Author: Maria
Published: 2025-02-14 16:01:29 | Updated:
Are you looking for an eSIM plan for a stay in France? Do you want to know which operators offer virtual SIM cards and how to benefit from them? Discover all the available eSIM offers in France and follow our tips to make the best choice.
The eSIM, or virtual SIM card, is becoming increasingly popular. Today, it is offered by most major French and international operators!
There are three major operators in France: Orange, Bouygues Telecom, and SFR. Although they took some time to develop this technology, they now all offer eSIM subscriptions. They also provide eSIM options through their low-cost brands Sosh, B&You, and RED by SFR.
Although not considered a historical operator, Free Mobile is one of the major French operators that offer eSIM. Some virtual operators, or MVNOs, such as Prixtel, were among the first to adopt this technology.
France, being a highly popular tourist destination, is naturally included in the catalog of major travel eSIM providers, such as UPeSIM. You can choose an eSIM plan for France to enjoy instant internet access during your trip.
When traveling, accessing the internet can be a real challenge. Instead of relying on hotel and restaurant WiFi or paying exorbitant roaming fees, you can choose from several solutions.
Depending on your current mobile plan, you may already be able to connect to the French mobile network at no extra cost. Some operators offer international plans that include multiple foreign destinations! Be sure to check the included countries in your plan.
However, if you have a low-cost or no-contract plan, it is unlikely that additional destinations are included. International plans are usually premium subscriptions with 12 or 24-month contracts and higher prices.
Your operator may offer international options for temporary internet needs. These no-contract options provide a data package along with calls, SMS, and MMS from different destinations, sometimes bundled by region. However, not all operators offer these options, and they may be quite limited in terms of mobile internet. And when traveling, internet access is crucial for using GPS or booking hotels!
To have a mobile plan in France, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card directly from a retailer. This allows you to access a small amount of data, calls, and SMS/MMS during your stay. The main drawback of this method is that you have to change your phone number!
Travelers who need affordable mobile internet in France can subscribe to an eSIM plan for France. These data plans provide immediate internet access, without roaming fees, and without the need to change SIM cards or phone numbers. With instant activation, an eSIM allows you to connect to the mobile internet network as soon as you land! There are also eSIM plans for Europe covering all EU roaming zone countries, making them ideal for multi-country travel.
Looking for the best data plan available in France? We have compared the top eSIM offers for you:
Note: The data is unlimited, but tethering is limited to 1 GB per day.
Holafly is known for offering unlimited travel eSIMs, but it is also the most expensive provider! While having unlimited data may seem appealing, keep in mind:
Thus, it may not always be worth the high price for your travel eSIM.
Airalo’s offer is interesting but generally more expensive than UPeSIM’s France eSIM. Moreover, it is more limited! While Airalo only offers 4G plans, UPeSIM allows you to surf in 5G using Bouygues Telecom’s excellent network. UPeSIM also receives the best customer feedback, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 on both app stores!
Want to know more? Check out our comparison of the best travel eSIM providers!