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Best French SIM Card For Tourists in 2024

Read our ultimate Guide to buying a French SIM card for Tourists in France below to find the best SIM card deals as a traveler.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about buying a prepaid SIM card in France. We answer important questions, such as where and how to buy a SIM card for France, which are the best SIM card deals for tourists and how much they cost. Also find out about local providers and the best network in France, as well as other options for buying a SIM card, such as e-SIM cards .

Other Recommended Articles: Top 10 Things to do in Paris Best Museums to Visit in Paris Best Things to do with Kids in Paris Best Places for Shopping in Paris Best Restaurants in Paris

Traveler's Tip: Along with getting a local SIM card, purchasing a Paris city pass can be a smart way to enhance your trip to France. Take a look at our article about the  Best City Pass for Paris to compare prices and included activities and make the most of your vacation.

Table of Content

Do I really need a French SIM Card for Paris?

• If you are from Europe , you usually do not need a SIM card , because since 2017 roaming in the EU (and the European Economic Area) is free . Therefore, in most cases, it is not necessary to buy a French SIM card if you already have an EU/EEA SIM card. Note, however, that some mobile operators have special conditions , so you should check the terms of your home operator in advance.
• If you are not from Europe, you will most likely need a French SIM Card , especially if you are from America. Otherwise, you will have to face expensive international roaming rates. By buying a French SIM card, you can also ensure reliable and fast mobile data connections.

Book your SIM Card for France online before your Trip

1. the holafly prepaid e-sim card for paris.

For travelers who only need mobile data and no phone calls or SMS for their France trip, we have the perfect solution: Holafly's easy-to-use prepaid e-SIM card.

Holafly offers a digital e-SIM card with unlimited mobile data service at 4G / LTE speed . 

This way, you don’t have to worry about roaming costs when traveling, and enjoy unlimited internet as if you were at home.

Let's see the prices and conditions of this card.

How does Holafly work?

• Choose the data plan you want and   purchase the Holafly prepaid e-SIM card here .  You will immediately receive a QR code containing the e-SIM Card by email.
• Scan the QR code one day before your departure.
• Turn off your local provider’s cellular data.
• Set your phone's options so that your mobile phone uses Holafly's internet.
• Activate your QR code after you arrive in France, turn on data roaming from your phone’s setting and use your Holafly SIM card during your stay.  

Compatibly:  Before purchasing the   Holafly SIM card, make sure that your mobile phone is unlocked and compatible with the Holafly service. It is available for the following cell phones: From the iPhone XS, XR onward; Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and onwards; Huawei P40, P0 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro and later models; Google Pixel 3, 3a (some versions do not allow eSIM), Google Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 and later models; Oppo Find X3 Pro, Oppo Reno 5A, Motorola Razr (2019) and Motorola Razr 5G (dual SIM).

The easy eSIM for France by Holafly ( recommended ):

Here are the prices and conditions for the eSIM by Holafly. The ones in red are the most popular ones picked by travelers.

• 5 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx. €19 )
• 7 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx. €27 )
• 10 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €34 )
• 15 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €47 )
• 20 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €57 )
• 30 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €69 )
• 60 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €87 )
• 90 Days  Unlimited Data in France (approx.  €99 )

Please visit these websites for more details and up-to-date prices on the various offers: 

For more information and  5% discount , click on this link:

2. Rent a Pocket Wifi in Paris

You can easily rent a Pocket Wifi Device for the time you are in Paris  and access internet through it anytime. It is a device that connects you to internet without limitation and through several device (phone and computer). The access to internet is fast and covered anywhere in France and Europe at 4G/LTE speed. 

The process to rent a pocket Wi-Fi is very easy:

• Book your device on  through this link
• Get your device delivered to you  at your hotel or any address you want
• Use the device(s)  according to the guideline during your trip
• Before leaving the country , return the device in the return bag as instructed.

And voilà! Now you have internet during your travel to France. For more information, click the button below.

Where to buy your French SIM Card in Paris?

1. in the city.

Throughout the city of Paris, there are countless places where you can buy your French SIM card. Besides the official branches of the four local mobile operators in France, Orange France, SFR France, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile, there are many other stores where you can buy your French SIM card. 

These include phone stores, electronics shops, and some supermarkets, tobacco stores, newspaper kiosks and vending machines . You can even buy SIM cards in some of the busier train and metro stations in Paris, such as the Gare du Nord. 

However, we recommend that you buy your French SIM card not from a reseller, but from an official branch of the mobile operator you want to use. This way you can make sure you get the best deals and protect yourself from scams .

2. At the Airport

Another option is to buy your prepaid SIM card for France at the airport. This way you will have your SIM card directly when you arrive in France.

You will find many retail stores selling French SIM cards at both airports in Paris, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Paris Orly Airport (ORY). Since the sellers here usually speak English , you should have no problems buying the right SIM card for your needs. A good place to buy your prepaid SIM card at Charles de Gaulle Airport is at the Tourist Information at Terminal 1. 

Although it is a great advantage to have a French SIM card upon arrival, keep in mind that prices at the airport can be much higher than in the city center.

Things you need to buy a prepaid SIM card in France

• An unlocked phone
• Valid passport (or ID card for EU/EEA travelers)
• Email address (in some cases)
• Your address in France , such as your hotel/AirBnB address (in some cases)
• Fill out paperwork

French Mobile Operators 

• There are four local operators in France: Orange France, SFR France, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile .
• Orange France is the former France Telecom. It is now the largest mobile operator in France with the best coverage .
• The second-largest mobile operator in France is SFR, the third-largest Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile is the newest one with the best 5G network.
• All of these providers have an extensive 4G network and offer special prepaid SIM cards for tourists in France. See below details and prices:

Cost for SIM Cards in France for Tourists

You can get a basic prepaid SIM card for France starting at 2.99€ from Orange France and from 10€ from the mobile operators SFR France, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile. 

Let's take a look at the designated prepaid SIM cards and packages for tourists in France:

1. Orange France

Orange France has three different prepaid SIM cards for tourists in France:

• Orange Holiday Europe 30 GB : This prepaid SIM card with an all-inclusive plan includes 30 GB  mobile internet + unlimited calls & texts in Europe + 120 minute calls & 1000 texts from Europe to worldwide. The SIM card is 14 days valid and costs €39.99. For more details and up-to-date prices, visit the official website .
• Orange Holiday Europe 12 GB : This SIM card is another all-inclusive plan package. It includes 12 GB mobile internet + unlimited calls & texts in Europe + 30 minute calls & 200 texts from Europe to worldwide. The SIM card is 14 days valid and costs €19.99 . You can find more information and current prices on the official website.
• Orange Holiday World: This data only SIM card includes up to 10 GB data worldwide with a validity of 14 days . The price is €44.99 . Please visit the official website for further details and up-to-date prices.

2. Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom has launched a prepaid SIM card designed specifically for the needs of tourists in France:

• My European SIM: This SIM card not only comes with 30 GB data to use in France & Europe, unlimited calls and texts in France & Europe, but also €25 credit f or calls to international numbers . Furthermore, there are many extras included, such as a Paris metro map or a guide booklet in 10 languages. The prepaid SIM card is valid for 30 days and costs €39.90 . 

For more information and the current prices, check the Bouygues Telecom website.  

3. SFR France

SFR France offers special packages for tourists. To purchase them, you first need to buy a SFR prepaid SIM card. It is called Carte Prépayée SFR , costs €9.99 and includes 5€ credit + 50 MB of Internet. See below the special additional packages:

• Mobile Internet Pass: The package comes with 2 GB data ; it is valid for 8 days and costs €10.
• World Pass: This package includes 2 GB data + c alls to all over the world ; it is valid for 30 days and costs €20.
• 5G-Enabled Pass: This package includes 200 GB data + unlimited calls/SMS in France.  It is valid for 30 days and costs €40.

For more information and up-to-date prices, please visit the official SFR website (only available in French)

4. Free Mobile

Free Mobile offers various SIM card deals for tourists. There is an activation fee of 10€. However, you should choose the "one-month plan" , otherwise you will have to sign up for a monthly subscription , which, however, can be cancelled at any time free of charge via email. See the most popular offers below:

• Série Free: This deal includes 110 GB data + unlimited calls & texts. It costs €12.99 + additional €10 for the Free Mobile SIM card. It is 1 month valid. Unfortunately, this deal is not always available.
• Forfait Free 5G: This deal includes 210 GB data (25 GB free EU roaming included) at 5G/4G+ speed + unlimited calls & texts. It costs €19.99 + additional €10 for the Free Mobile SIM card. It is 1 month valid.

See the official website for more information and current prices (available in French only).

Bottom Line

Our recommendation is the Holafly prepaid e-SIM card . This is not only the easiest way to buy a prepaid SIM card for France, but also the fastest. The Holafly e-SIM card offers g reat value for money , is very easy-to-use, and you can keep your own phone number.

Travelers can start using their phone immediately after they land in Paris and don’t need to waste their valuable time searching for a SIM card retail store. On top of that, you don’t need to be concerned about the SIM card registration process in France or any scams of retailers. This also a great option if you are planning to visit other countries during your trip. And instead of phone calls, you only need to use WhatsApp or similar apps.

FAQ about French SIM Card for Tourists

What Are The Best SIM Cards for France?

We recommend the   Holafly prepaid e-SIM card . The digital SIM card offers excellent value for money, as well as numerous other advantages . Instead of wasting valuable time searching, registering and buying a SIM card on the spot in Paris, you can easily buy the Holafly e-SIM card online at home, keep your own phone number and use the e-SIM in other European countries during the validity period.

How do I get Mobile Data in France?

If you are considering buying a French SIM card because you only need mobile data, the answer is simple: the prepaid e-SIM card from Holafly . Holafly offers a digital e-SIM card with unlimited mobile data service at 4G / LTE speed. Choose the data plan that best suits your needs and be amazed at how easy it is to use mobile internet in France.

Where to buy SIM card in Paris?

You can buy your French SIM card either directly at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Paris Orly Airport (ORY) or in the city . You will have no problems finding retail stores at the airport. Since they are used to foreign customers, they usually speak English . In the city, this can sometimes be a problem.

Although it may be tempting to buy your SIM card directly upon arrival in Paris, keep in mind that prices are often much higher at the airport than in downtown Paris . There are a variety of stores in the city where you can buy your France SIM card, including the official stores of mobile operators, phone stores, electronics stores, some supermarkets, tobacco stores, kiosks, train stations and vending machines.

Regardless of what you ultimately choose, we recommend that you buy your French SIM card from a real network operator and not from a reseller to avoid getting scammed.

How much is a SIM card in France?

There are a variety of SIM card offers in France. While you can get a basic prepaid SIM card for France for as little as €2.99 from Orange France, they are available from mobile operators SFR France, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile for €10 . Note, however, that some mobile operators charge an activation fee for €10 .

For a French SIM card with mobile data as well as credit for calls and SMS, there are several offers tailored specifically to tourists in France. Orange France, for example, offers three options that vary between €19.99 and €39.99 . Details on the different offers and the exact prices can be found in our section: Cost for SIM Cards in France for Tourists .

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Complete Guide: How To Buy A SIM Card In Paris

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 19, 2024 | Europe , France , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting Paris soon? You’ve got to get your hands on a SIM card! But don’t worry; it’s easier than you think. Here’s a complete guide to buying a SIM card in Paris !

First, you’ll need to decide which carrier you want to use. In this guide, we’ll compare the best SIM cards in Paris, and we’ll provide information on eSIMs for France too.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• You can order a prepaid Paris SIM card online on  SimOptions .
• The best mobile carriers in Paris are Orange, Free, and SFR.
• The best eSIM deals for Paris are offered by Airalo and AloSIM .

Best SIM Cards In Paris

If you’re traveling to Paris, we recommend using a SIM card from Orange, Free Mobile, or SFR. These mobile carriers offer long-term and short-term plans. As a tourist, it’s better to purchase a short-term prepaid SIM card.

Alternatively, if your device supports eSIM technology, you could get an eSIM for Paris. Keep reading to learn more!

Getting A SIM Card For Paris In Person

You can buy a Paris prepaid SIM card in person at the airport, in carrier stores, Relay stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a Paris SIM card at the airport unless you need data right away.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s important to have a backup plan if you need a France SIM card .

Alternatively, if you need data on arrival, you could use an eSIM or purchase a Paris prepaid SIM card online.

If you don’t mind waiting, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store to get the best deals.

Now, let’s talk about the data plans and SIM cards offered by Orange, Free Mobile, and SFR.

Orange SIM Cards

Orange is currently the largest mobile provider in France and offers three different types of plans:

• Mobicard Mini: Unlimited calls & texts in the evening for EUR 2.99 / month
• Mobicard World Holidays: 10 GB data (worldwide) for EUR 29.99 / month
• Orange holiday: 20 GB data and unlimited calls to the EU for EUR 39.99

As a tourist in Paris, the best option is probably the last one, depending on the length of your trip.

Free Mobile SIM Cards

Free Mobile has one relevant plan available for tourists and digital nomads.

With this plan, you receive the following:

• 210 GB of data per month
• Unlimited calls & texts
• 25 GB data for 70 destinations across the world
• For EUR 19.99

This plan would be best if you are planning to stay for a month in France. 

SFR SIM Cards

SFR offers a SIM-only plan for EUR 1, which comes with EUR 5 credit.

You can also access the following add-ons:

• 35 GB data from EUR 5 per month
• Calls & texts within France & data for EUR 5 per month

Overall, we think Orange is the best option if you plan to buy your Paris SIM card in person. However, any would do if you need mobile data fast!

Getting A Prepaid SIM Card For Paris Online

If you wish to have your SIM card on arrival, you could purchase a Paris prepaid SIM card online. Buying a prepaid SIM card or an eSIM is convenient because you don’t need to go to a store in person.

Let’s have a look at the best SIM cards for Paris.

You’ll find different prepaid SIM cards for France and Europe on Amazon.

For example, the Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card works in more than 30 countries and gives you 20BG of data for 14 days. France is included. Orange provides different plans between 8 and 20GB.

But there are many other options worth considering, so have a look and ensure the countries you plan to visit are listed. For example, if you visit France, Spain and Italy, make sure all the destinations are covered.

Browse SIM cards on Amazon

SimOptions is an online store that offers SIM cards and eSIMs. They offer several plans in France from different providers (O2, Three, Orange, and Bouygues Telecom). Prices start at $24.90.

As always, if you pick a European SIM card , make sure it covers the destinations you’ll be visiting.

Browse SIM cards on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy a Paris eSIM.

Getting A Paris eSIM

If your device supports eSIM technology, we recommend you buy an eSIM for France because it’s one of the best options to get data in France. It’s convenient, fast, and you’ll get access to the Internet on arrival.

I started using eSIM as soon as my mobile phone supported it. To buy eSIMs, you can use one of the following eSIM providers. I have tested each provider, so the ones listed below are all reliable.

Airalo France

If you want an eSIM for Paris, you could purchase one on Airalo . This website offers many eSIM plans (local, regional, and global).

I’ve been using Airalo in Europe for several months, and it works fine.

Here are the options available in France :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $7.50
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $14
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $23
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $36

If you’re traveling to other countries in Europe, you could also have a look at their regional plans for Europe.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe – Eurolinks offers coverage in 39 countries, including France.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $13
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $37
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days for $100
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days for $185

Alternatively, if you’re traveling to countries other than those mentioned on the list, you can try Discover Global, which offers coverage in 124 countries, including France.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $17
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 60 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 180 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 365 days for $69

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country.

If you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip, it could be because you’re connecting automatically to networks and need to select a network manually instead.

On Airalo, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country, so take a few screenshots to avoid issues during your trip.

Go to Airalo

Holafly France

Holafly is a great eSIM provider that offers unlimited plans in Paris, France. You can read our Holafly review to learn more about this eSIM store.

I’ve also tried this eSIM provider in Europe, and it worked fine. Their Europe eSIM works in more than 30 countries (including France). 

Below are the plans available in France:

• Unlimited data for 5 days for $19
• Unlimited data for 7 days for $27
• Unlimited data for 10 days for $34
• Unlimited data for 15 days for $47
• Unlimited data for 20 days for $54
• Unlimited data for 30 days for $64
• Unlimited data for 60 days for $87
• Unlimited data for 90 days for $99

Go to Holafly

Nomad France

Nomad is another great eSIM provider.

Here’s an overview of the plans available for Paris, France:

• 1GB, valid for 7 days for $6
• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $12
• 5GB, valid for 30 days for $14
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $18
• 15GB, valid for 30 days for $27
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $33

Nomad also offers regional plans for Europe, so it’s worth looking at them if you travel to multiple European countries.

Go to Nomad

Ubigi France

Ubigi offers eSIMs in France and Europe, which is great if you’re visiting Paris.

Here’s an overview of the eSIM plans for France:

• 3GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 8
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 15
• 50GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 49

Go to Ubigi

AloSIM France

AloSIM offers eSIMs in France and multiple regional plans in Europe, which is great if you visit Paris during your trip.

• 1GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 2GB, valid for 15 days for $7.50
• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $23
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $36

Go to AloSIM

Final Thoughts On Paris SIM Cards

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in Paris or an eSIM for your travels in France is pretty easy.

You’ll also have the option to stay connected wherever you go in Europe without changing your SIM card if you purchase a European SIM plan.

I believe the eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in Paris if you wish to have access to the Internet upon arrival. Plus, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a SIM card in person.

However, you need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling to Paris soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• How many days in Paris
• What to wear in Paris
• Is Paris worth visiting

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Américaine in France

The best prepaid sim card for tourists in france.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full disclosure here .

This is a sponsored post written in collaboration with Orange Holiday via Agence Glucoz. As always, all opinions are my own.

Our cell phones have truly become indispensable. Camera, GPS, phone, entertainment, organizational calendar, and more, I can’t imagine traveling far without my smartphone and a reliable mobile data connection. Whenever I travel abroad, figuring out how I will stay connected without racking up charges through my local operator is always an integral part of my research.

Before moving to Paris, I regularly traveled to France for extended periods of time, alternating between tourist and student. Each time I came back to France, I chose the same French mobile provider—Orange. A few summers ago, I tried out the prepaid Orange Holiday SIM card for my 6-week vacation in France and Europe. I appreciated this service then and continue to recommend it to family and friends.

I am happy to partner with Orange Holiday today to share with you some things to consider when picking out the best tourist data plan for your next trip to France.

Will your cell phone work in France?

Technology has come a long way since my very first trip to France in 2009. Nowadays, it is likely that your smartphone is all ready for an international trip without any required preparation on your part. This is due to the development of SIM cards.

A SIM card is a small chip that is installed in your phone, allowing it to connect to a network. When you travel to another country without changing your SIM card, you will quickly rack up roaming fees as soon as you connect to a foreign network. There are a couple of options you can explore in order to avoid these excessive charges.

Many American cell phone providers allow you to activate an international plan while you are traveling. While this is an easy option and less costly than roaming fees, it can still be rather expensive unless your trip is relatively short.

The best option, especially for longer stays, is getting a local SIM card from your country of destination. This option is only available to “unlocked” cell phones. A “locked” phone, whether an iPhone or an Android, is generally one that was bought directly through your carrier and is therefore tied to the contract you signed. It will not work with other SIM cards. Only your carrier can unlock your phone, so be sure to check with them first if you have any doubts! Looking into obtaining a local SIM card for the country you are visiting can be intimidating at first, but it’s usually easier than you think and it’s definitely worthwhile.

What do you need in a mobile data plan when traveling?

Reliable service coverage.

My highest priority in choosing a mobile operator as a tourist is reliability. Not all carriers are created equal. You don’t want to be stuck without service when you are trying to navigate around Paris and get to your dinner reservation on time.

Orange is the biggest and most-established mobile network operator in France. With Orange Holiday, you can rest assured that you will get excellent coverage through France’s number one cell phone network. Not only will you be covered in France, but you will also be able to use the SIM card throughout Europe.

For better or for worse, with my Orange Holiday SIM card, I didn’t have any “unplugged” time during my travels in France and Eastern Europe. I never had any problems with connectivity. I should mention here that Mom, of course, was very pleased that she could reach me at all times!

Data, Calls, and Texts

When you’re shopping around for an international cell phone service, you’ll see varying packages offering calls, texts, and data. Of these services, connecting to the Internet is generally the most important thing for travelers. With all of the apps that are available these days, your phone can be fully functional using only data.

Orange Holiday offers two different package levels at affordable prices.

What is the Orange Holiday card?

The Orange Holiday card is an all-inclusive prepaid card offering calls, SMS text messages, and data/internet on 4G LTE. You can select a physical SIM card or an eSIM card depending on the compatibility of your smartphone. (Check with your carrier first to make sure that your cell phone is “unlocked!”)

This prepaid card is valid for 14 days from the date of activation and comes with a French phone number.

Orange provides excellent coverage in France and throughout Europe, making it a tourist-friendly option for those traveling to multiple countries.

There are two packages to choose from. Both packages come with unlimited calls and texts within Europe. The smaller card at 19.99 EUR has 8GB of data along with 30 minutes of calls and 200 texts from Europe to worldwide. The larger card at 39.99 EUR has 20 GB of data along with 120 minutes of calls and 1,000 texts from Europe to worldwide.

Here are my top pros and cons based on my personal experience using the Orange Holiday SIM card:

Pros: 

• Peace of mind with the great coverage provided by the #1 cell phone network in France
• Service coverage not only in France, but throughout Europe
• Affordable price from a well-known company
• Orange boutiques throughout France in case you need assistance or help troubleshooting something (you won’t!)
• Available for purchase in advance of your trip to France
• Top-up credit can easily be purchased online
• Initial card only lasts 2 weeks 
• Not the least expensive tourist SIM card out there

I am a strong believer that you get what you pay for. All in all, Orange offers an affordable tourist cell phone service that will leave you with one less thing to worry about so you can get on with enjoying your trip to France. Get your Orange Holiday SIM card here .

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The Best Prepaid French SIM Cards for Tourists Compared

During a trip to France, it is possible to use the Wi-Fi of the hotel you’re staying in, and in some public places such as train stations and cafés often offering a free Wi-Fi connection. But since it is hard to predict what you might need at any specific moment of your trip and it can be hard to get access to the internet at any specific time, here are some useful tips to get a SIM card and some telephone credit for the duration of your visit.

Important note: Since June 15th, 2017, mobile roaming fees have been canceled in Europe. So, if you live in the European Union, you will now be able to use your data without additional cost during your trip to France (or any other country of the EU). Be careful though, this law is only valid in the European Union and is not applicable elsewhere such as America, Africa, and Asia, or even countries like Turkey or Switzerland (which are situated in Europe but are not part of the European Union). Also, remember to be mindful of your data consumption: your data limit might be reduced while you’re abroad. For example, if you have a bundle with 20GB of internet data, you might only be able to use 5GB of data abroad and will be overcharged if you exceed the limit. This law is also applicable to prepaid SIM cards (the conditions will have to be negotiated with your telephone operator).

For European citizens, it is therefore not necessary to buy a French SIM card before traveling to France, but be very careful about the terms and conditions of your operator to avoid being caught off-guard.

For others, here are the different offers by French phone companies, created especially for tourists:

1) TravelWifi SIM card

The startup company TravelWifi has set up its own prepaid SIM card . It works in more than 200 countries and offers 20GB of data (valid throughout Europe). It also includes 120 minutes of calls and 1000 texts, all for 39.95€, valid for 14 days.

This SIM card can be collected free of charge from the TravelWifi store in Paris in the 2nd arrondissement (38 Avenue de l’Opéra, 75002 Paris) or delivered directly to your hotel or home in Europe.

Take advantage of a 5% exclusive discount with our buyer’s code France_Hotel_Guide

Book your TravelWifi SIM card

2) Orange Holiday

Orange, one of the main French phone operators, offers a prepaid SIM card without a contract or invoice: the “Mobicarte” for 14.99€. It includes 2 hours of calls in France and in Europe, unlimited texts, 3 unlimited numbers, and 100Mb of data in France and in Europe. This card is valid for 14 days, but you can get a top-up card.

There is also the “ Orange Holiday ” card, conceived specifically for tourists, Orange offers a SIM card for 39.99€ , with a French phone number, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, 2 hours of calls and 1000 texts from Europe to the world as well as 30 GB of data in Europe. The initial plan is valid for 14 days starting from the first call or text.

You want more? You just need to buy a top-up card to get 1 hour of calls, 500 texts and 5 GB (also for 14 days) for 20€ . It is also possible to top-up with any Orange prepaid card, which you can find in supermarkets and tobacco shops. They are easy to find since they are used by locals as well.

Are you going on a trip around Europe? Good news, this bundle can be used in all the countries of the European Union.

You can get the Orange Holiday card and the top-ups in Orange stores (in French), tobacco shops, gas stations, and supermarkets. You will also find them in Relay shops in airports. The booklet that comes with it will be able to guide you since it comes in five different languages.

Recap of their offers:

Where can you get the card?

• Tobacco shops
• Orange shops
• Supermarkets (Auchan and Carrefour)
• Newspaper kiosks
• At Carte SIM 4G (CDG and Orly airport)

Where can you get the top-up?

• From your cell, dialing #123# or 224
• From some ATMs

3) PASS SFR La Carte

SFR, another leader in the phone operators market, offers a prepaid card “ La Carte ” (in French), starting from 9.99€ and including a 10€ credit, available for 30 days. Once the card is in your cellphone, you can get a top-up option in SFR (in French).

The “classique” top-ups include a communication credit (calls, texts, data), unlimited communications after 9 pm and on the weekend, and an access to the PASS. Top-up cards start at 5€ and go up to 95€ and are valid for 6 to 150 days, depending on the price.

PASS are similar to top-up cards, but you just have to send a text from your cellphone if you have a SFR SIM card.

The “monde” top-ups include international texts and calls. You can get a 5€ top-up for 5 days, 10€ for 14 days and 20€ for 30 days.

The “internet mobile” top-ups only give you data and doesn’t include any call or text. With 5€ , you get 1Gb of data for 5 days; with 10€ , you get 5Gb for 8 days; with 25€ , you can get 15Gb for 30 days; with 35€ , you can get 30Gb for 30 days.

The “illimité” top-ups give you unlimited communications (texts/calls). With 5€, you get 1 hour of calls, unlimited texts and 1Gb of data for 7 days. The other offers all have unlimited calls and texts. With 10.99€ , you get 5Gb of data for 10 days. With 20.99€ , you get 20Gb of data for 30 days. With 30€ , you get 30Gb of data for 30 days. These top-ups give you access to SFR hotspots.

The SIM card must be ordered online (in French) or bought in an SFR store (in French). The top-ups can be ordered online or bought in SFR shops, in supermarkets or in Relay shops (including in airports).

Recap of their offers

Where can you get the top-ups?

• Relay stores (including at CDG and Orly airports)
• By texting: 987 (for the PASS)

4) LeFrenchMobile

This website offers prepaid SIM cards to use in France for purchase.

With a delivery of 7 to 10 days in Europe and 12 to 15 days for the rest of the world, you will have a SIM card as soon as you arrive in France. You can do everything online: choose the offer you’re most interested in and place your order right away. For the tourists in French territory, this company offers a SIM card and a bundle for 25 € , which allows you to make calls, send texts in France and use the internet. The advantage is that you can use the 25 € however you want to. Moreover, this bundle has an unlimited validity!

If you only need the internet data, another offer based on the same principle might be better for you: a SIM card with a bundle of 2GB of data , for 16.94€ only. Please note that for this option, the validity is only 90 days.

No more credit? Don’t worry, you just need to connect to the LeFrenchMobile website (at a place that offers Wi-Fi) to top-up your SIM card with the amount you wish (2GB will cost you 12€ and 5GB will cost you 25€ ). You should note that this website also offers deals that work throughout all of Europe.

5) Lyca Mobile

The Lyca Mobile website also offers prepaid SIM cards, for you to spend your holidays without the stress of not being able to use your phone. You can order directly on the website and can receive your SIM card at home in just a few days.

You can order the free SIM card and add the top-up of your choice ( 5€ , 10€ , 20€ , 30€ or 50€ ). Calls to a Lycamobile number are unlimited.

• Supermarkets (Géant casino, Carrefour, Dia, Leclerc, Super U, Monoprix)
• Darty stores

Lebara offers prepaid cards. You can order a SIM card on Lebara’s website (shipping in France only), then buy a top-up on their website or in stores such as tobacco shops, supermarkets etc…

The SIM card is free and includes 2Gb of data. You can choose how much credit you want to add ( 5€, 10€, 15€, 20€ or 30€ ). You can also get a SIM card that you can charge with the amount of money you want.

If you only need data, it is also possible with the “pass internet”. From 1 to 40Gb, these cards are available for 30 days and the SIM card is free and includes 2Gb. With 4.99€ you get 1Gb of data, with 9.99€ you get 3Gb, with 19.99€ you get 10Gb, with 29.99€ you get 20Gb and with 49.99€ you get 40Gb.

Recap of their offer

7) La Poste Mobile

La Poste Mobile (in French) offers different prepaid cards and top-ups. You can find it at the Post office. You can get the top-ups on their website, the post office, or by call. There are four offers:

With 5€, you get unlimited texts and calls and 100Mb of data for 7 days.

With 10€ , you get unlimited texts and calls and 500Mb of data for 15 days.

With 20€ , you get unlimited texts and calls and 2Gb of data for 60 days.

With 30€ , you get unlimited texts and calls and 4Gb of data for 90 days.

• Post offices
• Online (in French)
• By dialing 2525

8) Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom also has some offers for prepaid SIM cards.

My European SIM is a prepaid card for tourists, especially those who want to visit other European countries. For 39.90€ you get unlimited calls and texts in France and in Europe, 20Gb of data and 25€ of international communications for 30 days. You can order this card online, but it can only be activated in France.

The card comes with a tourist guide translated in 10 languages, a map of Paris metro, different tips, a SIM card ejector in the shape of the Eiffel Tower, stickers, and a keychain.

They also offer other prepaid cards (in French). With their XL offer you get unlimited calls and texts, and internet data.

With 5€ , you get unlimited calls and texts, 500Mb of data and 3€ of international communications for 3 days.

With 10€ , you get unlimited calls and texts, 1Gb of data and 5€ of international communications for 10 days.

With 20€ , you get unlimited calls and texts, 2Gb of data and 10€ of international communications for 30 days.

With 40€ , you get unlimited calls and texts, 5Gb of data and 25€ of international communications for 60 days.

• Bouygues Telecom stores
• Relay store (including at CDG and Orly airports)

Bonus: the 4G TravelWifi Hotspot

This one is a little bit different since it is not a SIM card. TravelWifi allows you to rent a 4G WIFI hotspot which is a portable hotspot that can be used all over the world, including in France.

The portable hotspot is ideal for a family or a group of friends traveling together because the connection is in 4G (calls and texts are not included but apps such as Messenger or WhatsApp will work) and can be shared with up to 5 devices (tablets, smartphones, computers).

You can pick up the device at the startup’s offices in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement (38 Avenue de l’Opéra, 75002 Paris), at a Tourist Information Point, at CDG and Orly airports, or have it delivered directly to your hotel in Paris or even to your home.

After picking up your Portable Hotspot, you will receive a pouch containing the device, a user manual, a charger, and a return envelope.

Rental price for the hotspot in France:

• Adventure: 7.25 € / day (1GB / day).
• Escape: 8.25 € / day (5GB / day + travel adapter).
• Voyage:  9.25 € / day (unlimited internet + travel adapter).

You can also buy the hotspot for 149€ or 199€ .

Book your TravelWifi Hotspot

Comparative of the different French SIM cards for tourists

The mobile phone coverage.

Depending on where you are in France, the strength of your mobile signal can vary, going from full coverage for some operators to “white areas” for others. It is therefore important to get information beforehand on the quality of the network coverage in the region where you will be staying, so you don’t get caught off-guard in case of emergency, and thus choose the operator that has the best network.

To make sure you have a satisfying network once you are in France, you can refer to this general map for the main operators’ network coverage in France :

Moreover, this is an interactive map; go to the dedicated ARCEP website , and you will be able to check how the coverage is like in each region and city, depending on the different French operators. Just use the search bar in the right top corner, above the map.

When taking the example of Paris, here are the results:

For Orange:

For Bouygues:

What documents do you need to buy a SIM card?

For Orange Mobicarte, SFR and la Poste: Identity paper (resident permit, identity card, passport)

If you buy online: you need to fill a form on the website

Conclusion: Which French SIM card should you get?

• For European tourists : roaming is free in Europe, so you can use your current card. If you need more data, we advise you get the Internet Pass by Lebara or the pass + DATA by Frenchmobile
• For Non-European tourists in France for 1 to 3 days: we recommend the prepaid card XL (in French) by Bouygues Telecom or Orange Mobicarte (with a data top-up).
• For Non-European tourists in France for 4 to 7 days: we recommend travel WIFI SIM card or Orange Holiday .
• For Non-European tourists in France for 8 days to 1 month : we recommend the card CONNECT (in French) by SFR or My European SIM by Bouygues Telecom
• For Non-European tourists in France for more than a month: we recommend La Carte (in French) SFR with a top-up or My European SIM with a top-up.
• For Non-European tourists traveling as a group: we recommend renting a WIFI 4G from TravelWifi.

I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!

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Home > Best Prepaid SIM Cards for France

Best Prepaid SIM Cards for France

Traveling to Paris and France is exciting, but other than planning your transportation, accommodations, and activities, there are other things to consider, like how to call, text, and browse the internet once you arrive.

Luckily, you can just get a prepaid SIM card for your trip, which will allow you to communicate with other numbers in France and in other countries in the EU and keep you connected to the internet. And there are many ways you can get a French prepaid SIM card.

This article has all the best prepaid SIM cards in France for tourists.

Table of Content:

The Mobile Network in France

Do i really need a french sim card for france, where to buy a prepaid sim card for france, french prepaid sim cards (& other options) overview, best prepaid sim cards in france.

France has a good quality mobile network that allows locals and visitors to connect with ease. The country uses the GSM network , a digital cellular communication standard that is universally accepted. Even if you are coming from a country that uses the CDMA network, your smartphone will probably still work in France.

The vast majority of France has 4G or 4G+ connectivity, and you can also find 5G networks in larger cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. In rural areas, however, connectivity can vary significantly depending on your French mobile operator, although you should still be able to access 3G in these areas.

If you are from Europe , you don’t need a French SIM card for France. Since 2017, roaming in the European Union and the European Economic Area is free. However, some mobile operators might have special conditions, so you should check the terms of your home operator before your trip to Paris and France.

If you are not from Europe , you will most likely need a French SIM Card to avoid expensive international roaming rates. This is especially important for travelers from America. By buying a SIM card in France, you also ensure reliable and fast mobile data connections.

If you are in Paris and only need the internet to check your emails from time to time, you can use Paris’ free Wi-Fi network and the Wi-Fi in your hotel. Most of the hotels in Paris provide free Wi-Fi for their guests.

How to get a SIM card in France? Buying a SIM card in France is super easy. Here are all the options:

• Online, before your trip, via Amazon or the websites of some mobile operators
• At the Paris Airports. Update: this does not seem to be an option at the moment
• In the operators’ physical stores (if they have them)

Things you Need to Buy a Prepaid SIM Card in France

• An unlocked phone
• Valid passport (or ID card for EU/EEA travelers)
• Email address (in some cases)
• Your address in France, such as your hotel/AirBnB address (in some cases)
• Fill out some paperwork.

Other Options for Staying Connected in France: eSIM Cards & Wi-Fi Hotspots

1. buy a french prepaid sim card online on amazon before your trip.

The first way to get a SIM card to use in France is to buy one on Amazon before you leave . This option tends to be more expensive than getting a SIM card in France, but it can give you peace of mind and save you time from finding a sim card when you land.

You can find some France prepaid SIM cards on Amazon , which are a few bucks more expensive, but it takes the stress out of finding a kiosk when you land.

You will not be able to top up a prepaid SIM card with this option, so make sure you consider how long you will be in France and Europe and get enough data, calls, and texts for your stay.

2. Orange Holiday

One option for the best SIM card in France is Orange Holiday . This France SIM card for tourist has two sim card options: all-inclusive and data-only plans . The all-inclusive plans come with 8 or 20 GB of data, 30 or 120 minutes of worldwide calls, and 200 to 1000 texts for 14 days. The data-only plans cover you for 30 days and range from 3 GB to 20 GB.

There are also top-ups that you can add to your SIM card. If you have a data-only SIM card, you can only add data. But with the all-inclusive plans, you will have the option to add texts, data, or calls. The recharges will vary based on the SIM card you have and how much time you have left on your plan.

Here’s where you can find Orange Holiday SIM cards:

• On Amazon , before your trip
• On the Orange Holiday website

2. Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom is one of the French prepaid SIM cards you can order ahead of time and must activate in France, but once you do, you can use it in other EU countries.

There are no top-up options for the prepaid SIM cards, but you get 20 GB of data in France and 5 GB in other European countries. There are also unlimited national calls and texts and 25 minutes of international Europe calls. And the SIM card allows you to hotspot in France with your phone to get internet access to other devices.

Here’s where you can find Bouygues Telecom SIM cards:

• On Get Your Guide , before your trip
• Pre-order online via Bouyges’ website
• On Bouygues Telecom stores

3. Pass SFR La Carte

Another option for France prepaid SIM cards is the Pass SFR La Carte . They have three different plans to choose from depending on if you need internet, calling, or texting. The mobile internet pass for eight days comes with 2 GB of data.

Or, you can get the World Pass which has 30 days of unlimited worldwide calls and 2 GB of internet. The final pass is the 5G-enabled pass , with 30 days of unlimited calls and texts within mainland France plus 150 GB of mobile data.

If you run out of credits on your French prepaid SIM card, you will be alerted that you need to top up. You have nine options to top up your card, and your phone will alert you of the options depending on your pass and how much time you have left on it.

Here’s where you can find Pass SFR La Carte SIM cards for France:

• Text the code for the sim plan you want to 987 (free)
• Call 952 (free)
• Find a retailer (tobacco shops, Relay, Espaces SFR, taxi phones, supermarkets)

4. LycaMobile

LycaMobile also offers interesting proposals for prepaid SIM cards for France, and all of them have some data if you need internet access in France. All of them have unlimited texting and calling for the duration of the SIM plan.

The other SIM cards for France have unlimited national calls and texts within France. Some have unlimited national calls and have data ranging from 10 GB to 250 GB of data.

Unless you get the lowest tier plan, you will not have to top up on texting or calling. You just have to buy a new package every month. But there are data top-ups you can add on if you need more before your 30 days are up.

Here’s where you can find Lyca Mobile SIM cards for France:

• Order a SIM online (then add sim plans online or in the Lyca app)
• In stores throughout France, using the store finder

5. La Poste

La Poste is another option for getting a prepaid SIM card in France. They have a SIM card for 9,99€ which comes with unlimited texting and national calls, and you can top up with 100 Mo to 4 GB of internet data.

They also have three one-month options for SIM cards, all of which come with unlimited texting and calling but vary in data limits, being the highest option for unlimited calls in Europe and DOM/TOM and 120 GB of data.

If you need more data or calls, you can top up your plans depending on how much more time and data you need.

Here’s where you can find La Poste SIM cards in France:

• Post offices in France
• Calling 2525 (top-ups only)

Best eSIM Cards for France

If you mostly need navigation and to communicate with friends and family via apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime, consider an eSIM data plan. There are different options

TripRoaming eSIM card comes with a variety of plans and durations and easy-to-follow instructions. You can enjoy this high-speed coverage in France and the other 41 most visited regions in Europe. You can top-up your plan anywhere at any time.

Ubigi eSIM card is the most popular and works well in France. Download the app, which will then guide you through install and setup of the account. Then you can choose the plan you want. There are plans of 3 GB to 50 GB per month.

Airalo is another option for an eSIM card in France, which works great and seems to be simpler to install than some of the other ones, like Ubigi. It has different plans, from 1 week to 30 days and from 1GB to 20 GB.

TIP: Before booking, please ensure your mobile device is eSIM compatible and SIM-lock-free.

Rent a Wi-Fi Hotspot in France for Families or Groups

If you are traveling to France and have multiple people who need to connect to Wi-Fi, and you want the convenience of always having Wi-Fi with you, renting a Wi-Fi spot in France is your best option.

One of the best Wi-Fi hotspots is the Unlimited 4G Internet Pocket Wi-Fi from GetYourGuide . It is super fast, and up to ten people can connect to it at once. And having a hot spot is the best option for Wi-Fi in France if you and your group are going on French road trips , especially if you are using your phone for directions. The hotspot gets shipped to your hotel or apartment in Paris, France, or other EU countries, so it is a convenient option.

However, the hot spot has a maximum of 14 days, and you need to ensure it gets returned using the information provided (free shipping in both ways).

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Buy Prepaid Tourist SIM Card France - Paris

Orange Holidays eSIM/SIM card offer - Orange is number 1 for the quality of its mobile services in France as recognized by ARCEP

Discover Orange's Holiday offers for travelers at Paris France! Get the best prepaid eSIM/SIM card with mobile data, calls and SMS to stay connected during your stay. Ideal for tourists, these offers let you make the most of your trip without worrying about roaming charges. Order your eSIM/SIM online now and travel with peace of mind with our best offer with Orange. Orange's Holiday offers are specially designed to meet the needs of travelers and tourists at Paris France looking for a reliable and convenient SIM card while on the move. Whether you're planning a business trip, a family vacation or a solo getaway, Orange Holiday offers you the best simple and effective solution for staying connected wherever you are.

Nearest Orange stores to Paris for Tourist SIM Card

Learn more about tourist sim card in paris.

Orange Holiday offers: SIM cards for tourists

Stay connected during your trip in Europe with Orange Holiday Tourist SIM card. Orange has several offers for you that will meet all your expectations.

Discover eSIM technology

The eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to enjoy your mobile plan without needing to insert a physical SIM card into your device.

Need more info ?

Where can i buy orange holiday , how to activate orange holiday , when should i insert my sim card in my phone , how long my sim card is valid , can i use the mobile hotspot sharing feature with orange holiday , what format should i choose sim or esim , is my smartphone compatible with esim , how to track my orange holiday usage , can i make calls or send text messages with orange holiday , what happens when i consummated all the gb included in the orange holiday offer , can i top up my orange holiday plan if needed , what does the holiday 20€ top up contains , what does the holiday 40€ top up contains , are all the holiday top ups compatible whether i use sim or esim format , where can i subscribe to my orange holidays offer, our other orange services pages..

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• eSIM Data Plans

Best eSIM for Paris: Unlimited data

Learn how to buy eSIM for Paris to access the internet on your travels. We compare products and prices from Holafly, WiFiMap, TravelSIM, Bouygues, and Orange

Leoneska R.

October 21, 2023

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Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

Plans that may interest you

Are you off to visit Paris soon? Lucky you – you will indeed have a trip to remember, whether visiting The Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum. But have you thought about connecting to the internet while you are there? In this guide, we’ll explain why an eSIM Paris is the perfect way to get internet access during your travels. Discover the plans and prices of each eSIM provider and the best options for tourists!

Unlimited data eSIM for Paris

Buy the best eSIM for Paris with Unlimited data and coverage in Paris . Get 5% OFF. Code: MYESIMNOW5

Where can I buy an eSIM for travel to Paris?

As with any booming technology, embedded SIM cards make things easier for us as travelers . It is becoming increasingly common to find options for fast and secure purchases. In this way, eSIM providers offer remote and local alternatives that we can use to have mobile data on our travels:

• You can find virtual SIM cards for Paris in online stores like Holafly. This way, you will have your data package when you arrive in the city.
• Local operators offer eSIM cards in physical stores throughout Paris. In this case, you may have additional requirements for being a visitor.
• We can always use traditional physical SIM cards for cases where we do not have an eSIM-compatible device or phone.

Advantages of Holafly eSIM card for Paris

If we mention online stores that function as eSIM providers, one of the most outstanding is Holafly . It has eSIM data plans for Paris and 170 other destinations worldwide, including regional options like their European eSIM and local options like Italy eSIM cards or German eSIM . Among the benefits highlighted for this destination are:

• Unlimited data plans , so you won’t run out of mobile data while traveling in Paris.
• Austrian phone number (+43) with 120 minutes for local and international calls.
• High-speed data 4G LTE/5G connection supported by Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile local networks.
• Easy installation and activation through QR code.
• Keep your WhatsApp in your language .
• No need to change your SIM card .
• Keep your original phone number active while you have the international number for European calls.
• 24/7 customer service team in more than five languages.
• Packages in other destinations of the world like the eSIM Turkey for tourists .

How much does a Holafly virtual SIM card for Paris cost?

This is another point in Holafly’s favor, as it has eight data plan options to suit all types of travelers . With any of the eSIM data plans for France ,  you will have unlimited data and a phone number with minutes included. They vary in the number of days, and you can see them in detail in the table.

Don’t worry if you travel to other cities in France because the prepaid eSIM Paris includes data coverage nationwide. As for the minutes, you can use 60 minutes to receive calls from anywhere in the world . The other 60 minutes are for calls to Europe except Iceland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Turkey.

How do I activate my digital SIM card for Paris?

The best thing about eSIMs compared to SIM cards is their ability to activate quickly, even remotely. After you purchase a data plan, you will receive in your email a QR code to scan and install your digital SIM card. At this point, you need to have a WiFi connection, so doing it from home or a secure connection is recommended .

• Look for the Holafly eSIM France (with coverage in Paris) data plan on the Holafly website or app.
• You must confirm that your phone is compatible with eSIMs.
• You will receive a QR code to install the data plan on your device.
• Scan the QR code with the device that will use the data plan.
• Give the eSIM a unique name to quickly tell it apart from your physical SIM card.
• Once you arrive in France , turn on data roaming on your device.
• You are now connected to the internet !

Remember : You can install the data plan whenever you receive the QR code, but you cannot activate the internet until you arrive in France.

WifiMap eSIM in Paris

Another eSIM provider that also includes a mobile App and online store is WiFIMap; this provider has options for 70 destinations in the world. Their data plans are less flexible, including four 30-day offers . With any of them, you will have benefits such as.

• 30 days validity for eSIM
• WiFi hotspots map
• 4G/LTE coverage at destination with Orange, SFR, and Bouygues support
• Availability for other 70 destinations
• Mobile app download required for installation
• Only includes data. No phone number is included

WifiMap virtual SIM card price

WiFiMap has only four package options for its prepaid eSIM card for Paris. None of the options include unlimited data , so if you run out of the package, you must buy a new one or use insecure public networks.

• Virtual SIM with 1 GB for 30 days at 4.99 USD
• Virtual SIM with 3 GB for 30 days at 13.47 USD
• VirtualSIM with 5 GB for 30 days at 19.95 USD
• Virtual SIM with 10 GB for 30 days at 29.99 USD

Please note that despite offering data packages, you will not be able to do data tethering to share with other devices.

TravelSIM eSIM in Paris

The last online store option is TravelSIM; they initially offered only SIM card services but have upgraded to an eSIM provider as well. With them, you will have to pay for the eSIM and the data plan for Paris before you can enjoy some of the benefits:

• You can include credit in your eSIM for calls or messages.
• You can include a phone number for additional cost
• Has offers for more than 130 destinations
• Compatible with Apple and Android phones. 

TravelSIM virtual SIM card price

With this store, you can choose a data plan for your virtual SIM card and add credit if you want calls or messages . You can also add an international number for an additional cost. In either case, the five basic data plans are :

• Digital SIM card with 5 GB for 14 days at 50.00 USD
• Digital SIM card with 10 GB for 14 days at 93.00 USD
• Digital SIM card with 5 GB for 30 days at 24.00 USD
• Digital SIM card with 10  GB for 30 days at 42.00 USD
• Digital SIM card with 20 GB for 30 days at 76.00 USD

The prices include the 6 USD paid for the eSIM ; credit between 10 and 100 USD can be included for additional calls.

Bouygues Telecom eSIM in Paris

This is the first French operator we will mention, and they are known for offering affordable local eSIM data plans for tourists. As usual, local companies focus their services on long-term customers , but they still have an option for visitors. Among all the alternatives is the first to include a local phone number; this added to other benefits such as:

• Allows you to use data in Paris, nationwide, and other European destinations
• You can data tether with other devices, but there are daily limits
• Includes unlimited calls and SMS within the city 
• The package also offers a tourist guide and valuable tips in 10 languages.

It is important to remember that as a tourist, you cannot buy a Bouygues Telecom virtual SIM card before you arrive . Once in the city, you must find a physical store and request your data package. There are about 24 branches in the city and at any of them you will be asked for a valid ID and a compatible phone before purchasing your eSIM.

Bouygues Telecom virtual SIM card price

As mentioned above, although most of the prepaid SIM cards this operator offers are aimed at local customers, it does have an option for tourists. This package, called My European SIM , can be activated as a local prepaid SIM card or eSIM plan . In both cases, it has the exact cost and benefits.

• My European eSIM with 30 GB for 30 days at €39.90 (approximately $42.41)

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM in Paris

Orange is a mobile operator with a presence in several destinations in Europe; for this reason, among services, they have eSIM data plans for France that tourists can buy. Once in Paris, you can buy the Orange France eSIM with benefits such as:

• Coverage in other European countries
• Minutes for calling from Europe
• Data tethering allowed
• It is not possible to store contacts on the eSIM as you do on a physical SIM card

As for the presence of physical stores in Paris, Orange has 17 boutiques you can look for to buy your European eSIM.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM price

This operator has three all-inclusive plans for tourists called Orange Holiday Europe eSIM . They are so named because they are not only available for this destination, but you can also find options for Germany, Spain, the UK, and Italy. In the case of the alternative for Paris , it has a cost of :

• Orange Holiday Europe 12 GB for 14 days at €19.99 (approximately $21.21)
• Orange Holiday Europe 30 GB for 14 days at €39.99 (approximately $42.42)
• Orange Holiday Europe 12GB for 28 days at €49.99 (approximately $53.02)

Recommendations for choosing the best eSIM card for Paris

• Check the requirements , conditions, and recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation.
• Purchase an eSIM online through a store like Holafly, which is much cheaper than those sold at the airport.
• Choose an eSIM with good coverage in Paris and enough data for your usual consumption.
• Purchase your eSIM before you leave for your trip.
• Read the instructions carefully when activating your eSIM.
• Be aware of your data usage .

Which is the best embedded SIM for Paris?

If we are talking about the best choice between remote and local providers, Holafly is an alternative that stands out. It is not expected to find unlimited data plans for tourists , and their eSIM plan for Paris includes this benefit regardless of the duration. Also, having a number to call as you would with a France eSIM is an advantage for the most demanding users. 

It is also important to note that you can recharge your virtual SIM card through top-ups and 24/7 customer support in multiple languages. If you travel to other European destinations, you can buy a data plan with coverage in 30 countries. You will find all this in one easy-to-use website for every type of traveler!

SIM Card for Paris

It is possible that we do not have an eSIM-compatible phone, and when this happens, we can resort to the usual physical SIMs. These offer you the same options as online or physical stores , with the difference that if you use a remote provider, you must wait for the international shipment of the chip. You can also use stores at the airport when you arrive, but these are usually more expensive. 

In either case, you can pay between 10 USD and 65 USD for a prepaid SIM card . The price will vary depending on the amount of data and operator you use. Using a virtual SIM card is still more advisable, mainly because it will not be easy to find options with unlimited data for tourists! 

Advantages of the eSIM card vs a physical SIM card

Now we know what an eSIM is, let’s find out why it’s better than a physical SIM card:

• Easy purchase and activation process: You can purchase your eSIM from anywhere in the world through online stores, such as Holafly. When you make your purchase you will receive all the information regarding the eSIM in minutes, so the whole process is very fast and secure.
• It does not need a physical installation:  an eSIM or virtual card is a device implanted in cell phones, so you won’t have to put or take out this device physically.
• Eco-friendly: as the eSIM is a virtual card, it does not generate pollution in the environment, so you would be helping to reduce waste.
• No chance of loss or damage: as mentioned above, the eSIM card is completely virtual, so you will not have to worry about damaging or losing such services.

Cell phone providers and manufacturers are adopting the eSIM at a fast rate. Don’t get left behind – join the eSIM revolution now!

FAQs about the eSIM for Paris

You can also use traditional alternatives such as physical SIM cards for Paris, international roaming from your local operator, or even public WiFi networks in the city. However, compared to digital SIM cards, these are more expensive and less secure.

This depends on what you plan to use the internet for when you travel. Watching an hour-long show on Netflix might take up a GB of data, but more straightforward tasks like searching for directions or Google Maps searches won’t use up more than a few MB at a time. If you plan on downloading or streaming videos on your trip, you’ll need a data plan with a lot of data, such as those offered by Holafly for Paris.

Holafly eSIM includes unlimited data for the contracted time. However, note that the operator may reserve the right to apply a Fair Usage Policy, as it applies to all other network users. In particular, if the operator estimates the usage of more than 90GB of data in a month, it may temporarily reduce the speed to 256-1024KB to avoid affecting other users.

All eSIMs come with clear and comprehensive instructions. But if you have any problems, you can contact Holafly’s 24-hour customer support team, who’ll solve any issues no matter where you are.

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Obtaining A SIM Card In Paris: A Comprehensive Guide

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Overview of SIM Card Options in Paris

When traveling to Paris, ensuring seamless communication is essential for a hassle-free experience. One of the most convenient ways to stay connected is by obtaining a local SIM card. Paris offers a variety of SIM card options, each tailored to different needs and preferences. Whether you require extensive data for navigating the city or simply need a reliable means of communication, there's a SIM card solution to suit your requirements.

Prepaid SIM Cards

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available in Paris and are an excellent choice for travelers. These cards offer the flexibility of pay-as-you-go plans, allowing you to control your expenses while enjoying the benefits of local rates for calls, texts, and data. With prepaid SIM cards, there's no need to worry about unexpected charges, making them an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers.

Data-Only SIM Cards

For those primarily in need of data for browsing the internet, using maps, or staying active on social media, data-only SIM cards are a practical choice. These SIM cards are designed to provide generous data allowances without the added costs of call or text services. Whether you're a digital nomad, a travel enthusiast who loves sharing experiences online, or someone who needs reliable internet access, a data-only SIM card can be the perfect solution.

Tourist SIM Cards

Specifically tailored to the needs of travelers, tourist SIM cards offer a comprehensive package that includes generous data allowances, international calling capabilities, and sometimes even access to local attractions or transportation services. These SIM cards are designed to provide convenience and value, making them an attractive option for tourists looking for a hassle-free communication solution during their stay in Paris.

Long-Term SIM Cards

For those planning an extended stay in Paris, long-term SIM cards provide the convenience of continuous service without the need for frequent top-ups. These SIM cards often come with competitive rates for calls, texts, and data, making them a practical choice for expats, students, or professionals residing in the city for an extended period.

Understanding the various SIM card options available in Paris empowers travelers to make informed decisions based on their communication needs and budget. Whether it's a short vacation or a long-term stay, having a local SIM card ensures that staying connected in Paris is seamless and cost-effective.

Where to Purchase a SIM Card in Paris

When it comes to purchasing a SIM card in Paris, convenience and accessibility are key factors to consider. Fortunately, the city offers numerous options for acquiring a SIM card, ensuring that travelers can easily obtain one upon arrival. Here are the primary locations where you can purchase a SIM card in Paris:

Airport Kiosks and Vending Machines

Upon landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport or Orly Airport, travelers will find a variety of kiosks and vending machines operated by major mobile providers. These convenient outlets offer a range of SIM card options, allowing visitors to swiftly acquire a local number and activate their desired plan before leaving the airport.

Mobile Network Stores

Paris is dotted with the flagship stores and authorized retailers of prominent mobile operators, including Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom. These dedicated outlets provide an extensive selection of SIM cards and subscription plans, along with expert assistance from staff members who can help you choose the most suitable option based on your communication needs.

Electronics and Convenience Stores

Throughout Paris, electronics retailers and convenience stores such as FNAC, Darty, and Monoprix stock a variety of SIM cards from different mobile operators. These stores are conveniently located in popular areas, making it easy for travelers to purchase a SIM card while exploring the city.

Mobile Resellers

In addition to official network stores, independent mobile resellers and small shops in Paris offer SIM cards from various operators. These resellers often provide competitive deals and packages, catering to diverse preferences and budget requirements.

Online Platforms

For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, many mobile operators in Paris offer the option to purchase SIM cards and plans through their official websites. This allows travelers to secure a SIM card in advance and have it delivered to their accommodation upon arrival in Paris.

With the availability of SIM cards at airports, network stores, retail outlets, and online platforms, obtaining a SIM card in Paris is a straightforward process. Whether you prefer the immediacy of purchasing at the airport or the flexibility of exploring options in the city, there are ample opportunities to acquire a SIM card that aligns with your specific communication needs.

Required Documents and Registration Process

When obtaining a SIM card in Paris, it's important to be aware of the required documents and the registration process mandated by French regulations. To comply with local telecommunications laws, individuals purchasing a SIM card in France are required to provide official identification and complete the registration process. This procedure is aimed at enhancing security measures and ensuring the responsible use of mobile services.

The standard documentation needed to acquire a SIM card in Paris includes a valid form of identification, such as a passport, national identity card, or residence permit. These documents serve to verify the identity of the individual purchasing the SIM card and are essential for completing the registration process.

During the registration process, individuals will be required to provide their personal information, including their full name, date of birth, and current address. Additionally, they may need to provide a contact number or email address for correspondence related to the SIM card activation and usage.

It's important to note that the registration process for obtaining a SIM card in Paris is a straightforward procedure, typically completed at the point of purchase. The authorized retailer or mobile operator's representative will assist in guiding customers through the registration steps, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately provided.

The registration process is designed to be efficient, and in many cases, the SIM card can be activated immediately following the completion of the necessary documentation. Once the registration is finalized and the SIM card is activated, individuals can begin using their mobile services without any further delay.

By understanding the required documents and the registration process for obtaining a SIM card in Paris, travelers can ensure a smooth and efficient experience when purchasing a local SIM card. Being prepared with the necessary identification and information will facilitate the process, allowing individuals to quickly access the benefits of local mobile services during their time in Paris.

Comparison of Mobile Operators and Plans

In Paris, a diverse range of mobile operators competes to offer comprehensive plans tailored to various communication needs. Understanding the offerings of these operators is crucial for travelers seeking the most suitable SIM card during their time in the city.

As one of the leading mobile operators in France, Orange provides extensive network coverage and a wide selection of plans. Their prepaid SIM cards offer competitive rates for calls, texts, and data, making them an attractive choice for travelers requiring reliable connectivity. Additionally, Orange's tourist SIM cards are designed to cater specifically to the needs of visitors, often including generous data allowances and international calling capabilities.

SFR is another prominent player in the French telecommunications market, offering diverse prepaid and subscription plans. Travelers can benefit from SFR's prepaid SIM cards, which come with flexible options for data packages and international calling features. For those seeking long-term solutions, SFR's subscription plans provide competitive rates and additional perks such as access to SFR's extensive network of Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the city.

Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom is renowned for its reliable network and versatile plan options. Their prepaid SIM cards are favored by travelers for their affordability and straightforward usage. Additionally, Bouygues Telecom offers data-only SIM cards, ideal for individuals prioritizing internet access during their time in Paris. Their tourist SIM cards often come with inclusive features such as public transportation passes, adding exceptional value for visitors.

Free Mobile

Free Mobile has gained popularity for its disruptive approach to mobile services, offering competitive rates and innovative plans. Their prepaid SIM cards provide cost-effective options for calls, texts, and data, appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Moreover, Free Mobile's subscription plans include generous data allowances and the advantage of seamless roaming within the European Union.

Comparison of Plans

When comparing the plans offered by these operators, travelers should consider factors such as data allowances, international calling rates, network coverage, and additional perks. Prepaid plans are ideal for short-term visitors, providing flexibility and control over expenses, while subscription plans offer long-term solutions with added benefits such as extended validity periods and loyalty rewards.

By evaluating the offerings of Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile, travelers can make informed decisions based on their specific communication requirements and budget considerations. Whether it's the need for extensive data, international connectivity, or cost-effective solutions, Paris' mobile operators present a multitude of options to ensure seamless and reliable communication throughout the city.

Tips for Using a SIM Card in Paris

Understanding Coverage Areas : Before relying heavily on your newly acquired SIM card, it's advisable to familiarize yourself with the coverage areas of the mobile operator. While major cities like Paris have extensive coverage, rural or remote areas may have limited network access. This knowledge can help you plan your travels and communication needs accordingly.

Top-Up and Recharge Options : Most mobile operators in Paris offer convenient ways to top up or recharge your SIM card credit. Whether it's through mobile apps, online portals, or physical vouchers available at convenience stores, staying informed about the available top-up options ensures uninterrupted access to mobile services throughout your stay.

Roaming Considerations : If you plan to travel beyond France during your visit, understanding the roaming charges and policies of your chosen mobile operator is essential. Some operators offer favorable roaming rates within the European Union, while others may have specific terms for international usage. Being aware of these details can prevent unexpected charges while using your SIM card abroad.

Data Management : Efficient use of data is crucial, especially if your SIM card plan includes a data allowance. Utilize Wi-Fi networks whenever possible to conserve data, and consider using data-saving features on your device to optimize usage. Monitoring your data consumption can help avoid exceeding your plan's limits and incurring additional charges.

Customer Support Access : Familiarize yourself with the customer support channels provided by your mobile operator. In case of any technical issues, inquiries, or the need for assistance, having access to customer support via phone, online chat, or physical stores can be invaluable for resolving any concerns related to your SIM card or mobile services.

SIM Card Compatibility : If you're using a device from your home country, ensure that it is unlocked and compatible with the network frequencies used by French mobile operators. This compatibility is crucial for seamless connectivity and optimal performance of your SIM card during your time in Paris.

Security and Privacy : Safeguarding your SIM card and associated mobile services is paramount. Be mindful of where and how you use your device, especially when accessing sensitive information or making financial transactions. Implementing security measures such as PIN protection and data encryption can enhance the safety of your mobile communications.

Exploring Value-Added Services : Many mobile operators offer value-added services such as entertainment subscriptions, international calling bundles, and loyalty rewards. Exploring these additional offerings can provide enhanced benefits and cost savings, enriching your overall experience with the SIM card and mobile services in Paris.

By incorporating these tips into your usage of a SIM card in Paris, you can optimize your mobile experience, mitigate potential challenges, and make the most of the communication services available during your time in the captivating city.

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The best SIM Cards for your trip to France

Apr 9, 2024

26 comments

Your dream trip to France is finally here. You’ve gotten your airline tickets booked , your hotel sorted out , and made a list of all the fun places you want to visit in Paris . But don’t forget to take care of the little details — like your cell phone plan! Figuring out how to navigate SIM Cards in France can save you money and hassle.

Before you start dialing in France, remember that your phone plan from home can add up quickly when you make calls from overseas. In order to avoid a huge phone bill once you return to the States, we suggest buying a French SIM Card and using your phone like a local. Just make sure that you bring along an unlocked phone !

(A little confused? No worries, read this first: Buying a SIM Card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone )

Remember, when you buy a SIM Card from a French carrier, you’re actually buying a small chip that contains a French phone number. You’ll then insert that chip into your unlocked phone, and then buy credits to “top it off”, which will give you some combination of minutes for telephone calls, text messages, and data for internet on your phone.

Confusingly, the French telephone carriers all offer different deals when buying a SIM Card. Most will throw in some credits to sweeten the deal. Others, meanwhile, don’t offer SIM Cards for “pay as you go” use — they’ll only sell you a SIM Card when you sign on to a monthly plan (or “forfait”). Still others, like Orange and SFR (see below), offer affordable packages made just for tourists.

We’ve combed through the options and came up with three budget-friendly SIM Cards to help you save during your trip to France.

This article was updated in April 2024 with new information and prices.

An Orange SIM Card in France. Photo: Mayowa Ige

1. Orange Prepaid Holiday SIM Card

Cost: €40 (or $49.90 when bought in the U.S. before your trip ) Pros: Good deal. Reliable. Great coverage. The card can be purchased in advance. Cons: The initial credit is only good for 14 days. (Top it off to use it for longer.)

Orange is the French equivalent of Verizon or AT&T. It’s the largest and oldest French telecommunication company in the country, and it has coverage extending to other European nations as well. Orange’s cellular coverage and internet 4G speed is unmatched because its coverage is so widespread in France.

For tourists, Orange offers a prepaid holiday SIM Card plan that costs €40/$49.90. This SIM Card gives you a French phone number and includes a credit for 120 minutes of international calls and 1,000 SMS texts (to anywhere in the world). Calls and texts within Europe are unlimited. Also, you get 30 GB of data that can be used anywhere in Europe.

Because Orange is an established company, you will find Orange stores all over Paris. If you ever run into problems with your SIM Card, you can always pop in to speak to someone — they speak English!

The only drawback? By default, the credits are only good for 14 days after your first use. To keep using your number, head to a newsstand or Orange store (“La Boutique”) and reload it to “top-up” the credits.

Note: The Orange Holiday SIM Card can be purchased in advance online for $49.90 . This is a distinct advantage, as you won’t need to hunt around for a newsstand or telephone shop upon arrival.

2. SFR Prepaid SIM Card

Cost: €9.99-€24.99 Pros: Two pass options are good for up to 30 days. These SIM Cards are easy to purchase from tobacco shops and newsstands. Cons: Limited, if any, calls and texts outside of Europe depending on the package you purchase.

SFR, known as the Société française du radiotéléphone , is the second largest telecommunication provider in France. Much like Orange, SFR is a very well-known and well-respected company.

SFR offers a few options for those who need SIM Cards in France. A basic pass offers 1 GB of data, two hours of calling and 300 SMS texts for just €9.99. More practical options include a 10 GB kit with unlimited calls and texts in France and 10 GB of 4G internet for  €14.99, a plan with unlimited texts and calls within France and 80 GB of 4G internet for €19.99, or a 5G-compatible SIM Card with unlimited calls in France and 140 GB of internet for €24.99.

Additionally, if you need to make calls to another country, you can buy a SFR Travel Sim with 60 GB of internet, 2.5 hours of international calling minutes and unlimited texting in Europe for €29.99.

All plans are valid for 30 days.

The SFR SIM Cards can be purchased in tobacco stores and “Relay” newsstands.

A Free SIM Card in France. Photo: Mayowa Ige

3. Free Mobile SIM Card

Cost: €20 for unlimited calls, texts and Internet. Pros: Super cheap! Great for long-term visitors. Cons:  You’ll need to cancel service when finished.

Free is a new player in French telecommunications, and it has shaken up the market with an impressive price: €20 a month for unlimited calls and texts (including internationally) and 250 GB of internet.

The company also has smaller plans, including a €2/month plan with 50 MB of internet, 2 hours of calls within France and unlimited texts; or a €10.99/month plan with 140 MB of internet, unlimited calls within France and unlimited texts.

If you’re just getting the SIM Card, it takes about 10 minutes because Free has SIM card vending machines that you can order like a Twix bar at its shop and terminal locations . Free will send you a user identification number and password to your email, and you can pay for the SIM Card and service by just swiping your credit card in the “SIM-vending” machine.

Keep in mind that when you sign up for Free, you are technically signing up for a monthly subscription that you can cancel anytime with no fees or questions asked. Unless you’re staying in France or Europe for longer than a month, your bill should be €25 to €30 total; this includes €20 for the service and €10 for an activation fee. (Free usually has a €5 euro discount for new customers.) Just remember to cancel the subscription before you head home, or you’ll face recurring charges.

Use a SIM Card to test to your heart’s delight in Paris! Photo: facemepls

This is the best deal while traveling in France and Europe. You get unlimited calling within France, the U.S. and Canada, plus nearly unlimited data within France. You also get to enjoy 35 GB of data within Europe and abroad; this means you will still be connected if you’re traveling to other European countries during your vacation.

Keep in mind that you will ultimately have to return to a Free Paris store and request to cancel your service before you return back to the States. The agents will fill out a cancellation form for you. Then, you will have to take the form to a French post office and mail it to Free’s headquarters. The process is actually a lot easier than it sounds!

Another thing to keep in mind is that the levels of English vary within the Free offices. Still, I’ve been to the flagship location a couple of times, and I was able to cancel my mobile service with an agent who didn’t speak English just by showing him the English to French Google translation of “I’d like to cancel my mobile service” on my phone. Aside from having to wait one hour for my turn, the whole process took five minutes for him to fill out the cancellation form for me. Wait times may not be quite as long now that Free has expanded to multiple store locations. (The post office is also self-explanatory. Just make sure you have an envelope with you because, for some reason, French post offices don’t have envelopes for sale.)

Now, you’re all set to cruise the Seine and bring along Auntie Jenny in California with FaceTime!

More on SIM cards in Europe

The subject of using your smartphone while traveling abroad can be a tricky one. You can read much more about it here:

• How to use a SIM card in Europe • How to set up your American iPhone for a European vacation • Tips to keep your iPhone safe in Paris • The top SIM cards for your trip to Spain • Germany: The best SIM cards for tourists

Have you used a SIM Card in Europe? Share your favorites and tips for saving while traveling with your smartphone.

About the author

Mayowa Ige is a Nigerian-born, So-Cal raised pug lover. After finishing her bachelors in Claremont, California, she worked in tech in the Bay Area, and now she is pursuing an MBA in the city of lights. Keep up with her adventures at www.emirestudios.com .

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• How to Find or Buy a Cheap, Unlocked Phone For European Travel
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26 thoughts on “The best SIM Cards for your trip to France”

I bought a SIM card and received very good service at the Orange store 10 rue Halévy just east of the Opéra last September for the €40 mentioned above. After two weeks I re-upped, and it was well worth it to be able to stay in touch with family who stayed in a different area and with local friends.

And FYI, the Free store at 8 rue de la Ville-l’Eveque is now, according to Google Maps, temporarily closed.

We got a FREE Sim card in Paris and trying to cancel it has been a nightmare. So far we have paid for two extra months of service and it looks like we will have to pay a third month. If you get one of these, get it cancelled in person before you leave France.

Are you looking to rent a sim card for Israel? GroupSim is one of the best company that provides you with unlimited calls and data at a very affordable price. We provide the best network of sim card.

Orange France sells prepaid cards for visitors at an exorbitant price. On top of that, you are required to register your sim card within 4 to 5 days on their web site. The problem is that their web application does not work. We asked the staff in the Orange shop where we bought the air time to help us and also they were unable to register the sim card. Without registering, Orange cuts the service without compensating your outstanding credit. When we requested a refund on the purchase of air time but the shop replied that they do not do refunds.

Basically, we were swindled at Orange.

Don’t buy SFR prepaid sim card. Look at Trustpilot for comments. Looks cheap but when you get no service it’s expensive. The small print says expires in 7 days! Lycamobile looks the best but you must apply with a computer not tablet or smartphone. Lebarra let’s you apply with phone or tab. You need an address to mail the sim to. Don’t know if you need a french address. I used the hotel address.

Great article with good information. I am interested in the free mobile plan for 25 Euro… this is one of the best deals in Europe. Could anyone maybe confirm that you don’t need a French mailing address nor a French bank account to apply? Thanks in advance for your feedback

Hi Mayowa, your article was great. It was very helpful and much needed information. Your article was clear, consistent, and well-researched. Thanks.

Reading some of the comments, even the absurd ones. I have been to France 6 times in the past for 2-4 weeks each. I used Orange Holiday Prepaid card 5 of 6 times and Bouygues once, so here are my views.

Orange – It is perhaps the most expensive option but works seamlessly even in Belgium, Netherlands and Switzerland. They initially give you 14 days of usage with 40 Euros and you can top up for 14 more days with another 20 Euros, data carries over. I fail to see how this is an inconvenience(?) Your number remains valid for 6 months or so, which is useful if you are travelling twice a year. And getting the SIM, why even go to an Orange store when you can directly get it at Relay store in the airport itself. Topping up is easy. I do it online and it takes hardly a few minutes to get active. Still in my opinion this is very expensive and I am looking for an alternative.

SFR – SFR seems cheaper and I have seen some people using SFR there. I will probably give it a try next time.

Bouygues – I used Bouygues only once, that is in the last trip. It was a decent option. For same 40 Euros you get same data and perhaps 24 Euro of calls but for 30 days validity. It was cheaper as I did not need a second top up. Works pretty well for me in France, but the coverage is not as great compared to Orange, still okay.

Free – Looking at the reviews its scary. Then ignoring the reviews, there seems to be a big red flag for me if the service requires cancellation else it automatically renews. No matter whether the cancellation process is simple or hard, it is definitely an hassle for any traveller.

And as a footnote to the one person attacking anyone posting their views against ‘Free’, yes, I have studied geography enough to know “France is not America” and FYI I am not an American either…

I wanted to contribute my experience with Free. It is a decent deal for what you get. I was able to make calls the US but I can’t remember if that is when I started with their contract-free sim card that needs to be reloaded every month or when I switched to contract subscription. The people in the store speak varying levels of English. I took my phone with Google Translate downloaded in French. I had to compete with a lot of people for attention because people could not figure out how to use the kiosks. About the automated kiosks- at the time, the instructions were only in French. I used Google Translate to figure some of it out but ended up asking for help. If you have to use the online services for any reason, it is only in French (obviously, just be prepared for that). I tried to email for help but only received automated responses that did not actually address my questions and did not provide another way to contact them. The phone help is also in French (again obviously, but just know that). I mailed in my cancellation form that I picked up from the store and they did so in a somewhat timely manner.

Hi Lani, Thanks so much for the detailed information on Free, especially about the customer service situation. This is very helpful!

Tourist TRAP, I traveled 2 weeks in Paris, bought the $20 Unlimited Call and Text and Internet FREE mobile SIM card. After 5 days my 4G internet drop to 3G and stay with 3G for the rest of the trip, very annoying that I used the internet to navigate while driving. I called them to cancel the plan and here the step to cancel the plan – Fill out the form in paper all in French that I don’t understand. – Send Register mail to them (cost me 6 Euro) and how long dose it goto thei office ? don’t know. – Then they start the process cancelation the plan, how long soed it take ? don’t know . – After completed the cancelation process, it will take 10 days for the cancellation. How do I know it will take 10 days? – In the meantime they WILL CHARGE YOU THE SECONS MONTH ON YOUR CREDIT CARD. and if they do not cancel your plan they will charge you the third month and so on even you throw away their fricking SIM card after you leaving France. I am a victim and I have to cancel me credit card to avoid them to charge me the third month, a lot of hassle. Again Free Mobil is a TOURIST TRAP.

Disagree with you. EUROPE is strict on policy and that is because too many tourists think it is AMERICA system. Stop complaining- ADAPT- If you are stressed then stay HOME. You should rent a car with a NAVIGATION System or buy a GARMIN EUROPE GPS. it is the best way to navigate in EUROPE.. ADAPT..

I just came back from Paris. The SFR card you buy at the Bureau de Tabac for 10 Euros lasted 1/2 day and it was only to obtain a French phone # and a little of minutes. Then I had to go to a retail store, paid 20 Euros for 1 month with unlimited calls and SMS and a little of internet. The internet worked only when WiFi was available. Some numbers, called surcharged, starting with 08 & 09, very expensive, didn’t work. Good luck if you are lost, you can’t access Google maps or Whatsapp, you have to find a McDonalds or similar. Skype worked always. Next to the SFR store there was a Bouygues wireless. I will try it next time. BTW I speak perfect French, so no language problems, but it was tough, especially the SFR website.

I just returned from a 10 day trip to South Western France. I read this article before traveling and decided to get a SIM card from Orange upon arrival in Toulouse. It was a bad decision from the start. First, the Orange boutiques do not sell SIM cards, nor do they speak much English. You have to buy from a Tobac shop, which happened to have an English speaker to help us set up the phone. However, when I got to my hotel, I discovered I could not use the internet service I had purchased. Since the Tobac shop simply sold the card and “top up” services, we went to two different Orange boutiques trying to find out why it wasn’t working. Despite their limited English, I believe they understood the problem, but were unable to help me resolve it. I tried the English customer service line, but that was ONLY for their internet/landline services, not for pay as you go mobile. There was no English help line for mobile services. A few days later I received an SMS saying I needed to submit my identification or my plan would be terminated! I followed the link to their varification page and filled in the info. The confirmation message was that I would receive verification in 2-5 days–the last day of my trip. 2 days later I received a message saying something was wrong with the verification and to resubmit. By that time it was too late and I ignored all subsequent messages. Unfortunately, I have no means of resolving this issue or getting a refund, especially since I paid cash. I am not sure what went wrong, but it was not as simple as swapping out one SIM for another.

We have a 14 day European sojourn scheduled with 3 days in Wales, UK (wedding) via Manchester, 3 days in Paris, 1 day in Barcelona and 2 in Ibiza, then return to Manchester to fly back. What sims card would you recommend?

A couple of other notes on Orange Holiday… it only activates once you make an outgoing call. Then you have 14 days from that first call. It can be difficult to track when you first actually activate it, especially if you think its when you start using data. You can use the data from the get go and it does not “start” the period, only a call. Also the data will roll over to the next period if you haven’t used it all. This can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere with no phone service if you aren’t careful! Confusing, I know. And when you got to “Top Off” by adding another 2 weeks, it can take a long time for them to “approve” your transaction. I’ve waited over twelve hours in the past. Again, this can really leave you in the lurch when you are counting on your phone service. Lastly, when I have tried to “Top Up” my account, my US credit card gets immediately declined. With a dead phone, you can’t even call the US 800 number for your credit card company and get it approved! I’ve texted my husband in a panic and he’s had to get up in the middle of the night and call the credit card company for me. This has happened the first time I’ve topped up (2016 & 2017) but then works fine afterwards. Be sure you’ve got someone at home who is on the account and/or can access your credit card company from home if you plan to keep your plan longer than 2 weeks. (You could also put your US SIM card back in and make a call at your carrier’s international rate if you were desperate.) I need a French phone number when my kids are in school so I need the same number the whole time and can’t just get a new SIM card. I hope this saves at least one person the frustration of navigating the Orange Holiday Card. Good luck!

Hi Great article! Cell phone service is always the top of my list for “why can’t this be easier???!!!” But then its France we’re talking about so….

Can you tell me where I can get more information about Free mobile? I will be in France for several months on a yearly basis going forward. I’d like to get french phone number and keep it long term, even if it means paying a small fee each month. (This is why, among other reasons, I don’t like the Orange Holiday Card as it deactivates the number after 6 mos) From your article, it looks like not only do I have to go to their office to buy the SIM card but that I have to return to Paris to the store to disconnect the service? Can that be right? This is not possible for me as I will not be in Paris more than a couple of days and then in rural Brittany. I cannot find anything on their website (I speak/read/write french fluently) where I can ask any questions short of an international call form the US which will likely offset any cost savings I might gain by purchasing their product. I know, French customer service is an oxymoron! Because of the name, Free Mobile, its pretty much impossible to google so I’m having trouble finding any other article/blogs that discuss these things. Any advice, resources or other info? Thanks again for the great article. I’m sure it will help pretty much anyone who runs across it. 🙂

Hi Tamara, Thanks for reading and your feedback. It can get very complicated when it comes to SIM cards, but I think this site should be helpful for Free Mobile: http://mobile.free.fr/ Also, we wrote this article that is more European wide when it comes to buying SIM Cards: https://www.eurocheapo.com/blog/buying-a-sim-card-in-europe.html

I hope this helps and let us know if you have any more questions.

Get the Free Mobile 19€ 99 plan and switch it to the minimal 2 euro plan when you are leaving France for any period of time. You can switch back at any time to the higher priced plan with its unlimited calls to USA and elsewhere plus its 4g unlimited data. Note 10 euro service charge for each switch in plans. Far and away the best deal. Keeping it active saves the hassle of both starting a new operator and cancelling one you have.

One wrInkle on the Free plans that I just discovered is that you must keep the current plan 3 months before a change is allowed. Irritating but still a good deal for many frequent travelers to the continent.

Here is what I got from Google.fr re: free mobile: https://www.google.fr/search?source=hp&ei=YO7cXLXMDIH0-gSw-o_wCw&q=free+mobile+france&oq=freemobile+france&gs_l=psy-ab.1.0.0i10l10.2161.31357 ..36356…0.0..0.124.1753.15j4……0….1..gws-wiz…..0..0i131j0j0i7i30.7nIOnf9zHUc I hope it helps. I case you can’t open it, I googled free mobile france

Stop complaining, read, read to be well prepared. France is not AMERICA.. so get used to it. You’ll be fine (I lived in 16 countries and don’t speak 16 languages and I did not have a U.S> English or French phone and I was just Fine.

Hi, Does anyone have thoughts on the best phone plan for a 6 week stay in Nice?

Or…join T Mobile and get worldwide roaming included for free in the plan. Save on calls by using WiFi. Use your home number everywhere!

We just did it in St. Martin and it worked great.

Hi! I could easily not know what I’m talking about, but I’d thought the EU parliament had forbidden roaming charges within EU countries? So how is it legal for LeFrenchMobile to have different rates for domestic and EU-wide? I know when I’m in London later this month I plan to use my German SIM with just my usual German data package.

Yes, it is. Operators are allowed to propose better prices for their local packages, only if the package can not be used whilst roaming (and then you can not have a bad surprise whilst roaming).

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The 5 Best Prepaid SIM Cards for France

Everybody knows Paris as “the city of love” and you have probably wanted to visit it at least once in your life. Its iconic Eiffel Tower makes Paris the most touristic and visited the French city, but it is also one of the most expensive places in the country.

As a traveler, you will always look for the best option to enjoy the whole trip according to your likes, needs but the most important part: according to your budget. It is kind of impossible to travel abroad without having a cell phone, tablet or any other device. So, you will need to enable roaming services, look for free WiFi areas or buy a prepaid SIM card for France.

Looking for an alternative solution? We have eSIMs for France available!

What Are The Best SIM Cards for France?

What is the best france sim card, simoptions – prepaid sim cards for france.

This is not a French SIM card provider, but it definitely offers the best options for you for any Prepaid SIM Card for France . SimOptions has multiple packages for Europe including France, so you will not need to use roaming service or look for a free WiFi spot if you are traveling to this beautiful country.

With this prepaid SIM card for France you will save up to 95% of roaming rates, so, what are you waiting for? Read more about all these options and choose the best for you.

PAYG AIO15 | $ 29.90 - 10GB

• Calls/SMS: Yes
• Credit Validity: 30 days

PAYG AIO20 | $ 39.90 - 12GB

Holiday europe | $ 49.90 - 30gb.

• Credit Validity: 14 days

Are you looking for travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram!

If you want more information about these and other products and package, please visit SimOptions. There are four main telecommunication providers: Orange, SFR, Free Mobile and Bouygues Telecom. Most of these operators offer excellent network coverage all over France. They have wireless services from 2G, 3G, and 4G to LTE. But, today we will focus just on the two major providers: Orange and SFR.

Orange SIM Card for France

Since Orange has a considerable percentage of clients, it is considered to be the most important company in the industry. It offers a prepaid data SIM card known as Mobicarte. This is one of the best-selling SIM cards in the city. The standard data rate is a little bit expensive, it cost €0,50 per MB. So make sure to buy a package with data service included.

But first, let’s talk about the Holiday SIM Card . This is the most popular prepaid SIM card for France among all kind of travelers that visit the city of love. Take a look at the benefits included in this prepaid SIM card: This is definitely one of the best choices for tourists. It is available for only US$49.90 . It includes 2 hours of free calling  worldwide from anywhere in France and the rest of the European continent.

This SIM card also offers 1000 international SMS with the same coverage. Related to the mobile data, it offers 20GB for 14 days in all the countries that belong to the European Union.

Holiday Zen | $ 29.90 - 12GB

Find more information here: Orange Holiday SIM Card 3GB  

Find more information here: Orange Holiday SIM Card 20GB

What are the best Orange Holiday SIM Alternatives?

Now, let’s check some other alternatives provided by Orange. These are some of the options available right now:

Option 1: €5

• 1-hour calling
• SMS for free
• Valid for 7 days

Option 2: €10

• Local calling
• SMS and MMS for free
• Valid for 10 days

Option 3: €20

• Valid for 1 month

Option 4: €30

If you compare the alternatives with the Orange Holiday SIM Card , you may quickly realize that it has the greatest benefit-to-cost ratio among all of them. It offers both 120 min international calls and 1000 international SMS and more than enough data (20GB) that will easily help you, your friends & family to stay connected to the mobile internet abroad without any extra roaming charges.

SFR SIM Card for France

This is the second SIM card provider from France and of course, is the biggest Orange competitor. This company offers great services from 2G to 4G/LTE. People can buy this prepaid SIM card for France in many places. You can find them in official stores, authorized distributor or at supermarkets just for €3, 99.

This SIM card comes with a €5 credit and you will get another €5 if you show your ID. Why? Since you are probably a foreign traveler, you will need to show your passport or any other identification card. The CarteConnect package costs €14.99 and includes 2GB and a €5 credit.

You can recharge your package in any official store, authorized distributors or in most supermarkets. You just send an SMS to 952 with the recharge code (10 numbers) and you will be able to continue enjoying your package. SFR offers some other packages that will help you to stay connected at the lowest prices. Take a look at the RechargesIlimitées packages:

Package 1: €5

• Calls: 1h national/local calls
• Credit validity: 7 days

Package 2: €10.99

• Calls: Unlimited national/local calls
• Data: 500MB
• Credit validity: 10 days

Package 3: €20.99

• Credit validity: 30 days

Package 4: €30

Note: Data will be cut once the limit is reached. SFR also offers a travel prepaid SIM card called Welcome Prepaid SIM which is comparable to the Orange Holiday SIM Card mentioned above. This prepaid SIM card for France can be purchased only at some selected supermarket and official stores. It costs €34.99 (roughly $40)  and includes the following benefits:

• Calls: 1 hour calling to France, Europe, USA and China
• SMS: 500 SMS to France, Europe, USA and China
• Data: 2GB (national/local data)
• Unlimited SFR WiFi service
• Credit: 14 days

Once again, if you compare all alternative options from SFR including the Welcome Prepaid SIM, the Orange Holiday SIM Card will get you the best value for your money.

The Best SIM Card for France from SimOptions

When ordering with SimOptions, it is super simple to use mobile internet abroad. You can receive your SIM card directly at your home before the departure or at your destination abroad.

The 3-in-1 SIM Card for France

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Best e-Sim Cards for Traveling to France in 2024

Are you planning your trip to France and looking for an e-sim card to stay connected and not waste money on high roaming charges? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know before buying an e-sim card for traveling to France in 2024.

In this guide you can find a comparison of the best e-sim cards for France with up to date prices as per April 2024, including specifications per e-sim card, my recommendation and everything you need to know about using e-sim cards for traveling in France.

Also find out where and when to order an e-sim card, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your e-sim card for traveling to France on the internet.

Since 2012 I am a full time nomadic travel blogger traveling the world continuously and that is how I constantly get to a different country and pretty much every week I need to look for a new sim card. In 2022 I visited 62 countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and e-sim cards I used in the last 2 years.

In the past I always used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use e-sim cards for staying connected when traveling abroad.

Helping other travelers to save money while traveling the world is one of the reasons I started this travel blog. Providing essential travel tips is what made me start writing sim card guides from every country I visited and now on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world.

Of course I also wrote a complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for tourists in France in 2024 .

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But on Traveltomtom there are sim card guides from all over the world: USA , Canada , Turkey , Brazil ,  Germany , Greece ,  Italy , Spain , Egypt ,  Asia ,  Thailand , Vietnam ,  China , Hong Kong , Singapore , Philippines ,  Malaysia , Australia , New Zealand ,  Europe , e-sim cards for traveling internationally and many more.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and e-sim card advice for your holiday destination. Bookmark me and let me help you save money!

Let me first give you my e-sim card recommendation and a comparison of all the e-sim card plans for France with up to date prices as per April 2024. Then I will explain how e-sim cards work, more about the network coverage and 4G/5G data speed, some FAQ about e-sim cards, the difference between e-sim cards and local prepaid sim cards and everything else you need to know.

My recommendation

Traveltomtom rates the following two e-sims as the best e-sim cards for traveling to France in 2024:

1.  My European eSIM from Bouygues Telecom

• 30 GB data in all of Europe
• Unlimited calling/texting in all of Europe
• Valid for 30 days
• $1.5 USD per Gigabyte

You can order this Bouygues Telecom e-sim card via SimOptions .

The Bouygues Telecom e-sim comes with a phone number from France starting with +33 and is valid in 39 countries in Europe. Incoming and outgoing calls are supported and this e-sim card comes with free EU data roaming, which means you can use your 30 GB data all over Europe.

Therefore this Bouygues Telecom e-sim card is also ranked as one of the  best e-sim cards for traveling to Europe in 2024 .

2. Nomad 10 GB data-only

• 10 GB data-only e-sim
• Valid in France only
• $1.9 USD per Gigabyte

The Nomad e-sim card for France is data-only and does not support calling and texting and it does not come with a phone number. However, it is 5G ready and costs $1.9 USD per Gigabyte.

There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an e-sim card for France or in general before using an e-sim card.

Unlocked phones only

Make sure your phone is unlocked. E-sim cards only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country. 

In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.

If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or e-sim card to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone. 

E-sim compatible phones only

Second, and equally important: e-sim cards only work if your smartphone supports e-sim cards, also called e-sim compatible. All newer smartphones support e-sim cards. If you are not sure if your phone is e-sim compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is e-sim compatible. You will get the answer instantly.

If your phone is NOT e-sim compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an e-sim card for traveling to France.

However, you can still order a sim card for France on the internet before your trip. Check out Traveltomtom’s complete guide for buying a sim card for France in 2024  or find out everything you need to know about international sim cards for traveling abroad in 2024 .

France e-sim card comparison

There are multiple website on the internet that sell e-sim cards for France. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for traveling in France from one of the well-known e-sim card providers that have proven to be reliable operators.

Unfortunately on arrival in France in mobile phone stores tourists can not get an e-sim card, the mobile internet operators in France only supply physical prepaid sim cards for tourists. Therefore, it is recommended to order your e-sim card for France on the internet.

These are the 3 reliable e-sim card providers and they sell great e-sim card plans for France:

Nowadays, you can buy an e-sim card for pretty much every country around the world. Order directly from one of the above e-sim card providers and instantly receive your e-sim card in your email. But before you buy an e-sim card first read all my tips below.

SimOptions also offers international prepaid sim cards for France . These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to France and it is plug and play when you arrive in the France.

Airalo and Nomad only sell e-sim cards for France. 

SimOptions is a very reliable e-sim card provider and Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering your France e-sim card.

Here are the SimOptions data-only e-sim card plans for France for 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 15 days = $14.90 USD

The first two data-only e-sim cards are provided by SimOptions and are only valid in France. Unfortunately they don’t specify which mobile network operator in France they use. The max data speed on these France e-sim cards from SimOptions is 4G/LTE, they are not 5G ready.

The SimOptions e-sim cards for France do NOT come with a phone number and they do not offer incoming/outgoing calls or sms. The validity of these e-sim cards is 1 year and the credit validity starts instantly after installing the e-sim card, even if you are not in France.

There is one more data-only e-sim card for France that you can order via SimOptions and that is a Bouygues Telecom e-sim valid in 39 countries in Europe:

• 15 GB data-only valid for 15 days = $19.90 USD

Click here to order one of these SimOptions e-sim card for France .

But wait there are much better ones available. Check out the following international e-sim cards including calling and texting.

SimOptions also provides international e-sim cards for traveling to France, which are valid in all of Europe and beyond and now some are even 5G ready!

Check out the following international e-sim card plans from SimOptions for 2024:

• 15 GB data + unlimited calls for 15 days = $21.90 USD
• 10 GB data-only (5G ready) for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 12 GB data + 30 minutes international + unlimited calls/text for 14 days = $29.90 USD
• 30 GB data + unlimited calls/text for 30 days = $44.90 USD
• 30 GB data + 120 minutes international + unlimited calls/text for 14 days = $49.90 USD
• 50 GB data (5G ready) + unlimited calls/text for 28 days = $59.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an international e-sim card for France via SimOptions .

These e-sim cards are valid all over Europe and they include free EU data roaming. The best thing about these e-sim cards for France is that they also include calling and texting and some of them are even 5G ready.

These international e-sim cards for France are also valid for 1 year, but the credit validity starts only when the e-sim card connects the first time to a supported network. So you can instal the e-sim card even when you are not in Europe yet. For more info check the SimOptions website . 

Airalo is another very reputable e-sim card provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your e-sim card for France through Airalo is done fast and easy. Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest e-sim card deals.

Why using Airalo? I found out that Airalo has some cheaper e-sim card deals for France compared to SimOptions and the Airalo e-sim card plans are 5G ready.

Especially if you only use a little bit of data while traveling and need just 1 or 2 GB to stay in touch through WhatsApp, check your email and get directions from Google Maps, Airalo is a great e-sim card for traveling in France.

Here are France e-sim card plans from Airalo for 2024:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $7.5 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $10 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $23 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $36 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for France from Airalo .

Airalo always has ongoing promotions and lately they had a 50% discount on their France e-sim card plans, so it is always worth checking out Airalo.

The Airalo e-sim cards for France are through BonBon Mobile and they operate on the Orange, Bouygues and SFR 4G/LTE and 5G network in France. Yes, as of 2024 the Airalo e-sim cards for France are 5G ready!

Bonbon Mobile is a data-only sim card without a phone number, so any phone/sms service is NOT supported. An Airalo e-sim card has to be installed within 1 month and after activation the credit validity starts when it connects the first time to a supported network.

For more info check out the Airalo website .

Traveltomtom only recently discovered Nomad e-sim cards when looking for the best e-sim card deals and comparing e-sim cards for traveling to France. Traveltomtom has only used Nomad a few times now and is keen on experiencing more about Nomad e-sim cards because Nomad has some of the cheapest France e-sim card plans.

Here are the Nomad e-sim card plans for France:

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $6 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $19 USD
• 15 GB data for 30 days = $27 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $33 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for France from Nomad . 

The Nomad e-sim cards for France are provided by either Nomad Black or eSIM Go. the e-sim card plans from Nomad Black only support 4G/LTE max data speed and the eSIM Go e-sim card plans support 5G.

The Nomad France e-sim cards have to be installed on your phone within 30 days and after installation its validity starts when it connects for the first time to a supported network in France. Basically when the plane lands.

For more info check the Nomad website .

Why did Traveltomtom already used more than 100s of e-sim cards? I told you before that I travel full time and I am on the road constantly which means I literally use about 40 to 50 sim cards per year. No better sim card specialist out there than Traveltomtom.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still more than 40 to go, but no rush.

What is the cheapest e-sim card for France

The cheapest e-sim card for France is an Airalo e-sim card plan with 1 GB data for 7 days for just $4.5 USD. It is only valid in France and it does not support calling and texting.

Why ordering an e-sim card for traveling in France

E-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to France in 2024 and you can arrange everything online in just a couple clicks. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes. 

The most important reason to get an e-sim card is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to France without wasting money on high roaming costs. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app (Uber is Grab in France), finding nearby friends, restaurants, bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply stay in touch with family back home, check out social media apps on long bus rides or check your banking apps when paying contactless.

One of the best things about arriving in France with an activated e-sim card is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you connect to a network. More about when to instal your e-sim card later.

There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to France, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to France so much more convenient and fun!

At the same time we don’t want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $2 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 25 MB * $2 USD = $50 USD! Not kidding… it still is very common in 2024.

E-sim cards are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what data speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed, but there is 4G/LTE and even 5G in France everywhere!

Uncountable times (mostly American) travel friends asked me: “can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!” Trust me, get yourself an e-sim card or an international prepaid sim card for traveling to France.

Where to buy an e-sim card for France?

You can only buy an e-sim card for France on the internet through an e-sim card provider. There are multiple e-sim card providers for France. Traveltomtom compared 6 e-sim card providers and concluded that the above mentioned ones ( SimOptions , Airalo and Nomad ) are the best e-sim card providers for traveling to France in 2024.

On arrival in France

When you arrive in France and you want to buy an e-sim card for tourists then you are unlucky. As of April 2024 none of the mobile internet providers in France sells e-sim cards for tourists. Only physical prepaid sim cards are available.

Traveltomtom shopped around himself in Marseille as well as Paris and in all stores it was a clear: No! The mobile internet providers in France do NOT offer e-sim cards for tourists.

For the best prepaid sim card for tourists in France in 2024  click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in France, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network. 

How to activate an e-sim card

Installing and activating an e-sim card is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an e-sim card and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email.

When you order an e-sim card plan for France you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.

You will see a summary of your e-sim card order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your France e-sim card.

But installing an activating an e-sim card is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the e-sim card on. The QR contains all the information about your France e-sim card.

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your e-sim card is successfully installed. Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your e-sim card otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur. 

Tip: if you order an e-sim card with the same phone where you want to instal the e-sim card on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.

When to order an e-sim card for France?

You can order an e-sim card for France pretty much any time you want. Most e-sim cards have to be installed on a phone within 1 month after purchasing, some even within 1 year, so you have time.

More important therefore is when do you instal/activate the e-sim card. The validity of some e-sims start straight after the installation, other e-sim cards only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your e-sim card on the day of departure to France. Or if you want to maximise your validity then activate your France e-sim card on arrival after you connect to the free WiFi of the airport on arrival in France. All international airports in France have free public WiFi.

Things to know before ordering an e-sim card for France

Here are some general tips for using e-sim cards when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for France e-sim cards, but are things you have to know before buying an e-sim card in general.

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn’t miss this, let me say this again: e-sim cards only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any e-sim card without any problems.

If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to France. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone.

If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a pocket WiFi for staying connected when traveling to France or bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to France and use it as a portable WiFi device.

Which smartphones support e-sim cards?

Another very important thing you have to check before buying an e-sim card is if your smartphone supports e-sim cards. If you have any of the latest mobile phones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones support e-sim cards.

The fastest way to find out if your phone is e-sim compatible is by asking Google the question: is my (your phone model) e-sim compatible? Simple as that!

Can I trust these e-sim card providers?

All the e-sim card providers for France recommended above ( SimOptions , Airalo and Nomad ) are reputable e-sim card providers reviewed and tested by Traveltomtom. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in France.

Traveltomtom has successfully partnered for several consecutive years with SimOptions and Airalo. Nomad is a fairly new partner of Traveltomtom, but has so far proven to be a reliable e-sim card provider. All e-sim card providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.

Traveltomtom does NOT sell France e-sim cards, only RECOMMENDS you to use e-sim cards for traveling to France.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a France e-sim card?

Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an e-sim card to stay connected when traveling to France. An e-sim card can be used next to your physical or e-sim card from your home country at the same time. You do not need a dual-sim phone for using an e-sim card. 

So you can have multiple e-sim cards installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all!

For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. France e-sim card you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.

If your France e-sim card also allows you to make phone calls and you want to make a local call in France, you simply switch between the sim cards and make a local phone call with your France e-sim card.

Switching between physical and e-sim cards is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings.

Can I make phone calls with a France e-sim card?

This depends on the type of e-sim card that you order. Only the international e-sim cards for France from SimOptions offer calling and texting. All the e-sim cards from Nomad and Airalo are data-only.

The international e-sim cards from SimOptions come with unlimited calling and texting in all of Europe. This is also one of the reasons why the SimOptions e-sim cards are ranked as the best e-sim cards for traveling to Europe in 2024 .

Does a France e-sim card come with a phone number?

This also depends on the type of e-sim card that you buy. E-sims that support calling and texting they come with a phone number. 

In the above France e-sim card comparison you can find all the specifications per e-sim card. All the international e-sim cards from SimOptions come with a phone number, which means they can also receive calls and sms. Most of them actually come with a phone number from France. 

Can I use 5G on a France e-sim card?

Luckily as of April 2024 there are more and more e-sim cards for France that also support 5G. All the Airalo e-sim cards for France are now 5G ready. Nomad has some e-sim card plans that are 5G ready, the ones that are from eSIM Go.

Unfortunately, most of the international e-sim cards from SimOptions France are not 5G ready yet. But SimOptions offers an amazing e-sim card deal for France that supports 5G:

Orange Holiday Europe with 50 GB data for 28 days and unlimited calling and texting for $59.90 USD .

This e-sim card is valid in all of Europe and therefore also rated as one of the best sim cards for traveling to Europe in 2024 .

Are there e-sim cards for France with unlimited data?

None of the by Traveltomtom recommended France e-sim cards for tourists include unlimited data.

There are e-sim card providers that offer e-sim cards for France with unlimited data but always make sure the unlimited data is on max data speed. I can tell you already that is pretty much never the case, the data speed is capped after you used X amount of Gigabytes in total or per day.

Holafly is an e-sim card provider that sells e-sim cards with unlimited data, but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP). 

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend France e-sim cards with unlimited data plans. There are always restrictions. And on Holafly sim cards I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.

Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading!

You have to ask yourself the question then why do you need an e-sim card with unlimited data? What is the point even if it is restricted after a couple Gigabytes per day. Then it is in essence not 'unlimited'.

The Orange e-sim card with 50 GB data from SimOptions  comes very close to being unlimited. If you travel to France for 14 days that means you have more than 3.5 GB per day.

There are a lot of different specifications per e-sim card. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to France in 2024 before choosing your favorite.

Best way to stay connected when traveling to France

E-sim cards are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to France, but are they also the best way to stay connected when traveling to France?

There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to France:

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards.

Let’s compare e-sim cards, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards for you to make understand what is your preferred way to stay connected. 

If you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards are probably a cheaper way to stay connected, depending on the length of your trip. Local prepaid sim cards often offer bigger data plans than e-sim cards. However, local prepaid sim cards can only be purchased on arrival in France.

More info about the best France sim cards for tourists can be found in my complete guide for buying a sim card for France in 2024. 

If this sounds like something you want then be prepared to find a sim card store on arrival nearby your hotel or buy a sim card at Paris Airport. 

On Traveltomtom you can also find a guide for buying a sim card at Paris Airport . There is one place at Paris Airport were they have e-sim cards for tourists.

The advantage of local prepaid sim cards is that you buy them directly from the mobile internet provider. You get the cheapest prices, unlimited local calls & sms included, the biggest data packages and the fastest data speed. Local prepaid sim cards for tourists in France are NOT all 5G ready.

Free Mobile is the only operator that allows prepaid users to use the 5G network. All other mobile internet operators only offer 4G/LTE max data speed. Local prepaid sim cards for tourists only come as physical prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards are not available.

If your smartphone is not e-sim compatible you can order an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad . Some of them are great for using in France and in Europe and you can easily order them online.

Traveltomtom also put together a list of the best sim cards for traveling in Europe in 2024 .

A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play!

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for France directly online .

The advantage of an international prepaid sim card is that it often includes calling and texting. E-sim cards are mostly data-only sim cards. 

There are two different e-sim cards: 

• E-sim cards that you buy on the internet through a third party
• E-sim cards that you buy in France in a mobile internet provider store (NOT AVAILABLE)

The big difference is that e-sim cards provided by the local internet operators in France: SFR, Bouygues Telecom, Free Mobile and Orange can only be purchased at one of their phone stores around France. 

However, as of April 2024 e-sim cards are not available for prepaid tourist sim cards. Traveltomtom personally shopped around to find out if e-sim cards were available for tourists and in every store I got a NO!

Also see my vlog about buying a sim card in France, which was just recently filmed.

There is one exception and that is when buying a sim card at Paris Airport. At Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport they sell Bouygues Telecom and Orange sim cards for tourists. The Tourist Information is the only place that sells an e-sim card, but only from Bouygues Telecom.

Read all about it in my detailed guide about buying a sim card at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport .

Or watch my vlog below about my arrival at Charles de Gaulle and my experiences buying a sim card for France. 

E-sim cards vs. local prepaid sim cards

Getting an e-sim card is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to France, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now and you are all set for your trip to France. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.

But what is cheaper? An e-sim card or a local prepaid sim card for tourists? When we compare France e-sim card prices with local prepaid sim cards for France Traveltomtom comes to the conclusion that in fact e-sim cards for France are cheaper as they already start from just $4.5 USD. However, if you are a heavy data user local prepaid sim cards are better value for money as for €19.90 EUR ($22 USD) you already get 200 GB data on 5G network, including unlimited calling and texting. 

After a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card store and get connected. Reminder that the cheapest e-sim cards at Paris Airport start from €39.90 EUR ($43 USD).

Therefore a lot of travelers simply get an e-sim card for France. Faster, easier and less stress and depending on your needs sometimes even cheaper.

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an e-sim card is that e-sim cards are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO’s operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.

This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that e-sim cards through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an e-sim cards is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

Bottomline: the data speed of e-sim cards can be less compared to a local prepaid sim card.

I am sure some of the above tips for finding the best e-sim card for your trip to France were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison, tips and tricks it was easier to make a decision and order your e-sim card right away.

If you still have any questions about e-sim cards for France then please leave me a comment below or reach out to me on social media and I am more than happy to help you out.

Curious what it looks like trying to visit every country in the world ? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along. As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, so still a long way to go.

Enjoy your trip to France! 

Some links in this article about the best e-sim cards for France are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Best esim for france | a complete guide to buying esim data plans in france.

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting France

phones and technology

Having reliable mobile data on your phone is essentially required when traveling to France. Many travelers spend a fortune (and get slow/inconsistent service) to use their home plan’s international data service but buying a prepaid French eSIM data plan is a much cheaper option.

In this buyer’s guide, I’ll cover how to find the best eSIM for France so you can get fast high-speed mobile data at a cheap price.

Using A Prepaid France eSIM Data Plan Vs Your Plan’s International Data Plan

In most cases, your current mobile phone provider will have an international data plan option but these plans are typically wildly expensive and the service is often slow, inconsistent, and has limited data allowances.

For example, many TMobile plans come with free unlimited international data plans but you’re only guaranteed 2g data speeds… which will struggle to load Google Maps or even email.

Or the AT&T International Day Pass costs $10/day. They also have their AT&T Passport plan which is a monthly plan that comes in two options—$70/month for 2GB of data or $140/month for 6GB of data. And then they charge a crazy high overage of $30 per GB.

This is a crazy price.

But you can buy an eSIM from companies like Orange or Holafly and you’ll get plenty of high-speed data for around $2-$3/day.

For more in-depth information, check out The Savvy Backpacker’s guide on How To Use Smartphones and Data Plans In Europe and The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Using eSIM data plans in Europe .

Comparing The Best eSIM Data Plans for France

There are a handful of different eSIM mobile providers that specialize in data plans for visitors to France.

Each plan will vary slightly so it’s important to pay attention to the specific details of each plan. But here are the main things to consider:

• Data Allowance: Most plans give you a set amount of mobile data (i.e. 5GB, 10GB, 30GB, etc) but others give you unlimited data over a set amount of time (5 days, 15 days, 30 days, etc).
• Plan Length: eSIM data plans can be valid anywhere from about 5 days to 90 days. It depends on your plan so it’s something you’ll want to consider when picking a plan.
• Mobile Hot Spot Tethering: Most eSIM plans don’t allow you to use your phone as a mobile hot spot.
• NOTE: You can still use iMessage to “text” between iPhones but you can’t send messages between iPhones and Android phones. Or you can download WhatsApp to send messages over data (which is what most Europeans do).

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM (50GB): $59.90

• Price:  $59.90 (Check  SimOptions  for details)
• Data:  50GB
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity:  28 day
• Data Tethering:  Allowed
• Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
• This eSIM plan comes with a French phone number that can still be used anywhere in Europe
• Service works everywhere in the EU

If you need a ton of mobile data, consider the newly released  Orange Holiday Europe 50GB eSIM data plan  which is a beefed-up version of the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM. It has 50GB of data and it’s valid for 28 days (compared to 14 days with the Orange Holiday Europe plan). This eSIM also comes with many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that works anywhere in Europe).

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot so you can put that extra data allowance to good use. Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

ORANGE HOLIDAY EUROPE ESIM: $49.90

• Price:  $49.90 (Check  SimOptions  for details)
• Data:  20GB (they sometimes give you 30GB of data)
• Credit validity:  14 day
• Data Tethering: Allowed
• This eSIM plan comes with a French phone number

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM data plan is the “Cadillac” of eSIM plans because it comes with many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number as well). The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.

You’ll get 20GB of data with this plan but they often run specials where they give you an extra 10GB. But even 20GB should be plenty of data for most users.

Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in France so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

The potential downside to the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan is that it’s only valid for 14 days once activated so it’s not great for longer visits (but you can always buy a second plan).

I’ve personally used the Orange Holiday Europe plan on a trip to France and it worked super well. Read my Orange Holiday Europe review to hear more.

Bouygues My European eSIM: $44.90

Bouygues is another major French telecommunications company and they’ve recently released their own prepaid eSIM data plan to compete with the popular Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan. I used a prepaid Bouygues SIM card on a previous trip to Europe so I’m glad they’re finally offering an eSIM.

There’s a lot to like about the Bouygues My European eSIM plan—especially since it comes standard with 30GB of data and unlimited calls/texts within Europe. I also like how this Bouygues eSIM plan is valid for 30 days so it’s an excellent option for longer trips.

• Price: $44.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe and credit for overseas calls
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and credit for overseas SMS
• Credit validity: 30 day
• Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a French phone number
• Coverage : Anywhere within the European Union (except Switzerland)

HOLAFLY ESIM: STARTING AT $34.00

Holafly  is a new data-only eSIM provider that I’ve previously used on a trip to Europe—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my  Holafly eSIM Review  to get a more in-depth look). Holafly sells both country-specific French plans and Europe-wide data plans. Holafly isn’t an actual mobile carrier but they rent bandwidth from a local French provider (SFR) so you’re more likely to get less priority on the SFR network during peak usage times.

Unlike other mobile companies, Holafly gives you unlimited data and a local phone number with 60 minutes of credit for making/receiving calls from European numbers. I also like how Holafly’s plans come in durations from 5 to 90 days—so you don’t have to over/underbuy for your particular trip.

Holafly doesn’t allow data tethering in most cases so you won’t be able to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.

• 10 Days: $34
• 15 Days: $47
• 20 Days: $54
• 30 Days: $64
• 60 Days: $84
• 90 Days: $99
• Service Speed:  5G/4G/LTE
• Calls coverage:  60 minutes of credit make calls from all of Europe—except Iceland, Norway, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Turkey. Comes with an Austrian phone number.
• SMS:  None
• Tethering:  No
• Data service works everywhere in the EU

ORANGE HOLIDAY ZEN ESIM: $29.90

• Price:  $29.90 (Check  SimOptions  for details)
• Data:  8GB (they sometimes give you 15GB of data)
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.

The Orange Holiday Zen eSIM is the budget version of the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan. It comes with 8GB of data and has fewer voice minutes and texts but otherwise, it’s the same as the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan.

Personally, I’d probably use more than 8GB of data but light data users could easily use less than 8GB of data during a typical 10-14 day trip.

More France Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

Here are some more of my favorite articles to help you plan your trip to France (and beyond):

• Paris Travel Guide:  The Savvy Backpacker’s complete guide to Paris.
• The Best Things To Do In Paris : What to do in Paris.
• The Best Budget Restaurants in Paris : Where to eat cheap in Paris.
• Things To Do in Nice, France : The Savvy Backpacker’s guide to Nice.
• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Europe Packing List for Women
• The Best Travel Shoes
• The Best Travel Backpacks  and  The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Recent Posts
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

No Funny Business

The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

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Buy Travel SIM Cards for Paris in USA

Best Value Travel Sim Cards for Paris. Buy your Travel Sim Card wth data before you fly! Perfect for Aussie Tourists. Buy Online from SimCorner.

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Paris 2024 Olympics: How to plan a last-minute trip, from Games tickets to accommodation

If you are kicking yourself for not bagging tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympics when they first went on sale, all is not lost. A travel expert tells Sky News how sports fans can plan a last-minute trip this summer.

News reporter @jos_franks

Monday 22 April 2024 14:08, UK

As the Paris Olympics draw closer, the hype is increasing - and it's only going to build from here. 

If you are kicking yourself for not bagging tickets when they first went on sale, all is not lost.

There are still ways you can get to Paris to see the Games.

Sky News talks to a travel expert to bring you all you need to know about securing your last-minute trip.

Can I still get tickets for the Olympics?

Yes, it is still possible to get tickets for the Games.

More than 250,000 tickets went on sale on 17 April to mark 100 days until the opening of the Games.

This is the last ticket sale, but tickets are still available for dozens of events.

The first sale involved a lottery and timeslots to buy packs of tickets for events.

In the final stretch of ticket sales, things are a lot simpler.

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and you can see the availability for different events in real time on the website.

While a lot of the final tickets on sale are pretty pricey, there is still the chance to bag a bargain.

Almost 20,000 tickets were put on sale for €24 and it is still possible to get tickets to see football for this price.

At the other end of the spectrum, there are ticket and hospitality packages available that will set you back hundreds of Euros.

What about the Paralympics?

The Paralympic Games will take place from 28 August to 8 September and there are still tickets available from €15.

The booking works the same as for the Olympics - first-come, first-served, with the remaining tickets now available on the website.

Avoid the scammers

Don't get caught out by scammers - make sure you only buy tickets through the official Paris 2024 ticketing website.

It's not too late to book - but don't wait

While the start of the Games is fast approaching, it's not too late to plan a trip - but you should "get booking ASAP", Jessica Dante, travel expert at Love and London, tells Sky News.

The Eurostar is not as "wildly priced" as you might expect, she says, with return fares available for the first week of the Games for under £200 - and the same is true of budget airlines.

But, Ms Dante cautions, "that will invariably only continue to go up" - so book soon rather than hold out for a last-minute deal.

Could there be last-minute deals on accommodation?

Don't bank on it, Ms Dante says.

"I'm always in the camp of just book something so you have it. If something else pops up closer to the time then fine, you can try to make a switch if you've got something that you can cancel.

"But there's also the chance that something might not pop up that's going to be in your price range as well."

While there could be a small wave of accommodation deals open up as people cancel, a lot of accommodation will be non-refundable at least a couple of weeks before the Games, so any cancellations are likely to still be fairly far in advance, she says.

Tips for booking accommodation

There is still "decent availability" for hotels, she says, although some popular spots are already booked up.

Unsurprisingly, cost has a lot to do with location - so look away from central areas and places close to Olympic locations if you are looking to save money.

"The flip side of that is it then means that you're probably going to have to deal with taking the metro and you'll have to pay for the inflated cost of the rides."

The price of metro tickets will almost double during the Games, from €2.10 (£1.80) to €4 (£3.40).

But the surcharge on public transport is unlikely to match the price difference on a more central hotel. Ms Dante advises looking at suburban areas or the outskirts of the city.

What about staying in another town?

Staying in another town entirely and travelling to Paris for events is one option.

But you should consider the pros and cons carefully, Ms Dante says.

There is a looming threat of train strikes. The CGT public servants union has announced plans to strike during the Olympics, which could mean many transport workers walking out.

If you are staying outside Paris, that could scupper your plans to easily travel into the city.

Even if there are not strikes, trains into Paris are likely to be crowded, Ms Dante says.

"You do have to kind of balance that and just be prepared that you might have some difficulty."

Read more: Paris 2024 Olympics: Everything you need to know The Team GB athletes to watch at the Olympics

Can you go to the Olympics and avoid Paris entirely?

The Games may be headlined as Paris 2024, but there are events taking place across the country - and the surfing is even in Tahiti.

The cities of Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Nice, Bordeaux, Nantes and Marseille will host events.

The Olympic ticketing site allows you to filter available events by location, so if you are keen to give Paris a miss you can seek out what is happening in other places.

"They're going to be a little bit less popular than stuff that's right in the centre of Paris, so I think that's a really good option," Ms Dante says.

Consider the Paralympics

The Paralympics often gets overshadowed by the Olympics, but it's a great option if you want to experience the Games, Ms Dante says.

"It's going to be a little bit less crowded, the pricing will be better, probably a little bit more of a relaxed experience."

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Is it worth going to Paris if you don't have tickets to the Games?

Maybe there are no tickets left in your price range, or your favourite event is sold out - is it worth planning a trip to Paris anyway?

"Definitely," according to Ms Dante. "This whole summer it's going to be really buzzy there."

A lot of locals will leave the city, she says. It's French tradition in the summer, but the exodus is likely to be even bigger this year as Parisians flee the crowds - meaning some areas could end up being quieter than normal.

Attractions away from the main Olympic sites could also be quieter than normal, she says.

How to make the most of your trip

If you are keen to combine cultural activities with sporting ones, consider booking a guided tour to big attractions, Ms Dante advises.

That way, you have got your ticket secured and the tour guides will be up to speed on any road closures or access changes that could make your visit more tricky.

Also keep in mind that there will be a lot of security measures in place and getting around the city will take longer than normal.

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9 Places to See the Summer Olympics Without Setting Foot in Paris

You may have trouble finding accommodations or tickets to events in Paris, but other destinations around France are hosting sports like soccer, sailing, basketball and surfing.

By Sophie Stuber

For sports fans, Paris will be the center of the universe this summer — and with 15 million Olympic and Paralympic visitors expected, it will feel like it, with crowds and high prices. But Paris isn’t the only Olympic site in France: Nine destinations outside the metro region are also hosting events, giving travelers a way to catch some action without getting caught up in the crush.

In places like Bordeaux, Marseille and even Tahiti, you can watch top athletes compete in soccer, basketball, sailing and surfing. (Tickets have been added in batches, so if the ones you want aren’t available, keep checking the ticketing site, tickets.Paris2024.org . If all else fails, the official resale platform opens on May 15 .)

And when you’re not watching sports, you can take advantage of museums, parks, design centers, and fresh food and wine options. In Nantes, you can even ride a mechanical elephant.

Here are some ideas for planning your own alternative Olympic trip.

Basketball: July 27 to Aug. 4; tickets from 50 euros ($54).

Handball: Aug. 6 to 11, tickets from €45.

Start with a stroll around Vieux-Lille and a coffee in the Grande Place, taking in the colorful facades of this city near the Belgian border. Head over to the St.-Sauveur area to see the Art Deco belfry and exhibitions at Gare St.-Sauveur , a former train station. On Sundays, at the rambling Wazemmes market , about 400 vendors offer produce, fish, plants, fabrics, textiles and leather goods. Head out to Parc du Héron , east of the city, to see the LaM museum (€7), with works by the likes of Pablo Picasso, Amedeo Modigliani and Joan Miró. Lille is better known for beer than for wine, and the Brasserie Gobrecht offers brewery tours every Saturday (reservations recommended).

Where to stay: Hotel de la Paix (€354 per night); Hotel Carlton (€406).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 2; tickets from €24.

Capital of a region best known for its wine, this small southwestern city sells local wine-walk maps at its tourist office. Stop by the Marché des Capucins , a local indoor market that also houses Bistro Poulette , a slightly chaotic and very delicious spot serving moules-frites, or mussels with fries. In the afternoon, check out the Bassins des Lumières (€15), the largest digital art center in the world, and the Cité du Vin (€21), which offers wine-tasting experiences. To wind down in a quiet wine bar, try Yarra , or for a cocktail, Symbiose . If you have time for side trips, spend a day in St.-Emilion, about 27 miles away, where you can sample great wines. Or check out the nearly 340-foot-high Dune du Pilat , the tallest sand dune in Europe — about 37 miles southwest of Bordeaux, near the beach town of Arcachon.

To stay: Les Chambres de Marie (€170); La Maison Galiène (€259); Yndo Hotel (€355); Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa (€419).

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

The street signs in Nantes are in both Breton and French, reflecting the city’s historical ties to Brittany. Start at Talensac Market for picnic supplies, especially radishes, local cheeses and strawberries. Pick up local delicacies like Gâteau Nantais (almond poundcake) and Far Breton (flan with Armanac-soaked prunes). Take your picnic lunch to the courtyard of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne , a medieval castle and museum (courtyard is free; museum is €9). On the Île de Nantes, a former shipyard has been transformed into a wild mechanical theme park. The Machines de l’Île mixes Jules Verne’s stories with Leonardo da Vinci’s designs in the form of a ridable mechanical elephant and sea creatures (€9.50 for the elephant ride or gallery visit). The Mémorial de l’Abolition de l’Esclavage (free) covers Nantes’s history as the most active slave-trading port in 18th-century France. The artists behind the glass-and-concrete memorial, Krzysztof Wodiczko and Julian Bonder , aimed to create “a metaphorical and emotional reminder of the primarily historical, but also very current, struggle for the abolition of slavery.”

To stay: Hotel Voltaire Opéra (€103); Hotel de la Cité (€120).

Châteauroux

Shooting: July 27 to Aug. 5; tickets from €24.

The small city not far from the Loire Valley is named for Château Raoul , the 10th-century castle that’s now part of a local official’s private residence. The best view of the château is from the Gütersloh Bridge. Follow the “coulée verte” — or green corridor — along the banks of the Indre River, stopping by Parc de Belle-Isle , which has a lake for swimming, with kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to rent, as well as a beach, playgrounds and camping. The Franciscan Cordeliers Convent (free), which dates to the 13th century, today offers contemporary art exhibits and miles of gardens, and the Bertrand Museum (free), a former 18th-century townhouse, showcases diverse collections in each of its 26 rooms, including the plaster original of the Camille Claudel sculpture “Sakuntala.”

To stay: Au Lys Blanc (€138); Les Rives du Château (€210 for a two-bedroom apartment).

Lyon and St.-Étienne

Soccer: Lyon, July 24 to Aug. 9; tickets from €24. St.-Étienne, July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

It will be easy to catch soccer matches in either Lyon or St.-Étienne, only an hour apart by train or car in east-central France. In Lyon, often called the gastronomic capital of France, visit the majestic Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica , then savor an ice cream at La Fabrique Givrée . Explore the city’s network of covered passageways, called traboules — originally for workers to transport textiles and later used during World War II by the French Resistance for clandestine meetings. Then climb up to the Pentes de la Croix-Rousse neighborhood, with its tiny streets, shops and views of Lyon below. On a clear day, you can even see Mont Blanc. The Lugdunum museum (€7) and the nearby Roman theater (€4) take visitors back to 43 B.C., when Lyon was known as Lugdunum, and La Maison des Canuts (€9.50), covers the city’s history as a capital of silk.

Between Lyon and St.-Étienne, Pilat Regional Natural Park offers more than 900 miles of rocky terrain for hiking and biking, culminating at the summit of 4,700-foot Crêt de la Perdrix , with views of the Alps and Massif Central range.

St.-Étienne, about 40 miles southwest of Lyon, is transforming its historical industrial identity into one of design and innovation. At the heart is the Cité du Design (€4.50), the former site of a weapons factory, which has served as a center for art and research since 2010. The complex, now a key economic force in the city, is open to the public year-round and hosts art and design exhibitions.

To stay in Lyon: Fourvière Hotel (€189); Hôtel du Théâtre (€323).

To stay in St.-Étienne: Le Parc 42 (€113); Le Golf Sauna (€269).

Sailing (including windsurfing, kitesurfing and more): July 28 to Aug. 8; tickets from €24.

Soccer: July 24 to Aug. 6; tickets from €24.

This Mediterranean port city mixes urban grit and natural beauty. Start by visiting Le Panier, the village-like oldest part of the city. Try navettes , a traditional orange flower biscuit, and sample some sardines or panisses , traditional chickpea fries, on a sunny terrace. Detour through the touristy but pleasant Old Port on the way to Mucem (€11), the first major museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilization and cultures. Have a pick-me-up at Deep Coffee Roasters , a specialty roaster tucked away between touristy shops. At sunset, climb up to Cours Julien , a hip neighborhood with beautiful views for your apéro. Don’t miss the Cité Radieuse , a UNESCO-listed apartment complex that shows off the architect Le Corbusier’s Modernist mastery (you can stay at the hotel in it). And just southeast of the city, the Calanques , a series of small, narrow coves , offer miles of oceanside trails and rocky scrambles along turquoise water.

To stay: Hotel Le Corbusier (€229); Maison Juste (€300).

Soccer: July 24 to 31; tickets from €24.

Summer is peak season in Nice, the queen city of the French Riviera, where the mountains meet the Mediterranean. Run, bike or in-line skate along the Promenade des Anglais , a four-mile seaside path. Then climb up to the Colline du Château , a rocky hill east of the promenade with views of Nice and even as far as the Alps. For a longer walk, follow the trails from Coco Beach to the Cap de Nice along the coves. Then head to Cours Saleya , a pedestrian section of the Old Town, with flower stands, antiques and local food like the socca , a chickpea pancake. The Musée de Préhistoire Terra Amata (€5), constructed on top of an excavation site, reveals what Nice was like up to 400,000 years ago. Or just enjoy one of Nice’s pebbled beaches in a lounge chair.

To stay: Hôtel Rossetti (€186); Yelo Mozart (€238).

Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Surfing: July 27 to 31 ( events could shift through Aug. 4, depending on surf conditions); fan zones free.

For surfing’s second Olympics since its debut in Tokyo, the competition takes place far from mainland France in Tahiti, part of French Polynesia. Since the wave is offshore, there will be two ticket-free fan zones — Taharu’u Beach and Paofai Gardens — to watch the events on large screens. A third fan zone at PK0 beach in Teahupo’o will have free tickets but limited access. Tahiti offers white sands and turquoise lagoons in addition to near-perfect waves. For snorkeling, try the lagoon near Maui Beach , five miles from Teahupo’o. For black volcanic sands, head to Taharu’u Beach, about 20 miles northwest of Teahupo’o. About 45 miles from Teahupo’o, Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, with a population of about 26,000, offers a variety of local delicacies like poisson cru: raw fish with lime juice and coconut milk, served with rice. Sample local fare, including steak frites and skewered veal heart, from food trucks, called roulettes, at Place Vai’ete, on the waterfront, near the Papeete Market.

To stay: Kia Ora Lodge (€265, seven miles from Teahupo’o); Punatea Village (€73, six miles from Teahupo’o).

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of a picture with this article was published in error. The image showed the French town of Cassis, not Marseille, where several Olympic events will take place this summer. It has been replaced.

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