Greece is a major attraction for tourists and expatriates. Staying connected digitally is essential for all of them. Travellers are divided between the options of eSIM and physical SIM. Let FiGO remove your stress; we will help you decide what can save your time and money.
What is the Difference Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM?
A million-dollar question. We will answer it in chunks that it deserves.
Physical SIM
A physical SIM is the traditional chip card that fits into the SIM slot in your phone. It is easy to swap, it is tangible, and it is commonly available at telecom shops in Greece. The popular shops are Vodafone Greece, Cosmote, and Wind Hellas.
eSIM
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a chip card for your smartphone. It allows you to instantly activate your mobile plan. No physical card is needed; just scan the QR code and bingo!
eSIM vs Physical: A Broad Comparison!
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM card |
| Form Factor | No physical card needed; built into the phone | A small plastic SIM card that must be inserted into a SIM slot |
| Activation | Can be activated using an app or QR code remotely | Requires manually inserting the SIM card and activation through a wireless carrier |
| Switching Carriers | Easy to digitally switch plans | Requires removing and inserting SIM cards |
| Using Multiple Carriers | Most eSIM phones support multiple eSIMs, allowing you to switch networks without swapping SIMs | Bound to dual SIM phones that support two physical SIM cards |
| Dual SIM Capability | Many modern phones support dual eSIM or one eSIM along with a physical SIM | Requires two physical SIM slots, which some phones offer now |
| Travel Use | Ideal for travel: no visiting a store, just buy online and activate | You may need to visit a physical store for a local SIM card |
| Security | It can be deactivated remotely and is impossible to steal | It can be removed physically and used in another device |
Your Desired eSIM Here! Instant activation and attractive SIM plans are just a few taps away! Shine with FiGO!
Pros and Cons of Physical SIM and eSIM
We find it important to elaborate on the pros and cons of physical SIM and eSIM. This information is likely the final nail in the coffin to help you choose.
Pros of eSIM in Greece
- Save you some hassle of going to a store. Activate it in a few minutes.
- Do not have to bother about swapping cards. Buy it on your phone and start using it.
- An eco friend. No packaging or plastic waste.
- Several global plans on a single device. Multiple profiles.
Cons of eSIM in Greece
- Older phones do not support eSIM. Have to own a compatible device.
- Local support is limited. Not every Greek telecom carrier provides eSIM services.
- Transferring an eSIM between phones can be quite hectic. Not as easy as physical cards.
Q: Is eSIM activation immediate in Greece?
A: Just scan the QR code and activate your eSIM. Test FiGO now!
Pros of Physical SIM in Greece
- The compatibility is universal. Works in all GSM phones.
- Insert the chip and start using it. Quite easy.
- Available offline. Visit local telecom stores and buy one.
Cons of Physical SIM in Greece
- Inconvenient during travels. Requires swapping cards when touring another country.
- Physical SIMs can be lost or damaged due to their small size.
- Have to visit a store just to switch plans.
Q: Is a local ID a must for a physical SIM in Greece?
A: For a traveller, yes, it is a must. You will need a Greek ID or your passport per local regulations.
What is FiGO?
FiGO is a modern mobile service determined to offer fast and reliable eSIM solutions for travellers. Quick activation and simple pricing bring you solid network coverage wherever you visit. Exploring Greece or flying abroad: FiGO is the name that keeps you connected without stress.
eSIM and Physical SIM in Action as Real Use Cases
Travellers with the plan of a short stay in Greece prefer eSIMs. It offers quick activation. Besides, switching SIMs is easy between destinations like England, France, and Italy. You can avoid long queues at Greek telecom stores. Buy a FiGO eSIM plan before your departure and make your journey comfortable.
Expats who want a long stay in Greece use physical SIMs for local customer service and stable connections. Do you want the best of both worlds? Combine a physical SIM and a Greek eSIM for local use offers. Exploring Crete, Thessaloniki, and Athens becomes more fun this way.
Entrepreneurs or executives who visit Greece to attend conferences prefer eSIMs. It enables seamless connectivity across Europe. They can manage personal and work lines on a single phone without switching multiple SIM cards.
Q: Can I buy a Greek eSIM before arrival?
A: Definitely. Along with other providers, FiGO also allows you to purchase and activate your eSIM online.
Data Plans and Pricing of Trusted Networks
Renowned Greek carriers like Nova (Wind Hellas), Cosmote, Vodafone Greece, and even new entries like FiGO offer both physical SIM and eSIM options.
| Carrier | Type | Starting Data Plan | Activation |
| FiGO eSIM Greece | eSIM | €5 (3GB / 7 days) | Instant QR |
| Vodafone Greece | Physical SIM | €10 (5GB / 30 days) | In-store |
| Cosmote | eSIM / Physical | €8 (5GB / 15 days) | App or Store |
We do not recommend FiGO just because it is us. We recommend it because we have a seamless experience to offer despite being relatively new in the market. Try FiGO and you will be anything but disappointed.
FiGO: An eSIM as Good as Your Physical SIM
Activate your eSIM the minute you step on Greek soil and enjoy instant access to local networks. FiGO’s Pay-per-GB model charges only for the data you use. That makes it ideal for vacations and business trips and everyday travel. Clear and dependable mobile data follows you at every stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are eSIMs available in Greece?
For sure. FiGO and other major carriers support eSIMs across Greece.
Is the internet needed to activate eSIM?
Yes. You need to be online to download and activate an eSIM.
Does eSIM allow a WhatsApp number?
Yes. WhatsApp works as well on eSIM as it does on a physical SIM.
Is eSIM safe and secure?
Absolutely. eSIMs cannot be physically stolen, and are encrypted for online protection.
Can I use a Greek eSIM across Europe?
Check with the network provider for this. FiGO eSIMs work fine anywhere in the EU countries.
