Hungary – known for its thermal spas, good & architecture.
And if you make the hungry joke, an angry Hungarian will chase you down the streets 🥴.
The country has a rich history, which is still visible in its architecture.
Not just in Budapest, but also in rural Hungary.
So what can you do in the country besides looking at stunning buildings? A lot.
Of course, you have to visit a thermal bath yourself, like the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Views from the Fisherman's Bastion are breathtaking.
And getting up to the Heroes' Square is worth the effort.
You can even celebrate your achievement with a Frappuccino from Starbucks on the square 🤓.
While Hungary is a relatively affordable travel destination in Europe, international roaming is not.
In fact, international roaming can be expensive.
That is why I always recommend getting a local SIM card, like a Hungarian one, so that you can enjoy local rates.
Fortunately, SIM cards in Hungary are quite cheap.
You can get a Hungarian SIM card for 490 HUF (1.35 USD) from Yettel (formerly Telenor), 990 HUF (2.70 USD) from Magyar Telekom & 1500 HUF (4.10 USD) from Vodafone in their stores and from resellers, like kiosks. Yettel also has a data-only SIM card for 990 HUF. SIM cards are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) anymore.
I told you those prices are not too crazy.
Just wait until you see how cheap mobile data is in the country – certainly worth the investment!
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Hungary. Let's go.
Original publication: 7th of January 2022. Last updated: 25th of September 2023.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Hungary?
Anyone 14 years old or older living in or visiting Hungary can buy a Hungarian SIM card from Magyar Telekom, Yettel (formerly Telenor), & Vodafone with some restrictions.
The main restriction is that you can only have ten active SIM cards in your name in Hungary.
Even for people like me, who like to test out all the mobile operators in a country, this should be more than enough.
Besides that restriction, you are free to use Hungarian SIM cards.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
- Find out which countries have 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 Hungary).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Hungary?
You can get a Hungarian SIM card in Magyar Telekom, Yettel (formerly Telenor) & Vodafone stores. They are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) anymore.
Vodafone used to sell SIM cards at Budapest airport.
However, its (partner) store has been moved to the Market Central mall near the airport.
You can expect to pay the following for Hungarian SIM cards:
- Magyar Telekom: 990 HUF
- Yettel (formerly Telenor Hungary): 490 HUF (regular) & 990 HUF (data-only)
- Vodafone Hungary: 1500 HUF
For up-to-date HUF:your currency (let's say EUR) 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 Hungary?
Hungary uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Hungary. 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 Hungary, 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 Hungary.
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 Hungary 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 Hungary (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and soon 5G NR as well.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Hungary
Hungary has three mobile operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Magyar Telekom
- Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor Hungary/Magyarország)
- Vodafone Hungary (Vodafone Magyarország)
DIGIMobil is (currently) postpaid only. Hence, it will not be covered in this guide
The following frequencies are used in Hungary:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 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: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3600 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid yet
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Hungary, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).
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 Hungary
Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are available in Hungary.
However, not all mobile operators in Hungary offer VoLTE and VoWiFi.
The following mobile operators offer VoLTE and VoWiFi in Hungary:
- Magyar Telekom
The following mobile operators offer VoLTE only in Hungary:
- Yettel (formerly Telenor)
- Vodafone Hungary
This means that your phone does not have to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making a call (unlike mobile operators that do not support VoLTE).
5G NR in Hungary
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Hungary since April 2020. It is available on the Magyar Telekom, Yettel (formerly Telenor) & Vodafone networks. Yettel offers 5G NR to prepaid customers. Magyar Telekom and Vodafone do not.
Best SIM Card in Hungary
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Hungary, I recommend going with Magyar Telekom. It has the best network and has the fastest speeds. Consider Vodafone for generous data allowances (up to 500 GB for 30 days).
Best eSIM in Hungary
Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor) offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.
Note that the Hungarian 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).
However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.
The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Hungary.
But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.
Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).
So here are the 13 best eSIMs for Hungary:
- Hungarian mobile operators (one offer eSIMs to prepaid customers – read more in my Hungary SIM card buying guide)
- Airalo Szia! eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money)
- Alosim Hungary eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options – use code PTW for 5% off)
- Holafly Hungary eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (unlimited data eSIMs) + ability to make and receive calls (new) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
- Nomad Hungary eSIM with 11 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money… too – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
- Airalo Eurolink eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 100 GB (best value for money for 39 European countries) – read my ongoing Airalo Eurolink eSIM review too!
- Alosim Europe eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 10 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with worse coverage)
- Holafly Europe eSIM with 5G NR access in Hungary with unlimited data for 5 to 60 days (unlimited data eSIMs for 33 European countries) + ability to make and receive calls (new)
- Nomad Europe eSIM with 11 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance for 35 European countries)
- SimOptions Europe eSIMs with seven choices between 8 GB and 24 GB (choice from multiple mobile operators + calling & texting options (the only one in this list))
- Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
- AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with 5G NR access in Hungary with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
- Nomad Global eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (extensive global coverage (109 or 139 countries) at high(er) prices – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Hungary, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).
If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Hungary, you better check out my Hungary eSIM buying guide.
It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.
SIM Card Registration in Hungary
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Hungary. It will be done at the point of purchase.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Moreover, you can have up to ten active prepaid SIM cards in Hungary.
This restriction applies to both Hungarian citizens and non-citizens (including migrant workers and tourists).
Furthermore, tourists have to get their SIM cards registered in the official stores of the mobile operators.
It cannot be done online, at kiosks, or at post offices.
EU Roaming in Hungary
Hungary 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 Hungary.
This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase a Hungarian 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 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 Hungary or if restrictions apply.
Roaming in the EU with Hungarian SIM Cards
Hungary and the Hungarian 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.
Hungary Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
In the introduction, I said that Hungarian SIM cards are quite cheap and that mobile data rates are low.
But what is low?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Hungary is 1.70 USD, around the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
I do not know what happened in 2020 that caused a price spike, but I am glad it went down after a year.
Cable.co.uk split Europe into three territories: Western Europe, Eastern Europe & the Baltics.
The Eastern European average cost of 1 GB of data, using Cable.co.uk's definition, is 2.25 USD.
So, the cost of mobile data is low, but what about mobile data speeds.
Is mobile data fast in Hungary?
You could say it fast – not crazy fast, though.
Hungary's median mobile download speed is around 37 Mbps.
Hungary having a median download speed higher than the global median is a good sign.
However, neighboring Austria, Croatia & Slovenia have (much) faster median download speeds.
But comparison is the thief of joy, am I right? 🤓
Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Hungary.
That would be Magyar Telekom, with a speed score of 52.30. Followed by Yettel (formerly Telenor – 48.86) and Vodafone Hungary (35.18).
So what about overall network performance by the Hungarian mobile operators?
Magyar Telekom beats its competitors in all ways (except for 4G/LTE availability by a small losing margin).
So you cannot go wrong when you get a Magyar Telekom SIM card.
WIth low SIM card prices, extensive nationwide coverage, good mobile download speeds, and low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Hungary.
Currency in Hungary
Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint with the symbol HUF (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed as Ft. For example, 25 HUF = 25 Ft.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between HUF and USD (US Dollars):
- 10 HUF = 0.03 USD
- 100 HUF = 0.30 USD
- 1000 HUF = 2.75 USD
- 10 000 HUF = 27.50 USD
- 100 000 HUF = 274.85 USD
For up-to-date HUF:your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
While Hungary is in the European Union, it is not part of the Euro Zone.
That is why it still uses its own currency.
Also, do not attempt to pay with Euros in Hungary, as almost no merchant will accept it – certainly not the mobile operators.
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 Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.
Hungarian Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Magyar Telekom, Yettel (formerly Telenor) & Vodafone Hungary, 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 Hungary has to offer to us.
Magyar Telekom
Magyar Telekom, also known as just Telekom and formerly as T-Mobile, is the largest mobile operator in Hungary.
It was also the first mobile operator to launch 4G/LTE in the country.
Telekom, by Deutsche Telekom (from Germany), is active in Europe (as Telekom and T-Mobile) and the United States (as T-Mobile).
Magyar Telekom uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3600 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid customers (yet)
This is what you will learn about Magyar Telekom:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Magyar Telekom SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Magyar Telekom
Magyar Telekom has the best coverage in Hungary.
4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.
This was also confirmed by Opensignal.
Below is Magyar Telekom's 2G coverage map:
Here we have Magyar Telekom's 3G coverage map:
Then we have the 4G/LTE coverage map of Magyar Telekom:
Finally, the Magyar Telekom 5G NR coverage map (which is not applicable to prepaid customers… yet):
SIM Card Price – Magyar Telekom
You can buy a Magyar Telekom SIM card, called Domino (Fix), for 990 HUF with 2 GB of data and 40 minutes in Magyar Telekom stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, post offices & gas stations. Magyar Telekom SIM cards are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).
As in-person registration is mandatory (for travelers) in Magyar Telekom stores, I recommend getting your Magyar Telekom SIM card immediately in the official stores.
- 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)
While Magyar Telekom does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.
Note that the Hungary mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM card.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Hungary without personal detail capturing, you can get Hungary Szia! eSIMs from Airalo (six options):
- 1 GB/7 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 2 GB/15days (new)
- 3 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days
- 20 GB/30 days (new)
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:
- 1 GB/7 days
- 3 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 50 GB/90 days
- 100 GB/180 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!
By the way, you get free 5G NR access in 22 of the 39 supported countries!
I have used the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in 11 countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.
- Be sure to check out my Airalo Eurolink eSIM review for my insights!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Hungary.
You can read about them in my Best Hungary eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that Magyar Telekom offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Magyar Telekom
Magyar Telekom top-up vouchers are sold in Magyar Telekom stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Hungary.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 1500 HUF | 180 days |
| 3000 HUF | 366 days |
| 5000 HUF | 366 days |
| 10 000 HUF | 366 days |
| 15 000 HUF | 366 days |
To top up your Magyar Telekom SIM card, the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *102# to check your Magyar Telekom balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Telekom Alkalmazás app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Magyar Telekom
Magyar Telekom has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Egyszeri (One-Time) Packages (data)
- Megújuló (Renewable) Packages (data)
- Marat(h)on Packages (data)
All Magyar Telekom plans can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app.
I will list all the prices in HUF (Hungarian Forint).
To convert HUF to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Egyszeri (One-Time) Packages – Magyar Telekom
The Egyszeri (One-Time) Packages are data plans (without 5G NR access).
Egyszeri can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app:
| Price | Data | EU/EEA Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 590 HUF | 1 GB | Shared with local allowance | 1 day |
| 1090 HUF | 3 GB | Shared with local allowance | 3 days |
| 1090 HUF | Unlimited | 3 GB | 1 day |
| 2090 HUF | Unlimited | 5 GB | 3 days |
Megújuló (Renewable) Packages – Magyar Telekom
The Megújuló (Renewable) Packages are data plans (without 5G NR access).
Megújuló can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1290 HUF | Net 1 GB | 1 GB | 30 days |
| 5990 HUF | Net 15 GB | 15 GB | 30 days |
| 9900 HUF | Korlátlan Net 30 Napra | Unlimited 1 | 30 days |
1 21 GB in the European Union/European Economic Area
Marat(h)on Packages – Magyar Telekom
The Marat(h)on Packages are data plans (without 5G NR access) with no expiry.
Maraton Packages can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1550 HUF | Maraton 1 GB | 1 GB | No expiry |
| 3990 HUF | Maraton 5 GB | 5 GB | No expiry |
EU Roaming – Magyar Telekom
You can use your Magyar Telekom allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Azores
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canary Islands
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Dominican Republic 1
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Gibraltar
- Germany
- Greece
- Guadeloupe
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Martinique
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Réunion
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
1 honestly, I have no idea what the Dominican Republic, from the Caribbean, is doing on this list 🥴
Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.
APN/Internet Settings – Magyar Telekom
- Name: Telekom HU NET
- APN: internet.telekom
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
Yettel Hungary, just Yettel and formerly Telenor Hungary, is the second-largest mobile operator in Hungary.
Yettel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3600 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Yettel:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Telenor SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
Yettel has extensive coverage throughout Hungary.
4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.
Below is Yettel's 2G coverage map:
Here we have Yettel's 3G coverage map:
Finally, we have the 4G/LTE coverage map of Yettel:
SIM Card Price – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
You can buy a Yettel SIM card, called Hello Kártyás, for 490 HUF Yettel stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, post offices & gas stations. The data-only SIM card, Hipernet Praktikum, costs 990 HUF. Yettel SIM cards are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).
As in-person registration is mandatory (for travelers) in Yettel stores, I recommend getting your Yettel SIM card immediately in the official stores of Yettel.
- 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)
Yettel has eSIMs.
Note that the Hungary mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM card.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Holafly without personal detail capturing, you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (eight options):
- Unlimited/5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/7 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/15 days
- Unlimited/20 days
- Unlimited/30 days
- Unlimited/60 days
- Unlimited/90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Holafly Europe eSIM to be used in 33 European countries, also with unlimited data, with eight variants:
- Unlimited/5 days – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/7 days
- Unlimited/10 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/15 days – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- Unlimited/20 days
- Unlimited/30 days
- Unlimited/60 days
- Unlimited/90 days
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!
Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Hungary.
You can read about them in my Best Hungary eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that Yettel offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
Yettel has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- Egyszeri Napi Net/Once Daily Net (combo)
- Egyszeri 5 Napos Net/One-Time-5-Day Net (combo)
- 30 Naponta Megújuló Net/Net Renewed Every 30 days (combo)
- Recurring Add-ons
Most Yettel plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 1744.
I will list all the prices in HUF (Hungarian Forint).
To convert HUF to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Egyszeri Napi Net/Once Daily Net Package – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
The Egyszeri Napi Net/Once Daily Net Package is a combo plan with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.
Text Activaion Code to 1744 to activate the Egyszeri Napi Net/Once Daily Net Package.
| Price | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 HUF | 300 MB | Shared with data allowance | 1 day | 300MB1DAY |
| 350 HUF | 500 MB | 500 MB | 1 day | 500MB1DAY |
| 550 HUF | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 day | 1GB1DAY |
| 1000 HUF | Unlimited | 3.1 GB | 1 day | UNLIMITED1DAY |
1 for calls within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Hungary (NOT from Hungary to other EU/EEA member states)
Egyszeri 5 Napos Net/One-Time-5-Day Net Package – Yettel Hungary
Egyszeri 5 Napos Net/One-Time-5-Day Net Package are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.
Text Activaion Code to 1744 to activate the Egyszeri 5 Napos Net/One-Time-5-Day Net Package.
| Price | Data | Local/EU Minutes 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 550 HUF | 500 MB | 500 MB | 5 days | 500MB5NAP |
| 950 HUF | 1 GB | 1 GB | 5 days | 1GB5NAP |
| 1600 HUF | 3 GB | 3 GB | 5 days | 3GB5NAP |
| 2200 HUF | Unlimited | 6.8 GB | 5 days | UNLIMITED5DAYS |
1 for calls within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Hungary (NOT from Hungary to other EU/EEA member states)
30 Naponta Megújuló Net/Net Renewed Every 30 days Package – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
30 Naponta Megújuló Net/Net Renewed Every 30 days Package are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.
Text Activaion Code to 1744 to activate the 30 Naponta Megújuló Net/Net Renewed Every 30 days Package.
| Price | Data | Local/EU Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 750 HUF | 500 MB | 500 MB | 30 days | 500MBHAVI |
| 1100 HUF | 1 GB | 1 GB | 30 days | 1GBHAVI |
| 2500 HUF | 3 GB | 3 GB | 30 days | 3GBHAVI |
| 5000 HUF | 10 GB | 10 GB | 30 days | 10GBHAVI |
Recurring Add-ons – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
The Hello Kártyás Recurring Add-ons are combo add-ons with data (without 5G NR access) and minutes.
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3300 HUF | 5 GB | 25 minutes | 30 days |
EU Roaming – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
You can use your Yettel allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Canary Islands
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- French Guiana
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Guadeloupe
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Saint Martin
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Réunion
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.
APN/Internet Settings – Yettel Hungary (formerly Telenor)
- Name: Yettel Online
- APN: online
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Vodafone Hungary (Vodafone Magyarország)
Vodafone Hungary (Vodafone Magyarország), just Vodafone, is the third-largest mobile operator in Hungary.
It was the first mobile operator to own 5G NR spectrum (3500 MHz) for 5G NR development.
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 & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 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) – not for prepaid customers (yet)
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 Hungary
Vodafone has extensive coverage throughout Hungary.
4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.
Below is Vodafone's 2G coverage map:
Here we have Vodafone's 3G coverage map:
Then we have the 4G/LTE coverage map of Vodafone:
Finally, the Vodafone 5G NR coverage map (which is not applicable to prepaid customers… yet):
SIM Card Price – Vodafone Hungary
You can buy a Vodafone SIM card, called TUITI100, for 1500 HUF with 100 MB (renewed every 30 days) in Vodafone stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, post offices & gas stations. Vodafone SIM cards are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) anymore, but the Market Central mall does.
As in-person registration is mandatory (for travelers) in Vodafone stores, I recommend getting your Vodafone SIM card immediately in the official stores of Vodafone.
- 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)
While Vodafone does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.
Note that the Hungary mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and for physical SIM card.
Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Slovakia without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (eight options):
- 1 GB/7 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped)
- 3 GB/15 days (price dropped)
- 3 GB/30 days (price dropped)
- 5 GB/30 days (price dropped)
- 5 GB/15 days (price dropped)
- 10 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 15 GB/30 days (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 20 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).
The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!
No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.
If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Nomad Europe eSIM to be used in 30 or 35 European countries, depending on the plan, with 14 variants:
- 1 GB/7 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
- 1 GB/7 days (35 countries)
- 3 GB/15 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
- 3 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
- 5 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 5 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 10 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 15 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
- 15 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
- 20 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
- 20 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
30 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)40 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 13th of September (2023 data only).
Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!
I have used the Nomad Europe eSIM in eight countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.
- Be sure to check out my Nomad Europe eSIM review for my insights!
Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Hungary.
You can read about them in my Best Hungary eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.
Note that Vodafone offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Vodafone Hungary
Vodafone top-up vouchers are sold in Vodafone stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Hungary.
The following (online) top-ups are available:
- 1000 HUF
- 2000 HUF
- 3000 HUF
- 5000 HUF
- 7000 HUF
To top up your Vodafone SIM card, the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
You can also top up and check your balance on the My Vodafone Magyarország (Hungary) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Hungary
Vodafone has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Adatopciók/Data Options. It is a data bundle (without 5G NR access).
I will list all the prices in HUF (Hungarian Forint).
To convert HUF to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
All Vodafone plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 1270.
Adatopciók/Data Options – Vodafone Hungary
The Adatopciók/Data Options are, as the name implies, data plans (without 5G NR access).
Text the Activation Code to 1270 to activate Adatopciók:
| Price | Data | EU/EEA Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1290 HUF | 1 GB/30 days (3 GB) | Shared with local allowance | 30 days | 1GBE |
| 1490 HUF | 1 GB/30 days (6 GB) | Shared with local allowance | 60 days | 1GB60 |
| 2270 HUF | 1 GB/30 days (9 GB) | Shared with local allowance | 90 days | 1GBX3 |
| 2590 HUF | 5 GB | Shared with local allowance | 30 days | 5GBE |
| 4990 HUF | 5 GB/30 days (15 GB) | Shared with local allowance | 90 days | 5GBX3 |
| 4990 HUF | 20 GB | 15 GB | 30 days | 20GBE |
| 6990 HUF | 100 GB | 21 GB | 30 days | 100GBE |
| 7990 HUF | 500 GB | 24 GB | 30 days | 500GBE |
EU Roaming – Vodafone Hungary
You can use your Vodafone allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- French Guiana
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Guadeloupe
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Réunion
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- United Kingdom
Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Hungary
- Name: Vodafone HU
- APN: internet.vodafone.net
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Hungary
Getting a SIM card from Magyar Telekom or Vodafone would do you well when considering a Hungarian 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:
- Åland Islands
- Abkhazia
- Albania
- Alderney
- Andorra
- Armenia
- Austria
- Azerbaijan
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brecqhou
- Bulgaria
- Channel Islands
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Faroe Islands
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Greenland
- Guernsey
- Herm
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Isle of Man
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!
Sign Up for the Phone Travel Wiz Newsletter
Get updates related to the newest guides, videos & recommended products and services.
Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on saving money while traveling every now and then.
Let's Be Social
Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone?
A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!
Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is
Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!