Albania: SIM Cards and Mobile Internet for Travelers in 2025

The trip to another country could be a joyful experience, yet it could also be complicated, particularly in terms of communication. Getting Albanian prepaid SIM cards upon your arrival may be a convenient option, but it is not without challenges. For example, you may find yourself navigating the language barrier and overcoming bureaucratic processes, as well as selecting an appropriate data plan that meets your needs. However, there is an alternative solution, which is eSIM with 5G and LTE connection.

The future will no longer entail going to the provider’s store or office to access high-speed internet, make calls, and send messages, as long as you have your smartphone or tablet with just a few taps.

Albania: SIM cards for the Internet

When it comes to staying connected while traveling in Albania, you have two main options for mobile internet access:

• Local mobile operators in Albania, such as Vodafone Albania, OneAlbania (formerly known as Telekom Albania), and ALBtelekom, offer Albania SIM cards for tourist. The SIM card is obtainable upon arrival at the airport or from operator offices in major cities like Tirana, Durres, and Elbasan. Additionally, they are available in various retail outlets across the country, including shops and electronics stores.
• Alternatively, travelers can opt for virtual eSIM cards, which eliminate the need for a physical card. This modern technology allows for the remote activation of digital SIMs directly on compatible devices. Nano-SIM cards offer several advantages, including convenience, cost-effectiveness, and versatility with voicemail. Users can easily switch plans when traveling to different countries and can store multiple profiles on a single cell phone. Moreover, they provide added security in case of device loss or theft.

Both options provide decent coverage in Albania's cities, towns, and main tourist routes. However, eSIM cards are highly recommended for their convenience and flexibility. With eSIM, you can purchase and activate Albania cell phone data plans online before your trip, ensuring instant internet access upon arrival in Albania.

Where to buy an Albanian SIM card

While there are several options for purchasing a physical SIM card in Albania, the process of obtaining a virtual eSIM card is far more convenient. You can buy a physical SIM card in Albania at the following locations:

• at the airport upon arrival in Albania;
• in the offices of operators in major cities such as Tirana, Durres, Elbasan, and Shkoder;
• in shops and electronics stores.

A virtual eSIM card is more convenient to GSM connect to because it does not have to be installed by the consumer since it is already placed by the equipment manufacturer, so a tourist does not have to spend extra time searching for places to buy the card.

There is no need to physically go to a distributor station because eSIM technology is supported by providers, after choosing a country and the best data plan and paying for it online.

You can even activate the plan you have just paid for immediately within the application or by scanning the QR code that you get as a result of the email sent to you. When you have secured your place in Albania, you will be able to enjoy the community.

Read also: What is eSIM and how does it work?

How to buy a prepaid SIM card for Albania

Acquiring a prepaid Albania mobile internet can be a straightforward process, but it does require some effort on your part. If you choose to go this route, here are the typical steps involved:

• Visit an operator's office or store and select the desired data plan that best suits your needs.
• Present your passport or another form of photo identification for registration purposes.
• The operator will register your SIM card with the provided details.
• Pay the cost of the selected package of services, typically in cash, as credit card payments may not be widely accepted.
• Receive your SIM card and activation instructions from the store representative.

You should consider that although buying a local SIM card abroad can seem practical, it may not be free from challenges such as the language barrier, the need for cash, and spending time locating the shop of a desirable operator for travel.

While procurement of a physical eSIM card at a kiosk or store may come with some irritations, buying a virtual eSIM card telecom online is much easier as you can activate the data plan before boarding the flight to Albania.

• You choose a package and pay the order on the operator's website or in the app.
• You will receive a letter with the data for eSIM activation.
• You install a new profile on your smartphone.

The virtual Albania SIM cards for tourist will be ready to use after this procedure, which is stated above. It is a matter of fact that your device must be enabled by this modern technology. On this page, you can check whether your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is capable of using this virtual card by electronic means.

Read also: Top 8 Best eSIM Providers for Travelers: Review of Services

Best prepaid SIM cards in Albania

Albania's mobile market is dominated by a few key players, each offering prepaid SIM card options for travelers. Among the most prominent are:

• Vodafone Albania, the Vodafone Group's subsidiary, is the owner of a powerful network coverage expanded nationwide with good data plans. Their prepaid "Tourist Giga Pack" and "Tourist Pack" tariff plans with substantial data, unlimited calls within Albania, and varied validity periods are the models that tourists use.
• This second major competitor in the Albanian telecom market is named OneAlbania, formerly known as Telekom Albania. Their two options for visitors, "One Tourist Pack" and "One Tourist Ultra," combine all the mobile data, domestic calls, and SMS into one easy-to-use bundle.

These operators provide reliable connectivity within their networks. Let's check out data packages from the best travel operators for your Albanian journey.

Yesim

Yesim is the most prominent one in the sector, and its product, the virtual eSIM, lets travelers easily connect to the marvelous world of Albania. Yesim takes its mission of rewriting international connectivity rules seriously and has therefore made sure to create a line-up of different flexible Albania cell phone data plans well suited to the requirements of all contemporary wayfarers.

Yesim strives to offer a service that provides the user with unbeatable convenience through their strategy of developing a plan that takes care of every detail. Yesim's data packages for Albania range from comprehensive unlimited data plans for 7, 15, or 30 days to more economical options with varying data caps, such as:

• 500 MB for 3 days – €0,50;
• 10 GB for 30 days – €18;
• 15 GB for 30 days – €20;
• 20 GB for 30 days – €22;
• 30 GB for 30 days – €27.

The company also offers unlimited data plans for Albania with different Internet traffic volumes and validity periods:

• 7 days, unlimited Internet — 33€;
• 15 days, unlimited Internet — 48 €;
• 30 days, unlimited Internet — 64 €.

Partnering with industry-leading telecom operators like Vodafone and TELEKOM, allows Yesim.app to ensure that you experience seamless connectivity across Albania's diverse terrain, from bustling cities to remote natural wonders for tourism. With average speeds reaching up to an impressive 150 Mbps, you can effortlessly share your adventures on social media, navigate with ease using maps and GPS, and stay connected with loved ones back home without experiencing frustrating lags or interruptions for holiday trips.

OneAlbania

OneAlbania, also known as TelekomAlbania carriers, has been one of the telecommunications giants, providing for those who want to travel and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of this region of Europe. OneAlbania has designed various Albania prepaid SIM cards packages that are convenient and effective for tourists, while also emphasizing the significance of effortless connectivity.

• One Tourist Pack. This package includes 40 GB of mobile internet, 1,000 minutes of calls to Albanian numbers, and 1,000 SMS messages within Albania. It’s perfect for travelers looking to stay connected without breaking the bank. The One Tourist Pack is valid for 15 days and is available for just 2,300 LEK (approximately €20).
• One Tourist Ultra. For those who require more extensive communication options, the One Tourist Ultra package offers 40 GB of internet traffic along with unlimited calls and SMS messages within Albania. This package provides the ultimate peace of mind for travelers wanting to remain connected throughout their trip. Valid for 21 days, it can be yours for 2,900 LEK (around €25).

To activate either of these convenient tariffs, you will need to obtain a local physical SIM card. This ensures you can enjoy seamless connectivity during your stay in this beautiful country.

Vodafone Albania

Vodafone Albania, the local subsidiary of the giant parent company, Vodafone Group, has earned the trust and loyalty of both locals and foreigners who look forward to surfing the internet hassle-free during their stay in Albania. Tapping into their broad network coverage framework together with innovative technology, Vodafone offers prepaid SIM card data usage packages meant to be an excellent match for every traveler.

• Tourist Giga Pack: 100 GB of Internet traffic, unlimited calls in Albania, valid for 21 days. The cost is 2500 LEK (22 €).
• Tourist Pack: 40 GB of mobile internet, 1000 minutes for domestic calls, valid for 15 days. The price is 2000 LEK (17 €).

Vodafone allows you to enjoy a powerful mobile network and good coverage while you in Albania.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you choose a traditional SIM card or an eSIM for your stay in Albania, there are convenient options available to meet your communication needs. Prepaid SIM cards can be easily acquired at numerous locations, providing you with instant connectivity, while eSIM technology offers a modern, flexible alternative that eliminates the need for physical cards.

Earn €5 for you and €5 for friend!

Invite friends and receive bonuses on purchasesLearn more

When selecting your mobile solution, consider factors such as coverage, data packages, and terms to ensure the best experience. With the right SIM or eSIM in hand, you can easily stay connected, navigate Albania’s stunning landscapes, and share your experiences with friends and family. Enjoy your travels in this beautiful country, confident that you have the communication technology to enhance your journey!

Seamless mobile internet in 200+ countries –– at a cup of coffee price! Take away!

Take away!