Whether backpacking around hostels or embarking on a family road trip, maintaining communication while traveling abroad is essential. As Germany’s largest network operator, Telekom provides extensive 4G and rapidly expanding 5G coverage across the country. In this guide, we will outline Telekom SIM card options perfect for tourists visiting Germany
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Telekom Germany
Telekom Germany, or Deutsche Telekom, is the largest telecommunications company in Germany and Europe’s leading telecoms operator. So, let’s take a look closer:
- Founded year: 1995
- Full company name: Deutsche Telekom AG
- Types of services provided: Fixed-line, mobile telephony, broadband internet, digital television, IT services
- Number of subscribers: Over 122 million mobile customers worldwide as of 2023. In Germany it has around 45 million customers.
- Coverage: Operates networks throughout Germany and internationally via subsidiaries. It owns T-Mobile which has coverage across Europe and in the US.
- Estimated number of network of stores, agents: Deutsche Telekom has over 800 own shops in Germany. It also has partnerships with thousands of agents and retailers that sell its services.
- Customer support: Provides 24/7 phone support in Germany and English. Online support is also available through live chat in multiple languages. Support centers are located across Germany for phone, online, and in-person assistance.
II. Why Telekom SIM Card For Your Trip to Germany?
1. Telekom Coverage in Germany
According to this map, Deutsche Telekom provides excellent coverage throughout Germany, claiming over 98% of the population is covered by its high-speed LTE/4G networks. The company operates extensive infrastructure across the country, including in both urban and rural areas.
Tourists will be able to stay connected whether they are in major cities or traveling along motorways connecting different towns. Telekom customers also benefit from free EU roaming, allowing them to use call and data allowances when visiting other European countries at no extra cost. This makes Telekom a very convenient option for travelers from Europe.
2. Telekom Speeds
According to recent data from Opensignal, the average fixed broadband download speed on Telekom’s network is 58.9 Mbps. This puts Telekom in first place for internet speed among all providers in Germany.
For tourists visiting Germany, you can stream and download multimedia like videos, music and games without buffering. Multiple devices can be used simultaneously for activities like video calls, online gaming, working from home and more. Tasks that require large file transfers complete quickly.
III. Telekom Connectivity Options for Travelers to Germany
As a tourist visiting Germany, Telekom offers several options for staying connected via their network. The main choices are a pocket WiFi, roaming with an international SIM, or purchasing a Telekom SIM card.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket WiFi | – Shares connection between devices – No roaming charges – No setup needed on devices – Has data limit | – Extra cost to rent – Device needs recharging |
| Roaming with home SIM | – Uses existing mobile plan – Familiar number/account | – Roaming charges can be high – Coverage depends on home carrier agreement |
| Telekom SIM card | – Affordable data-only rates – Extensive coverage on Telekom network – Easy setup on any device | – Potential language issues obtaining SIM – Need to purchase separately |
In conclusion, for most travelers looking for hassle-free connectivity at affordable rates on their trip, purchasing a Telekom SIM card or eSIM would provide the best user experience. And with a Telekom eSIM, travelers can conveniently activate their Telekom connection directly on compatible devices without the need to obtain a physical SIM card.
IV. Best Telekom SIM Card Plans for Tourists
Telekom offers several prepaid SIM card plans suitable for tourists visiting Germany:
| Plan | Data | Price per 4 weeks (€) | Price per 4 weeks (USD) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MagentaMobil Prepaid S | 1 GB | €4.95 | ~$5.10 | – 1 GB high-speed data – Calls & SMS to Telekom network – 50 mins calls to other German networks |
| MagentaMobil Prepaid M | 8 GB | €9.95 | ~$10.30 | – 8 GB high-speed data – Calls & SMS to all German networks |
| MagentaMobil Prepaid L | 15 GB | €14.95 | ~$15.50 | – 15 GB high-speed data – Calls & SMS to all German networks – €15 start credit |
| MagentaMobil Prepaid XL | 25 GB | €19.95 | ~$20.70 | – 25 GB high-speed data – Calls & SMS to all German networks – €20 start credit |
| MagentaMobil Prepaid Max | Unlimited data | €99.95 | ~$103.60 | – Unlimited high-speed data – Calls & SMS to all German networks – €100 start credit |
The MagentaMobil Prepaid M, L, XL and Max plans would suit most tourists the best by offering sufficient high-speed data allowances as well as domestic calls and SMS at affordable prices. With data amounts ranging from 8GB to unlimited, tourists can navigate destinations, check maps, use social media and streaming without worry of excess data charges.
V. Does Telekom Germany Support eSIM?
Yes, Telekom Germany offers eSIM access for its mobile customers, providing a niche-free alternative to physical SIM cards. Some of the key pros of using an eSIM rather than a physical SIM card when traveling with Telekom in Germany include:
- Convenience – No need to obtain and insert a physical SIM card. eSIM can be activated directly on compatible devices remotely.
- Quick setup – eSIM activation is done digitally so connectivity is instant rather than having to insert a nano-SIM card.
- Saves space – eSIM takes up no physical space on the device, freeing up the SIM card slot for additional functionality or storage.
- Environmentally friendly – eSIM negates the need for physical SIM cards to be manufactured and distributed, reducing waste.
By supporting eSIM, Telekom enables travelers to access their reliable network in a completely digital way securely from compatible smartphones and tablets, without any need for physical SIM card.
VI. Where To Buy A Telekom SIM Card and eSIM?
You have several options to purchase a Telekom SIM card or eSIM in Germany or before your trip.
Where to Buy A Telekom SIM Card
- Telekom Stores – Telekom has numerous branded stores located throughout Germany. SIM cards can be purchased directly from staff in-store. Many stores also offer assistance with setup.
- Airports – Major airports like Frankfurt, Munich, Berlin have Telekom shops located before passing through security. A good option for arrival.
- Online at Telekom.de – SIM cards for all mobile plans including prepaid options can be ordered directly from the Telekom website for home delivery or pickup at a later date.
2. Where to Buy A Telekom eSIM
- Online via Telekom website: You can purchase an eSIM directly from the Telekom Germany website. They offer monthly flexible prepaid plans starting at around $15 per month. While buying directly from Telekom ensures you’re on their network, the plans only offer set amounts of data or calls/texts each month.
- Online from germany-esim.com: An easier option is to purchase a Telekom-compatible eSIM plan from germany-esim.com. They offer flexible short-term prepaid plans starting at just a few euros for 3-5 days of service.
VII. Activating Your Telekom Germany SIM Card/eSIM
Activating a Telekom SIM Card
- Insert the Telekom SIM into your unlocked phone.
- Power on your device and wait for the SIM to be recognized.
- If prompted, enter any SIM PIN provided on the card packaging to activate.
- Configure mobile data and APN settings for web access.
- Check for signal bars and data connectivity.
If you face any issues activating, contact Telekom support or return to the store for assistance.
Activating a Telekom eSIM
- Scan QR code
- Activate your eSIM
- Select the Telekom cellular plan on your phone’s network settings.
- Check for network signal and internet connectivity.
XI. Alternatives to Telekom Germany SIM Card
While Telekom has excellent coverage, their prepaid SIM pricing is higher than some other providers in Germany.
If you need lots of data during your trip, consider these more budget-friendly Germany SIM card alternatives:
- Vodafone: One of the largest networks after Telekom. Reliable coverage including high speed 4G/5G. Slightly cheaper than Telekom.
- O2: Nationwide coverage with competitive pricing. Both prepaid and contract plans available. Budget-friendly prepaid options.
Germany-eSIM.com is the top provider of eSIM data packages tailored for tourists and business travelers. With their wide selection of pre-paid eSIM plans starting from only a few dollars a day, you can leave your physical SIM cards at home and effortlessly switch to fast LTE/5G networks directly from your smartphone.
👉Tips: Check eSIM-compatible device list before purchasing your eSIM
XII. FAQs
Does Telekom have good coverage outside major cities?
Yes, Telekom has strong overall coverage in Germany including rural areas. Their network reaches over 95% of the population. However, speeds may be slower in villages or mountains.
Can I use a Telekom SIM across Europe?
Telekom Germany SIMs only provide domestic service within Germany. For Europe-wide use, you would need a different international SIM card.
Can I use a Telekom SIM in my dual SIM phone?
Yes, Telekom SIMs and eSIM plans will work fine in dual SIM devices. You can use the Telekom plan alongside your usual home SIM.
How do I contact Telekom support?
You can call Telekom customer support in Germany at 0800 33 01000 (toll-free). Support is available 24/7 in both German and English.
XIII. Final Words
In summary, Telekom Germany has a robust mobile network reaching even remote parts of the country. Don’t forget to think about Germany eSIM, you’ll stay conveniently connected throughout your Germany travels.
