Arriving at Berlin and need a local SIM card for your phone? This guide would be useful for you to pick a SIM card at Brandenburg Airport.

Where to buy SIM Card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport

Buying SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport - Airport map
Brandenburg Airport map. Source: onemileatatime

There are limited options available to purchase SIM cards directly upon arrival at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. One of the only places you can buy a prepaid SIM card is at one of the Travelex Currency Exchange stores located in the airport terminal.

Before going through customs, there is a Travelex store located at Baggage Belt A3. This is likely the most convenient location to purchase a SIM card immediately after deplaning. Another Travelex is located opposite Arrivals 1 near the Relay shop for those entering the arrivals hall post-customs.

It is important to note that the Travelex stores only operate from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. So if you arrive outside of these hours, you will unfortunately not be able to buy a German SIM card directly at the airport. Your only option would then be to purchase one once you reach Berlin city center.

Buying SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport - Travelex
Buying SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport – Travelex

II. Berlin Brandenburg Airport SIM Card Options and Costs

Here are the major Germany SIM card options available for tourists at Berlin Brandenburg Airport:

Provider Prepaid Plans Cost (USD)
Telekom Tourist Welcome S (1GB/30 days) ~$17
Vodafone Red S (2GB/28 days) ~$23
O2 O2 Travel XS (1GB/30 days) ~$17
Lebara Lebara SIM (1.5GB/30 days) ~$17
Lycamobile Prepaid SIM (1.5GB/30 days) ~$14

*Prices are approximate and may vary based on exchange rates and plan options. Be sure to check for any activation fees or taxes.

When choosing a SIM card in Germany, major providers like Telekom, Vodafone and O2 offer the best network coverage and speeds across the country.

III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport

When purchasing a SIM card at Brandenburg Airport, make sure you have the following:

  • Passport – Your passport is required as proof of ID for buying a prepaid SIM card in Germany.
  • Unlocked phone – Your phone must be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider to unlock your phone before traveling.
  • Credit/debit card – Have a credit or debit card available for payment. Some SIM card vending machines may only accept card payments.
  • SIM card size – Standard, micro and nano SIM card sizes are available at the airport. Know which size your phone requires.

Also be ready to provide your basic contact details like name, address and phone number when purchasing your SIM card.

IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport

Using an eSIM digital SIM instead of a physical SIM card is also an option when traveling to Germany. eSIMs are directly embedded into your phone and offer greater convenience:

  • No need to find a SIM card retailer on arrival
  • Remote eSIM activation before or after landing
  • Ability to change plans instantly in app
  • More secure with no physical SIM to lose

One of the top provider is Germany eSIM. Plans start from ~$7 for 1GB monthly data. Ensure your phone has eSIM capability before choosing this option. Dual SIM phones allow using eSIM and physical SIM together. Let’s check some their best plans: 

Germany-eSIM
Germany-eSIM

V. FAQs

Can I buy a SIM card late at night or early morning at Berlin Airport?

Yes, SIM card shops and vending machines at Berlin Brandenburg Airport are open 24/7, so you can purchase a Germany SIM card no matter what time your flight arrives or departs.

What are the SIM card shop hours at Brandenburg Airport?

Shop hours vary, but major SIM card retailers like Telekom, Vodafone, O2 and Lycamobile are open daily from 6am-10pm in the departures and arrivals areas at BER airport.

Can I pay by credit/debit card for a SIM card at Brandenburg Airport?

Yes, credit and debit card payments are widely accepted for SIM card purchases at shops and vending machines in Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Carry a Visa, Mastercard, etc for payment. Some vending machines may only take cards.

Does my phone need to be unlocked to use a Berlin Airport SIM card?

Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a SIM card purchased in Germany. Contact your home provider in advance to unlock your device before traveling.

Do SIM cards sold at Berlin Brandenburg Airport allow calling?

Most tourist SIM cards at Berlin airport include calling minutes to German numbers, while some plans are data-only. Choose a plan or top up your SIM with calling credit if you need to make calls.

VI. Final Words

Purchasing a prepaid Germany SIM card at Brandenburg Airport is quick and easy with shops and vending machines located right in the terminals.

Advanced users who prioritize convenience may find Germany eSIM the best digital solution when arriving at Berlin’s airport.