eSIM for Spain

Networks and coverage

Spain has three large networks: Movistar, Vodafone and Orange. Coverage is very good along the coasts, in Madrid and Barcelona, on Mallorca and the Canaries, and 5G reaches every major city.

It thins out inland, in the Pyrenees and across parts of Extremadura. On walking routes such as the Camino de Santiago the signal alternates between good and absent, so download the map before you set off.

How much data do you need?

With a Swedish subscription that includes EU roaming you most likely need nothing at all. Your allowance is used at Swedish rates and your operator may not charge extra.

An eSIM does make sense if your plan has a low fair-use cap abroad, if you travel with a tablet that has no plan of its own, or if you have no Swedish subscription at all. In those cases 3 to 5 GB covers a fortnight.

Practicalities on arrival

Switch the line on, enable data roaming for it, and turn data off on your Swedish subscription so the phone does not switch back. The network is normally found within a minute.

Check your Swedish plan first. Subscriptions with very large or unlimited allowances carry a permitted cap abroad, and it is stated in the contract rather than in the advertising.

Common questions

Do I really need an eSIM in Spain?

Usually not. With a Swedish plan that includes EU roaming it works as at home. An eSIM is for those without one, with a low cap abroad, or travelling with a second device.

When does validity start counting?

When the eSIM first connects to a network at your destination, not when you buy or install it. You can prepare well in advance without losing days.

Can I make calls with the eSIM?

No, it is data only. Call over WhatsApp, Messenger or FaceTime, or keep your Swedish number active for ordinary calls.