Netherlands SIM card made easy: Where to buy, cost & best picks

Traveling to the Netherlands and wondering how to stay connected? Choosing the right SIM card can save you both money and stress. In this complete guide, you'll find all the essential details about buying a Netherlands SIM card - where to get one, how much you should expect to pay. Whether you prefer physical SIMs or the convenience of eSIMs, this article will help you choose the best option for your trip.

Where can you buy a SIM card in the Netherlands?

Buying a Netherlands SIM card is simple with multiple options available. Whether you prefer to buy immediately upon arrival, visit official stores, or order in advance online, each choice has its own benefits. Below are common ways to get connected during your trip.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

At Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, travelers can easily purchase prepaid Netherlands SIM cards at various points including kiosks and vending machines located throughout the terminal. These SIM cards are typically ready to use immediately after purchase. This is particularly convenient for tourists who want seamless internet access upon arrival without needing to find a physical store later.

The airport SIM cards usually come with competitive prices and a range of data packages to suit short-term visitors. While selection might be limited compared to city stores, the ease of buying at the airport remains the top advantage for many travelers.

Official mobile stores (Vodafone, KPN, Odido)

Vodafone, KPN, and Odido are the three main telecom providers in the Netherlands with official stores available nationwide. These stores offer a broader range of prepaid SIM cards and data packages than airport kiosks. You can get personalized advice, assistance with activation, and choose plans tailored to longer stays or heavier data use.

Buying directly from these providers guarantees you get authentic SIM cards with customer support. Their stores are usually located in shopping centers or city centers, making it easy to find one. Additionally, they offer top-up options and online account management to help manage your Netherlands SIM card efficiently.

Online before your trip

Buying a Netherlands eSIM or SIM card online before your trip has grown in popularity, especially with the rise of eSIM technology. Websites like Holafly, BitJoy, and SimOptions allow travelers to purchase and activate an eSIM or physical SIM card ahead of arrival. This eliminates the need to look for a SIM card after landing.

Online purchase offers the advantage of instant activation, competitive pricing, and flexible data plans. You receive a QR code for eSIM installation or a SIM card shipped to your home, so you can travel stress-free with mobile data ready to use as soon as you land.

How much does a prepaid SIM card in the Netherlands cost?

Prepaid SIM cards in the Netherlands vary in price depending on the provider and the data or call package. Tourists can find options ranging from budget-friendly plans to more comprehensive packages with larger data limits. Understanding the pricing helps you pick the best SIM for your travel needs.

Vodafone prepaid SIM

Vodafone is a major player in the Dutch mobile market with widespread network coverage and reliable service. Their prepaid SIM cards are popular among tourists for their balance of cost and benefits.

• Starter packs usually cost around €15 to €25.

• These packs often include 3-5GB of high-speed data.

• Calls and SMS can be included or bought separately.

• Validity typically lasts for 30 days.

• Top-ups are simple to manage via online portals or retail outlets.

Vodafone’s network strength is excellent in urban areas and along major transport routes, making it a solid choice if you want consistent connectivity during your trip.

KPN prepaid SIM

KPN is known for providing some of the fastest internet speeds in the Netherlands. Their prepaid SIM cards cater well to visitors who need reliable data access.

• Prices start around €20 for entry-level packages.

• Usually includes 5GB of 4G LTE data.

• Calls and texts can be part of the package or added later.

• Data packages can be topped up easily online.

• The SIM card validity is commonly 30 days, with options to extend.

Thanks to KPN’s extensive coverage and fast internet, it’s ideal for tourists who prioritize smooth streaming, video calls, or work on the go.

Odido prepaid SIM

Odido (previously T-Mobile Netherlands) offers affordable prepaid SIM cards with appealing features.

• Entry prices start from approximately €10 to €20.

• Data plans vary from 2GB up to 10GB or more.

• Unlimited calls and SMS within the Netherlands are common.

• Easy top-up options via app or stores.

• Validity period is typically 30 days.

Odido’s prepaid SIM cards suit travelers looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising network reliability or voice service.

Albert Heijn and convenience store SIM cards

Besides official mobile operators, prepaid SIM cards are widely available at supermarkets such as Albert Heijn and various convenience stores. These cards are usually cheaper and designed for short-term use.

• Prices begin as low as €10.

• Data offerings are limited, typically 1-3GB.

• May not include calls or texts.

• Activation might be slower and customer support limited.

• Good for tourists who only need light internet use or a backup option.

While convenient, these SIMs might not offer the best experience for those requiring extensive data or customer assistance.

Best Netherlands SIM card for tourists in 2025

Choosing the best SIM card for your trip to the Netherlands depends on your priorities such as coverage, data needs, and convenience. In 2025, several options stand out for tourists looking for reliable connectivity without hassles. Traditional physical SIM cards are still popular, but eSIM options are growing rapidly thanks to easy activation and no need to swap cards.

The BitJoy travel SIM card (eSIM & physical SIM options)

BitJoy is gaining popularity for its flexible travel SIM cards suitable for short and long trips. Its dual offering of physical SIM and eSIM gives tourists freedom of choice.

• Physical SIM cards come pre-loaded with data and can be bought online or at select locations.

• The eSIM option allows instant activation via QR code, no need for a physical card.

• Data packages range from 3GB to 15GB with validity up to 30 days.

• BitJoy supports data, calls, and SMS in the Netherlands and across many EU countries.

• Top-ups and customer support are accessible through a user-friendly app.

This flexibility and solid coverage make BitJoy a great pick for tech-savvy travelers or those wanting a hassle-free setup.

Holafly Netherlands eSIM

Holafly specializes in eSIMs designed for travelers needing straightforward data access in the Netherlands.

• Packages usually start at 3GB for 15 days, with larger plans available.

• Activation is instant after purchase via QR code scanning.

• No need to change physical SIMs, perfect for dual-SIM phones.

• Holafly offers unlimited data plans for longer stays as well.

• Customer service is available in multiple languages.

Holafly eSIM is ideal for tourists who want quick setup, reliable data, and the convenience of staying connected without swapping SIM cards.

SimOptions & other online eSIM providers

SimOptions and similar platforms aggregate eSIM deals from various carriers, offering tourists flexibility and competitive pricing.

• Users can compare plans from multiple providers in one place.

• Supports instant activation by scanning a QR code.

• Packages vary widely from small data bundles to unlimited plans.

• Many providers cover roaming across the entire EU.

• Great for travelers who want to plan ahead and choose the best deal.

Buying eSIMs online before departure is increasingly popular for ease and time-saving.

Should you use an eSIM or physical SIM card in the Netherlands?

Choosing between an eSIM and a physical SIM card depends on your device, convenience, and travel style. eSIMs are digital SIMs embedded in newer smartphones, allowing users to activate plans without a physical card. Physical SIM cards remain a reliable option for phones without eSIM compatibility or travelers who prefer a traditional approach. Both options provide good coverage and access to Dutch networks, but they differ in activation ease and flexibility.

Device compatibility and installation tips

When deciding between an eSIM and a physical SIM card for your Netherlands trip, the first step is to verify if your phone supports the chosen option. Most recent smartphones from major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google are compatible with eSIMs. However, many older or budget phones only accept physical SIM cards.

To check if your device supports eSIM:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.

• On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier or SIM management.

If you see the option to add a cellular plan, your phone supports eSIM technology.

Physical SIM installation tips:

• Power off your device.

• Use the SIM ejector tool to remove the SIM tray.

• Insert the physical SIM card carefully and reinsert the tray.

• Turn your device back on and wait for activation.

Usually, activation is automatic, but you may need to enter APN settings manually for mobile data.

eSIM installation tips:

• After purchase, you will receive a QR code or activation code via email.

• Open your phone’s eSIM settings and scan the QR code or enter the code.

• The eSIM profile will download and activate instantly.

• Make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi during activation.

If you encounter any issues during installation or activation, customer support is available, or you can visit a local mobile store for assistance. Using an eSIM is also convenient for travelers who want to switch easily between mobile plans without swapping physical cards.

Pros and cons of eSIM vs. prepaid SIM

When deciding between an eSIM and a physical prepaid SIM card, it helps to compare their benefits and drawbacks side by side. This way, you can choose the best fit for your travel needs and device.

eSIM:

• Advantages

Instant activation without visiting a store or swapping cards.

No risk of losing a tiny physical SIM card.

Supports multiple profiles, allowing easy switching between countries.

Saves physical space in your device, useful for dual SIM users.

• Disadvantages:

Only compatible with newer smartphones that support eSIM technology.

Activation requires internet access or Wi-Fi.

Not all providers offer eSIM options or support eSIM for all plans.

Troubleshooting can be more complex without physical SIM removal.

Physical SIM cards:

• Advantages:

Compatible with almost every unlocked phone.

Can be bought easily at airports, stores, and kiosks.

Physical card can be swapped and replaced if damaged.

No need for internet connection to activate after purchase.

• Disadvantages:

Requires removing your current SIM and inserting a new one.

Risk of losing or damaging the small SIM card.

May involve standing in queues or visiting physical stores for purchase.

You can only use one SIM card per slot, limiting device flexibility.

Who are the main mobile operators in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is served by three major mobile network operators. Each provider offers different strengths in terms of coverage, pricing, and customer service. Understanding these can help you pick the best prepaid SIM card for your trip.

Vodafone

Vodafone is one of the largest mobile providers in the Netherlands with extensive nationwide coverage. It offers fast 4G and 5G networks, making it ideal for tourists who rely heavily on mobile data for navigation, streaming, or communication. Vodafone prepaid SIM cards usually come with flexible plans that include data, calls, and texts, which can be customized according to your needs.

Besides good network quality, Vodafone stores provide helpful customer service in English, assisting travelers with activation and troubleshooting. However, Vodafone's plans may be slightly more expensive compared to some competitors, but you get reliable service in return.

KPN

KPN is the oldest and largest mobile operator in the Netherlands, well-known for stable network performance and good connection speeds. Their prepaid SIM cards come with a variety of packages suitable for both short and long stays. KPN’s coverage extends well into rural areas, ensuring tourists have reliable access even outside major cities.

The company also offers friendly, multilingual customer support that assists international travelers effectively. KPN’s pricing is generally balanced, providing good value for stable and consistent service.

Odido (formerly T-Mobile)

Odido, previously known as T-Mobile Netherlands, is a competitive player offering affordable prepaid SIM cards with attractive data packages. Odido has made significant investments to improve 4G and 5G coverage across the country. While its coverage is slightly less extensive than Vodafone or KPN in some rural areas, it still provides solid service in cities and tourist hubs.

Odido appeals to budget-conscious travelers due to its lower prices and promotional deals. The company also supports easy online activation and English-language customer service. For those looking for value without compromising too much on quality, Odido is a solid choice.

Does a Netherlands SIM card work in other EU countries?

One of the main benefits of buying a Netherlands SIM card is the ability to use it across many other European Union (EU) countries without extra roaming charges. This makes it a practical choice for travelers planning to visit multiple destinations in Europe during their trip.

EU roaming policy and coverage

The EU roaming policy ensures that prepaid SIM cards purchased in the Netherlands can be used freely in all 27 EU member states plus a few associated countries like Norway and Switzerland. This policy applies to voice calls, SMS, and mobile data within fair usage limits.

While you can use your Dutch SIM abroad, data speeds and network quality depend on local operators in the countries you visit. Some providers might restrict high-speed data roaming after a certain usage threshold, so reviewing your plan’s roaming conditions is advisable.

Before traveling, always confirm that your SIM card supports EU roaming and understand any limitations. This way, you can enjoy seamless connectivity without worrying about extra roaming costs on your European journey.

FAQs about Netherlands SIM cards for tourists

When traveling, it’s natural to have questions about using a local SIM card. Here are answers to common questions tourists ask about Netherlands SIM cards.

Can a tourist buy a SIM card in the Netherlands?

Yes, tourists can easily buy prepaid SIM cards or eSIMs by showing a passport, at airports, stores, or online.

Is free Wi-Fi widely available?

Free Wi-Fi is common in public places, but it may be slow or insecure. Using a SIM card gives more reliable internet access.

What should I do if I face issues with the SIM card?

Contact customer support, restart your device, check settings, and keep your purchase info handy for troubleshooting.

Choosing the right Netherlands SIM card can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you prefer buying a physical SIM on arrival or activating an eSIM beforehand, options like BitJoy offer flexibility and reliable service tailored for travelers. With competitive prices and easy activation, BitJoy helps you stay connected throughout your visit without hassle.