Best Mobile Operators in Germany: Guide for Tourists

Staying connected while traveling is important for both work and leisure. If you find yourself visiting Germany as a tourist, choosing the right mobile operator will help you navigate effortlessly. This guide provides an overview of the best mobile operators in Germany to suit the needs of travelers.

I. List of Mobile Operators in Germany

Deutsche Telekom

Telekom is the largest mobile carrier in Germany with over 50 million subscribers, accounting for a 33% market share. It owns the most comprehensive network infrastructure, providing reliable coverage across the country including rural areas. Telekom’s 4G network reaches over 99% of households and it has rolled out 5G to more than 300 cities and towns to date.

Vodafone

As the second largest operator, Vodafone serves around 31 million subscribers with a 23% market share. It has built an extensive 4G network covering 98% of households. 5G has launched in over 120 cities and is growing.

O2

O2 Germany, with around 28 million subscribers and a 21% share, is the third largest provider. It has invested heavily in 5G, rolling out the fastest network in many cities according to recent tests. 4G coverage reaches over 97% of households. Network quality and coverage have improved in recent years through modernization efforts.

In addition, there are several Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that lease network access from the major carriers and resell plans under their own brand:

• 1&1 – Uses the Telefónica network and offers prepaid and contract plans.
• Aldi Talk – MVNO using the Telekom network with discount prepaid options.
• Ortel Mobile – Regional provider in eastern Germany on the Vodafone network.
• Congstar – Telekom’s own discount MVNO brand with prepaid and contracts.
• Fraenk – A recent MVNO using Telekom’s network with app-based accounts.
• Blau – Branded as Blau.de, it uses the Telefónica network for prepaid plans.

II. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operators in Germany

• Network Coverage – Check coverage maps of the major operators like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 to see which has the strongest 4G/5G network in the areas you’ll be spending most time, like cities and travel routes. Coverage in rural areas may vary.
• Data Allowances – Compare standard plan inclusions to see which offers the most generous data bucket at your price point. Also check data rollover policies if you don’t use it all each month.
• International Roaming – Consider which operators offer the best roaming rates and data allowances in your destination countries. Telekom generally has reasonable EU roaming.
• Speed and Performance – Vodafone and Telekom are known for fast maximum speeds but performance can vary locally.

III. Best Mobile Operators in Germany – Detailed Comparison

Best Mobile Operators

Vodafone is likely the best mobile operator for tourists coming to Germany. As one of the biggest operators, Vodafone provides reliable service across the country. Moreover, it offers free roaming in all EU countries, removing the worry of unexpected roaming charges. 

V. Where to Buy a Germany SIM Card

Once you’ve chosen a mobile provider, you’ll need to purchase a SIM card. Here are some options:

Online Orders

Purchasing online can offer access to web-only promotions not always available in stores. However, be sure to have a delivery address in Germany for your order.

Airport Pickup

All major Germany airports have SIM card kiosks after exiting baggage claim where you can buy directly from mobile operators.

Airport pickup is fastest but choices may be more limited. Expect to pay standard retail SIM pricing unless promotional offers available.

Downtown Shops

The major provider all have flagship stores in most large cities. Additionally, third party phone shops and electronics retailers often carry SIM cards.

Purchasing downtown allows you to compare rates and plans at different retailers. But opening hours may be limited on Sundays.

VI. Do Mobile Operators in Germany Offer eSIM?

The major mobile operators in Germany have started offering eSIM support, providing an alternative to physical SIM cards. Currently, eSIM in Germany is offered by:

• Telekom – Provides eSIM on new 5G plans. Supported on iPhone XS/XR models or newer and Samsung, Google Pixel models.
• Vodafone – Launched eSIM for iPhone XS/XR and newer on both new and existing plans.
• O2 – Offer eSIM but only for postpaid plans.

 eSIM has several advantages over traditional plastic SIMs. It eliminates the need to swap SIM cards when traveling, as the same eSIM can work across multiple countries. Activation is done instantly by scanning a QR code rather than inserting a SIM card. This makes eSIM more convenient for digital nomads and frequent travelers.

For tourists visiting Germany, a reliable option is getting a prepaid eSIM plan from Germany eSIM. They offer great value unlimited data packages for various durations, activated with instant delivery

• Germany eSIM 3 Days – from $6.00
• Germany eSIM 5 Days – from $6.00
• Germany eSIM 7 Days – from $6.50
• Germany eSIM 10 Days – from $6.50
• Germany eSIM 14 Days (Voice & Data) – from $21.90
• Germany eSIM 15 Days – from $6.50
• Germany eSIM 20 Days – from $7.00
• Germany eSIM 25 Days – from $7.00
• Germany eSIM 30 Days – from $7.00

VII. FAQs

VIII. Conclusion

Finding the best mobile operators in Germany needn’t be difficult. The major providers offer excellent nationwide coverage and speeds. And competitive prepaid plans are among the cheapest in Europe.

Don’t forget to consider Germany eSIM to stay conveniently connected throughout your travels.