Greece eSIM Guide 2025: 30 Questions | Best eSIM for Greece

Introduction

eSIMs are rapidly replacing traditional SIM cards for travelers in Greece. Built into your smartphone, an eSIM eliminates the need for a physical card—just scan a QR code, and you’re online. Whether it’s your first eSIM experience or you’ve used one before, questions about installation, activation, compatibility, and cost are common. This guide answers the 30 most frequent questions about eSIMs for Greece. From buying the right plan and checking phone compatibility to saving on roaming and managing dual SIMs, we provide clear, concise answers. Think of this as your Greece travel cheat sheet, making connectivity simple, fast, and cost-effective while exploring the country.

Table of Contents

1. How to buy an eSIM for Greece?
2. Which is the best eSIM for Greece?
3. What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Greece?
4. Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a Greece travel eSIM?
5. Can I buy a Greece eSIM in advance or should I wait until I arrive?
6. How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Greece?
7. Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Greece?
8. How do I activate my Greece eSIM using a QR code?
9. What if I can’t scan the QR code for my Greece eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?
10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Greece?
11. How do I make sure I am using the Greece eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?
12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Greece?
13. Why should I use an eSIM for Greece travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?
14. Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Greece?
15. What’s the difference between a Greece travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?
16. Can I use a Greece eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?
17. Will I get a new phone number with a Greece travel eSIM?
18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Greece eSIM for data?
19. Do Greece travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?
20. How much data will I need for my trip to Greece?
21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Greece eSIMs?
22. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Greece?
23. How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in Greece?
24. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Greece?
25. Which phones support eSIM in Greece?
26. How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Greece?
27. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Greece?
28. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in Greece?
29. How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to Greece?
30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Greece?

1. How to buy an eSIM for Greece?

To buy a Greece eSIM, visit Mobimatter and select a Greek travel data plan that fits your needs. Pick the data amount and validity period, complete payment, and you’ll instantly receive a QR code along with step-by-step installation instructions via email and your dashboard. Install it using your phone’s eSIM settings. There’s no need of getting a physical SIM, no queues, no ID verification. You’ll be online immediately upon landing in Greece. The process is quick, secure, and hassle-free, perfect for tourists or business travelers who want seamless connectivity without the usual stress of buying local SIM cards while abroad.

2. Which is the best eSIM for Greece?

The best Greece eSIM depends on your travel habits. Light travelers can select 1–5 GB plans suitable for maps and messaging. Frequent users who stream, attend video calls, or work remotely should opt for 10–30+ GB plans. Mobimatter curates the top Greece eSIM options from providers like Cosmote, Vodafone Greece, and Wind. Each plan comes with network coverage details, speed, hotspot support, and pricing, helping you make a smart choice. Select a plan that matches your travel style to enjoy fast, reliable internet throughout Greece, from Athens to the islands, without worrying about hidden costs or network interruptions.
MobiMatter’s Pick - Greece 15 GB

3. What should I look for when comparing different travel eSIMs for Greece?

Compare data volume (1–30+ GB), validity (3–30 days), network (Cosmote, Vodafone, Wind), speed (4G/5G), hotspot support, and per-GB pricing. Customer support and real user reviews are also key. If you plan to travel to islands or rural areas, check coverage quality. Mobimatter presents all these details clearly so you can make an informed choice without hours of research. Frequent travelers should prioritise data value and reliability, while casual visitors may prefer short-term plans for savings. Focus on what matters most to you — cost, coverage, or speed — and choose accordingly.

4. Do I need to provide any documents like a passport to buy a Greece travel eSIM?

No. Mobimatter eSIMs don’t require passports, national IDs, or any physical documents. All you need is your email to receive the QR code and installation instructions. This eliminates the usual hassle of visiting stores that require ID verification. The entire process is digital, fast, and secure. Ideal for international travelers, it avoids long queues, paperwork, and language barriers. Simply buy online, install via your phone, and get connected immediately. With this approach, you can start using your eSIM as soon as you land in Greece, making your travel experience smoother and stress-free.

5. Can I buy a Greece eSIM in advance or should I wait until I arrive?

Yes, you can and should buy your Greece eSIM in advance. Mobimatter allows you to purchase and install the eSIM from anywhere in the world before your trip. You’ll receive the QR code and manual installation details immediately. Install while on Wi-Fi, and activate only upon arrival in Greece. This avoids airport SIM queues and ensures instant connectivity. It’s especially useful if you need maps, ride apps, or contact family immediately after landing. Buying in advance guarantees that you’re prepared, so you can start your Greek adventure without delays or unnecessary roaming fees.

6. How do I install and activate my international eSIM for Greece?

First, connect to Wi-Fi. On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. On Android, go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Mobimatter also provides manual installation using the SM-DP+ server address and activation code. Label your plan “Greece eSIM” for easy management. Don’t activate until you arrive in Greece to preserve your plan’s validity. Activation usually takes under a minute, and you’ll be online instantly using local Greek networks at 4G/5G speeds. This ensures you stay connected throughout your trip with minimal effort.

7. Should I activate my travel eSIM before I leave or when I arrive in Greece?

Install your eSIM before traveling but activate it only upon arrival in Greece. Activation starts the validity timer, so turning it on early could waste days. Use hotel or airport Wi-Fi to activate the eSIM once you land. Mobimatter provides instructions to time activation efficiently. Pre-installation allows preparation, while activation ensures you get the full value of your data plan. Following this method guarantees smooth connectivity without losing any data days and lets you start using maps, messaging apps, and rideshares immediately.

8. How do I activate my Greece eSIM using a QR code?

Activating via QR code is quick. Connect to Wi-Fi, open your phone’s eSIM settings. iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Android: Settings → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Point your camera at the QR code from Mobimatter, confirm, label your plan, and enable it as your default data line. Activation usually takes less than a minute. This scan-and-go process eliminates the need for physical SIM cards or store visits while abroad, giving instant connectivity on Greek networks.

9. What if I can’t scan the QR code for my Greece eSIM? Is there a manual installation method?

Yes. Mobimatter provides manual installation using the SM-DP+ server address and activation code. Go to eSIM settings, choose “Add manually,” and enter the details exactly as provided. This works for devices that cannot scan QR codes or if camera issues occur. Manual setup takes only a few minutes and connects you instantly to Greek networks. Step-by-step instructions are included in your dashboard, ensuring smooth installation even for less tech-savvy travelers.

10. How do I switch between my primary SIM and my travel eSIM on my phone in Greece?

Go to SIM Manager or Cellular Settings. Both your home SIM and Greece eSIM will appear. Set the Greece eSIM as default for data while keeping your home SIM active for calls and SMS. To switch, simply toggle preferences. Modern smartphones intelligently manage dual-SIM usage, so data, calls, and messages route according to your settings. This flexibility allows travelers to stay in touch at home while using local Greek data for faster, cheaper internet access.

11. How do I make sure I am using the Greece eSIM for data and not my home plan to avoid roaming charges?

Set your Greece eSIM as the default mobile data line. Then turn off “Data Roaming” on your home SIM. This ensures all online activity, from maps to streaming, uses the Greek eSIM rather than your home plan. Mobimatter provides instructions during setup to prevent accidental roaming. Confirm settings before departure to avoid unexpected charges. This guarantees cost-efficient local connectivity throughout Greece.

12. What is a travel eSIM and how does it work for international trips to Greece?

A travel eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your device, replacing physical SIMs. Buy a Greek eSIM online, install via QR or manually, and connect to local networks like Cosmote, Vodafone Greece, or Wind. It requires no physical card or documents. Once activated, your phone connects to Greek networks instantly, ideal for tourists or business travelers needing maps, messaging, and ride apps.

13. Why should I use an eSIM for Greece travel instead of my home carrier’s roaming plan?

Roaming is expensive and often unreliable. A Greek eSIM offers 50–70% cost savings, fast local networks, and instant activation. No store visits, no paperwork, no hidden fees. You can use maps, messaging apps, and video calls immediately. eSIMs are ideal for modern travelers who want convenience, reliability, and savings over expensive international roaming.

14. Is an eSIM cheaper than international roaming when visiting Greece?

Yes. Greece eSIMs via Mobimatter are priced like local SIM cards, providing high-speed data without shocking post-trip bills. Home carrier roaming often includes hidden fees and small data caps. eSIMs avoid these costs. Even short trips benefit—one day of roaming may cost more than a week of eSIM usage. Transparent pricing and reliable connectivity make eSIMs a smart, budget-friendly choice.

15. What’s the difference between a Greece travel eSIM and a local physical SIM card?

A Greece eSIM is fully digital, purchased and activated online, no stores or IDs needed. Physical SIMs require in-person purchase, hardware swaps, and manual installation. eSIMs support dual SIM usage, letting you keep your home SIM active. Installation takes minutes, not hours, making them ideal for modern travelers. Most eSIMs offer flexible plans, transparent pricing, and strong network coverage across Greece.

16. Can I use a Greece eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time?

Yes. Most modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, meaning you can use your Greece eSIM for mobile data while keeping your home SIM active for calls and messages. This allows seamless communication at home without incurring roaming charges. Simply go to your phone’s SIM or cellular settings, assign the Greece eSIM as your primary data line, and keep your home SIM for calls or texts. Phones intelligently manage data routing automatically. This setup ensures you stay connected across Greece, whether in urban areas like Athens or while exploring islands like Santorini, without missing important communications from home.

17. Will I get a new phone number with a Greece travel eSIM?

Most Greece eSIMs purchased from providers like Mobimatter are data-only, so they do not include a new local phone number for calls or texts. You can continue receiving messages and calls on your existing home SIM if your device supports dual SIM functionality. Apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Skype, and Google Meet work perfectly using the Greece eSIM data connection. Some eSIM plans may offer optional VoIP or SMS capabilities, but these are limited. For most travelers, a data-only plan is sufficient for navigation, streaming, messaging, and staying online without needing a new phone number in Greece.

18. Can I still receive calls and texts on my original number while using a Greece eSIM for data?

Yes. If your phone supports dual SIM, you can assign the Greece eSIM for mobile data while your original SIM remains active for calls and texts. Make sure data roaming is turned off on your home SIM to prevent unexpected charges. This setup lets you use local networks in Greece for internet-based apps while still staying reachable at home. It’s particularly useful for business travelers or families who need to stay in touch. Mobimatter provides clear instructions on configuring dual SIM settings correctly, ensuring you avoid extra fees while maximizing connectivity across Greece during your trip.

19. Do Greece travel eSIMs include calls and SMS, or are they data-only?

Most eSIMs for Greece are data-only, giving access to local networks for mobile internet, which covers browsing, messaging apps, navigation, and streaming. Traditional calls and SMS are usually not included. Some providers may offer limited voice/SMS bundles, but these are rare. Data-only eSIMs are ideal for tourists, digital nomads, and business travelers, allowing full internet use without roaming fees. Apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom provide alternative voice and text communication. Always check the plan details before purchasing to confirm if voice or SMS services are included. Data-only plans are usually the most cost-effective and reliable solution in Greece.

20. How much data will I need for my trip to Greece?

Data needs depend on usage. Light travelers, using Google Maps, messaging apps, and occasional emails, typically require 3–5 GB. Moderate users browsing social media, streaming music, or using ride-sharing apps may need 10–20 GB. Heavy users working remotely, uploading videos, or streaming shows may require 30 GB or more. Mobimatter offers a variety of Greece eSIM plans to match your usage needs. It’s wise to slightly overestimate data to avoid running out mid-trip, especially if traveling between islands where topping up might be inconvenient. Tracking usage via phone settings helps manage your plan effectively.

21. Is my phone unlocked and compatible with Greece eSIMs?

To use a Greece eSIM, your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-enabled. Most flagship devices released after 2020 meet these requirements. For iPhone users, XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 series support eSIM. Android users with Google Pixel 3+ or Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer models are compatible. To check, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM or Settings → Network → SIM Manager. Locked phones will prevent eSIM installation. Mobimatter provides detailed compatibility lists. Ensuring your phone is unlocked and compatible guarantees a smooth, hassle-free experience, allowing instant internet access across Greece without issues or delays. Refer to our detailed guide on eSIM compatible devices.

22. What is an eSIM card and how does it work in Greece?

An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your phone that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. In Greece, it allows travelers to connect instantly to local networks like Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind. After purchasing online, you receive a QR code or manual setup instructions. Scanning the QR code or entering the SM-DP+ details activates the eSIM, connecting your device to Greece’s mobile networks instantly. It’s ideal for tourists and business travelers, offering fast, convenient internet access without visiting stores or handling physical SIM cards. Data begins immediately, making navigation, communications, and streaming easy throughout Greece.

23. How to activate eSIM on an iPhone in Greece?

Connect to Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. Alternatively, use the manual option with SM-DP+ server details. Label the plan “Greece eSIM” for clarity. Select it as your primary data line. Once activated, the eSIM connects to local networks instantly with full 4G or 5G speed. The process is straightforward, taking only a few minutes, and requires no physical SIM card. Activation can be done immediately upon arrival, ensuring seamless internet access from airports, hotels, or anywhere in Greece. Mobimatter provides step-by-step instructions for all devices.

24. How to transfer eSIM from one iPhone to another iPhone in Greece?

First, delete the eSIM from the old iPhone via Settings → Cellular → Remove Cellular Plan. Then log in to Mobimatter, request a new QR code for the same plan, and install it on the new iPhone via Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Label the plan appropriately and activate it as your default data line. This process ensures seamless continuity of your data plan without downtime. It’s useful for travelers who upgrade devices or share plans between phones while in Greece. Mobimatter support ensures transfers are straightforward.

25. Which phones support eSIM in Greece?

Modern iPhones from XS, XR, 11 to 15, Google Pixel 3+ to Pixel 7, Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, Z Fold, and Flip series support eSIM in Greece. Select Android models from Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi are also compatible. To verify, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Mobimatter maintains an updated device compatibility guide for both iOS and Android. Using a compatible device guarantees smooth installation, fast activation, and reliable connectivity across Greece’s islands, cities, and rural areas. Always check your model before purchase to avoid installation issues.

26. How to transfer eSIM from iPhone to Android in Greece?

Direct transfer from iPhone to Android isn’t supported due to platform restrictions. Instead, request a new QR code from Mobimatter for your eSIM plan. On Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR, or use manual SM-DP+ details. Label the plan, remove it from the old device, and activate it. This ensures uninterrupted mobile data while switching ecosystems, useful for travelers who carry multiple devices or change phones during their trip to Greece.

27. How to delete eSIM from an iPhone used in Greece?

Go to Settings → Cellular → Select the eSIM plan → Remove Cellular Plan. Confirm the deletion. This removes the eSIM profile, freeing space for future plans. If reinstalling later, request a new QR code from Mobimatter. Deleting the eSIM does not cancel the plan; it only removes it from your device. Always remove unused eSIMs to prevent accidental usage or confusion.

28. How to set up eSIM on an iPhone while in Greece?

Connect to Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, and choose QR code or manual setup. Enter SM-DP+ server details if needed, label the plan, and select as your data line. Activation takes a few minutes. Mobimatter provides detailed instructions ensuring smooth installation and instant connectivity across Greece’s cities and islands.

29. How to add an eSIM to an iPhone while traveling to Greece?

While traveling in Greece, you can enjoy seamless mobile connectivity by setting up a local eSIM. Start by labeling the plan clearly so it’s easy to distinguish from your home SIM, and choose whether to use it as your main data line or alongside your existing SIM. Then, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code and scan the Mobimatter code or enter the details manually. Within minutes, your iPhone will be connected to Greek mobile networks, providing reliable and fast coverage. Mobimatter ensures a quick, hassle-free solution for activating eSIMs while traveling in Greece.

30. Is my phone eSIM compatible for use in Greece?

Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. If the option appears, your device supports eSIM. Ensure it’s unlocked. Compatible devices include iPhone XS+, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and other recent flagships. Verify device specifications before purchasing. Using a compatible, unlocked phone guarantees smooth installation and full mobile data functionality in Greece.