Skip to Content

SIM Cards in Switzerland: The Best Prepaid Plans | 2024 Guide

Switzerland – known for its neutrality, direct democracy & its mountains.

The country is also famous for its chocolate, fondue & watches.

A friend of mine would have been upset if I did not mention watches, as he is genuinely into them⌚.

Anyway, what can you do in Switzerland? A lot.

There are many castles to adore, such as Chillon Castle.

The Rhine Falls is Europe's largest plains waterfall, so you better head there too.

And if you get the chance, travel through Switzerland by train for some remarkable landscapes.

But you can also do that by car – but trains are cooler 🚆😎.

What is not cool are expensive international roaming rates.

Roaming can be expensive, which is why I always recommend getting local SIM cards, allowing you to enjoy local rates.

SIM cards are far from cheap in Switzerland – but the whole country is known for being expensive.

You can get a Swiss SIM card for 10 CHF (11.10 USD) from Salt Mobile and 19.90 CHF (22.10 USD) from Swisscom or Sunrise Mobile in their stores. SIM cards are also sold at Zurich Airport (ZRH).

Normally, I would recommend getting a SIM card from a neighboring country because of free European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) roaming.

Unfortunately, Switzerland is not part of the EU/EEA, and many EU/EEA mobile operators will charge you top dollar for Switzerland roaming.

But that is the thing… roaming is also (crazy) expensive in Switzerland, making it better to shill out 22 USD for a Swiss SIM card.

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Switzerland. Let's do this.

Buying a SIM Card in Switzerland Guide (logos of Swisscom, Sunrise, Salt Mobile, MTEL, Yallo, Lycamobile, Coop Mobile, Mucho, Lebara, M Budget Mobile, Aldi Mobile, Talk Talk & Lidl Connect)

Original publication: 4th of February 2022. Last updated: 1st of March 2024.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

What is the Best SIM Card in Switzerland?

If you want to buy the best SIM card in Switzerland, I recommend going with Swisscom or Sunrise. Swisscom is, overall, the best mobile operator in Switzerland with the best coverage and speeds for literal years. Sunrise has attractive plans with unlimited data.

Phone Travel Wiz Approved Seal

So, who are all these mobile operators and what options are available for you?

Switzerland has three mobile operators and ten Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to tourists:

  • Swisscom
  • Sunrise Switzerland
  • Salt Mobile Switzerland
  • ALDI Mobile Switzerland (Sunrise Switzerland MVNO)
  • Coop Mobile Switzerland (Swisscom MVNO)
  • Lebara Switzerland (Sunrise Switzerland MVNO)
  • Lidl Connect Switzerland (Salt Mobile MVNO)
  • Lycamobile Switzerland (Swisscom MVNO)
  • M Budget Mobile Switzerland (Swisscom MVNO)
  • MTEL Switzerland (Salt Mobile MVNO)
  • Mucho Switzerland (Swisscom MVNO)
  • TalkTalk Switzerland (Sunrise Switzerland MVNO)
  • Yallo Switzerland (Sunrise Switzerland MVNO)
Cellular Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

In this guide, I will stick to the mobile operators and the most popular MVNOs, all in bold above, to limit the length of this guide (but also not to overwhelm you with all the options available).

But if you are interested in getting a SIM card from one of the unbolded MVNOs, you would have to do the research yourself for the time being. I stopped actively testing and reviewing MVNOs to spend time reviewing travel eSIMs instead, like the ones for Switzerland.

Anyone living in or visiting Switzerland can buy a Swiss SIM card with no real restrictions, but you do have to comply with the Swiss 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

Which, in this case, is only showing your passport (or European Union ID if you have one) at the point of sale.

Where Can You Buy a Swiss SIM Card (+Costs)?

You can get a Swiss SIM card in Swisscom, Sunrise & Salt Mobile stores and from resellers. Some Swiss airports sell (tourist) SIM cards (at inflated prices).

You can expect to pay the following for Swiss SIM cards:

  • Swisscom: 19.90 CHF
  • Sunrise Switzerland: 19.90 CHF
  • Salt Mobile Switzerland: 10 CHF
  • Lebara Switzerland: 5 CHF – 45 CHF
  • Lycamobile Switzerland: 19 CHF

Note that SIM cards can be more expensive than those listed above when purchased at an airport.

Use the Wise Currency Converter tool (free) for up-to-date CHF (Swiss Franc) to your currency (let's say EUR – (Euro) exchange rates.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

For your convenience, below are some exchange rates between CHF and USD (US Dollars):

  • 1 CHF = 1.10 USD
  • 10 CHF = 11.10 USD
  • 100 CHF = 111.05 USD

But for any other currency, the Wise Currency Converter tool.

(Travel) eSIMs for Switzerland

In recent years, (travel) eSIMs have become extremely popular.

Especially after Apple made iPhones (14- & 15 series) sold in the United States eSIM-only, forcing its users to use eSIMs – even when abroad.

As a result, the adoption of eSIM technology by mobile operators worldwide rose impressively quickly.

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.

But if you purchase an eSIM from any of these mobile operators, you must comply with Switzerland's SIM card registration regulations.

Suppose you do not wish to do so for privacy reasons (for example) or want to be connected immediately without paying for an overpriced SIM card (or eSIM) sold at a Swiss airport. In that case, you may consider getting a travel eSIM for Switzerland.

In my Switzerland eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

Surprisingly, travel eSIMs can be cheaper than a Swiss SIM card or eSIM in specific scenarios.

Moreover, Europe-wide and global eSIM options are also available at competitive prices (without having to deal with expensive international roaming rates).

In this Switzerland SIM card buying guide (the one you are reading), I will stick to the local SIM cards and eSIM, but you can read my Switzerland eSIM buying guide for more information about travel eSIMs covering the country.

But here is a quick overview already + applicable discount codes if you are interested in purchasing a travel eSIM for Switzerland:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Switzerland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – all variants in both options include unlimited data + up to 120 Europe-wide calls
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (30 or 35 countries, depending on the variant) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant)

Here are some discount codes to sweeten the deal:

  • Airalo: APR15 for 15% off (if you have never bought an Airalo eSIM before). Otherwise, APR10 for 10% off (for existing users) – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code)
  • Alosim: PTW for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
  • Holafly: PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
  • Nomad: ADU123 for 3 USD off (on your first-ever Nomad order only)

Once again, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

The eSIM guide is as comprehensive as this SIM card buying guide, but it solely focuses on travel eSIMs (while the guide you are reading focuses on local SIM cards and eSIMs for prepaid users (where applicable)).

Swiss Prepaid SIM Cards Explored

Below, I will guide you through Swisscom, Sunrise Switzerland, Salt Mobile Switzerland, Lebara Switzerland (MVNO) & Lycamobile Switzerland (MVNO), 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 said, let's see what Switzerland offers us.


Swisscom

Swisscom Liechtenstein & Switzerland Logo
© Swisscom

Swisscom is the largest mobile operator in Switzerland.

It is a mostly state-owned company (51%) with the best overall performance.

And who says state-owned companies always have to be bad 🤪.

Swisscom uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: N/A – shut down for 4G/LTE and 5G NR refarming
  • 3G: 900 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: 700 MHz (n28), 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78)
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: Yes

This is what you will learn about Swisscom:

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

Coverage – Swisscom

Swisscom has the best coverage in Switzerland.

It also won the Switzerland Fastest Mobile Network Speedtest Award of 2021.

Below is Swisscom's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Swisscom's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Swisscom

You can get a Swisscom SIM card for 19.90 CHF with 20 CHF credit and 100 MB in Swisscom stores. Swisscom SIM cards are also sold at Zurich Airport (ZRH).

  • 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 Swisscom does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.

You can consider getting a travel eSIM for Switzerland, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Swisscom.

Especially if you get a Europe-wide eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported European countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).

In my Switzerland eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

But I will introduce them here quickly:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Switzerland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – all variants in both options include unlimited data + up to 120 Europe-wide calls – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (30 or 35 countries, depending on the variant) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

Once again, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

For now, I will continue with Swisscom.

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

Oh, you can also use VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi).

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Swisscom

Swisscom top-up vouchers are sold in Swisscom stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Switzerland (and Liechtenstein).

To top up your Swisscom SIM card, dial *123*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *123*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *130# to check your Swisscom balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Swisscom app (Android/iOS).

Swisscom Liechtenstein & Switzerland My Swisscom App
© Swisscom

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Swisscom

Swisscom has two data-featured prepaid plans: Prepaid Flatrate (combo) & InOne Mobile Prepaid (data).

I will list all the prices in CHF (Swiss Franc).

To convert CHF to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Prepaid Flatrate – Swisscom

The Prepaid Flatrate is a combo plan with unlimited data (without 5G NR access unless you pay 5 CHF for it), minutes & SMS.

Prepaid Flatrate can be activated on the My Swisscom app.

PriceDataLocal MinutesLocal SMSValidity
20 CHFUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited7 days
65 CHFUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited30 days
150 CHFUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited90 days
Swisscom Switzerland & Liechtenstein Prepaid Flatrate Plans
InOne Mobile Prepaid – Swisscom

The InOne Mobile Prepaid is a data plan with unlimited data (without 5G NR access unless you pay 5 CHF for it), minutes & SMS.

InOne Mobile Prepaid can be activated on the My Swisscom app.

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidity
5 CHFGoUnlimited 2N/AUnlimited30 Days
9.90 CHFYoung 1“Unlimited”, 500 MB 3Unlimited 4Unlimited30 Days

1 for those between 7 years and 18 years old
2 @128 Kbps (super slow!)
3 +unlimited data @ 128 Kbps after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)
4 to 5 phone numbers

Swisscom Switzerland & Liechtenstein InOne Mobile Prepaid

APN/Internet Settings – Swisscom

  • Name: Swisscom Services
  • APN: gprs.swisscom.ch

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange


Sunrise Switzerland (Schweiz)

Sunrise Switzerland Logo
© Sunrise Switzerland

Sunrise Switzerland (Schweiz), just Sunrise, is the second-largest mobile operator in Switzerland.

It is also the only mobile operator of the Big Three that is not active in Liechtenstein.

Thus, you cannot roam for free with Sunrise (or any MVNO using its network) in Liechtenstein.

Sunrise uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 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: 3500 MHz (n78)
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: Yes

This is what you will learn about Sunrise:

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

Coverage – Sunrise Switzerland

Below is Sunrise's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

Sunrise Liechtenstein & Switzerland Coverage Map

However, click here to see Sunrise's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Sunrise Switzerland

You can get a Sunrise SIM card for 19.90 CHF with 19.90 CHF credit in Sunrise stores. Sunrise SIM cards are also sold at Zurich Airport (ZRH).

  • 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 Sunrise does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.

You may want to get a travel eSIM for Switzerland, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Sunrise (in some cases).

Especially when getting a Europe-wide eSIM if you do not stay in just Switzerland or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.

My Switzerland eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

Here is a quick introduction to them:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Switzerland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – these eSIMs have unlimited data + calling feature – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (up to 35 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

But let's continue with Sunrise for now.

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

Oh, you can also use VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi).

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Sunrise Switzerland

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

The following (online) top-ups are available:

  • 20 CHF
  • 30 CHF
  • 50 CHF
  • 100 CHF

To top up your Sunrise SIM card, dial *131*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *131*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *121# to check your Sunrise balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Sunrise UPC app (Android/iOS).

Sunrise Switzerland My Sunrise UPC App
© Sunrise Switzerland

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Sunrise Switzerland

Sunrise has five data-featured prepaid plans:

I will list all the prices in CHF (Swiss Franc).

To convert CHF to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

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

Prepaid Budget Plans – Sunrise Switzerland

The Prepaid Budget Plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Prepaid Budget can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 5522:

PricePlanDataLocal MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
10 CHFSunrise Prepaid Budget 10300 MB30 calls (max. 2 hours/call)30 SMS1 monthBUDGET10BUDGET10 STOP
15 CHFSunrise Prepaid Budget 15600 MB60 calls (max. 2 hours/call)60 SMS1 monthBUDGET15BUDGET15 STOP
Sunrise Switzerland Prepaid Budget Plans
Young Prepaid Start Plan – Sunrise Switzerland

The Young Prepaid Start Plan is a combo bundle with “unlimited” data (500 MB high-speed data without 5G NR access), unlimited on-net minutes & unlimited on-net SMS for 1 month, costing 15 CHF.

Young Prepaid Start can be activated on the My Sunrise UPC app.

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesLocal SMSValidity
15 CHFSunrise Young Prepaid Start 1“Unlimited”, 500 MB 2UnlimitedUnlimited1 month

1 for those under 30 years old
2 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps download and 128 Kbps upload after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

Sunrise Switzerland Young Prepaid Plan
Prepaid Unlimited Plan – Sunrise Switzerland

The Prepaid Unlimited Plan is a combo bundle with unlimited data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Prepaid Unlimited can be activated on the My Sunrise UPC app.

PricePlanDataLocal MinutesLocal SMSValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
19.90 CHFSunrise Prepaid Unlimited 7 Days Unlimited 1UnlimitedUnlimited7 days7DAYS7 DAYSSTOP
50 CHFSunrise Prepaid Unlimited 30 Days UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited30 daysUNLIMITED30UNLIMITED30STOP
120 CHFSunrise Prepaid Unlimited 90 DaysUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited90 daysUNLIMITED90UNLIMITED90STOP

1 with 5G NR access

Sunrise Switzerland Prepaid Unlimited Plans
Prepaid Flat Plan – Sunrise Switzerland

The Prepaid Flat plan is a combo bundle with “unlimited” data (500 MB high-speed data without 5G NR access), unlimited on-net minutes & unlimited on-net SMS for 1 month, costing 20 CHF.

Prepaid Flat can be activated by texting FLATSTART to 5522:

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesOn-Net SMSValidityActivation Code
20 CHFSunrise Prepaid Flat“Unlimited”, 500 MB 1UnlimitedUnlimited1 monthFLATSTART

1 +unlimited data @ 256 Kbps download and 128 Kbps upload after exhausting your high-speed data allowance (super slow!)

Sunrise Switzerland Prepaid Flat Plan
Prepaid Surf Plans – Sunrise Switzerland

Prepaid Surf plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access).

Prepaid Surf can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 5522:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
7.50 CHFPrepaid Surf250 MB1 monthSURFSURF STOP
15 CHFPrepaid Surf XL1 GB1 monthSURFXLSURFXL STOP
30 CHFPrepaid Surf 3 XL3 GB1 monthSURF3XLSURF3XL STOP
45 CHFPrepaid Surf 5 XL5 GB1 monthSURF5XLSURF5XL STOP
Sunrise Liechtenstein & Switzerland Prepaid Surf

APN/Internet Settings – Sunrise Switzerland

  • Name: Sunrise internet
  • APN: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange


Salt Mobile Switzerland (Schweiz – formerly Orange)

Salt Mobile Liechtenstein & Switzerland Logo
© Salt Mobile

Salt Mobile Switzerland (Schweiz), just Salt Mobile, is the smallest mobile operator in Switzerland.

It used to be called Orange Switzerland until 2015.

Salt Mobile 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: 700 MHz (n28) & 3500 MHz (n78)
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: Yes

This is what you will learn about Salt Mobile:

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

Coverage – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

Salt Mobile has the worst coverage in Switzerland.

However, you will have 4G/LTE reception almost anywhere.

Below is Salt Mobile's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Salt Mobile's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

You can get a Salt Mobile SIM card for 10 CHF with 10 CHF credit in Salt Mobile stores. Salt Mobile SIM cards are also sold at Zurich Airport (ZRH).

  • 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 Salt Mobile does have eSIMs, they are (currently) not offered to prepaid customers.

You should consider getting a travel eSIM for Switzerland because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Salt Mobile.

Especially if you get a Europe-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.

I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for Switzerland in my Switzerland eSIM buying guide, which are:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Italy only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – unlimited data eSIMs which allow for (limited) calls – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (up to 35 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

As I said, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Salt Mobile for now.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

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

Oh, you can also use VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi).

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

Salt Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in Salt Mobile stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Switzerland (and Liechtenstein).

To top up your Salt Mobile SIM card, dial *121*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *121*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *121# to check your Salt Mobile balance.


Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

Salt Mobile has three data-featured prepaid plans:

I will list all the prices in CHF (Swiss Franc).

To convert CHF to your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Salt Max Plans – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

The Salt Max plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Salt Max can be activated online.

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataLocal/EU MinutesLocal/EU SMSValidity
40.95 CHFStart Max5 GBN/AUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
71.95 CHFSwiss MaxUnlimited1 GBUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
82.95 CHFEurope MaxUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
102.95 CHFTravel MaxUnlimitedUnlimited 1Unlimited 1Unlimited 21 month

1 for local use and to Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Qatar, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates & the United States(including Alaska and Hawaii)
2 for 10 hours in Switzerland and to Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, the Dominican Republic, Estonia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Qatar, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovenia, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates & the United States(including Alaska and Hawaii).

Salt Mobile Switzerland & Liechtenstein Max
Salt Digital Plans – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

The Salt Digital plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Salt Digital can be activated online.

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataLocal/EU MinutesLocal/EU SMSValidity
50.95 CHFSwiss 10 GB10 GBN/AUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
61.95 CHFSmartUnlimitedN/AUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
81.95 CHFSwiss XXLUnlimited4 GB“Unlimited”, 100 minutesUnlimited1 month
92.95 CHFEurope DataUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
102.95 CHFEurope XXLUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited1 month
Salt Mobile Switzerland & Liechtenstein Digital
Surf Plans – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

The Surf plans are data bundles (with 5G NR access).

Surf can be activated online.

PricePlanDataValidity
9.95 CHFSurf 5GB5 GB1 month
24.95 CHFSurf 50GB50 GB1 month
35 CHFSurf UnlimitedUnlimited1 month
Salt Mobile Switzerland & Liechtenstein Surf

APN/Internet Settings – Salt Mobile Switzerland (formerly Orange)

  • Name: Salt World
  • APN: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange


Lebara Switzerland

Lebara Logo
© Lebara

Lebara Switzerland, just Lebara, is a Sunrise Switzerland MVNO.

It was purchased by Sunrise Switzerland in 2013, which is why Lebara offers eSIMs to its customers, while other MVNOs on the Sunrise Switzerland network do not (yet).

Because Sunrise is not active in Liechtenstein, unlike Swisscom and Salt Mobile Switzerland, you cannot use your Aldi Mobile SIM card for free in Liechtenstein (you will be charged roaming rates instead, which are not low).

To learn about Lebara’s frequencies, jump back to Sunrise Switzerland’s frequencies (but you will not have 5G NR access).

This is what you will learn about Lebara:

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

Coverage – Lebara Switzerland

Lebara is a Sunrise Switzerland MVNO, meaning Lebara uses the Sunrise Switzerland network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Lebara, jump to the Sunrise Switzerland Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Lebara Switzerland

You can get a Lebara SIM card with a plan between 5 CHF to 49 CHF in Lebara stores and from resellers like gas stations, kiosks & post offices.

Registration can be done in Mobilezone stores.

Dial *122# to see your Lebara phone number.

  • 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

It is also possible to get a Lebara eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card from select resellers only or online.

You should consider getting a travel eSIM for Switzerland because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Lebara.

Especially if you get a Europe-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.

I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for Switzerland in my Switzerland eSIM buying guide, which are:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Italy only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – unlimited data eSIMs which allow for (limited) calls – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (up to 35 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

As I said, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Lebara for now.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

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

Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Lebara Switzerland

Lebara top-ups are sold in Lebara stores and resellers such as kiosks, train stations (SBB terminals) & electronic shops throughout Switzerland.

To top up your Lebara SIM card, dial *127*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text *127*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.

Dial *147# or text STATUS to 255 to check your Lebara balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Lebara Switzerland app (Android/iOS).

Lebara Switzerland App
© Lebara Switzerland

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Lebara Switzerland

Lebara has two data-featured prepaid plans: Unlimited Options (combo) & Data Options.

I will list all the prices in CHF (Swiss Francs).

To convert CHF to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Unlimited Options – Lebara Switzerland

The Unlimited Options are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Text the Activation Code to 255 to activate Unlimited Options:

PricePlanDataLocal/International MinutesLocal/International SMS 4ValidityActivation CodeDeactivation code
29 CHFSwiss Max Prepaid“Unlimited”, 10 GBUnlimited 1Unlimited 128 daysCHCH STOP
39 CHFEurope Max Prepaid“Unlimited”, 20 GBUnlimited 2Unlimited 428 daysEUEU STOP
49 CHFWorld Max Prepaid“Unlimited”, 10 GBUnlimited 3Unlimited 428 daysWDWD STOP

1 for local use only
2 for local use and to Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine & the United Kingdom
3 +1000 minutes to Algeria (fixed), Andorra (fixed), Angola (fixed), Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Eswatini, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Martinique, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Monaco, Mongolia, Morocco (fixed), Namibia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Syria (fixed), Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey (fixed), the United Kingdom, the United States, Uzbekistan, Venezuela & Vietnam
4 to any country – no destination restrictions

Unlimited Options auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text the Deactivation Code to 255.

Lebara Switzerland Unlimited Options
Data Options – Lebara Switzerland

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

Text the Activation Code to 255 to activate Data Options:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
4.90 CHFSurf 150 MB150 MB28 daysSURFSURF STOP
14.90 CHFSurf 1 GB1 GB28 daysDATA1DATA1 STOP
19.90 CHFSurf 3 GB3 GB28 daysSURF3SURF3 STOP
39 CHFSurf MaxUnlimited28 daysSURFMAXSURFMAX STOP
44.90 CHFSurf 5 GB5 GB28 daysSURF5SURF5 STOP

Data Options auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text the Deactivation Code to 255.

Lebara Switzerland Data Options
EU Roaming – Lebara Switzerland

You cannot use your Lebara allowances in EU/EEA member states for free – only for a (hefty) fee.

APN/Internet Settings – Lebara Switzerland

  • Name: Lebara
  • APN: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Lycamobile Switzerland

Lycamobile Logo New 2021
© Lycamobile

Lycamobile Switzerland, just Lycamobile, is a Swisscom MVNO.

Lycamobile, as a brand, is known for offering low rates for international calls abroad, and it is active in various other European countries, Australia, South Africa, Tunisia, Uganda & the United States.

To learn about Lycamobile’s frequencies, jump back to Swisscom’s frequencies (but you will not have 5G NR access).

This is what you will learn about Lycamobile:

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

Coverage – Lycamobile Switzerland

Lycamobile is a Swisscom MVNO, meaning Lycamobile uses the Swisscom network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Lycamobile, jump to the Swisscom Coverage section.

SIM Card Price – Lycamobile Switzerland

You can get a Lycamobile SIM card for 19 CHF with 10 GB of data, 1000 local/EU minutes & 1000 local/EU SMS for 30 days from Lycamobile resellers, including grocery stores, gas stations & electronic shops.

Lycamobile Liechtenstein & Switzerland Stores
© Lycamobile Switzerland

Registration can be done in (select) stores or online.

Dial *132# to see your Lycamobile phone number.

  • 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

Lycamobile has no eSIMs.

You may want to get a travel eSIM for Switzerland, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Lycamobile (in some cases).

Especially when getting a Europe-wide eSIM if you do not stay in just Switzerland or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.

My Switzerland eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

Here is a quick introduction to them:

  • Airalo: Pilatus Mobile (Switzerland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
  • Alosim: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
  • Holafly: Switzerland & Europe (32 countries) – these eSIMs have unlimited data + calling feature – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
  • Nomad: Switzerland, Europe (up to 35 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my Switzerland eSIM buying guide.

Buying an eSIM for Switzerland Guide (logos of Holafly, Nomad, Eurolink, Discover+, Pilatus Mobile, Alosim & Airalo)

But let's continue with Lycamobile for now.

Be aware that there is no VoLTE or VoWiFi with Lycamobile.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Lycamobile Switzerland

Lycamobile top-ups are sold by Lycamobile resellers, such as grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout Switzerland.

The following (online) Lycamobile top-ups are available:

  • 5 CHF
  • 10 CHF
  • 20 CHF
  • 30 CHF
  • 50 CHF
  • 100 CHF
  • 200 CHF
Lycamobile Liechtenstein & Switzerland Top-Ups

To top up your Lycamobile SIM card, dial *131*VoucherCode# or call 321 and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text *131*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international/EU) debit and credit cards.

Dial *123# or call 321 to check your Lycamobile balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Lycamobile Switzerland

Lycamobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: National & International Bundles (combo) & Data Bundles.

I will list all the prices in CHF (Swiss Francs).

To convert CHF to your currency (let's say EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
National & International Bundles – Lycamobile Switzerland

The National & International Bundles are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Dial the Activation Code to activate National & International Bundles:

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataLocal/EU Minutes 1Local/EU SMS 1ValidityActivation Code
2.50 CHFUnlimited Daily“Unlimited”, 10GBN/AUnlimitedN/A1 day*139*251#
9.90 CHFSwiss Young 2500 MBN/A250 minutes 3250 SMS 330 days*139*1006#
19 CHFHello Swiss S10 GBN/A500 minutes 3Unlimited30 days*139*1001#
24 CHFHello Swiss M“Unlimited”, 40 GB3 GBUnlimited 4Unlimited 430 days*139*1002#
29 CHFHello Swiss L“Unlimited”, 50 GB3 GBUnlimitedUnlimited30 days*139*1005#
39 CHFHello Swiss Max“Unlimited”, 300 GB10 GBUnlimited 3Unlimited30 days*139*1049#

1 for calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Switzerland (NOT from Switzerland to other EU/EEA member states)
2 although the plan name includes the word Young, there is no age restriction for this plan, surprisingly
3 for local use only
4 1000 minutes/SMS in the EU/EEA

Lycamobile Liechtenstein & Switzerland National & International Bundles
Data Bundles – Lycamobile Switzerland

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

Dial the Activation Code to activate Data Bundles:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation Code
1.50 CHFSurf Daily SwissUnlimited1 day*139*151#
5.90 CHFSurf M1 GB30 days*139*92490#
9.90 CHFSurf L2 GB30 days*139*91490#
13.90 CHFSurf XL5 GB30 days*139*94490#
20 CHFEU Data M3 GB 130 days*139*7502#
39.90 CHFSurf UL“Unlimited”, 300 GB30 days*139*96490#

1 can be used in the EU/EEA as well

Lycamobile Liechtenstein & Switzerland Data Bundles
EU Roaming – Lycamobile Switzerland

You can use your Lycamobile allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • 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 – Lycamobile Switzerland

  • Name: Lycamobile
  • APN: data.lycamobile.ch
  • Username: lmch
  • Password: plus

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Switzerland

Getting a SIM card from Swisscom or Sunrise would do you well when considering a Swiss SIM card.

Going to other places around the world? You should also check out my SIM card buying guides for other destinations worldwide.