G NR access in Bulgaria
• Discover(+) – Bulgaria and 129 other countries worldwide with 5G NR access in Bulgaria (+calls and SMS (up to 200 minutes/SMS) for global use if you choose the “+” variant, regardless of the selected eSIM)

Remember to use code NOV15 for 15% off if you have never purchased an Airalo eSIM before OR code NOV10 for 10% off if you are an existing Airalo user (valid until the 31st of October – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code).

Okay… what is Airalo?

It is, according to itself, the world's first eSIM.

Airalo sells eSIMs for almost every country and territory, making it by far the most comprehensive eSIM provider.

It says it covers over 200 countries, although some are “duplicates” (such as a specific eSIM for Scotland (Nessietel), even though the United Kingdom eSIM (Uki Mobile) can be used in Scotland without any issues).

Airalo was the first eSIM I ever installed on my dad's phone (I did not have an eSIM-compatible device back then, lmao – now I have multiple for eSIM testing purposes 🤪).

It worked flawlessly, which is why I still try out Airalo eSIMs in every country I visit.

Anyway, because Bulgaria is a popular travel destination, the country is covered by Airalo's regional European eSIM (Eurolink) and global eSIM (Discover(+)) as well, giving you plenty of options to choose from.

If you only plan to see Bulgaria, stick to its local offering: Bultel – which can be used in the country only.

But if two European countries are part of your trip, getting the Eurolink eSIM will be more cost-effective in most instances (and can be used in 39 countries, including Bulgaria).

Then we have the true globetrotters, who visit multiple countries on any continent numerous times a year.

For now, Airalo has two types of eSIMs: Discover and Discover+ – the latter gives you an Austrian phone number (+43) and up to 200 minutes and 200 SMS for global use.

Let's start with the Airalo Bultel eSIM, which is for local (Bulgaria) use only.

You have these five Bultel eSIM choices:

1. Bulgaria/Bultel 2.5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 6.50 USD
2. Bulgaria/Bultel 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 7.50 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Bulgaria/Bultel 15 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 9.50 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers)
4. Bulgaria/Bultel 30 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 16 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Bulgaria/Bultel 50 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 30 USD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

With the Airalo Bultel eSIM, you get access to three Bulgarian mobile networks, as shown in the image below:

In my Bulgaria SIM card buying guide, I tell you more about which Bulgaria mobile operator is/are the best in terms of coverage or speed, but we have a few other eSIMs to go over with.

Now, we have the Airalo Eurolink eSIM, which can be used in 39 European countries, including Bulgaria.

It is Airalo's most popular regional eSIM (it has seven regional eSIMs, including Europe), based on what Phone Travel Wiz readers use.

This makes sense because it is pretty easy to travel within the European Union (EU)'s Schengen zone.

Airalo's Eurolink eSIM has seen a lot of improvement over the years I have been using it.

For example, it is being powered by a new partner, since 2023 (Orange France instead of FL1 Liechtenstein), it now has 5G NR access in over 20 countries (including Bulgaria) & more countries than ever before are covered (even ones that are not part of the EU).

Let's talk about the six Eurolink options first before I give you a breakdown of which countries the eSIM can be used in:

1. Europe/Eurolink 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 5 USD
2. Europe/Eurolink 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 13 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Europe/Eurolink 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 20 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Europe/Eurolink 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 37 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Europe/Eurolink 50 GB eSIM for 90 days, costing 100 USD
6. Europe/Eurolink 100 GB eSIM for 180 days, costing 185 USD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

In Bulgaria, you will be on the following Bulgarian mobile networks:

The Airalo Eurolink eSIM can be used in 39 countries, which includes Bulgaria and (some of) its neighboring countries.

You can find a country breakdown in my ongoing Airalo Eurolink review or the map below.

As I mentioned earlier if you plan to visit two or more countries listed above during your trip, getting the Airalo Eurolink eSIM can be more affordable than buying multiple country-specific Airalo eSIMs.

I have tested the eSIM in more than 15 countries so far – you should check my Airalo Eurolink eSIM review if you are interested in getting it for yourself.

Finally, we have Airalo's Discover and Discover+ eSIMs.

Its global offering used to be called Discover Global, to be used in 84 countries (87 was its peak).

I have had a decent to good experience with that eSIM, but I feel like it could improve.

Such as extending the validity of most plans (the maximum used to be 180 days) and having 5G NR access in popular destinations.

Well, my concerns were heard (which is why I love working with Airalo) because Airalo revamped its global eSIM to Discover(+), covering 130 countries (including Bulgaria), having 5G NR access in 30+ countries & giving you the option to purchase plans with minutes and SMS.

You get an Austrian (+43) phone number if you buy any Airalo Discover+ eSIM, so you do not have to deal with excessive international call rates with your primary/home SIM card or eSIM (this does not apply to the normal Discover eSIM).

Although Airalo improved its global eSIM significantly, it did not increase the prices for its eSIM.

In fact, you get a “discount” of up to 20 USD if you use the Discover eSIM (the one without a phone number, minutes, & texts).

Anyway, 12 variants of the Airalo Discover(+) eSIMs are available:

1. Discover 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 9 USD
2. Discover+ 1 GB (with 10 minutes and 10 SMS) eSIM for 7 days, costing 15 USD
3. Discover 2 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 17 USD
4. Discover+ 2 GB (with 20 minutes and 20 SMS) eSIM for 15 days, costing 27 USD
5. Discover 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 24 USD
6. Discover+ 3 GB (with 30 minutes and 30 SMS) eSIM for 30 days, costing 36 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
7. Discover 5 GB eSIM for 60 days, costing 35 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
8. Discover+ 5 GB (with 50 minutes and 50 SMS) eSIM for 60 days, costing 50 USD
9. Discover 10 GB eSIM for 180 days, costing 59 USD
10. Discover+ 10 GB (with 100 minutes and 100 SMS) eSIM for 180 days, costing 79 USD
11. Discover 20 GB eSIM for 365 days, costing 69 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
12. Discover+ 20 GB (with 200 minutes and 200 SMS) eSIM for 365 days, costing 89 USD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

The image below shows you the Bulgarian mobile networks that can be used with the Airalo Discover(+) eSIMs.

For a full country list of where the eSIM can be used, you should check out my ongoing Airalo Discover+ eSIM review.

Although the map below may be useful if you know your world map well.

In every country I visit where I test country-specific Airalo eSIMs, I also try out its Discover+ eSIM (if it can be used there).

So you better check it out every now and then to see if I wrote about the country/countries you plan to visit and read about the eSIM's performance in said country, as it is not always perfect.

Before Airalo updated its global eSIM, I used the old version (Discover Global) in 15+ countries. From August 2023, I will only test the Discover+ eSIM. This is why some country-specific reviews (like Japan) still refer to Discover Global and show the old eSIM image instead of Discover+.

So to recap: get the Bultel eSIM if you only stay in Bulgaria, the Eurolink eSIM in two or more supported countries to save $$$, or the Discover(+) eSIM if you visit multiple countries on multiple continents within a year and do not wish to install multiple eSIMs.

Whatever Airalo eSIM you choose, you will have a smooth experience with any in Bulgaria.

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Alosim eSIMs for Bulgaria

Currently, Alosim has three types of eSIMs that can be used in Bulgaria only or include Bulgaria:

• Bulgaria – local use only with 5G NR access
• Europe – Bulgaria and 31 other European countries with 5G NR access in Bulgaria

I believe the Europe eSIM is of a better value than the Mediterranean eSIM, so I will not discuss that one (but I did want to mention it in case you are interested. It can be used in Bulgaria, Croatia (5G), France, Greece, Italy, Spain & Turkey).

Remember that you can use code PTW for 5% off any Alosim purchase (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want).

Alosim? Does it have something to do with Airalo?

No… but I understand the confusion at times. The names are similar, but Alosim started after Airalo.

Alosim is an eSIM provider by AffinityClick, which is known for its Hushed app (“Temporary & Second Phone Number App for Wifi, Data Calling & Texting”, as it calls it (8 million+ downloads)).

As AffinityClick owns Alosim and Hushed, there may or may not be some collaboration between the two brands soon, (finally) allowing for calling and texting with your Alosim eSIMs… but we will have to see 😏.

Anyway, you have two eSIM options for Bulgaria with Alosim: one for just Bulgaria and one for Europe, including Bulgaria.

The Alosim Bulgaria eSIM does not need a real introduction, I believe…

You have the following six Alosim Bulgaria eSIM choices:

1. Bulgaria 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 3.50 USD
2. Bulgaria 2 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 6.50 USD
3. Bulgaria 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 8 USD
4. Bulgaria 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 10 USD
5. Bulgaria 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 18 USD
6. Bulgaria 20 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 25 USD

With this eSIM, you have access to the following Bulgarian mobile networks:

For more information on how these mobile operators perform, check out my Bulgaria SIM card buying guide, where I discuss the performance of each SIM card (in terms of coverage and speed).

Next, we have the Alosim Europe eSIM, which can be used in 32 European countries, including Bulgaria.

When I started working with Alosim, this eSIM did not exist.

Instead, it had, and still has, several Europe-related eSIMs (Eastern Europe eSIM, Mediterranean eSIM, Scandinavia eSIM, United Kingdom and Ireland eSIM & Western Europe eSIM).

After pushing for a Europe-wide eSIM for months, Alosim finally introduced one in the summer of 2023.

Why did I keep pushing for such an eSIM? Because they are more cost-effective if you plan to visit two or more supported countries during your trip.

And I want to save you money wherever I can 😎.

Anyway, let's see how much each of the five Alosim Europe eSIMs cost:

1. Europe 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 5 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Europe 2 GB eSIM for 15 days, costing 8 USD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Europe 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 13 USD
4. Europe 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 20 USD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Europe 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 37 USD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

Unlike most European eSIMs offered by eSIM providers, the Alosim Europe eSIM cannot be used in all countries in the European Union (EU).

Denmark, Finland, Norway, Poland & Sweden are not covered for some reason, while Switzerland, for example, is.

Furthermore, 5G NR is available in only a handful of countries: Croatia (Telemach), the Czech Republic (O2), Greece (Nova) & Portugal (NOS).

You can find a country breakdown in my ongoing Alosim Europe review, which I have used in six countries so far (because it is so new, but check out the review to see if it performed well in the country/countries you will visit).

To summarize, go with the Alosim Bulgaria eSIM if you only stay in Bulgaria and the Europe eSIM if you go to two or more supported countries to save some money.

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Holafly eSIMs for Bulgaria

Currently, Holafly has two eSIMs that can be used in Bulgaria only or include Bulgaria:

• Bulgaria – local use only with 5G NR access
• Europe – Bulgaria and 31 other European countries with 5G NR access in Bulgaria

Remember that you can use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off any Holafly purchase (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want).

Holafly probably does not need an introduction – it was one of the first eSIM providers to offer unlimited data plans for popular destinations (Bulgaria was part of the first batch in June 2022).

But it was probably the first eSIM provider to have unlimited Europe-wide data plans.

In July 2023, it added a call feature, giving you up to 60 minutes, depending on the eSIM (60 incoming and 60 outgoing minutes (120 minutes total)).

While this was exclusive to the Holafly Europe eSIM, it has also been enabled on country-specific eSIMs, such as Bulgaria's.

But let's focus on the local eSIM first.

The Holafly Bulgaria eSIM can be used… in Bulgaria only… who would have guessed 🤪.

You have the following eight options:

1. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 5 days, costing 19 USD/19 EUR/19 GBP/27 AUD/24 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 7 days, costing 27 USD/27 EUR/24 GBP/44 AUD/34 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
3. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 10 days, costing 34 USD/34 EUR/29 GBP/49 AUD/44 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 15 days, costing 47 USD/47 EUR/44 GBP/67 AUD/59 CAD
5. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 20 days, costing 54 USD/57 EUR/49 GBP/84 AUD/74 CAD
6. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 30 days, costing 64 USD/69 EUR/59 GBP/99 AUD/89 CAD
7. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 60 days, costing 87 USD/87 EUR/77 GBP/127 AUD/114 CAD
8. Bulgaria unlimited data eSIM for 90 days, costing 99 USD/99 EUR/87 GBP/144 AUD/129 CAD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

Yes, these eSIMs are the most expensive country-specific eSIMs in this guide.

But that is mostly because you get unlimited data (up to 90 days) AND a combined call allowance of 120 minutes.

Next, we have the Holafly Europe eSIM, which can be used in 32 European countries, including Bulgaria.

And in most cases, I recommend the Holafly Europe eSIM over any European country-specific eSIM if you plan to visit two or more supported countries.

Why? Because the prices between the options are literally the same – it is just that the country-specific eSIMs, Bulgaria in this case, are geo-restricted.

Of course, it does not make sense to get the Europe eSIM if you know you will only visit Bulgaria.

Below is an overview of how much each Holafly Europe eSIM costs:

1. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 5 days, costing 19 USD/19 EUR/19 GBP/27 AUD/24 CAD – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 7 days, costing 27 USD/27 EUR/24 GBP/44 AUD/34 CAD
3. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 10 days, costing 34 USD/34 EUR/29 GBP/49 AUD/44 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 15 days, costing 47 USD/47 EUR/44 GBP/67 AUD/59 CAD – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
5. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 20 days, costing 54 USD/57 EUR/49 GBP/84 AUD/74 CAD
6. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 30 days, costing 64 USD/69 EUR/59 GBP/99 AUD/89 CAD
7. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 60 days, costing 87 USD/87 EUR/77 GBP/127 AUD/114 CAD
8. Europe unlimited data eSIM for 90 days, costing 99 USD/99 EUR/87 GBP/144 AUD/129 CAD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

As I said, the prices between the Bulgaria eSIMs and the Holafly eSIM are literally the same, as the screenshots below show.

Note: with the Holafly Europe eSIM, you can make calls and receive calls within and to countries where the eSIM can be used, except for Iceland, Norway, Ukraine & the United Kingdom. You can receive calls from any country, even ones not covered by the Holafly Europe eSIM. But that can be expensive for the person calling you.

You can find a country breakdown in my ongoing Holafly Europe review or the map below.

I have tested the eSIM in seven countries so far – you should check my Holafly Europe eSIM review if you are interested in getting it for yourself.

To summarize, go with the Holafly Bulgaria eSIM if you only stay in Bulgaria and the Holafly Europe eSIM if you go to two or more supported countries to save some money.

But since visiting neighboring countries in the European Union, especially the Schengen zone, is fairly easy, getting the Holafly Europe eSIM can act as insurance if you take an unexpected day trip to a neighboring country (and you would save a lot of money if you did).

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Nomad eSIMs for Bulgaria

Currently, Nomad has three types of eSIMs that can be used in Bulgaria only or include Bulgaria:

• Bulgaria – local use only
• Europe – Bulgaria and 29 or 34 other countries, depending on the eSIM, in Europe
• Global – Bulgaria and 109 or 138 other countries, depending on the eSIM, worldwide

Use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad order (new customers only).

Nomad, not to be confused with the (digital) nomad lifestyle, is an eSIM provider that has significantly improved over the past few years.

Not only has it been adding more countries, but it has continuously been dropping its prices where applicable.

And the best is yet to come – according to itself (and my contacts at Nomad are tight-lipped 🙄).

Anyway, let's start with the Bulgaria-only eSIM.

Nomad allows you to purchase eSIMs from various partners.

In this example (Italy), you will see: provider – Truphone, network – Multiple Carriers & network – Wind Telecom (Wind Tre).

Truphone, recently purchased by 1Global, is an eSIM provider and partner with network agreements in more than 100+ countries.

Nomad eSIMs powered by Truphone work well, but they are almost always the most expensive.

eSIMs with multiple carriers under network are powered by Tele2 Sweden, based on my experience (although it will mention Nomad Black under Plan Details).

Those eSIMs are alright, although the speeds are throttled @ 35 Mbps for some reason – but they are often the cheapest.

Then we have eSIMs where the roaming partner is shown (Wind Telecommunications, which is Wind Tre Italy, and Iliad Italy) – it is unclear who powers these eSIMs (as it is different per country), but the performance with them is fine (untrottled speeds).

But regardless of the type of Nomad eSIM you choose, the performance with any of them is satisfactory in Bulgaria.

You have the following 10 Nomad Bulgaria eSIM options:

1. Bulgaria 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (Nomad Black), costing 6 USD/6 EUR/5 GBP/8.50 CAD/6 CHF (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Bulgaria 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (Truphone), costing 8 USD/8 EUR/7 GBP/11 CAD/7.50 CHF
3. Bulgaria 3 GB eSIM for 30 days (Truphone), costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD/12 CHF (price dropped)
4. Bulgaria 3 GB eSIM for 30 days (Nomad Black), costing 12 USD/11.50 EUR/10 GBP/16.50 CAD/11.50 CHF (price dropped)
5. Bulgaria 5 GB eSIM for 30 days (Nomad Black), costing 14 USD/13.50 EUR/12 GBP/19.50 CAD/13 CHF (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
6. Bulgaria 5 GB eSIM for 30 days (Truphone), costing 15 USD/14.50 EUR/12.50 GBP/20.50 CAD/14 CHF (price dropped)
7. Bulgaria 10 GB eSIM for 30 days (Nomad Black), costing 19 USD/18.50 EUR/16 GBP/26 CAD/17.50 CHF (price dropped)
8. Bulgaria 10 GB eSIM for 30 days (Truphone), costing 25 USD/24 EUR/21 GBP/34.50 CAD/23 CHF (price dropped)
9. Bulgaria 15 GB eSIM for 30 days (Nomad Black), costing 27 USD/26 EUR/22.50 GBP/37 CAD/25 CHF (price dropped)
10. Bulgaria 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (Nomad Black), costing 33 USD/31.50 EUR/27.50 GBP/45.50 CAD/30.50 CHF (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

And you know that I have a good deal waiting for you: use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.75 EUR/2.35 GBP/4 CAD off your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

Now, we have the Nomad Europe eSIM, which can be used in 30 or 35 European countries, including Bulgaria.

Why this or? Well, Nomad has two Europe eSIMs: the 30 Countries Plan and the 35 Countries Plan.

The Nomad Europe 30 Countries eSIM is powered by Nomad Black (which we learned is Tele2 Sweden).

The 30 Countries Plan has six eSIM options, while the 35 Countries Plan has five.

The latter used to be supported by Truphone but is now powered by eSIM Go.

Because of this change, 5G NR is available in a handful of countries with the Nomad Europe 35 Countries eSIM (which is still not the case with the Nomad Europe 30 Countries eSIM).

Personally, I prefer the 35 Countries Plan eSIM, as the prices are about the same as the 30 Countries Plan eSIM (1 USD difference), has 5G NR access & has unthrottled speeds.

As I mentioned in the previous sections, getting any of the Nomad Europe eSIMs will be the most cost-effective way to stay connected in Europe if you plan to visit two or more supported destinations.

With that out of the way, here is a list of all the Nomad Europe eSIMs and how much they cost:

1. Europe 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 5 USD/5 EUR/4.50 GBP/7 CAD/5 CHF (price dropped)
2. Europe 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 5 USD/5 EUR/4.50 GBP/7 CAD/5 CHF
3. Europe 3 GB eSIM for 30 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 12 USD/11.50 EUR/10 GBP/16.50 CAD/11.50 CHF (price dropped)
4. Europe 3 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 13 USD/12.50 EUR/11 GBP/18 CAD/12 CHF (price dropped)
5. Europe 5 GB eSIM for 30 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 14 USD/13.50 EUR/12 GBP/19.50 CAD/13 CHF (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
6. Europe 5 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 9 USD/9 EUR/7.50 GBP/12.50 CAD/8.50 CHF (on sale)
7. Europe 10 GB eSIM for 30 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 22 USD/21 EUR/18.50 GBP/30.50 CAD/20.50 CHF CHF – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
8. Europe 10 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 22 USD/21 EUR/18.50 GBP/30.50 CAD/20.50 CHF
9. Europe 15 GB eSIM for 30 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 29 USD/28 EUR/24 GBP/40 CAD/27 CHF
10. Europe 15 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 29 USD/27 EUR/23 GBP/39.50 CAD/26 CHF
11. Europe 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (30 countries by Nomad Black), costing 35 USD/33.50 EUR/29 GBP/48 CAD/32.50 CHF – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
12. Europe 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by eSIM Go), costing 25 USD/24 EUR/21 GBP/34.50 CAD/23 CHF (on sale)
13. Europe 30 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by Truphone), costing 70 USD/64.50 EUR/55 GBP/92.50 CAD
14. Europe 40 GB eSIM for 30 days (35 countries by Truphone), costing 90 USD/82.50 EUR/70.50 GBP/119 CAD

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

You can find a country breakdown in my ongoing Nomad Europe review or the map below.

I have tested the eSIM in more than ten countries so far – you should check my Nomad Europe eSIM review if you are interested in getting it for yourself.

For now, I have tried the Tele2-powered and Truphone-powered Nomad Europe eSIMs. The eSIM Go variant did not exist when I toured around Europe. Worry not; I have tried eSIM Go-powered eSIMs in other countries (on other continents) extensively. This is why I can confidently say those eSIMs will perform well.

Finally, we have Nomad's Global eSIM, which can be used in Bulgaria.

Personally, I have never been a fan of this eSIM because of how expensive it is.

Sure, I understand an eSIM covering more than 100 countries will be expensive, but cheaper alternatives exist (especially Airalo's Global eSIMs).

This is why I do not use this eSIM at all – it is too pricey.

But why do I even include it in this guide?

Because some Phone Travel Wiz readers do love this eSIM and actively purchase/use it.

This was mostly when Airalo's global offering covered 84 countries, while Nomad's global eSIM covered 110 countries instead.

Since June (Nomad) and July (Airalo) partnered with eSIM Go for their global offering, both cover 130+ countries with their eSIMs – but Airalo's is somehow (significantly) cheaper than Nomad's… AND had the call and text feature.

If Nomad introduces this (soon), I do not know.

However, I suspect the popularity of Nomad's global eSIM will drop because of Airalo's improved offering.

Enough doomer talk, there are three eSIMs per provider (Truphone – 109 Countries Plan and eSIM Go – 139 Countries Plan):

1. Global (109 Countries Plan) 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 25 USD/24 EUR/21 GBP/34.50 CAD/23 CHF – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
2. Global (139 Countries Plan) 1 GB eSIM for 7 days, costing 19 USD/18.50 EUR/16 GBP/26 CAD/17.50 CHF
3. Global (109 Countries Plan) 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 40 USD/38.50 EUR/33.50 GBP/55 CAD/37 CHF – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
4. Global (139 Countries Plan) 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 40 USD/38.50 EUR/33.50 GBP/55 CAD/37 CHF
5. Global (109 Countries Plan) 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 45 USD/43 EUR/37.50 GBP/61.50 CAD/41.50 CHF – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
6. Global (139 Countries Plan) 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 57 USD/54.50 EUR/47.50 GBP/78 CAD/52.50 CHF

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in October based on data up to the 11^th of October (2023 data only).

The Nomad Global eSIM can be used in the following 109 (Truphone)/139 (eSIM Go) countries:

¹ 109 Countries Plan (Truphone) only
² 139 Countries Plan (eSIM Go) only
³ 5G NR access (if you have the 139 Countries Plan (eSIM GO) – does not apply to the 109 Countries Plan (Truphone)

To summarize: get the Nomad Bulgaria eSIM if you only stay in Bulgaria and the Nomad Europe eSIM in two or more supported countries to save money (get the eSIM Go variant for 5G NR access in variant countries).

You can get the Nomad Global eSIM, which can be used in at least 108 other countries besides Bulgaria, but Airalo's updated offering made Nomad's uncompetitive (for now).

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Overview of the Best eSIMs for Bulgaria

So, we reviewed some eSIMs that can be used in Bulgaria.

Many, many more eSIM providers have eSIMs for Bulgaria – the ones listed in this guide are the eSIMs I have used in multiple countries on multiple continents and had a pleasant experience with (I do not recommend eSIMs I have not tried/were awful).

I will give you a quick recap of each eSIMs mentioned in this guide and link to their product pages in case you need more info or are ready to purchase an eSIM already (remember the activation policies of Holafly and Nomad eSIMs – do not buy their eSIMs too early).

Bulgaria only eSIMs:

• Airalo Bultel eSIM
• Alosim Bulgaria eSIM (with 5G NR access)
• Holafly Bulgaria eSIM (with 5G NR access + calling feature)
• Nomad Bulgaria eSIM

Europe-wide eSIMs, which include Bulgaria:

• Airalo Eurolink eSIM (with 5G NR access)
• Alosim Europe eSIM (with 5G NR access)
• Holafly Europe eSIM (with 5G NR access + calling feature)
• Nomad Europe eSIM

Global eSIMs, which include Bulgaria:

• Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (with calling feature)
• Nomad Global eSIM

And do not forget to use one of these discount codes for extra savings:

• Airalo: NOV15 for 15% off if you have never purchased an Airalo eSIM. If you have, use NOV10 for 10% off (each code can be used 3000 times among all Airalo customers, so better redeem it quickly!
• Alosim: PTW for 5% off (the code can be used by anyone, including existing customers, as many times as you wish – no redemption limit)
• Holafly: PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off (the code can be used by anyone, including existing customers, as many times as you wish – no redemption limit)
• Nomad: ADU123 for 3 USD (or your currency's equivalent) if you have never purchased a Nomad eSIM

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Buying a SIM Card in Bulgaria

Want to just use a SIM card but not your current one because roaming will be criminally expensive?

Consider getting a Bulgarian SIM card instead – local SIM cards are the cheapest way to stay connected abroad.