If you want to avoid high roaming fees, a Swiss SIM card is crucial for your trip to Switzerland. This country isn’t part of the European Union, so it’s not included in the EU’s free-roaming agreement. So, if you use your device to make calls, send texts, and use data in Switzerland, you’ll probably come home to a distressing phone bill even if you have a European SIM Card.
Fortunately, with a SIM card for Switzerland you will be able to use your device without any unpleasant surprises later. There are options for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for an eSIM for Switzerland or a local phone card.
Right off the bat, I’ll tell you that we always use Holafly cards when we travel. This digital SIM has unlimited data and various plans ranging from 1 to 90 days. The company even has a card that can give you data in Switzerland and other European countries, so check it out here. If you decide to buy, use our Holafly discount code to enjoy 5% off.
If an eSIM isn’t for you, there are other prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland available, so let’s get into it.
Do you need a SIM card for Switzerland if you already have a SIM card for Europe?
You may recall the free roaming agreement set in the European Union in 2017. Unfortunately, Switzerland is not part of the European Economic Area, so it was left out of this agreement.
This means that yes, you do need a SIM card for Switzerland if you want to avoid roaming charges on your phone. This applies whether you’re from the UK, the U.S., or the EU. Without a Swiss SIM card, your mobile provider will charge you for international roaming, so you’ll come home to huge phone bill.
Do you need a SIM card for Switzerland if you already have a SIM card for Europe?
Even if you plan on not using your phone while abroad, keep in mind that many devices automatically connect to the local network, and some apps consume data in the background, even if you’re not actively using them.
In other words, it’s much better to get a prepaid SIM card for Switzerland. For example, Holafly offers eSIMs for Switzerland and other European countries, all with unlimited data. It’s a convenient and affordable way to access the Internet in Switzerland, and it’s just one of the options.
Swiss SIM card price comparison
I’ll share more about the 6 best SIM cards for Switzerland in a bit. For now, here is a price breakdown to help you see which cards best suit your trip needs. In addition to the Holafly eSIM, there is the physical Swiss SIM card from SimOptions and local Swiss companies:
CARD | 1 DAYS | 7 DAYS | 10 DAYS | 14 DAYS | 20 DAYS | 30 DAYS | 60 DAYS | 90 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holafly eSIM | €6/Unlimited | €27/Unlimited | €34/Unlimited | €47/Unlimited | €57/Unlimited | €69/Unlimited | €99/Unlimited | €129/Unlimited |
SimOptions | - | - | - | €50/10 GB | - | €25/10 GB | - | - |
Swisscom | - | €20/Unlimited | €20/Unlimited | - | - | - | - | - |
Salt | €2/Unlimited | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Coop Mobile | - | - | - | - | - | €5/250 MB (+€21 activation) | - | - |
Sunrise | €2.50/Unlimited (+€21 activation) | €62/Unlimited | - | - | - | €72/Unlimited | - | - |
| BEST SIM CARDS FOR SWITZERLAND | ||||||||
As you can see, Holafly has the most options for data-only SIM cards in Switzerland. Best of all, these international eSIMs come with unlimited data, so you don’t have to worry about running out of GB. You can even order it while traveling, making this the most convenient and practical option.
However, if your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology or you prefer a physical SIM card for Switzerland, I recommend SimOptions. These cards allow data sharing with other devices, but the plans come with limited data.
You can also consider a local Swiss SIM card, such as the ones from Swisscom, Salt, Coop Mobile, and Sunrise. That said, if you’re looking to travel cheaply, these might not be worth the money, depending on the length of your trip.
Don’t worry; I’ll give you an overview of each option so you can find the perfect fit for your budget, travel purposes, and preferences.
Best prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland
I’ll explain the benefits and drawbacks of the 6 best SIM cards for Switzerland below. This will help you get a better idea of which one suits your trip and budget.
1. Holafly eSIM, the best SIM card for Switzerland
First, the Holafly eSIM is entirely digital, so it’s ideal for individuals who are already traveling. Also, if your device doesn’t have a dual-slot, an eSIM is perfect since you don’t have to remove your usual SIM card to use it.
As soon as you buy this Swiss eSIM card, you’ll receive an email with a QR code and simple activation instructions. Either print it out or send it to another device so you can scan the QR code on your smartphone. Of course, check your phone’s compatibility here before purchasing the eSIM.
1. Holafly eSIM, the best SIM card for Switzerland
This is the best eSIM card for Switzerland since it offers unlimited data and various trip durations. However, you can’t share your data with other devices, so your travel companions will have to buy their own eSIM.
We use Holafly cards for most of our trips since they’re easy to install, and we can buy them while we’re abroad. For us, it’s the most practical way to get travel Internet, so it’s our top choice. You can see the different Holafly plan durations and prices below:
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
5 days | €19 | Unlimited |
7 days | €27 | Unlimited |
10 days | €34 | Unlimited |
15 days | €47 | Unlimited |
20 days | €57 | Unlimited |
30 days | €69 | Unlimited |
60 days | €99 | Unlimited |
90 days | €129 | Unlimited |
| HOLAFLY ESIM FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
2. SimOptions SIM card, the best prepaid SIM card for Switzerland
SimOptions is a great alternative to Holafly if your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology or you prefer a physical SIM card for Switzerland.
One advantage of SimOptions over Holafly is that you can share data with other travelers. However, these prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland come with a limited amount of GB, so running out of data is easy. Also, SimOptions only has cards for 14 and 30 days, with data limits between 10 GB and 30 GB. Considering that Holafly cards offer unlimited data, I only recommend SimOptions for those who want a traditional SIM card.
To buy this prepaid Swiss SIM, go through this link. Make sure you purchase the card ahead of time since it takes up to 3 business days for it to arrive at your house. To install this international SIM card, simply insert it into your device and follow the on-screen instructions. If you have a dual-slot, you don’t even need to remove your usual SIM card.
Below are the different plan durations, prices, and data limits for the SimOptions cards. Personally, I would opt for the cheapest one.
DAYS | PRICE | GB | COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
14 days | €49.90 | 10GB | 124 |
14 days | €29.90 | 12GB | 34 |
14 days | €49.90 | 30GB | 34 |
30 days | €24.90 | 30GB | 56 |
| SIMOPTIONS SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | |||
3. Swisscom, a popular Swiss SIM card
Swisscom offers local SIM cards for Switzerland, so if you’re already at your destination and need a SIM card, keep this company in mind. Swisscom is one of the most reputable telecom companies in the country, with some of the fastest speeds and covering a wide network.
On the downside, Swisscom is also one of the most expensive options. You must pay a startup fee of around €20, which comes with €20 in credits. Unlimited data costs €2/day, calls are €0.29/min, and texts are €0.15/text. If you don’t text or call anyone, your €20 credit can last 10 days.
Swisscom offers extended prepaid plans, but they’re pricey. For example, the 30-day Swisscom SIM card costs €67. If you’re going to spend 30 days in Switzerland, SimOptions is a cheaper option, although you will have only 10 GB of data. Alternatively, Holafly has unlimited data and costs a bit less than Swisscom, and you can buy it while traveling.
Swisscom cards are available at airport kiosks in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, and at Swisscom stores throughout the country. Since it’s a physical SIM card, I recommend completing the installation and activation process in the store so you can make sure it’s working correctly before you leave. If your device doesn’t have a dual-slot, you must remove your usual SIM and keep it in a safe place while using the Swisscom one.
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
7 days | €20 | Unlimited |
7 days | €20 | Unlimited |
| SWISSCOM SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
4. Salt, a cheap SIM card for Switzerland
Salt is another company that has some of the cheapest Swiss SIM cards. These cards are a practical solution for travelers who will be in the country for just a few days.
These prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland cost €2 per day for unlimited data, but you can’t make or receive calls or texts. However, the cards are compatible with most mobile devices, and you can find them at authorized stores and supermarkets throughout the country.
Despite being a data-only Switzerland SIM card, this local card is an excellent choice for quick trips.
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
1 day | €2 | Unlimited |
| SALT SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
5. Coop Mobile, another Swiss SIM card option
Coop Mobile is another well-known company that offers prepaid Swiss SIM cards. These cards can be found at authorized retailers and sales kiosks. I recommend installing and activating the card in the store to ensure compatibility with your phone.
The main drawback of these Swiss Internet SIM cards is that they require an activation fee. The fee is €20 but includes €15 in credit that you can use on data. As for the plans, they last 30 days and include varying amounts of data, such as 250 MB, 750 MB, and 1500 MB.
Personally, I think there are much better alternatives to Coop Mobile, such as Holafly, SimOptions, or Swisscom.
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
30 days | €5 (+ €21 activation) | 250MB |
30 days | €11 (+ €21 activation) | 750MB |
30 days | €16 (+ €21 activation) | 1500MB |
| COOP MOBILE SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
6. Sunrise, another prepaid SIM card for Switzerland
Lastly, Sunrise is another popular telecom company in Switzerland that sells Swiss mobile SIMs for tourists. While it’s a well-known provider with good coverage, like Coop Mobile, it also comes with an activation fee.
The Sunrise Prepaid plan requires a €21 activation fee and costs €2.50/day for unlimited data. You’ll get a €20 credit when you sign up, which will cover 8 days of data.
There is also the Sunrise Prepaid Unlimited Europe 7-day plan, which costs €62 and includes unlimited data throughout Switzerland and most of Europe. The 30-day package costs €72 for unlimited data throughout Switzerland and Europe.
Overall, you can get unlimited data at a better price with Holafly.
DAYS | PRICE | GB |
|---|---|---|
1 day | €2.50 | Unlimited |
7 days | €62 | Unlimited |
30 days | €72 | Unlimited |
| SUNRISE SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
Where to buy a Swiss SIM card
You can buy a Swiss SIM card at home or after you arrive at your destination. Personally, I like having everything set up before my trip, so the Holafly eSIM is perfect. However, if you’re already in Switzerland, don’t worry; you can find a SIM card at one of the authorized retailers or airport kiosks.
Buy a Swiss SIM before your trip
I recommend getting your prepaid Swiss SIM before you travel. I specifically like Holafly since it’s a digital SIM card that arrives right to your email after you purchase it online. You can even buy it if you’re already abroad!
Buy a Swiss SIM before your trip
On the other hand, I recommend SimOptions if you prefer a traditional Switzerland SIM card or your device is incompatible with eSIMs. SimOptions offers several 14-day and 30-day cards with limited data and coverage in several countries besides Switzerland. Be sure to order the card in advance since it may take up to 3 business days for it to arrive at your home.
Buy a SIM card in Switzerland upon arrival
Now, if you’re already on vacation, you can still buy the Holafly eSIM card for Switzerland since it’s a digital card.
You can also look for a Swiss Internet SIM card at local stores or supermarkets. For example, Swisscom and Salt are two of the cheapest Swiss SIM cards, and both offer unlimited data. Thanks to the daily rates, they’re adaptable for short- and long-term trips.
There is also Coop Mobile, which has prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland, but at a higher price and with limited data. Along the same lines, Sunrise is a popular company, but it’s pricey, so I think you’re better off with Swisscom or Salt.
How to activate a Swiss SIM for travel
Activating a Switzerland SIM card is easy. If you have a Swiss eSIM from Holafly, just open your email and scan the QR code you’ve received from Holafly. Remember, you’ll have to scan it from a different device. The most practical way to do this is to download the QR code on a friend’s device, and then scan it with your phone. You can also print out the QR code and scan it.
Once you scan the QR code, follow the activation steps, which are super simple and intuitive. That’s it! You can always contact Holafly via the live chat on the company website or by email at help@holafly.com.
How to activate a Swiss SIM for travel
Physical Swiss SIM cards are also easy to install and activate. If your device has a dual-slot, just insert the card into your phone. Otherwise, you must remove your usual SIM to put in the Swiss one. Keep your regular SIM card in a safe place!
If you get a card from SimOptions, you can take care of all this before your trip. The company has excellent customer service via chat, email, and phone. However, if you’re getting a local card, you’ll have to shop around for a suitable option and then insert and activate the card in the store. I recommend staying there so the store associate can help you if you run into any hiccups. Most locals speak fluent English.
Switzerland SIM card compatibility & requirements
Make sure you check your phone’s compatibility before purchasing a prepaid Internet SIM card for Switzerland. SIM cards come in various sizes (standard, micro, mini, nano), and your phone may only accept a specific size. Most modern phones use nano-SIMs, but you should double-check.
Also, your device must be unlocked and compatible with Switzerland’s network frequency. Don’t worry; most people never run into this issue.
Switzerland SIM card compatibility & requirements
Holafly is the most convenient option since its Swiss eSIMs are compatible with over 200 mobile phone models. I doubt you’ll have any issues, but checking your phone’s compatibility here is always a good idea. If you decide to wait to buy a prepaid SIM card in Switzerland, check that the card is compatible with your device.
I think it’s way easier to organize a trip when you can do all this ahead of time. I use Holafly cards for all my trips, so I’m ready to access the Internet and avoid roaming as soon as I land.
Swiss SIM cards vs. SIM cards for Europe
The last thing I want to mention is that Holafly has two types of travel eSIMs for Switzerland. The first one I’ve been focusing on in this guide is the Swiss eSIM. It works only for Switzerland, so you can buy it here if this is the only country you’re visiting.
The second card is this one, which provides Internet in Europe, including Switzerland. It offers coverage in over 30 European countries, 60 minutes of incoming calls, and 60 minutes of outgoing calls. This SIM card for Europe also has unlimited data, so you can access the Internet and all your favorite apps without worrying about your GB consumption.
The eSIM for Europe costs the same as the Swiss eSIM, so it’s great if you’re traveling through several European countries. As with all Holafly cards, you can’t share data, so each person will need their own card.
| ESIM FOR SWITZERLAND | ESIM FOR EUROPE |
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You can get the Europe and Switzerland SIM cards at a discount by clicking the link below:
FAQs – SIM cards for Switzerland
If you have any questions about Swiss SIM cards, check out the section below for the answers to the most commonly asked questions:
Can I use my mobile phone in Switzerland?
You can bring your phone to Switzerland and access the Internet, but you’ll be roaming. There isn’t free roaming in Switzerland, so it’s a good idea to buy a prepaid Swiss SIM card to avoid high fees.
Can I access the Internet in Switzerland with my SIM card?
You can access the Internet in Switzerland with your regular SIM card, but you’ll be responsible for roaming charges.
Can I make calls in Switzerland with my SIM card?
You can make calls in Switzerland using your usual SIM card, but your phone company will charge you for roaming. I recommend using a Swiss SIM card to avoid high fees.
How much does a Swiss SIM card cost?
Pricing depends on the company, but the cheapest Swiss SIM cards start at €2/day for unlimited data.
Will a European SIM card work in Switzerland?
Holafly’s European eSIM works in Switzerland, but not all European SIM cards include Switzerland in the coverage area for free.
Will a Swiss SIM card work in other countries?
No, a Swiss SIM card will only have coverage in Switzerland. Holafly is an exception; its European eSIM card can be used in over 30 countries in Europe including Switzerland.
Can I buy a prepaid SIM card in Switzerland?
Yes, you can find prepaid Swiss SIM cards at airport kiosks in Zurich, in supermarkets, and at authorized stores.
How do I know if my mobile device is compatible with a Swiss SIM card?
Most phones are compatible with Swiss SIM cards, but checking at the store is always a good idea. Click here to see if your device is compatible with Holafly eSIMs.
Can I share mobile data from my Swiss SIM card with other devices?
Some Switzerland SIM cards allow data sharing but usually come with limited data.
That’s everything you should know about Swiss SIM cards, but if you have any questions, please leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help.
Remember, besides a SIM card for Switzerland, you should also have good European travel insurance. This way, you’ll be all set to enjoy a fantastic holiday in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Stay safe, and have fun in Switzerland!
