How to Buy a SIM Card in Croatia in 2025

If you're planning a trip to Croatia, knowing how to buy a SIM card in Croatia is essential to stay connected wherever you go. In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of purchasing a SIM card in Croatia, helping you save money and enjoy a seamless travel experience.

Where Can I Get a SIM Card for Croatia?

If you are about to have a trip to Croatia, you’ll have plenty of options to purchase a SIM card that suits your connectivity needs.

Airports

When you arrive in Croatia, especially at major airports like Zagreb Airport (ZAG), Split Airport (SPU), and Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), you'll find SIM card kiosks prominently located in the arrivals hall—usually right after baggage claim and before customs exit.

At Zagreb and Split airports, you'll typically see 3-5 kiosks representing the major Croatian carriers: Hrvatski Telekom (magenta branding), A1 (red and white), and Telemach (blue). These kiosks stay open to match flight schedules, with Zagreb and Split operating until the last international arrival (often past midnight). Dubrovnik's smaller airport may have more limited hours, especially during off-season months (November-March).

Pricing reality: Airport kiosks charge a convenience premium—expect to pay €9-12 for basic tourist SIM packages that cost €7-8 at city-center stores. The trade-off? Immediate connectivity for essential apps like Uber, Bolt, Google Maps, or WhatsApp to contact your accommodation. For many travelers, this 20-30% premium is worth avoiding the stress of navigating a new country without internet.

Pro tip: If you arrive late at night when kiosks might be closed, or if you want to avoid the premium pricing, purchase an eSIM before your flight. You can activate it the moment you land (or even before takeoff) and start using data immediately—no queue, no confusion about plan options in a foreign language.

Mobile Carrier Stores

In major cities and popular tourist destinations in Croatia, you can find stores of the main mobile network providers. These stores offer a wide range of SIM card options. The staff will assist you in choosing the best plan based on the length of your stay and your data usage needs.

Electronics and Convenience Stores

Major electronics retailers like HGspot and Sancta Domenica offer SIM cards with a variety of plans from different providers, making it easy for you to compare options. Additionally, many convenience stores across Croatia, such as Tisak and iNovine, also sell prepaid SIM cards. These are ideal choices for travelers who need immediate connectivity.

Online with The BitJoy

You can easily purchase and activate a SIM card online through services like The BitJoy. This not only saves you time but also ensures that you have connectivity as soon as you arrive in Croatia, making your trip more convenient.

Purchase Before You Travel

Buying a SIM card before your trip is a great way to ensure you stay connected as soon as you arrive in Croatia.

Benefits of Buying Before You Travel

Purchasing a SIM card before arriving in Croatia offers several significant advantages, including:

• Immediate connectivity: You'll have mobile data and phone service ready to use even before you land.

• Avoid language barriers: You can select a plan and purchase the SIM in your own language, making it easier to understand the terms and conditions.

• Peace of mind: Start your trip knowing that your communication needs are already taken care of.

Best eSIM Plans for Croatia from The BitJoy

The BitJoy offers a variety of eSIM plans tailored to your needs while traveling in Croatia. Here are some of the top options:

• 50GB for 180 Days – $40.93 USD: Ideal for long stays, giving you the freedom to use data without worry.

• 20GB for 30 Days – $16.23 USD: Great for users who need a lot of data over a short period.

• 10GB for 30 Days – $10.41 USD: A solid choice for shorter trips requiring reliable connectivity.

• 5GB for 30 Days – $6.63 USD: A balanced option for moderate data usage at a reasonable price.

• 3GB for 30 Days – $4.59 USD: Perfect for light users.

• 3GB for 15 Days – $4.39 USD: Suitable for short-term stays with basic data needs.

• 1GB for 7 Days – $2.55 USD: A budget-friendly option for minimal data usage.

With these flexible plans, you can easily choose one that fits your itinerary and data needs, ensuring you stay connected throughout your trip.

Buy Your Tourist SIM Card in Croatia

Purchasing a tourist SIM card in Croatia is an essential step to ensure you stay connected throughout your trip.

How to Buy a SIM Card with Hrvatski Telekom (T-Mobile)

Hrvatski Telekom (T-Mobile Croatia) is Croatia's largest and most established mobile operator, offering the most extensive network coverage—particularly valuable if you're visiting remote areas, smaller islands, or the mountainous interior regions.

Where to find stores: Hrvatski Telekom stores are ubiquitous throughout Croatia. Look for the distinctive magenta T-Mobile branding in shopping centers (City Center One Zagreb, Mall of Split), main pedestrian streets in old towns, and at major transport hubs. In tourist-heavy areas like Dubrovnik's Old Town, Split's Riva waterfront, and Zagreb's Ban Jelačić Square, you'll find stores with English-speaking staff.

Tourist packages (2025 pricing):

• 120GB valid for 90 days: €20 (~$22 USD) — excellent for long-term visitors
• Unlimited data for 10 days: €11 (~$12 USD) — perfect for quick trips
• 30GB for 30 days: ~€15 (~$16 USD) — balanced option

These tourist packages include some international calling minutes, useful for contacting accommodations, tour operators, or embassies.

How to purchase: Visit any HT store with your passport. By Croatian law, all prepaid SIM cards require registration with a valid ID and local address (you can use your hotel or Airbnb address). The staff will register the SIM and activate it within 5-10 minutes. The SIM card itself typically costs €1-2, with your chosen data package loaded immediately.

Network quality: Excellent 5G coverage in major cities (Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Rijeka, Zadar), reliable 4G LTE across the Dalmatian Coast and popular islands (Hvar, Brač, Korčula, Vis), and acceptable 3G/4G in rural mountainous areas. If you're driving through Plitvice Lakes National Park or exploring inland villages, Hrvatski Telekom offers the most reliable coverage.

How to Buy a SIM Card with A1 Croatia

A1 Croatia is the country's second-largest mobile operator, known for competitive pricing and strong urban coverage—a solid choice if you're staying primarily in cities and major tourist destinations.

Where to find stores: A1 stores feature red and white branding and are easily found in shopping malls, main streets in city centers, and larger towns. While less ubiquitous than Hrvatski Telekom, you'll have no trouble finding A1 locations in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Rijeka, Osijek, and Zadar. Smaller coastal towns may only have one A1 store, so check Google Maps before visiting.

Tourist packages (2025 pricing):

• 20GB for 30 days: ~€12 (~$13 USD)
• 50GB for 30 days: ~€18 (~$19 USD)
• Unlimited data for 7 days: ~€10 (~$11 USD)

A1's tourist plans are slightly cheaper than Hrvatski Telekom's, making them attractive for budget-conscious travelers who primarily stick to urban areas and major highways.

How to purchase: Similar to HT, bring your passport and a local address (hotel/Airbnb is fine). Registration takes 5-15 minutes depending on the store's busyness. Some A1 stores have self-service kiosks where you can purchase and activate prepaid top-ups, but initial SIM registration typically requires staff assistance.

Network quality: Excellent coverage in cities and along the coast, with good 5G availability in Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. However, A1's network can be spottier in remote islands (like Vis or Lastovo) and mountainous interior regions compared to Hrvatski Telekom. If your itinerary focuses on popular tourist routes—Dubrovnik to Split to Zadar along the coast—A1 will serve you perfectly well.

How to Buy a SIM Card with Tele2 Croatia

Tele2 Croatia (now operating as Telemach after a merger) is Croatia's third-largest operator, positioning itself as the budget-friendly alternative with aggressive pricing—ideal if cost is your primary concern.

Where to find stores: Telemach stores are less common than HT or A1 but can be found in major cities and some tourist areas. In smaller towns, you might find Telemach SIMs sold at authorized dealers (electronics stores, kiosks) rather than dedicated brand stores. Use the Telemach website's store locator to find the nearest location.

Tourist packages (2025 pricing):

• 10GB for 30 days: ~€8 (~$9 USD) — most budget-friendly option
• 30GB for 30 days: ~€12 (~$13 USD)
• Unlimited data with 200 minutes: ~€10 (~$11 USD) for short-term packages

Telemach often runs promotional deals, especially during summer tourist season (June-September), so ask about current offers when visiting stores.

How to purchase: Same registration process—passport and local address required. Activation time is similar (5-15 minutes). Note that Telemach stores may have fewer English-speaking staff compared to HT or A1, particularly in smaller cities, so having Google Translate ready can help.

Network quality: Good coverage in major cities and coastal tourist areas, but noticeably weaker in rural regions and smaller islands. Telemach uses a combination of its own infrastructure and roaming on other networks, which can result in inconsistent speeds. If you're staying in Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, or along the main coastal highway, you'll be fine. If you're planning backcountry exploration or visiting very small islands, consider Hrvatski Telekom instead.

Who should choose Telemach: Backpackers and budget travelers staying in cities, hostels with WiFi backup, and those who use data primarily for messaging and maps rather than streaming or video calls.

Benefits of Buying a SIM Card Locally

Buying a SIM card locally offers several advantages, including:

• Local rates: You’ll get competitive pricing for data and calls.

• Immediate support: It's easy to reach customer service if any issues arise.

• Flexible plans: You can choose a plan that suits your travel needs and adjust it if necessary.

How Much Does a Prepaid SIM Card in Croatia Cost?

The price of prepaid SIM cards in Croatia is quite reasonable, typically starting at around €7 EUR (approximately $7.50 USD) for basic plans with limited data and call minutes. More comprehensive packages, especially those designed for tourists, can cost up to €30 EUR (around $32 USD) and usually include a substantial amount of data along with some international calling options.

Note: Croatia adopted the Euro (€) as its official currency on January 1, 2023, replacing the Croatian Kuna (HRK).

Best Digital Prepaid eSIMs for Tourists in Croatia

When traveling in Croatia, choosing the right eSIM is essential to ensure you stay connected. Here are some of the best eSIM providers for travelers:

The BitJoy

The Bitjoy offers a variety of flexible eSIM plans for travelers in Croatia, making it easy to choose one that suits your data needs. Plans range from 1GB for 7 days at $2.55 USD to 50GB for 180 days at $40.93 USD.

What sets The Bitjoy apart: instant QR code activation (typically 2-5 minutes), acceptance of cryptocurrency payments (Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more), a 5-day money-back guarantee for peace of mind, and coverage across 190+ countries worldwide—perfect if you're visiting multiple destinations beyond Croatia. Thanks to its secure network partnerships, you can stay connected throughout your entire trip.

Airalo

Airalo is an excellent eSIM provider for international travel. In Croatia, you can choose from a variety of eSIM plans, starting at 1GB for 7 days for $4.50 USD, up to 20GB for 30 days for $32 USD, with several other options in between.

Holafly

Holafly offers unlimited data plans for international travel. In Croatia, their plans range from $19 for 5 days to $99 for 90 days of unlimited data, giving you peace of mind that you'll never run out of data.

However, it's important to understand what "unlimited" means: Holafly typically provides 15-25GB at full speed before potentially throttling speeds to 2G (around 1 Mbps). For most travelers using maps, social media, and messaging, you won't hit these limits. But if you plan heavy streaming or large file uploads, be aware of this fair usage policy.

While Holafly provides unlimited data in many countries, it's important to note that some destinations may only offer limited data plans. Be sure to check Holafly's website or app before your trip to confirm whether unlimited plans are available for your destination.

Yesim

Yesim, a Switzerland-based eSIM service, offers flexible data plans with options of 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB. Prices for eSIM plans in Croatia range from $9.90 to $30.80 USD.

The 3GB plan is valid for 7 days, while the 5GB plan lasts for 15 days. The 15GB and 30GB plans both come with a 30-day validity period.

Comparing Your Croatia eSIM Options

To help you choose the right provider, here's a detailed comparison of the top eSIM options for Croatia:

Feature	The Bitjoy	Airalo	Holafly	Yesim
Price (1GB)	$2.55 / 7 days	$4.50 / 7 days	N/A (unlimited only)	N/A
Price (10GB)	$10.41 / 30 days	$21.00 / 30 days	N/A (unlimited only)	~$30.80 / 30 days
Price (Unlimited)	Not available	Not available	$19 / 5 days $64 / 30 days	$24.90 / 7 days
Activation Time	2-5 minutes	2-10 minutes	Instant	5-10 minutes
Global Coverage	190+ countries	200+ countries	160+ countries	200+ countries
Phone Number	No (data only)	No (data only)	No (data only)	Optional add-on
Payment Methods	Card + Crypto	Card only	Card, PayPal	Card only
Refund Policy	5-day money-back	7-day	6-month	Varies
Network in Croatia	[Verify with support]	A1, Telemach	A1, HT	A1, HT
5G Support	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Hotspot/Tethering	Yes	Yes	Yes (1GB/day limit)	Yes
Best For	Budget travelers, crypto users, multi-country trips	First-time eSIM users	Heavy data users, remote workers	Global travelers

Price verified: November 2025

Which provider should you choose?

• Choose The Bitjoy if: You want the best value for money, need multi-country coverage, prefer crypto payments, or want a risk-free trial with a 5-day guarantee.

• Choose Airalo if: You're trying eSIM for the first time and want a proven, reliable provider with excellent customer support.

• Choose Holafly if: You're a heavy data user (streaming, video calls, large uploads) and don't want to worry about running out of data.

• Choose Yesim if: You need flexibility across global destinations and want optional voice calling features.

Should You Choose a Virtual SIM (eSIM) for Croatia?

When traveling in Croatia, choosing between a physical SIM and an eSIM can greatly impact your connectivity experience. eSIM is an increasingly popular option, offering many benefits for users.

Advantages and Limitations of eSIMs

eSIM offers many advantages but also comes with some limitations. On the positive side, eSIM allows for quick activation without the need for a physical SIM card, saving time. It is also flexible, enabling users to easily switch between data plans without visiting a store, while still keeping their primary phone number active when using a new data plan.

On the other hand, eSIM is not compatible with some older models, which prevents some people from using it. In case of issues, restoring an eSIM can be more complicated than with a physical SIM card, posing difficulties for those who are not familiar with the technology.

Step-by-Step: How to Use an eSIM in Croatia

To use an eSIM effectively in Croatia, follow these steps:

• Check compatibility: Make sure your device supports eSIM.

• Choose an eSIM provider: Find a reputable provider and select a suitable data plan.

• Download the eSIM: Receive a QR code from the provider and scan it to download the eSIM to your device.

• Activate: Follow the instructions to activate the eSIM on your device.

• Check your connection: Once activated, test your data connection to ensure everything is working properly.

Troubleshooting: Common eSIM Issues in Croatia

Even with proper setup, you might encounter connectivity issues. Here's how to solve the most common problems:

Problem 1: "No Service" or "Searching for Network"

Symptoms: Your phone shows "No Service," "SOS Only," or keeps searching for a network after you've installed the eSIM.

Solutions:

1. Enable Data Roaming (counterintuitive but required for eSIMs):

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM Name] → Turn ON "Data Roaming"
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → [Your eSIM] → Turn ON "Roaming"

2. Manually select network:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Network Selection → Turn OFF Automatic → Choose A1, HT, or Telemach manually
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile network → Choose operator manually

3. Restart your device: Turn phone completely off, wait 30 seconds, turn back on

4. Toggle Airplane Mode: Turn Airplane Mode ON for 10 seconds, then OFF—forces reconnection

Why this happens: eSIMs often default to "no roaming" for security, but they need roaming enabled to connect to local Croatian networks.

Problem 2: Slow Data Speeds Despite 5G/4G Icon

Symptoms: Phone shows 5G or 4G connection but websites load slowly, maps buffer, videos won't play.

Solutions:

1. Check if you're throttled: Some "unlimited" plans throttle after 15-25GB. Check your data usage:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Data usage

2. Switch to different tower: Toggle Airplane Mode on/off to reconnect to a less congested cell tower

3. Check network mode:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Voice & Data → Try "LTE" instead of "5G Auto"
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Preferred network type → Try "4G/LTE" instead of "5G"

4. Peak hour congestion: If it's 7-9pm in a tourist area (Dubrovnik Old Town, Split Riva), network congestion is normal—wait or find WiFi

Pro tip: 5G drains battery faster and isn't always faster than 4G in Croatia. Setting to "LTE/4G" often provides better, more stable speeds.

Problem 3: eSIM Won't Activate or Download

Symptoms: QR code scan fails, or eSIM downloads but won't activate.

Solutions:

1. Ensure stable internet: You need WiFi or mobile data to download eSIM initially. Connect to hotel/airport WiFi first

2. Check eSIM slot availability:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Check if you have space for another eSIM (most iPhones support 5-8 eSIMs stored, 2 active)
   • Android: Varies by device—some support only 1 eSIM at a time

3. Delete old unused eSIMs:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → [Old eSIM] → Remove Cellular Plan
   • Clear space for new eSIM

4. Manually enter activation code: If QR scan fails, tap "Enter Details Manually" and copy SM-DP+ address and activation code from email

5. Contact provider immediately: The Bitjoy support: support@thebitjoy.com / Airalo: in-app chat / Holafly: 24/7 chat

Common mistake: Trying to activate eSIM without WiFi or data. Always install on WiFi first, then test when you arrive in Croatia.

Problem 4: Can Receive Data But Can't Make Calls/Send SMS

Symptoms: Internet works fine, but you can't call or text regular phone numbers.

Solution: This is NORMAL—most eSIMs (The Bitjoy, Airalo, Holafly) are data-only plans.

How to make calls/texts with data-only eSIM:

• WhatsApp: Voice/video calls + messages (works if recipient has WhatsApp)
• FaceTime: iOS users can FaceTime other iOS users
• Telegram, Signal, Viber: Alternative messaging apps with calling
• Google Voice / Skype: Purchase credits for calling regular phone numbers
• iMessage: iOS users can message other iOS users (blue bubbles)

If you need real calling: Buy a local SIM with phone number (Hrvatski Telekom, A1) or use Holafly's plans that include call minutes.

Problem 5: Hotspot/Tethering Not Working

Symptoms: You try to share your eSIM data with laptop/tablet but hotspot won't turn on or devices can't connect.

Solutions:

1. Check if provider allows tethering:

   • The Bitjoy: ✅ Allowed
   • Airalo: ✅ Allowed
   • Holafly: ⚠️ Limited to 500MB-1GB per day
   • Some local SIMs: ❌ May block tethering

2. Enable Personal Hotspot:

   • iPhone: Settings → Personal Hotspot → Turn ON → Set password
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Hotspot & tethering → Wi-Fi hotspot → Turn ON

3. Select correct data source: If you have both physical SIM and eSIM, make sure hotspot is using eSIM:

   • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → Choose your eSIM
   • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile network → Make eSIM default

Holafly users: Check your plan's hotspot limit. If you've exceeded daily limit (usually 500MB-1GB), wait until midnight CET for reset.

Problem 6: eSIM Expires But Still Shows Active

Symptoms: Your validity period ended (e.g., 7-day plan) but phone still shows eSIM as "active" or "connected."

Solution: The eSIM profile remains installed after expiration, but DATA is no longer working. Check data usage—if it's not increasing, your plan is expired.

To confirm and fix:

1. Try loading a website or opening an app—if nothing loads, plan is expired
2. Purchase a top-up / new plan from provider's app or website
3. Or remove expired eSIM: Settings → Cellular → [Expired eSIM] → Remove Cellular Plan

Avoid confusion: Label your eSIM clearly when installing (e.g., "Croatia - The Bitjoy - Expires Nov 15") so you remember validity dates.

Problem 7: Accidentally Deleted eSIM

Symptoms: You removed the eSIM from your device and now can't reconnect.

Solutions:

1. Check provider's app: Some providers (Airalo, Holafly) let you re-download eSIM from their app using your account

2. Check email: Your original QR code email might still work—try scanning again (Note: some QR codes are one-time use only)

3. Contact support immediately: Providers can usually regenerate QR code for you:

   • The Bitjoy: support@thebitjoy.com
   • Airalo: App chat support
   • Holafly: Live chat at holafly.com

Prevention: Don't remove eSIM until your trip is completely over and you're home. If you need to free up eSIM slots, remove old eSIMs from previous trips, not your current one.

When to Contact Support vs Visit a Store

Contact eSIM provider support if:

• ❌ QR code won't scan or activate
• ❌ Data not working after trying all troubleshooting steps
• ❌ Billed incorrectly or need refund
• ❌ Need to regenerate deleted eSIM

Visit local carrier store (HT/A1/Telemach) if:

• ✅ You have a local physical SIM (not eSIM) and need help
• ✅ SIM card physically damaged and needs replacement
• ✅ Need to purchase additional local SIM with phone number

Don't bother visiting stores for eSIM issues—they can't help. eSIM support must come from the provider (The Bitjoy, Airalo, etc.), not local Croatian carriers.

Still having problems? Check your device's basic settings:

• ✅ Mobile Data is turned ON
• ✅ Airplane Mode is turned OFF
• ✅ Device is eSIM-compatible (iPhone XS+, recent Android)
• ✅ You're in a covered area (not deep in Plitvice forest or at sea)
• ✅ Your physical SIM isn't interfering (try temporarily turning it OFF)

Tips for Managing Mobile Data While Traveling

To optimize mobile data usage during your trip, keep the following tips in mind:

• Monitor your data usage: Use the data tracking feature in your phone’s settings to stay in control.

• Turn off unnecessary apps: Close data-heavy apps when not in use to conserve data.

• Use free Wi-Fi: Take advantage of public Wi-Fi hotspots to reduce mobile data consumption.

• Choose the right data plan: Select a data plan based on your expected usage throughout the trip.

SIM Card Croatia FAQs

In this section, we will answer frequently asked questions about using SIM cards in Croatia, helping you better prepare for your trip.

Do Travelers Need to Register Their SIM?

Yes, registering your SIM card is important to ensure affordable and reliable mobile connectivity. The registration process not only enhances convenience but also protects your personal information throughout your trip. It makes it easier to access mobile services and helps you comply with the legal requirements of your destination.

What If I Have Issues With My SIM in Croatia?

Please visit the nearest store of your mobile service provider, where customer service staff will assist you in resolving any issues quickly.

Can I Use Wi-Fi Instead of Mobile Data?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is widely available in public spaces, cafés, and hotels throughout Croatia. However, using a local SIM card will provide a more stable and secure connection.

How Much Does Roaming Cost in Croatia?

Roaming can be very expensive, especially for travelers from outside the EU. Instead, using a local SIM card is often a more cost-effective option.

What Are the Mobile Operators in Croatia?

The main mobile service providers in Croatia include Hrvatski Telekom, A1 Croatia, and Tele2 Croatia.

Which Croatia SIM Option Is Right for You?

Different travelers have different connectivity needs. Here's how to choose based on your specific situation:

Scenario 1: Weekend City Break (3-4 days)

Traveler profile: Emily from London visiting Dubrovnik for a long weekend. Light data user—needs Google Maps, WhatsApp, Instagram Stories. Hotel has WiFi for evening uploads.

Best choice: The Bitjoy 1GB/7 days ($2.55)

Why: Cheapest option that covers the entire trip. 1GB is plenty for maps (20-30MB/day), messaging (10-20MB/day), and light social media. Can upload photos to Instagram using hotel WiFi in the evening.

Cost comparison: $2.55 vs her UK carrier's roaming (£5/day = £20 total). Saves £17.

Scenario 2: Digital Nomad (30 days)

Traveler profile: Marcus from Austin working remotely from Split. Needs reliable connectivity for video calls, file uploads, and coworking. Uses 1.5-2GB daily.

Best choice: Toss-up between The Bitjoy 20GB/30 days ($16.23) or Holafly unlimited/30 days ($64)

Why: Marcus uses ~45-60GB monthly. The Bitjoy's 20GB isn't enough. Options:

1. Buy The Bitjoy 50GB/180 days ($40.93) and use for 30 days = plenty of data
2. Buy Holafly unlimited ($64) for peace of mind with video calls

Decision: If Marcus can track usage and avoid heavy streaming, The Bitjoy 50GB saves $23. If he wants zero stress during client calls, Holafly's unlimited is worth the premium.

Scenario 3: Backpacking the Balkans (21 days)

Traveler profile: Aisha from Toronto backpacking Croatia (10 days) → Montenegro (5 days) → Bosnia (6 days). Budget-conscious but needs connectivity for hostel bookings and navigation.

Best choice: The Bitjoy Regional Europe eSIM (if available) or buy 10GB/30 days ($10.41) for multi-country use

Why: Buying separate SIMs in each country = wasted time at borders + higher total cost. One eSIM that works across borders = seamless connectivity. The Bitjoy's 190+ country coverage means it works in Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia without changing anything.

Cost comparison:

• 3 local SIMs (€7 each) = €21 (~$22)
• The Bitjoy 10GB multi-country = $10.41
• Saves $12 plus saves time at borders

Scenario 4: Family Vacation (14 days)

Traveler profile: The Johnsons (2 adults, 2 teens) from Melbourne vacationing in Croatia. Need 2-3 devices connected: parents' phones for navigation, kids' phones for social media. Moderate data use with hotel WiFi backup.

Best choice:

• Parent 1: The Bitjoy 10GB/30 days ($10.41)
• Parent 2: The Bitjoy 5GB/30 days ($6.63)
• Kids share Parent 1's hotspot or buy Airalo 3GB ($9.50) if needed

Why: Total cost $17-27 for family connectivity vs Australian carrier roaming ($10-15/day per person = $560-840 for the family!). Saves $533-823.

Pro tip: The Bitjoy and most eSIMs support hotspot/tethering, so parents can share data with kids' devices without buying separate eSIMs for everyone.

Scenario 5: Retiree Long Stay (60 days)

Traveler profile: Linda and Bob (both 68) from UK spending two months in Istria region. Light data users—mainly use for WhatsApp with grandkids, occasional maps, and reading news. Need local phone number for calling doctors, apartment landlord.

Best choice: Hrvatski Telekom 120GB/90 days (€20 = ~$22)

Why: Even though it requires visiting a store and registration, the long validity and local phone number make it worthwhile. At their age, having a real local number for calling (not just WhatsApp) provides peace of mind for medical appointments or emergencies.

Why not eSIM: Most eSIMs (including The Bitjoy) are data-only with no calling/SMS. For a 60-day stay, the effort of visiting an HT store is worth the comprehensive service and cost savings.

Recommendations to Choose the Best SIM Card for Croatia

When choosing a SIM card for your trip to Croatia, carefully consider your data needs and opt for a reliable provider such as Hrvatski Telekom, A1 Croatia, or Tele2 Croatia. If your device supports eSIM, consider a service like The BitJoy, which allows you to connect instantly upon arrival. Don’t forget to compare prices and available plans to find the option that best suits your needs and budget, ensuring you stay connected throughout your journey.

Read more:

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Iceland SIM Card: Everything You Need to Know Before You Travel

We hope the information in this article has helped you better understand how to buy a SIM card in Croatia. Don’t forget to consider eSIM options from The BitJoy for instant connectivity. Get ready for your trip and stay connected with your loved ones throughout your journey!