Germany – known for Oktoberfest, its cars & football (real football, which some may call soccer).
The country is also home to many churches, palaces & castles.
So, besides visiting all these historical buildings, what else can you do in Germany? A lot.
The East Side Gallery in Berlin is a must-see while in the city.
If you are into amusement parks, Europa-Park is worth visiting.
And the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg is probably my favorite attraction in the city.
As you can see, there is no need to be bored in Germany.
What also is not boring is fighting an expensive roaming bill because you forgot to turn data roaming odd.
International roaming can be expensive. Local SIM cards, like a German one, are much cheaper than roaming.
SIM card prices in Germany are average for Western European standards.
You can get a Germany SIM card for 9.95 EUR-10 EUR (11.10 USD) from Telekom (formerly T-Mobile), O2 & Vodafone in their stores and from resellers, like Mediamarkt. SIM cards are also sold at several international airports, including Frankfurt Airport (FRA).
Special note for those from Ukraine: be sure to ask about special benefits for Ukrainians. Many mobile operators around Europe have waived fees for you or introduced exclusive plans, including free calls back to Ukraine. Слава Україні! 🇺🇦
Not too bad, right?
Yes, I know some neighboring countries have much cheaper SIM cards (like Poland).
But it is better to spend 10 EUR on a SIM card than 1000 EUR on a roaming bill 🤪.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Germany. Let's go.
Original publication: 30th of January 2022. Last updated: 6th of May 2022.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Germany?
Anyone living in or visiting Germany can buy a German SIM card from Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile), O2, Vodafone & many MVNO with no restrictions.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
- Find out which countries have a SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Germany).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Germany?
You can get a German SIM card in Telekom (formerly T-Mobile), O2 & Vodafone stores. Electronic shops, like Mediamarkt, also sell SIM cards (especially for the MVNOs). They are also available at several airports, including Frankfurt Airport (FRA).
You can expect to pay the following for German SIM cards:
- Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile Germany): 9.95 EUR (regular & data-only)
- O2 Germany: 10 EUR (regular) or 69.99 EUR (data-only)
- Vodafone Germany: 9.95 EUR
- MVNOs (like Lycamobile Germany): being added later
For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Can You Use Your Phone in Germany?
Germany uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Germany. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).
Traditional European frequencies are used in Germany, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).
The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American frequencies, which differ from the European ones.
If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Germany.
If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Germany or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Germany (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Germany
Germany has three mobile operators and various Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – being added later) offering prepaid services:
- Telekom Germany (also known as Deutsche Telekom and formerly T-Mobile Germany/Deutschland)
- O2 Germany (O2 Deutschland)
- Vodafone Germany (Vodafone Deutschland)
The following frequencies are used in Germany:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: N/A – shut down for 4G/LTE and 5G NR refarming
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1500 MHz (Band 32), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz-3600 MHz (n78)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Germany, check out this page by Will My Phone Work (may be outdated or inaccurate at times).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
VoLTE & VoWiFi in Germany
Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are available in Germany. All German mobile operators offer both services.
5G NR in Germany
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Germany since October 2020. It is available on the Telekom, O2 & Vodafone networks. Telekom and Vodafone allow prepaid customers to use 5G NR – O2 does not. MVNOs do not have 5G NR access yet.
Best SIM Card in Germany
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Germany, I recommend going with Telekom (formerly T-Mobile) or Vodafone. Telekom is the best mobile operator. However, it is the most expensive. Vodafone is the cheapest with great network performance. Moreover, it offers 5G NR for select plans or 3 EUR/28 days.
- Find out about the best local SIM cards in every country (lookup tool)
Best eSIM in Germany
Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile) offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.
However, this process involves a rather time-consuming process, which may not be worth the hassle.
O2 Germany and Vodafone Germany also offer eSIMs, but it is unclear if they are available to prepaid customers too.
I will ask the mobile operators about this when I revisit Germany 🇩🇪😎 (or you could let me know).
Note that the German mobile operators require your identification (ID for EU/EEA travelers and passport for anyone else) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Germany without personal detail capturing, you can get the Germany (Hallo! Mobil) eSIMs from Airalo.
You have these four options:
- Germany/Hallo! Mobil 1 GB eSIM for 7 days
- Germany/Hallo! Mobil 3 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Germany/Hallo! Mobil 5 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Germany/Hallo! Mobil 10 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Check out my Airalo eSIM reviews
Or you can get Germany eSIMs from Nomad.
Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps).
- Check out my Nomad eSIM reviews
For Airalo eSIMs, the links above will automatically get you the Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers available – a code is not necessary.
With these eSIMs, you can skip Germany's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Germany!
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, travel eSIMs & travel SIM cards for every country (lookup tool)
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Eurolink eSIM (six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days, 10 GB/30 days, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days) in Germany and these other countries:
With the Eurolink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit – averaging 6 USD/country in Europe!
- Check out my Airalo Eurolink eSIM review (tested in Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Hungary, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia & Spain)
Not staying in just Europe? Get the Discover Global eSIM with 1 GB of data (7 days – multiple top-ups available) for Germany and these other countries:
TIP: Check out my eSIM lookup tool for an overview of local mobile operators offering eSIMs to prepaid customers and travel eSIMs I use and love (for eSIMs in Germany and eSIMs worldwide).
Best International/Travel SIM Card for Germany
If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Germany, I recommend going with SimCorner's Europe SIM cards that covers Europe (mainly the European Union) and parts Asia, Central America & South America – all in one SIM card.
You have these four options:
- Europe Travel SIM card with 7 GB for 30 days (includes calls)
- Europe & UK Travel SIM card with 12 GB for 30 days (includes calls, SMS & data use in Asia, Central America & South America)
- UK and Europe Travel SIM card with 100 GB for 30 days (includes calls and SMS)
- Europe Data SIM card with 12 GB for 60 days (includes data use in Asia, Central America & South America)
- Check out my SimCorner Europe Travel SIM cards review (12 GB & 100 GB SIM cards – tested in Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Hungary, Greece, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia & Spain)
The SimCorner Europe SIM cards can be used in Germany and the following other countries:
SimCorner's Europe & UK Travel SIM card (12 GB for 30 days) & Europe Data SIM card (12 GB for 60 days) can also be used in the following Asian, Central American & South American countries:
If this selection of countries is still not enough, get SimCorner's International SIM card with 6 GB of data for 15 days to be used in Africa, the Americas (all), Asia, Europe (also outside of the European Union), the Middle East & Oceania (100+ countries).
Instead of spending between 5 USD to 15 USD for SIM cards in each country, get a SimCorner travel SIM card covering numerous countries for just one price!
Use discount code PHONETRAVELWIZ for extra savings!
- Check out my SimCorner Travel SIM card reviews
SIM Card Registration in Germany
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Germany. It will be done at the point of sale (if purchased from the Big Three).
- Find out which countries have a SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
It is recommended to purchase your German SIM card in Telekom, O2, Vodafone, or Mediamarkt stores for quick and instant registration.
Mediamarkt will always register SIM cards sold in its own stores (for free).
Becareful with Vodafone: they used to, and still may, charge you 10 EUR for registration or force you to top-up up to 50 EUR before they give you your SIM card.
Other retailers will want to charge you too, so I do not recommend getting your SIM card anywhere else besides the stores of the mobile operators or Mediamarkt.
Or post offices – SIM cards are sold there too, and registration there is always free, but you will need to print and fill a document beforehand.
Otherwise, you can register your SIM card online (for free) by video identification (Online ID/Video Ident, or WebID).
If you are from the EU/EEA, you can use your national ID too. Everyone else has to use their passport (but those from the EU/EEA can also use their passport, of course).
Note that identification by video may not activate your SIM card instantly.
In fact, it can take up to 24 hours for your SIM card to work.
So, in short:
- Get your German SIM card in the stores of the mobile operators for instant and free registration
- Mediamarkt sells SIM cards too and will register brands sold in their stores for free, and activation is instant
- SIM cards are also available in post offices, and they will register any German SIM card for free. However, you need to print and fill in a form before heading to the post office
- Registration may take up to 24 hours
- Other retailers selling SIM cards can register (some) SIM cards, but they often will charge you for it
- Registration may take up to 24 hours
EU Roaming in Germany
Germany is part of the European Union (EU).
Since June 2017, those with EU/EEA (European Economic Area) SIM cards can roam for free in other EU/EEA nations, including Germany.
This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase a German SIM card if you already have an EU/EEA SIM card because you can roam without additional costs.
However, conditions do apply. Mobile operators in some countries may impose a roaming Fair Use Policy (FUP).
In countries where local mobile data rates are extremely low (such as in the Baltics and the Nordics), mobile operators may still charge you for roaming in the EU/EEA.
Be sure to head over to the international roaming page to learn whether your mobile operator offers free roaming while in Germany or if restrictions apply.
Roaming in the EU with German SIM Cards
Germany and the German mobile operators have largely adopted the roam like at home regulations principles early on.
However, some plans have an EU/EEA roaming cap.
Moreover, the standard Fair Use Policy applies where you should not be roaming over 50% of the time over a four-month period.
If you do so, EU roaming rates will apply. You are then better off buying local prepaid SIM cards in other EU nations.
Germany Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
The cost of mobile data has gone down significantly over the past few years.
The network quality has improved, you get faster speeds & the data allowances are more generous.
Are mobile data rates low in Germany?
Yes, but they are not extremely low.
The average price for 1 GB of data in Germany is 3.38 USD, around the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
Mobile data used to be quite expensive in Germany – especially for the lousy service you used to get.
I remember walking in the city center of Hamburg where I had either NO reception or 2G reception – embarrassing.
That was back in 2018 – things have improved significantly over the years, and I am happy prices have gone down too.
Cable.co.uk split Europe into three territories: Western Europe, Eastern Europe & the Baltics.
The Western European average cost of 1 GB of data, using Cable.co.uk's definition, is 2.66 USD, which is just slightly more than the overall European average.
Okay, so mobile data is not too crazy expensive.
Will you get crazy fast speeds in Germany?
No, but they are fast nowadays.
Germany's median mobile download speed is around 52 Mbps.
And mobile download speeds have been on a steady increase over the year, especially with the introduction of 5G NR.
Of Germany's nine neighbors (Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland & Switzerland), only the Czech Republic has a slower median download speed than Germany.
All the other countres have (much) faster speeds than Germany… for now.
Just kidding, it will stay like that for a while.
Perhaps the Czech Republic will catch up one day, but its speeds have been stagnant for about a year.
Anyway, back to focusing on Germany only.
Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Germany.
That would be (Deutsche) Telekom, with a speed score of 91.86. Followed by Vodafone Germany (67.75) and O2 Germany (49.47).
The mobile operator with the best 5G NR speeds is Telekom, with a median download speed of 187.99 Mbps.
This is followed by O2 (132.57 Mbps) and Vodafone (125.54 Mbps).
So, which German mobile operator has the best overall 5G NR network?
Telekom dominates the 5G NR race.
Ignore the 5G Download Speed winner. Opensignal has a smaller sample size than Speedtest does. You will almost always get faster 5G NR download speeds with Telekom.
Telekom's 5G/NR reach is double its competitors – or their scores combined.
The same can be said about 5G/NR availability.
Remember, Telekom allows prepaid customers to use 5G NR with select plans.
So, all this 5G NR talk is fun… but what if you do not have a 5G NR compatible device?
Which German mobile operator has the best overall 4G/LTE network?
That would be, as to be expected, Telekom. Winning most categories.
But Vodafone has the best games and voice app experience on 4G/LTE.
Basically, you cannot go wrong with Telekom. But remember, it is the most expensive mobile operator in Germany.
But you do get good value out of your moment with Telekom, so it can be worth the investment.
With reasonable SIM card prices, extensive nationwide coverage, fast mobile download speeds, and average mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Germany.
Currency in Germany
Germany uses the Euro with the symbol EUR (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed as just €. For example, 25 EUR = €25.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between EUR and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 EUR = 1.20 USD
- 10 EUR = 12.15 USD
- 100 EUR = 121.55 USD
For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
German Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile), O2 Germany, Vodafone Germany & many MVNOs that will be added later, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices & availability
- Recharge / top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans & special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what Germany has to offer to us.
Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
Telekom Germany (Deutsche Telekom), just Telekom and formerly T-Mobile, is the largest mobile operator in Germany.
It is also the mobile operator with the best overall network performance.
Telekom is active in Europe (as Telekom and T-Mobile) and the United States (as T-Mobile).
Telekom uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: N/A – shut down for 4G/LTE and 5G NR refarming
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1500 MHz (Band 32), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about Telekom:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Telekom SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
Telekom has the best coverage in Germany.
This was also confirmed by Opensignal.
Below is Telekom's coverage map:
SIM Card Price – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
You can get a Telekom SIM card, called Magenta Mobil Prepaid (regular) or Data Prepaid (data-only), for 9.95 EUR with 10 EUR credit in Telekom stores and electronic stores, like Mediamarkt. Telekom SIM cards are not sold at the top five international airports (Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, or Munich).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is also possible to get a Telekom eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
However, this process involves a rather time-consuming process, which may not be worth the hassle.
Instead, if you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Germany (Hallo! Mobil) eSIMs from Airalo (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days & 10 GB/30 days).
What is embarrassing is that all the eSIMs offered by Airalo are cheaper and more generous than Telekom's prepaid offering.
While this is normal in the Caribbean, it is not that common in Europe.
But in Germanyand many Western European countries, postpaid plans are much more popular than prepaid plans.
Postpaid offers much better value, which we travelers cannot get, unfortunately.
So we have to deal with these, comparably, expensive plans 🥲.
Anyway, you can also get the Eurolink eSIMs covering Germany and 35+ other European countries (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days, 10 GB/30 days, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days).
Finally, you have the Discover Global eSIM for use in Germany and 80+ other countries worldwide (1 GB/7 days with top-ups available up to 20 GB/180 days).
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, travel eSIMs & travel SIM cards for every country (lookup tool)
Note that Telekom offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings.
Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Telekom SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 15 months (no top-up for 15 months or no activity for 15 months).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
Telekom top-up vouchers are sold in Telekom stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Germany.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 15 EUR | 15 months |
| 30 EUR | 15 months |
| 50 EUR | 15 months |
| 100 EUR | 15 months |
To top up your Telekom SIM card, dial *101*VoucherCode, or call 2200 and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *101*123456#.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *100# to check your Telekom balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the MeinMagenta: Handy & Festnetz (MyMagenta: Mobile Phone & Landline) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
Telekom has four data-featured plans:
- MagentaMobil Prepaid (combo)
- MagentaMobil Prepaid 5G-Jahrestarif (combo)
- Datenpässe (data for data-only SIM card)
- Prepaid Datenpässe (data add-ons)
All Telekom plans can be activated on the MeinMagenta: Handy & Festnetz app.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
MagentaMobil Prepaid Plans – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
The MagentaMobil Prepaid plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access for select packages), minutes & SMS.
MagentaMobil Prepaid for Data Prepaid can be activated on the MeinMagenta: Handy & Festnetz app:
| Price | Plan | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes 1 | On-Net SMS | Off-Net SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9.95 EUR | MagentaMobil Prepaid M | 2 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
| 14.95 EUR | MagentaMobil Prepaid L | 3 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
| 24.95 EUR | MagentaMobil Prepaid XL | 5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 99.95 EUR | MagentaMobil Prepaid Max | Unlimited 2, 3 | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 year |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Germany (NOT from Germany to other EU/EEA member states)
2 5G NR access for free for 12 weeks. Then 3 EUR per 4 weeks
3 68 GB in the EU/EEA
MagentaMobil Prepaid 5G-Jahrestarif – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
The MagentaMobil Prepaid 5G-Jahrestarif is a combo plan with 2 GB per month (with 5G NR access), unlimited on-net minutes, 200 off-net minutes & unlimited on-net SMS for 12 months, costing 99.95 EUR.
| Price | Plan | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | On-Net SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99.95 EUR | MagentaMobil Prepaid 5G-Jahrestarif | 2 GB/month (24 GB) 1 | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 12 months |
1 5G NR access
Datenpässe for Data Prepaid – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
The Datenpässe for Data Prepaid are data plans (with 5G NR access) for the data-only SIM card.
Datenpässe for Data Prepaid can be activated on the MeinMagenta: Handy & Festnetz app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.95 EUR | Data Prepaid S | 1 GB | 24 hours |
| 9.95 EUR | Data Prepaid M | 2 GB | 28 days |
| 9.95 EUR | DayFlat Unlimited | Unlimited | 24 hours |
| 14.95 EUR | Data Prepaid L | 4 GB | 28 days |
| 29.95 EUR | Data Prepaid XL | 12 GB | 90 days |
Prepaid Datenpässe Add-Ons – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
Prepaid Datenpässe are data add-ons for MagentaMobil Prepaid. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Moreover, not every Prepaid Datenpässe can be added to any MagentaMobil Prepaid plan.
The eligibility column will tell you which Prepaid Datenpässe can be added to which MagentaMobil Prepaid plan.
Prepaid Datenpässe can be activated on the MeinMagenta: Handy & Festnetz app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Eligibility | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.49 EUR | SpeedOn S (Ermäßigt) | 500 MB | Prepaid S | 7 days |
| 4.49 EUR | DayFlat Unlimited (Ermäßigt) | Unlimited | Prepaid S | 24 hours |
| 4.95 EUR | SpeedOn S | 500 MB | Prepaid M/L/XL/5G-Jahrestarif | 7 days |
| 5.95 EUR | DayFlat Unlimited | Unlimited | Prepaid M/L/XL/5G-Jahrestarif | 24 hours |
| 6.49 EUR | SpeedOn M (Ermäßigt) | 500 MB | Prepaid S | 28 days |
| 7.95 EUR | SpeedOn M | 500 MB | Prepaid M/L/XL/5G-Jahrestarif | 28 days |
| 14.95 EUR | SpeedOn L | 1.5 GB | Prepaid M/L/XL/5G-Jahrestarif | 28 days |
| 19.95 EUR | SpeedOn XL | 2.5 GB | Prepaid M/L/XL/5G-Jahrestarif | 28 days |
EU Roaming – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
You can use your Telekom allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
As Telekom does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances (for most plans), you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – Telekom Germany (formerly T-Mobile)
- Name: Telekom Internet OR Telekom Internet IPv6
- APN: internet.telekom OR internet.v6.telekom
- Username: t-mobile OR telekom
- Password: tm
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
O2 Germany (Deutschland)
O2 Germany (O2 Deutschland), just O2 but officially O2, is the second-largest mobile operator in Germany.
The O2 brand is part of Telefónica, a Spanish telecommunications company active in the Americas (as Altice, Movistar & Vivo) and Europe (as Bouygues Telecom, Movistar & O2).
O2 uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: N/A – shut down for 4G/LTE and 5G NR refarming
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid customers (yet)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about O2:
* Coverage
* How to Get an O2 SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – O2 Germany
O2 has extensive coverage throughout Germany.
4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.
Below is O2's general coverage map:
Below is an O2 coverage map produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – O2 Germany
You can get an O2 SIM card, called O2 My Prepaid, for 10 EUR with 9.99 EUR credit or the data-only SIM card, O2 My Prepaid Smartphone Jahrespaket, for 69.99 EUR with 12 GB for 365 days, in O2 stores and electronic shops, like Mediamarkt. O2 SIM cards are also sold at Frankfurt Airport (FRA).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is recommended to purchase your O2 SIM card in O2 or Mediamarkt stores for quick and instant registration.
Mediamarkt will always register SIM cards sold in its own stores (for free – also for O2).
Other retailers will want to charge you too, so I do not recommend getting your SIM card anywhere else besides O2 stores or Mediamarkt.
Or post offices – some sell O2 SIM cards too, and registration there is always free, but you will need to print and fill a document beforehand.
Otherwise, you can register your O2 SIM card online (for free) by video identification (Online ID/Video Ident, or WebID).
If you are from the EU/EEA, you can use your national ID too. Everyone else has to use their passport (but those from the EU/EEA can also use their passport, of course).
Note that identification by video may not activate your SIM card instantly.
In fact, it can take up to 24 hours for your SIM card to work.
It is also possible to get an O2 eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
However, it is unclear if eSIMs are available for prepaid customers too.
I will ask O2 about this winter or spring when I revisit Germany 🇩🇪😎.
In the meantime, if you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Germany (Hallo! Mobil) eSIMs from Airalo (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days & 10 GB/30 days).
Or get the Eurolink eSIMs covering Germany and 35+ other European countries (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days, 10 GB/30 days, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days).
Finally, you have the Discover Global eSIM for use in Germany and 80+ other countries worldwide (1 GB/7 days with top-ups available up to 20 GB/180 days).
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, travel eSIMs & travel SIM cards for every country (lookup tool)
Note that O2 offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings.
Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – O2 Germany
O2 top-up vouchers are sold in O2 stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Germany.
To top up your O2 SIM card, dial *103*VoucherCode# or call 5667, select option 1, enter the VoucherCode, and end with the # sign.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *103*123456# or call 5667, select option 1, and enter 123456#.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *101#, *105#, or send a blank SMS (or whatever) to 5667 to check your O2 balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mein o2 (My o2) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – O2 Germany
O2 has two data-featured plans: My Prepaid (combo) & Zusatz-Datenvolumen (data add-ons).
All O2 plans can be activated on the Mein o2 app.
My Prepaid Plans – O2 Germany
The My Prepaid plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access, minutes & SMS.
My Prepaid can be activated on the Mein o2 app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Local/EU SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.99 EUR | O2 My Prepaid Basic | 150 MB | N/A | N/A | 28 days |
| 9.99 EUR | O2 My Prepaid S | 3.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 14.99 EUR | O2 My Prepaid M | 6.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 19.99 EUR | O2 My Prepaid L | 12.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 69.99 EUR | O2 My Prepaid XL | 999 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Germany (NOT from Germany to other EU/EEA member states)
Zusatz-Datenvolumen Add-Ons – O2 Germany
The Zusatz-Datenvolumen are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Zusatz-Datenvolumen can be activated on the Mein o2 app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.99 EUR | Data Pack S | 400 MB | 28 days |
| 5.99 EUR | Data Pack M | 1.5 GB | 28 days |
| 9.99 EUR | Data Pack L | 4 GB | 28 days |
| 19.99 EUR | Data Pack XL | 13 GB | 28 days |
EU Roaming – O2 Germany
You can use your O2 allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
As O2 does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – O2 Germany
- Name: o2 Internet
- APN: pinternet.interkom.de
Note: do not use just “internet” as a prepaid customer. That APN is reserved for postpaid customers. leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Vodafone Germany (Deutschland)
Vodafone Germany (Vodafone Deutschland), just Vodafone, is the smallest mobile operator in Germany.
Vodafone, as a company, is active in Africa (mostly as Vodacom), Asia, Europe, the Middle East & Oceania.
Vodafone uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: N/A – shut down for 4G/LTE and 5G NR refarming
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3600 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about Vodafone:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Vodafone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Vodafone Germany
Vodafone has extensive coverage throughout Germany.
4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.
Below is Vodafone's coverage map:
SIM Card Price – Vodafone Germany
You can get a Vodafone SIM card, called CallYa, for 9.95 EUR with 10 EUR credit in Vodafone stores and electronic shops, like Mediamarkt. Vodafone cards are not sold at the top five international airports (Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, or Munich).
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is recommended to purchase your Vodafone SIM card in Vodafone or Mediamarkt for quick and instant registration.
Mediamarkt will always register SIM cards sold in its own stores (for free – also for Vodafone).
Some (shady) Vodafone stores may want to charge you up to 10 EUR for verification or require you to top-up at least 20 EUR to 50 EUR, depending on the store.
Other retailers will want to charge you too, so I do not recommend getting your SIM card anywhere else besides Vodafone stores or Mediamarkt.
Or post offices – some sell Vodafone SIM cards too, and registration there is always free, but you will need to print and fill a document beforehand.
Otherwise, you can register your Vodafone SIM card online (for free) by video identification (Online ID/Video Ident, or WebID).
If you are from the EU/EEA, you can use your national ID too. Everyone else has to use their passport (but those from the EU/EEA can also use their passport, of course).
Note that identification by video may not activate your SIM card instantly.
In fact, it can take up to 24 hours for your SIM card to work.
While Vodafone does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.
If you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Germany (Hallo! Mobil) eSIMs from Airalo (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days & 10 GB/30 days).
Or get the Eurolink eSIMs covering Germany and 35+ other European countries (1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 days, 5 GB/30 days, 10 GB/30 days, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days).
Finally, you have the Discover Global eSIM for use in Germany and 80+ other countries worldwide (1 GB/7 days with top-ups available up to 20 GB/180 days).
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, travel eSIMs & travel SIM cards for every country (lookup tool)
Call 22922, select option 3, select option 5, and select option 2 to change the Vodafone system language to English.
Note that Vodafone offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings.
Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Vodafone SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 13 months (no top-up for 13 months or no activity for 13 months).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Vodafone Germany
Vodafone top-up vouchers, called CallNows, are sold in Vodafone stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Germany.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Availability |
|---|---|
| 5 EUR | Online |
| 15 EUR | Stores & Online |
| 20 EUR | Online |
| 25 EUR | Stores & Online |
| 50 EUR | Stores & Online |
| 80 EUR | Online |
To top up your Vodafone SIM card, dial *100*VoucherCode#.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *100*123456#.
You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *10# or *106# to check your Vodafone balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the MeinVodafone (MyVodafone) app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Germany
Vodafone has two data-featured plans: CallYa (combo) & Internet-Optionen/Internet Options (data).
CallYa Plans – Vodafone Germany
The CallYa plans are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access for select plans), minutes & SMS).
CallYa plans can be activated on the MeinVodafone app:
| Price | Plan | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net/EU Minutes 1 | International (EU) Minutes | On-Net SMS | Off-Net/EU SMS 1 | International (EU) SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.99 EUR | CallYa Start | 1 GB | Unlimited | 50 minutes | Shared with off-net call allowance | Unlimited | Shared with off-net call allowance | Shared with off-net call allowance | 28 days |
| 9.99 EUR | CallYa Allnet Flat S | 3 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | Unlimited | Shared with off-net call allowance | 28 days |
| 14.99 EUR | CallYa Allnet Flat M | 5 GB | Unlimited | 500 minutes | Shared with off-net call allowance | Unlimited | Shared with off-net call allowance | Shared with off-net call allowance | 28 days |
| 15 EUR | CallYa Digital Light | 7.5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
| 20 EUR | CallYa Digital | 15 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Germany (NOT from Germany to other EU/EEA member states)
Internet-Optionen (Internet Options) – Vodafone Germany
The Internet-Optionen (Internet Options) are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Text the Activation Code to 80808 to activate Internet-Optionen:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.99 EUR | 10 GB | 24 hours | Day100 |
| 5.99 EUR | 800 MB | Until plan expires | 800 MB |
| 9.99 EUR | 2 GB | Until plan expires | 2 GB |
| 19.99 EUR | 5 GB | Until plan expires | 5 GB |
EU Roaming – Vodafone Germany
You can use your Vodafone allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
As Vodafone does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Germany
- Name: Vodafone DE
- APN: web.vodafone.de
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Germany
The cheapest way to get online in Germany is to get a SIM card from one of the mobile operators unless you have an EU/EEA SIM card and can roam for free in Germany.
However, local SIM cards are not your only method of staying online when abroad.
Below are some other options to consider.
International Roaming
Roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected.
You do not have to buy a new SIM card, and people at home can easily reach you on your current phone number.
However, roaming has many downsides as well. It can be insanely expensive.
International/Travel SIM Cards
International SIM cards or travel SIM cards are SIM cards made for travelers.
The rates charged are often lower than international roaming, but they are almost always higher than what local mobile operators will charge you.
Get to know more about international and travel SIM cards.
Mobile Hotspots (Pocket WIFI)
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local mobile operators of the country you are visiting.
Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
Free WIFI Networks
Nothing beats free, right? Paying nothing to stay connected may be the best option.
Until you remember that free hotspots are not available everywhere (especially when on the move) and that free connections are often extremely slow.
Just make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN when connected to open WIFI connections. It is worth it.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Germany
Getting a SIM card from Telekom or Vodafone would do you well when considering a German SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other European Countries
Visiting other countries in Europe? Check out my Europe SIM card buying guide, covering other European nations, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
Support Phone Travel Wiz
It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate & review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).
Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful).
Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.
Check Out My Resource Page
Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience?
Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!
Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises & accommodation.
Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!
Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling
Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?
In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services & products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.
If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!
Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks
I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!
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A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
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Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!