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Hungary: 3 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

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 (1.30 USD) from Yettel (formerly Telenor), 990 HUF (2.60 USD) from Magyar Telekom & 1500 HUF (3.95 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.

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! 🇺🇦

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.

Buying a SIM Card in Hungary Guide (logos of Magyar Telekom, Vodafone & Yettel)

Original publication: 7th of January 2022. Last updated: 15th of March 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

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)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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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.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

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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).

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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 get travel eSIMs from Airalo, Holafly & Nomad.

Airalo has the Szia! eSIMs:

Bulgaria Szia! eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have these six options:

  1. Hungary/Szia! 1 GB eSIM for 7 days
  2. Hungary/Szia! 2 GB eSIM for 15 days (new)
  3. Hungary/Szia! 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. Hungary/Szia! 5 GB eSIM for 30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. Hungary/Szia! 10 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  6. Hungary/Szia! 20 GB eSIM for 30 days (new)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

The Airalo links above will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

While I did not use the Szia! eSIM when I was in Hungary recently, I did use the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in Hungary (and ten other countries) instead.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Or you can get Hungary eSIMs from Nomad.

Hungary eSIMs Nomad
Hungary Value Pack eSIMs Nomad

By the way, the 10 GB Nomad Hungary eSIM for 30 days is the most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.

Use code ADU123 for the best deals available when getting Nomad eSIMs (on the site or their apps) and get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off (even on top of current promotions)!

While I did not use the Nomad Hungary eSIM when I was in Hungary recently, I did use the Nomad Europe eSIM in Hungary (and seven other countries) instead.

So you may want to consider the Nomad Europe eSIM if you plan on visiting Hungary and at least one other European country.

Finally, you can get Hungary eSIMs from Holafly if you prefer unlimited data plans and do not mind paying a bit more for this advantage:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

Use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for exclusive deals when getting Holafly eSIMs, AND get an additional 5% off!

For an in-depth analysis of the Holafly Hungary eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my Hungary eSIMs Compared guide.

Holafly Travel eSIM Reviews by Phone Travel Wiz

With these eSIMs, you can skip Hungary's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Hungary!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best Hungary eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Hungary, including ones not mentioned above.

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Eurolink eSIM (six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days) in Hungary and these other countries:

Eurolink Europe eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  • Albania
  • Andorra
  • Austria 2
  • Belgium 2
  • Bulgaria 2
  • Croatia 2
  • Cyprus 2
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark 2
  • Estonia 2
  • Finland 2
  • France 2
  • Germany
  • Gibraltar 1
  • Greece 2
  • Hungary
  • Iceland 2
  • Ireland 2
  • Italy 2
  • Latvia 2
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg 2
  • Malta 2
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland 2
  • Portugal
  • Romania 2
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain 2
  • Sweden 2
  • Switzerland 2
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine
  • United Kingdom 2

1 on 3G only
2 (limited) 5G NR availability at no additional cost! (list updated in December 2022)

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

With the Eurolink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit – averaging 10.78 USD/country in Europe (and get 5G NR access at no additional cost)!

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Holafly and Nomad also have eSIMs covering all of the European Union (and more).

But honestly, the Eurolink eSIM is superior (but you can consider the Holafly Europe eSIM if you want unlimited data in 30+ countries – just do not forget about code PHONETRAVELWIZ if you go with Holafly).

Or if costs are of significant concern, get the Nomad Europe eSIM, which is the cheapest for up to 10 GB of data.

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 CAD off!

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 Hungary and eSIMs worldwide) and my Best Hungary eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for Hungary.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Hungary

If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Hungary, I recommend going with Simify's Europe SIM cards that covers Europe (mainly the European Union) and parts Asia, Central America, Oceania & South America – all in one SIM card.

Europe and UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card (10 GB for 30 days) Simify
© Simify
Europe & UK Data SIM card (12 GB for 30 days) Simify
© Simify

You have these four options:

  1. Europe & UK Travel SIM Card with 10 GB for 30 days
  2. Europe & UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 12 GB for 30 days (includes calls and SMS within the country you are in)
  3. Explorer Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 12 GB for 365 days
  4. Europe & UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card with 19 GB for 28 days (includes calls within the country you are in)
Europe UK Explorer SIM Card (12 GB for 365 days) Simify
© Simify
Europe and UK Prepaid Travel SIM Card (19 GB for 28 days) Simify
© Simify

If this selection of countries is still not enough, get Simify's Tourist Prepaid Travel 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).

Tourist Prepaid Travel SIM card (6 GB for 15 days) Simify
© Simify

Instead of spending between 0.67 USD to 105.17 USD for SIM cards in each country in the European Union, get a Simify's Tourist Prepaid Travel SIM card covering numerous countries for just one price!

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)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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

European Union (EU) & European Economic Area (EEA)

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

Flag of Hungary

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.

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Currency in Hungary

5000 Hungarian Forint Bank Note
© Hungarian National Bank/Magyar Nemzeti Bank (MNB)

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 = 2.65 USD
  • 10 000 HUF = 26.35USD
  • 100 000 HUF = 263.20 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.

50 Euro Bank Note
© European Central Bank (ECB)

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.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

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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

Telekom Logo
© 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 500 MB/1 GB of data, 80 minutes & 5 SMS 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).

Magyar Telekom SIM Card Price

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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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):

Bulgaria Szia! eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (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.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 13th of March (2023 data only)

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Hungary Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, SimOptions, Yettel, Eurolink, Szia & Ubigi)

Note that Magyar Telekom offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.

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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-UpValidity
1500 HUF180 days
3000 HUF366 days
5000 HUF366 days
10 000 HUF366 days
15 000 HUF366 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).

Magyar Telekom Telekom (Alkalmazás) App
© Magyar Telekom

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Magyar Telekom

Magyar Telekom has four data-featured prepaid plans:

All Magyar Telekom plans can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app.

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:

PriceDataEU/EEA DataValidity
525 HUF1 GBShared with local allowance24 hours
990 HUF3 GBShared with local allowance72 hours
990 HUFUnlimited3 GB24 hours
1990 HUFUnlimited5 GB72 hours
Magyar Telekom Egyszeri One-Time Packages
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:

PricePlanDataValidity
1190 HUFNet 1 GB1 GB30 days
5990 HUFNet 15 GB15 GB30 days
9900 HUFKorlátlan Net 30 NapraUnlimited 130 days

1 21 GB in the European Union/European Economic Area

Magyar Telekom Megújuló Renewable Packages
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:

PricePlanDataValidity
1490 HUFMaraton 1 GB1 GBNo expiry
3990 HUFMaraton 5 GB5 GBNo expiry
Magyar Telekom Marat(h)on Packages

Data Plans – Magyar Telekom

The Data Plans are, as the name implies, data bundles (without 5G NR access).

Data Bundles can be activated on the Telekom (Alkalmazás) app:

PriceDataEU/EEA DataValidity
2190 HUF4 GBShared with local allowance30 days
3390 HUF8 GBShared with local allowance30 days
6990 HUF25 GB15 GB30 days
7990 HUFUnlimited16 GB30 days
10 590 HUFUnlimited20 GB30 days
Magyar Telekom Data Plans
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.

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Telenor Hungary (Telenor Magyarország)

Telenor Logo
© Telenor

Telenor Hungary has been rebranded to Yettel Bulgaria since March 2022. I will update this section soon. Just read “Yettel” instead of “Telenor”. The plan selection and prices should still be the same.

Telenor Hungary (Telenor Magyarország), just Telenor and formerly Pannon (GSM), is the second-largest mobile operator in Hungary.

While Telenor is from Norway, it is not run by the Telenor Group.

Instead, it is owned by the PPF Group – a Czech-based investment firm – that also runs Telenor in Bulgaria, Montenegro & Serbia.

Telenor 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 Telenor:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Telenor SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Telenor Hungary

Telenor has extensive coverage throughout Hungary.

4G/LTE is available almost anywhere.

Below is Telenor's 2G coverage map:

Here we have Telenor's 3G coverage map:

Finally, we have the 4G/LTE coverage map of Telenor:

SIM Card Price – Telenor Hungary

You can buy a Telenor SIM card, called Hello Kártyás, for 490 HUF Telenor stores and from resellers, including grocery stores, post offices & gas stations. The data-only SIM card, Hipernet Praktikum, costs 990 HUF. Telenor SIM cards are not sold at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD).

Telenor Hungary Hello Kártyás SIM Card Price

As in-person registration is mandatory (for travelers) in Telenor stores, I recommend getting your Telenor SIM card immediately in the official stores of Telenor.

Telenor Hungary SIM Card
© Telenor Hungary
  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

While Telenor does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.

(When Telenor rebranded to Yettel, Yettel eSIMs are now also available to prepaid customers for the same price as a regular SIM card. I still need to revamp the whole Telenor section (even though literally everything is the same in terms or pricing and plans).

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 (seven options):

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in March based on data up to the 7th of March.

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

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.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Holafly Europe eSIM to be used in 32 European countries, also with unlimited data, with seven variants:

Holafly Europe eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

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.

Buying an eSIM for Hungary Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, SimOptions, Yettel, Eurolink, Szia & Ubigi)

Note that Telenor offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Telenor Hungary

Telenor top-up vouchers are sold in Telenor stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Hungary.

The following (online) top-ups are available:

Top-UpValidity
1500 HUF90 days
3000 HUF365 days
5000 HUF365 days
10 000 HUF365 days
15 000 HUF365 days

To top up your Telenor 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 MyTelenor, Hungary/Magyarország app (Android/iOS).

Telenor Hungary My Telenor, Hungary-Magyarország App
© Telenor Hungary

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Telenor Hungary

Telenor has six data-featured prepaid plans:

Most Telenor plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 1744.

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

2in1 One-Off Weekly Add-On Package – Telenor Hungary

The 2in1 One-Off Weekly Add-On Package is a combo plan with 200 MB (with 5G NR access) and 20 local/EU minutes for 7 days costing 500 HUF.

Text 2Iin1HETI to 1744 to activate the 2in1 One-Off Weekly Add-On Package.

PriceDataLocal/EU Minutes 1ValidityActivation Code
500 HUF200 MB20 minutes7 days2IN1HETI

1 for calls within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Hungary (NOT from Hungary to other EU/EEA member states)

Telenor Hungary 2in1 One-Off Weekly Add-On Package
Hello Kártyás 2in1 Packages – Telenor Hungary

The Hello Kártyás 2in1 Packages are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access) and minutes.

Hello Kártyás 2in1 Packages can be activated on the MyTelenor, Hungary/Magyarország app:

PricePlanDataLocal/EU Minutes 1Validity
1000 HUFHello Kártyás 2in1 S500 MB25 minutes30 days
2500 HUFHello Kártyás 2in1 M1.5 GB50 minutes30 days
3800 HUFHello Kártyás 2in1 L3 GB100 minutes30 days

1 for calls within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Hungary (NOT from Hungary to other EU/EEA member states)

Telenor Hungary Hello Kártyás 2in1 Packages
One-Off Additional Internet Packages – Telenor Hungary

The One-Off Additional Internet Packages are data plans (with 5G NR access).

Text the Activation Code to 1744 to activate One-Off Additional Internet Packages:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation Code
200 HUF200 MB Daily Internet200 MB1 day200MBNAPI
300 HUF200 MB Weekly Internet200 MB7 days200MBHETI
300 HUF500 MB Daily Internet500 MB1 day500MBNAPI
500 HUF500 MB Weekly Internet500 MB7 days500MBHETI
500 HUF1 GB Daily Internet1 GB1 day1GBNAPI
900 HUF1 GB Weekly Internet1 GB7 days1GBHETI
900 HUF3 GB Daily Internet3 GB1 day3GBNAPI
1500 HUF3 GB Weekly Internet3 GB7 days3GBETI
1500 HUF5 GB Daily Internet5 GB1 day5GBNAPI
2200 HUF5 GB Weekly Internet5 GB7 days5GBETI
Telenor Hungary One-Off Additional Packages
Hello Kártyás Recurring Internet Packages – Telenor Hungary

The Hello Kártyás Recurring Internet Packages are data plans (with 5G NR access) that auto-renew (can be disabled on the My Vodafone Magyarország app).

The following Hello Kártyás Recurring Internet Packages are available, which can be activated on the MyTelenor, Hungary/Magyarország app:

PricePlanDataValidity
750 HUFHello Kártyás Hello 500 MB500 MB30 days
1100 HUFHello Kártyás Hello 1 GB1 GB30 days
2500 HUFHello Kártyás 3 GB3 GB30 days
3500 HUFHello Kártyás 5 GB5 GB30 days
Telenor Hungary Hello Kártyás Recurring Internet Plans
Hipernet Praktikum Packages – Telenor Hungary

The Hipernet Praktikum Packages are data plans (with 5G NR access) for the data-only SIM card.

Text the Activation Code to +36202020638 to activate Hipernet Praktikum Packages:

PriceDataValidityActivation Code
2479.06 HUF1 GB45 daysmo1gb
4959.91 HUF5 GB45 daysmo5gb
HelloChat Plan – Telenor Hungary

The HelloChat Plan is a data bundle with 1 GB of data (with 5G NR access) and unlimited data bundle for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter & WhatsApp for 30 days, costing 2000 HUF.

HelloChat can be activated on the MyTelenor, Hungary/Magyarország app.

PriceDataSocial Media Data 1Validity
2000 HUF1 GBUnlimited 230 days

1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter & WhatsApp
2 unlimited in Hungary, 3.9 GB in the EU/EEA

Telenor Hungary HelloChat Plan
EU Roaming – Telenor Hungary

You can use your Telenor 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 – Telenor Hungary

  • Name: Telenor Online
  • APN: online

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Vodafone Hungary (Vodafone Magyarország)

Vodafone Logo
© Vodafone

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 SUM 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

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 (five options):

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 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.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Nomad Europe eSIM to be used in 25 or 35 European countries, depending on the plan, with eight variants:

Nomad Europe eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (February 2023 Version)

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.85 EUR/2.45 GBP/4.10 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.

Nomad Europe eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

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.

Buying an eSIM for Hungary Guide (logos of Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, SimOptions, Yettel, Eurolink, Szia & Ubigi)

Note that Vodafone offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.

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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).

Vodafone Hungary My Vodafone Magyarország App
© Vodafone Hungary

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Hungary

Vodafone has two data-featured prepaid plans: Adatopciók/Data Options (data) & Korlátlan Csevegés Opciók/Unlimited Chat Options (social media data).

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:

PriceDataEU/EEA DataValidityActivation Code
1290 HUF1 GB/30 days (3 GB)Shared with local allowance30 days1GBE
1490 HUF1 GB/30 days (6 GB)Shared with local allowance60 days1GB60
2270 HUF1 GB/30 days (9 GB)Shared with local allowance90 days1GBX3
2690 HUF5 GBShared with local allowance30 days5GBE
4990 HUF5 GB/30 days (15 GB)Shared with local allowance90 days5GBX3
4990 HUF20 GB11 GB30 days20GBE
5690 HUF1 GB/30 days (12 GB)Shared with local allowance360 days1GBX12
6990 HUF100 GB15 GB30 days100GBE
7990 HUF500 GB15 GB30 days500GBE
Vodafone Hungary Adatopciók Data Options
Korlátlan Csevegés Opciók/Unlimited Chat Options – Vodafone Hungary

The Korlátlan Csevegés Opciók/Unlimited Chat Options is an unlimited data plan for Facebook Messenger, Viber & WhatsApp costinf 2490 HUF for 30 days.

Text CPASSE to 1270 to activate Korlátlan Csevegés Opciók.

PriceFacebook Messenger, Viber & WhatsApp DataValidityActivation Code
2490 HUFUnlimited30 daysCPASSE
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.

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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.


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.

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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 cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile hotspots, or roam internationally.

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.

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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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