Telekom Germany SIM Card and eSIM: A Detailed Guide for Travelers

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

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:

• Established: Founded in 1995, Telekom is a leading telecommunications company in Germany and Europe at large. 
• Services provided: Provides mobile, landline” TV, and internet services to over 50 million customers in Germany
• Stores: Over 2,000 retail stores across Germany
• Awards: Received multiple awards for network quality and customer service

II. Telekom Coverage and Speeds in Germany

1. Telekom Coverage in Germany

According to this map, Telekom cover over 95% of Germany’s population with extensive 5G and 4G coverage, including in rural areas where some other providers have gaps.

Compared to other major providers like Vodafone and O2, Telekom either matches or exceeds their rural and nationwide coverage. For travelers planning to visit smaller towns and villages, Telekom is likely to have the most far-reaching service.

2. Telekom Speeds

According to Opensignal’s Germany Mobile Network Experience report, Telekom offers average 4G download speeds of 55.6 Mbps and 5G download speeds around 152.8 Mbps where coverage is available.

So, while traveling through cities or rural areas, Telekom users are likely to experience fast, consistent data speeds.

III. Telekom Connectivity Options for Travelers to Germany

As a tourist visiting Germany, you have three main options to connect to Telekom’s network:

Connectivity Options

Conclusion: Getting a local Telekom SIM card is typically the most convenient and cost-effective option for travelers to Germany. It allows you to connect directly to Telekom’s widespread network at local rates.

IV. Best Telekom SIM Card Plans for Tourists

Telekom offers several prepaid SIM card plans suitable for tourists visiting Germany:

These prepaid SIM plans can be purchased at Telekom stores, authorized resellers, airports, and other outlets across Germany. Just bring your passport as ID.

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

• No need to physically insert or swap SIM cards
• Ability to digitally switch plans quickly
• Remote provisioning of plans
• Dual SIM functionality on some smartphones

Do note that GIGAGO does not currently offer Telekom eSIMs due to their relatively limited coverage and higher rates compared to other German providers. We recommend checking out these more budget-friendly Germany eSIM options instead

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: Located throughout major cities and towns
• Electronics Stores: Like Saturn, MediaMarkt, Conrad
• Supermarkets/Drugstores: Like Aldi, Lidl, DM, Rossmann

2. Where to Buy A Telekom eSIM

• Online via Telekom website: Visit telekom.de to order eSIM. Existing customers can request eSIM switch via account management.
• Telekom online shop: Purchase eSIM equipped devices like iPhones directly from the Telekom shop which include activated eSIM profile.
• Telekom app: Activate eSIM through the MeinMagenta app on their device by accessing profile management.

VII. Activating Your Telekom Germany SIM Card/eSIM

Activating a Telekom SIM Card

1. Insert the Telekom SIM into your unlocked phone.
2. Power on your device and wait for the SIM to be recognized.
3. If prompted, enter any SIM PIN provided on the card packaging to activate.
4. Configure mobile data and APN settings for web access.
5. 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

1. Scan QR code
2. Activate your eSIM
3. Select the Telekom cellular plan on your phone’s network settings.
4. Check for network signal and internet connectivity.

VIII. Telekom Call and SMS Rates

When using a Telekom SIM card with an international plan, here are the current call and SMS rates:

Call & SMS Rates

To save money, use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime Audio, and Skype for international calls where possible. When making calls or texts avoid accidentally roaming onto other local networks which can incur excessive fees.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Telekom Germany

Here are some useful USSD codes for checking account info and making changes:

USSD Codes

Enter these codes directly into your phone dialer when using a Telekom SIM. eSIM users can typically also utilize USSD.

X. Top Up Your Telekom Germany SIM

To add more credit or data to a Telekom prepaid SIM card, you have a couple options:

Telekom Voucher Cards

Purchase these scratch-off voucher cards at Telekom shops, kiosks, supermarkets and other outlets. Denominations range from €10 to €100. Redeem your voucher code online or through the MeinMagenta app.

Credit/Debit Card

Use your Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro (Germany domestic) debit card to top up online through Telekom’s website or MeinMagenta app. Minimum amount is €10.

Ensure you have sufficient funds in your account, as overdraft charges can apply if the transaction fails or is refunded.

For detailed top-up steps, refer to Telekom’s prepaid recharge guide. Contact support if any issues occur during recharge.

XI. Alternatives to Telekom Germany

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 is the top third-party 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.

XII. FAQs

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.