Spain – known for the Siesta, the Paella dish & beaches.
It is also a popular travel destination for partying youngsters from all over Europe (especially countries where it is much colder than Spain, like Western Europe and Northern Europe).
While France gets the most visitors in Europe (86 million before the pandemic), Spain is a close second (81 million before the pandemic).
But that is understandable because the country has a lot to offer.
Besides the beaches and thrilling nightlife, the Gaudí-designed buildings, like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, are stunning to look at.
The Mercado de la Boqueria market is a must-see too.
And let's not forget the many plazas and palaces, like Plaza de España and the Royal Palace of Madrid.
There is no reason to be bored in Spain. And if you are, shame on you 🤪.
Dealing with an expensive international roaming bill will certainly not be enjoyable because you forgot to turn off international roaming.
That feature can be expensive, which is why I always recommend getting local SIM cards, like a Portuguese one, so that you can enjoy local rates.
SIM cards are not cheap, but the prices could be much worse.
You can get a Spanish SIM card for 10 EUR (11.20 EUR) from Movistar, Orange, Vodafone & Yoigo. Orange also has two tourist SIM cards for 15 EUR (16.70 EUR) and 25 EUR (27.90 EUR). SIM cards are also sold at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN).
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! 🇺🇦
Yes, I know many Eastern European countries have much cheaper SIM cards.
Luckily, the cost of mobile data is low in Spain, which somewhat compensates for the higher-than-average SIM card prices.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Spain. Let's do this.
Original publication: 28th of January 2022. Last updated: 3rd of May 2022.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Spain?
Anyone living in or visiting Spain can buy a Spanish SIM card from Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, Yoigo & many MVNO with no restrictions.
You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.
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 Spain).
Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Spain?
You can get a Spanish SIM card in Movistar, Orange, Vodafone & Yoigo stores. Grocery stores also sell SIM cards (especially for the MVNOs). They are also available at several airports, including Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN).
You can expect to pay the following for Spanish SIM cards:
- Movistar Spain: 10 EUR
- Orange Spain: 10 EUR
- Vodafone Spain: 10 EUR, 15 EUR, 20 EUR, 30 EUR & 40 EUR
- Yoigo: 10 EUR
- MVNOs (like Lycamobile Spain): being added later
The following mobile operators also have SIM cards targetting tourists:
- Orange Spain: 15 EUR (Holiday Pass 5) & 25 EUR (Holiday Pass 15)
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 Spain?
Spain uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Spain. 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 Spain, 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 Spain.
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 Spain 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 Spain (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Spain
Spain has four mobile operators and various Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs – being added later) offering prepaid services:
- Movistar Spain (Movistar España)
- Orange Spain (Orange España)
- Vodafone Spain (Vodafone España)
- Yoigo
The following frequencies are used in Spain:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz-3700 MHz (n78)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in Spain, 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 Spain
Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are available in Spain. All Spanish mobile operators offer VoLTE, but not VoWiFi.
This means that your phone does not have to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making a call in Spain (unlike mobile operators that do not support VoLTE).
The following mobile operators offer VoLTE and VoWiFi in Spain:
- Movistar Spain
- Orange Spain
The following mobile operators offer VoLTE only in Spain:
- Vodafone Spain
- Yoigo
VoWiFi is, as the name implies, calling on a WiFi connection as opposed to on a cellular network.
5G NR in Spain
Commercial 5G NR has been available in Spain since December 2020. It is available on the Movistar. Orange, Vodafone & Yoigo networks. Vodafone allows prepaid customers to use 5G NR – Movistar, Orange & Yoigo do not. MVNOs do not have 5G NR access yet.
Best SIM Card in Spain
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Spain, I recommend going with Movistar, Orange, or Vodafone. Movistar is, overall, the best and fastest mobile operator. Orange has attractive tourist SIM cards. Vodafone offers 5G NR to prepaid customers already and has the fastest 5G NR speeds.
- Find out about the best local SIM cards in every country (lookup tool)
Best eSIM in Spain
Orange Spain offers eSIMs to prepaid customers if you get its Orange Holiday Pass tourist offering – not for its regular offering. Movistar Spain, Vodafone Spain & Yoigo also offer eSIMs, but it is unclear if they are available to prepaid customers too.
I will ask the mobile operators about this March (2022) when I revisit Spain 🇪🇸😎.
As promised, I would ask the mobile operators if they offer eSIM to prepaid customers – they do not 😔.
Note that the Spanish 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 Spain without personal detail capturing, you can get the Spain (Guay Mobile) eSIMs from Airalo.
You have these four options:
- Spain/Guay Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 days
- Spain/Guay Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Spain/Guay Mobile 5 GB eSIM for 30 days
- Spain/Guay Mobile 10 GB eSIM for 30 days
Or you can get Spain 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 Spain's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in Spain!
- 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 Spain 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 Spain 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 Spain and eSIMs worldwide).
Best International/Travel SIM Card for Spain
If you want to buy the best international/travel SIM card for Spain, 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 Spain 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 Spain
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Spain. It will be done at the point of sale.
- Find out which countries have a SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
EU Roaming in Spain
Spain 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 Spain.
This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase a Spanish 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 Spain or if restrictions apply.
Roaming in the EU with Spanish SIM Cards
Spain and the Spanish 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.
Using Spanish SIM Cards in the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Ceuta & Melilla
The Balearic Islands, often known as just Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca (on the east of Spain), the Canary Islands (often known as just Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife), Ceuta & Melilla are part of Spain.
While the Balearic Islands are just on the east of mainland Spain (southeast of Barcelona and east of Valencia) and are soldom mistaken for not being part of Spain – even though they are an autonomous community.
However, the Canary Islands are closer to Morocco (on the west), Mauritania & perhaps Senegal too than to Spain.
But these islands, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife, are also part of Spain, although they are also an autonomous community of the country.
Then we have Ceuta and Melilla. Both enclaves are not in mainland Spain. Instead, they are attached to Morocco.
Cueta is closer to Tangier than Málaga – one of the larger cities of Spain near the enclave.
The same counts for Melilla. It is easier to get to Nador, or Berkane or Oujda for that matter, than Alería or Málaga because there is a sea (Alboran Sea) between Melilla and the aforementioned cities.
Why do I mention all of this? Because even though these islands or enclaves may sometimes be forgotten to be part of Spain by some travelers, they may think they need other SIM cards for these islands or enclaves.
But that is, luckily, not the case. The Spanish mobile operators (Movistar Spain, Orange Spain, Vodafone Spain, Yoigo & the MVNOs) are active in Ceuta, Formentera, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Lanzarote, Mallorca, Melilla, Menorca & Tenerife.
Meaning that if you bought your Spanish SIM card in mainland Spain, you could use them as if you were in Barcelona/Madrid – you will not be roaming on those islands or enclaves.
The same counts if you buy your SIM card in Ceuta and head to Barcelona later.
Note that the network performance on the Canary Islands, Ceuta & Melilla is worse compared to mainland Spain, but you should still be fine.
Spain Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Mobile data rates are low in Spain.
In fact, it has one of the lowest mobile data rates in Europe.
So, how inexpensive is mobile data in Spain?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Spain is 1.24 USD, below the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
While the average cost of 1 GB of data has gone up compared to 2019, surprisingly, the prices are still low.
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.
While mobile data rates are low, are mobile data speeds low too? Not at all.
Spain's median mobile download speed is around 33 Mbps.
Spain's mobile download speed hovers around the global mean of 30 Mbps.
While many other countries in Europe have much faster mobile download speeds than Spain (especially Portugal, with a median download speed twice as fast as Spain's), it is not slow at all – from a global perspective.
Okay, now it is time to know which mobile operator is the fastest in Spain.
That would be Movistar Spain, with a speed score of 62.67. Followed by Orange Spain (51.34), Vodafone Orange (45.57) & Yoigo (39.43).
The fastest mobile download speed can be found in Madrid, Barcelona & Valencia, with median download speeds of 44.96 Mbps, 44.28 Mbps & 42.83 Mbps, respectively.
Seville and Zaragoza have median download speeds above 30 Mbps (36.72 Mbps and 33.35 Mbps, respectively).
The mobile operator with the best 5G NR speeds is Vodafone, with a median download speed of 277.11 Mbps – almost double Orange's 5G NR median download speed (146.31 Mbps). Followed by Yoigo (125.20 Mbps) and Movistar (103.99 Mbps).
Luckily for you, you can try out Vodafone's 5G NR network with any of its plans without any surcharges – the other mobile operators do not offer 5G NR to prepaid customers (yet).
So what about overall network performance by the Spanish mobile operators?
Movistar is is the best, while it shares the best Games and Voice App experience with Vodafone.
Vodafone has the best 4G/LTE availability. Movistar and Orange have the best 4G/LTE coverage experience.
Basically, you cannot go wrong with Movistar or Vodafone.
With reasonable SIM card prices, extensive nationwide coverage, decent mobile download speeds, and low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Spain.
Currency in Spain
Spain 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 USD) 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!
Spanish Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Movistar Spain, Orange Spain, Vodafone Spain, Yoigo & 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 Spain has to offer to us.
Movistar Spain (Movistar España)
Movistar Spain (Movistar España), just Movistar, is the largest mobile operator in Spain.
Movistar, by Telefónica Móvil, used to be a state-owned telecommunications operator, but it has retained its #1 position.
Movistar, as a brand, is active in Central America, South America & Spain.
Movistar uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3), 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78 – not for prepaid (yet))
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about Movistar:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Movistar SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Movistar Spain
Movistar has extensive coverage throughout Spain.
Movistar has the best 4G/LTE coverage experience as Orange Spain.
Below, you have the coverage maps of Movistar in mainland Spain + the Balearic Islands (consisting of Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca) and in the Canary Islands on the west of Morocco (consisting of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife):
Below are the coverage maps of Movistar of Cueta (south of Gibraltar and north of Morocco (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) and of Melilla (north/northeast of Morocco (on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)):
SIM Card Price – Movistar Spain
You can get a Movistar SIM card for 10 EUR with 10 EUR credit in Movistar stores. Movistar SIM cards are not sold at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN).
- 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 Movistar eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card (or 14.50 EUR if you change from a physical SIM card to eSIM).
However, it is unclear if eSIMs are available for prepaid customers too.
I will ask Movistar about this March (2022) when I revisit Spain 🇪🇸😎.
I asked – Movistar eSIMs are only available to postpaid customers, unfortunately 😔.
Therefore, if you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Spain/Guay 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 Spain 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 Spain 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 Movistar 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).
Movistar SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 8 months (no top-up for 8 months or no activity for 8 months).
However, your Movistar SIM card will enter into a passive state after not topping up for 6 months, allowing only for receiving incoming calls and SMS and making calls to emergency services.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Movistar Spain
Movistar top-up vouchers are sold in Mosivtar stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Spain.
To top up your Movistar SIM card, call 2200 and follow the instructions.
You can also tell 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/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *123# or call 2266 and select option 2 to check your Movistar balance.
However, every balance query will cost 0.18 EUR/check.
You can also top up and check your balance (for free) on the Mi Movistar (España) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Movistar Spain
Movistar has two data-featured packages: Plans (combo) and Add-Ons (data).
Plans – Movistar Spain
The Plans, which may not be called plans but have no clear name, are combo bundles with data and minutes.
Call 1200 to activate Plans:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local/EU Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 EUR | Línea Adicional Prepago 5 | 5 GB | 20 minutes | 28 days |
| 10 EUR | Prepago Plus | 21 GB | 40 minutes | 28 days |
| 15 EUR | Prepago Premium | 45 GB | 100 minutes | 28 days |
| 20 EUR | Prepago Total | 75 GB | 150 minutes | 28 days |
Add-Ons – Movistar Spain
The Add-Ons are, as the name implies, add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Call 1200 to activate Add-Ons.
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 EUR | Bono Extra 200 MB | 200 MB | 7 days |
| 5 EUR | Browse+ | 1 GB | 28 days |
EU Roaming – Movistar Spain
You can use your Movistar allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
As Movistar 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 – Movistar Spain
- Name: Movistar Internet
- APN: movistar.es
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Orange Spain (Orange España)
Orange Spain (Orange España), just Orange, is the second-largest mobile operator in Spain.
Orange, as a company, is active in other countries in Africa, the Caribbean, Europe & the Middle East.
Orange uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78 – not for prepaid (yet))
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about Orange:
* Coverage
* How to Get an Orange SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Orange Spain
Orange has extensive coverage throughout Spain.
It has the best 4G/LTE coverage experience together with Movistar Spain.
Below, you have the coverage maps of Orange in mainland Spain (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) + the Balearic Islands (consisting of Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca) and in the Canary Islands on the west of Morocco (consisting of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife – on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)):
Below are the coverage maps of Orange of Cueta (south of Gibraltar and north of Morocco (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) and of Melilla (north/northeast of Morocco (on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)):
SIM Card Price – Orange Spain
You can get an Orange SIM card, called SIM Mundo, for 10/20 EUR with 10/20 EUR credit in Orange stores. Orange SIM cards are also sold at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN).
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Holiday Pass – Orange's tourist offering.
The following two Orange Holiday Passes are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | EU/EEA Roaming Data | Local/International Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 EUR | Holiday Pass 5 | “Unlimited”, 30 GB high-speed | 8.5 GB | 50 minutes | 5 days |
| 25 EUR | Holiday Pass 15 | “Unlimited”, 60 GB high-speed | 14 GB | 100 minutes | 15 days |
- 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)
The Orange Holiday Passes are available as eSIM – regular Orange prepaid SIM cards are not available as eSIM.
- Find out about the best local eSIMs, travel eSIMs & travel SIM cards for every country (lookup tool)
Note that Orange 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).
Orange SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 7 months (no top-up for 7 months or no activity for 7 months).
However, your Orange SIM card will enter into a passive state after not topping up for 6 months, allowing only for receiving incoming calls and SMS and making calls to emergency services.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Orange Spain
Orange top-up vouchers are sold in Orange stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Spain.
To top up your Orange SIM card, call 1470, say RECARGA (recharge in Spanish), and enter the VoucherCode.
You can also tell 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/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *111# to check your Orange balance.
The first five checks in a month are free. Afterward, it will cost 0.25 EUR/check.
You can also top up and check your balance (for free) on the Mi Orange (España) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Orange Spain
Orange has three data-featured plans:
- Plans (combo)
- Holiday Passes (combo for the tourist SIM card)
- Alta Bono (data add-on)
Plans – Orange Spain
The Plans, which may not be called plans but have no clear name, are combo bundles with data and minutes.
Text the Activation Code to 1470 to activate Plans:
| Price | Plan | Data | EU/EEA Roaming Data | Local/EU Minutes | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.95 EUR | Navega | 7 GB | 4.5 GB | N/A | 28 days | GO NAVEGA |
| 9.95 EUR | Go Walk | 10 GB | 5.5 GB | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | 28 days | GO WALK |
| 14.95 EUR | Go Run | 20 GB | 8.5 GB | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | 28 days | GO RUN |
| 19.95 EUR | Go Fly | 35 GB | 11 GB | “Unlimited”, 5000 minutes | 28 days | GO FLY |
Holiday Passes – Orange Spain
The Holiday Passes are combo plans with data and minutes for the Orange Holiday tourist SIM cards.
The following Holiday Passes are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | EU/EEA Roaming Data | Local/International Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 EUR | Holiday Pass 5 | 30 GB | 8.5 GB | 50 minutes | 5 days |
| 25 EUR | Holiday Pass 15 | 60 GB | 14 GB | 100 minutes | 15 days |
Alta Bono Add-On – Orange Spain
The Alta Bono Add-On is a data plan with 500 MB for 4 EUR. It cannot be purchased as a standalone plan.
Text ALTA BONO 500 to 1470 to activate Alta Bono.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 EUR | 500 MB | Until plan expires | ALTA BONO 500 |
APN/Internet Settings – Orange Spain
You can use your Orange allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.
APN/Internet Settings – Orange Spain
- Name: Orange Internet
- APN: orangeworld
- Username: orange
- Password: orange
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Vodafone Spain (Vodafone España)
Vodafone Spain (Vodafone España), just Vodafone, is the third-largest mobile operator in Spain.
However, it has the best 5G NR network performance.
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: 800 MHz (Band 20), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3700 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: No
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 Spain
Vodafone has extensive coverage throughout Spain.
It also has the best 4G/LTE availability.
Below, you have the coverage maps of Vodafone in mainland Spain (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) + the Balearic Islands (consisting of Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca) and in the Canary Islands on the west of Morocco (consisting of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife – on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)):
Below are the coverage maps of Vodafone of Cueta (south of Gibraltar and north of Morocco (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) and of Melilla (north/northeast of Morocco (on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)):
SIM Card Price – Vodafone Spain
You can get a Vodafone SIM card starting from 10 EUR to 40 EUR (with plans) in Vodafone stores. Vodafone SIM cards are also sold at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN) at inflated prices.
- 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 Vodafone 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 Vodafone about this March (2022) when I revisit Spain 🇪🇸😎.
I asked – Vodafone eSIMs are only available to postpaid customers, unfortunately 😔.
Therefore, if you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Spain/Guay 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 Spain 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 Spain 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 Vodafone offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Vodafone SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 7 months (no top-up for 7 months or no activity for 7 months).
However, your Vodafone SIM card will enter into a passive state after not topping up for 6 months, allowing only for receiving incoming calls and SMS and making calls to emergency services.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Vodafone Spain
Vodafone top-up vouchers are sold in Vodafone stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Spain.
To top up your Vodafone SIM card, call 22132 and follow the instructions.
You can also tell 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/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial *134# to check your Vodafone balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Vodafone (España) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Spain
Vodafone has two data-featured plans: Prepago/Prepaid (combo) and Vodafone Pass (social media add-ons).
Prepago (Prepaid) Plans – Vodafone Spain
The Prepago (Prepaid) Plans are combo plans with data and minutes.
| Price | Plan | Data | EU/EEA Roaming | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Romania Minutes | International Minutes 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 EUR | Vodafone Prepago S | 12 GB | 7 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | N/A | Shared with off-net call allowance | 28 days |
| 15 EUR | Vodafone Prepago M | 20 GB | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 800 minutes | 28 days |
| 20 EUR | Vodafone Prepago L | 35 GB | 13 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
| 30 EUR | Vodafone Prepago Xl | 45 GB | 20 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
| 40 EUR | Vodafone Prepago XXL | 55 GB | 25 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | N/A | 28 days |
1 to Argentina (fixed), Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile (fixed), China, Colombia, Costa Rica (fixed), Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco (fixed), Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan (100 minutes for S plan, 200 minutes for M plan), Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico (fixed), Romania, Russia (fixed), Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey (200 minutes), the United Kingdom, the United States, Uruguay (fixed) & Venezuela (fixed)
Vodafone Pass – Vodafone Spain
The Vodafone Passes are data-only plans for chat, maps, music streaming, social & video streaming apps.
Vodafone Passes can be activated on the Mi Vodafone (España) app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 EUR | Chat Pass | Unlimited 1 | 28 days |
| 3 EUR | Maps Pass | Unlimited 2 | 28 days |
| 3 EUR | Music Pass | Unlimited 3 | 28 days |
| 3 EUR | Social Pass | Unlimited 4 | 28 days |
| 8 EUR | Video Pass | Unlimited 5 | 28 days |
1 for Blackberry Messenger, IM Line, Kakao Talk, Line, Telegram, Viber, WeChat & WhatsApp
2 for Endomondo, Google Earth, Google Maps, Here, iCoyote, Runtastic, TomTom, TripAdvisor & Waze
3 for Apple Music, Deezer, Napster, SoundCloud, Spotify & Tidal
4 for AdoptaUnTio, Badoo, eDarling, Facebook, Flickr, Grindr, Instagram, LinkedIn, Meetic, Periscope, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok, Tinder, Tumblr & Twitter
5 for Amazon Video, Clan RTVE, Dailymotion, Filmin, Fox News, Fox Sports, HBO, Movistar TV, Netflix, Orange TV, Rakuten, RTVE Móvil, Twitch, Vevo, Vimeo, Vodafone TV Online, YouTube, YouTube Gaming & YouTube Kids
EU Roaming – Vodafone Spain
You can use your Vodafone allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Spain
- Name: Vodafone Internet
- APN: airtelwap.es
- Username: [email protected]
- Password: wap125
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Yoigo
Yoigo is the smallest mobile operator in Spain.
It is also the newest mobile operator in the country, which entered the Spanish market in 2006.
Until this day, Yoigo still has to catch up with its competitors in terms of coverage and speeds.
However, it has always remained the cheapest of the Big Four (Yoigo has only 1 million customers less than Vodafone Spain and about 1.5 million less than Orange Spain).
Yoigo uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2100 MHz (Band 1)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78 – not for prepaid (yet))
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: No
This is what you will learn about Yoigo:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Yoigo SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Yoigo
Yoigo has the worst coverage in Spain.
However, it does have cellular reception in most places throughout the country.
Below is Yoigo's 2G and 3G coverage map:
Then we have the Yoigo 4G/LTE coverage map:
Finally, we have Yoigo's 5G NR coverage map, which is not available to prepaid customers (yet):
Below, you have the coverage maps of Yoigo in mainland Spain (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) + the Balearic Islands (consisting of Formentera, Ibiza, Mallorca & Menorca) and in the Canary Islands on the west of Morocco (consisting of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote & Tenerife – on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)) produced by Speedtest:
Below are the coverage maps of Yoigo of Cueta (south of Gibraltar and north of Morocco (on the left (desktop)/top (mobile)) and of Melilla (north/northeast of Morocco (on the right (desktop)/bottom (mobile)) produced by Speedtest:
SIM Card Price – Yoigo
You can get a Yoigo SIM card for 10 EUR with 1.50 EUR credit in Yoigo stores. Yoigo SIM cards are not sold at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN).
- 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 Yoigo 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 Yoigo about this March (2022) when I revisit Spain 🇪🇸😎.
I asked – Yoigo eSIMs are only available to postpaid customers, unfortunately 😔.
Therefore, if you wish to use an eSIM, you can go with the Spain/Guay 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 Spain 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 Spain 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 Yoigo offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Yoigo
Yoigo top-ups are sold in Yoigo stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Spain.
To top up your Yoigo SIM card, tell 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/EU) debit and credit cards.
Dial #111# to check your Yoigo balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Mi Yoigo (My Yoigo) app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Yoigo
Yigo has one data-featured plan: Tarifas Móvil Prepago (Mobile Prepaid Tariffs). It features data and minutes.
Tarifas Móvil Prepago can be activated on the Mi Yoigo app:
| Price | Data | Local/EU Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9.90 EUR | 100 MB | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 10 EUR | 10 GB | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 15 EUR | 20 GB | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 20 EUR | 35 GB | Unlimited | 1 month |
| 35 EUR | 150 GB | N/A | 1 month |
EU Roaming – Yoigo
You can use your Yoigo allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:
As Yoigo 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 – Yoigo
- Name: yoigo navegador
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Spain
The cheapest way to get online in Spain 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 Spain.
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 Spain
Getting a SIM card from Movistar, Orange, or Vodafone would do you well when considering a Spanish 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!
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!