The Balkan Loop (2 Weeks): Croatia–Bosnia–Montenegro–Albania–N. Macedonia

30 Oct 2025

Planning a balkan itinerary 2 weeks long? This coastal-meets-mountains loop threads together Croatia’s polished Adriatic, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ottoman charm, Montenegro’s fjord-like bays, Albania’s wild Riviera and North Macedonia’s lake country. It’s compact enough for buses, richer with a rental car, and rewarding either way. Expect sea days, winding alpine passes, and one or two ferries if you want them. Connectivity varies: coastal corridors are strong, but inland national parks and ferry crossings can be patchy—so a smart eSIM plan and a quick APN check at each border will keep you online.

This guide gives you a day-by-day route with realistic travel times, the best side trips, and connectivity tactics that work in the Western Balkans (where “EU roaming” often doesn’t). We’ll show you when to stay coastal, when to go inland, bus vs car trade‑offs, and how to choose between a regional eSIM and stacking country eSIMs. Finish in Skopje (open-jaw) or loop back if you must—either way, you’ll cover the highlights without rushing.

Who this route suits (and when to go)

Best for: First-time visitors who want both Adriatic coast and inland culture, photographers, food lovers.
Trip style: 2 weeks, 1–3 nights per stop, mix of city and nature.
Transport: Works by bus; a car unlocks national parks and short ferries (Bay of Kotor shuttle, Komani Lake).
When: May–June and September–October for lighter crowds and steady ferry timetables. July–August is hot and busy; winter reduces services in mountain areas.

The 2-week Balkan itinerary (open-jaw recommended)

Open-jaw (start in Croatia, end in North Macedonia) saves backtracking. If you need a loop, see the variant at the end of this section.

Day 1–2: Dubrovnik, Croatia (arrival)

Why: Walk the city walls, Old Town, Elaphiti Islands ferry day.
Transport in: Fly to Dubrovnik; 25–40 minutes to town.
Ferry option: Half-day to Lopud or Koločep. Connectivity at sea is variable; download offline maps.
Connectivity note: Croatia is EU, but neighbouring legs aren’t—plan your eSIM accordingly (see below).

Day 3: Dubrovnik → Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Travel: 3–4 hours by bus; 2.5–3.5 hours driving (border timing varies).
Do: Old Bridge (Stari Most), Kujundžiluk bazaar at dusk.
Coverage: Good in town; dips in the mountains en route.

Day 4–5: Mostar → Sarajevo

Travel: 2–2.5 hours by train (scenic Neretva valley) or 2 hours by road.
Do: Baščaršija, Latin Bridge, Tunnel of Hope.
Inland vs coastal: This is your richest inland cultural stop—worth two nights.

Day 6: Sarajevo → Kotor, Montenegro

Travel: 5.5–7.5 hours by bus; 5–6.5 hours by car via Trebinje. Border can add 30–90 minutes in season.
Do: Sunset from Kotor Fortress; Perast in the evening.
Ferry: If driving the bay, use the short Kotor Bay ferry (Lepetane–Kamenari) to save 30–45 minutes.
Coverage: Strong around the bay; occasional gaps on mountain approach.

Day 7: Kotor/Perast day

Pick one: Boat to Our Lady of the Rocks; drive to Lovćen National Park for switchback views.
Connectivity: Fine on the coast; Lovćen viewpoints can be spotty.

Day 8: Kotor → Budva → Lake Skadar (overnight near Virpazar) or Ulcinj

Travel: 1 hour to Budva; 1.5–2 hours to Virpazar; 2 hours to Ulcinj.
Do: Old Budva quick stop; Lake Skadar boat tour for birds and vineyards; or beach time in Ulcinj.
Inland vs coastal: Skadar is inland nature; Ulcinj keeps you coastal.

Day 9: Montenegro → Shkodër → Tirana, Albania

Travel: 3–5 hours total (border varies); roads are improving but watch speeds and signage.
Do: Rozafa Castle in Shkodër (lunch), then on to Tirana’s cafes and Blloku.
Coverage: Solid on the SH1 corridor; occasional drops near the border.

Day 10: Tirana → Berat or Gjirokastër (UNESCO)

Travel: 2–3 hours to Berat; 3.5–4 hours to Gjirokastër.
Pick one: Berat for vineyards and Ottoman quarters; Gjirokastër for stone-town drama and Blue Eye access.

Day 11: Riviera or Komani ferry (choose coast or inland)

Coastal day: From Gjirokastër, continue to the Albanian Riviera (Himarë/Dhermi). Beaches and cliff roads, but mobile coverage is mostly coastal.
Inland ferry: From Shkodër/Koman, the Lake Komani ferry is a standout day trip. Signal is minimal on the lake—download everything first.

Day 12: Albania → Ohrid, North Macedonia

Travel: From Tirana/Berat via Elbasan: 3.5–5 hours depending on border. From the Riviera, allow 6–7.5 hours.
Do: Lake Ohrid, old town, Saint Naum monastery (border-hop is possible by boat; carry ID).
Coverage: Good in towns, weaker on lakeside drives.

Day 13–14: Ohrid → Skopje

Travel: 3–3.5 hours by bus or car via Kičevo.
Do: Old Bazaar, Kale Fortress, Matka Canyon (half-day trip; patchy coverage inside the gorge).
Fly out from Skopje.

Need a closed loop?

Option A (fast): From Skopje, overnight bus/train back to Sarajevo (8–10 hours), then bus to Dubrovnik (4–6 hours). Adds one long transit day.
Option B (drive): Skopje → Sarajevo (7–9 hours), Sarajevo → Dubrovnik (4–6 hours). One extra night en route recommended.

Getting around: buses vs car, borders and ferries

Buses: Reliable, cheap, and frequent on main corridors (Dubrovnik–Mostar–Sarajevo; Kotor–Shkodër–Tirana; Tirana–Ohrid–Skopje). Buy tickets at stations or reputable sites; carry small cash for baggage fees.
Car rental: More freedom for national parks (Lovćen, Durmitor if you extend, Lake Skadar) and the Komani or Kotor ferries. Confirm cross-border permissions and insurance (“Green Card”) with your rental company before pickup.
Driving style: Coastal E-roads are straightforward; inland passes are narrow and slow. Plan daylight drives for scenery and safety.
Ferries you’ll actually use:
Bay of Kotor shuttle (Lepetane–Kamenari): 10 minutes, frequent.
Komani (Albania): Pre-book in high season; very limited signal on board.
Adriatic island day trips (Dubrovnik to Elaphiti; optional Split if you add it): Good service, variable signal offshore.

Connectivity: the smart way to stay online across five countries

EU-style roaming rarely covers this whole route. Croatia is EU; Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and North Macedonia are not in the EU/EEA. That’s why you should plan your connectivity up front.

Regional eSIM vs country eSIMs

Regional eSIM (ideal if available for “Balkans”): One plan, one APN, no SIM swaps. Check coverage includes all five: Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia.
EU-only regional eSIMs (e.g., Esim Western Europe) typically exclude most of this route. They’re great if you’re adding Italy or Spain, but you’ll still need coverage for the non‑EU legs.
Country eSIM stack: Buy smaller data packs per country and activate as you cross borders. Slightly more admin, but often the most cost‑efficient if you use lots of data in one place (e.g., week in Albania).

Before you decide, check each country’s page under Destinations to confirm networks and 4G/5G availability.

APN checks at every border (2-minute routine)

Before crossing: Turn off data roaming on your eSIM to avoid out‑of‑bundle usage.
After crossing: 1) Toggle aeroplane mode on/off. 2) Manually select a local partner network if auto-connect fails. 3) Confirm APN matches the eSIM’s instructions. If blank/wrong, enter it manually. 4) Turn data roaming back on for that eSIM profile. 5) If data is slow, try 4G/LTE only (some rural towers are 4G-only).
Keep SMS from your eSIM provider handy; they often list the correct APN and preferred networks.

Coastal vs inland coverage (what to expect)

Coastal corridors: Dubrovnik–Herceg Novi–Kotor–Budva and the Albanian SH8 (Riviera) have solid coverage, with brief dead spots through tunnels and cliffs.
Inland/mountain parks: Expect patchy or no service on sections near Lovćen viewpoints, Durmitor (if detouring), parts of Lake Skadar, Komani ferry, Mavrovo/Matka canyons.
Cities and lakes: Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Kotor, Tirana, Ohrid and Skopje have strong 4G; 5G is spotty and mainly urban—don’t rely on it between towns.

Ferry days: how to stay connected

Download offline maps (Google Maps/Organic Maps) and tickets/QR codes the night before.
Message contacts your departure/arrival windows early. Onboard Wi‑Fi is rare; tethering from patchy mobile signal isn’t reliable.
Queue screenshots: hotel address, driving directions for the first 30 km after the ferry, and key phrases in local languages.

If you’re pairing regions

Starting or finishing in Italy or Spain? Add a short EU eSIM like Esim Italy or Esim Spain alongside your Balkans plan.
Flying in via Paris or elsewhere in the EU? An EU pack such as Esim Western Europe covers your transit—but confirm where EU coverage ends before you head east.
Coming from the States or Canada? Get connected before you board with Esim United States or a transregional option like Esim North America, then switch to your Balkan plan on arrival.

Pre-trip checklist (connectivity-first)

Check country coverage and partner networks: Destinations.
Decide: Regional Balkans eSIM vs stacking country eSIMs.
Install eSIMs on Wi‑Fi at home; label profiles by country.
Note APN settings and preferred partner networks for each plan.
Download offline maps for each stop, plus bus tickets and hotel details.
Pack: Dual‑SIM phone or eSIM-capable device; power bank; universal adapter (Type C/F common; Type G in some hotels).
If renting a car: Confirm cross-border permission and roadside assistance numbers; download routes for mountain drives.

Pro tips: - Keep WhatsApp/Signal tied to your main number; data‑only eSIMs won’t receive normal SMS. - If you work on the road, schedule uploads when you’re in cities; rural uplink speeds can be slow. - Set data limits or use OS data saver to stretch smaller country packs.

Costs and time savers

Buses: 10–35 EUR per leg; buy in advance on busy routes.
Fuel and tolls: Coastal E-roads have fewer tolls than inland motorways; Montenegro and Albania rely on standard highways.
Accommodation: Coastal towns spike in July–August; book Kotor/Ohrid early.
Cash vs cards: Cards widely accepted in cities; carry small cash for buses, markets, and border snacks.
Data: City cafés have reliable Wi‑Fi; don’t bank on it in villages or on ferries.

FAQ

1) Is two weeks enough for this route? - Yes for highlights: Dubrovnik, Mostar, Sarajevo, Kotor, Tirana plus Berat or Gjirokastër, Ohrid, Skopje. Add a day if you want both the Komani ferry and the Albanian Riviera.

2) Bus or car—what’s better? - Buses are simple and cheap on the main corridors. Rent a car if you value flexibility for national parks, early starts, and short ferries (Kotor Bay, Komani). Avoid night driving on mountain roads.

3) Will my EU eSIM roam across this route? - Not fully. Croatia is EU; Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and North Macedonia are not. You’ll need a regional plan that explicitly lists these countries or separate country eSIMs. Verify coverage under Destinations.

4) Do I need to change APN settings at each border? - Often, yes. After crossing, toggle aeroplane mode, check you’ve connected to a partner network, and confirm the APN. If speeds are poor, set your device to 4G/LTE only and retry.

5) How reliable is coverage on ferries and in the mountains? - Ferries (Elaphiti, Komani) and canyon drives (Matka, parts of Lovćen/Skadar) can have little to no signal. Download offline maps and tickets beforehand; message contacts before departure.

6) I’m travelling for work—anything extra to consider? - Bring a backup data option (secondary country eSIM or hotel Wi‑Fi plan) and schedule calls from cities for stable bandwidth. If you’re organising a team trip, see Simology For Business. Travel companies and resellers can explore the Partner Hub.

Next step

Compare coverage and pick your regional or country plans for each stop via Simology’s Destinations. Install before you fly, note the APNs, and you’re ready for a smooth two‑week Balkan loop.

// Make external links open in a new tab for (const a of document.querySelectorAll('#content a[href]')) { try { const u = new URL(a.getAttribute('href'), window.location.href); if (u.origin !== window.location.origin) a.setAttribute('target','_blank'); } catch(e) { /* ignore */ } } // Add 'lead' class to the first paragraph for nicer intro const firstP = document.querySelector('#content p'); if (firstP) firstP.classList.add('lead');

Read more blogs

Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

Data Price Drop: Lower €/GB Across Europe & Asia Regions

Good news for travellers: we’ve lowered the effective €/GB across our Europe and Asia regional eSIM plans. Whether you’re planning a Western Europe rail trip, a multi-city dash through Southeast Asia, or a week in Paris, your data now goes further for less. This change applies to popular regional and single-country bundles, with the biggest savings on 5 GB–20 GB tiers. The new pricing is live now for new purchases, and rolling out across the app and checkout over the coming days. If you’ve been eyeing a regional pass for seamless roaming, now’s the time to lock it in.Prices shown at checkout reflect your location, taxes where applicable, and live exchange rates. Coverage varies by plan—check supported countries on Destinations. Below you’ll find a before/after snapshot, who’s eligible, the timeline, and simple steps to switch to a lower-cost plan.What’s changing: lower €/GB in Europe and AsiaWe’ve optimised carrier agreements and passed the savings to you. Expect:Regional Europe plans down by 15–25% effective €/GB on key bundles.Asia regional packs reduced by 12–22% on average.Deeper discounts on 10 GB and 20 GB tiers for long-weekend and multi-week trips.Single-country plans in high-demand destinations (France, Italy, Spain) now more competitive, making them a smart pick when your itinerary is fixed.Want to compare coverage footprints? Browse regions and countries on Destinations, or jump straight to curated pages such as Esim Western Europe, Esim France, Esim Italy, and Esim Spain.Headline reductions at a glanceWestern Europe regional 10 GB: typical effective €/GB down from ~€2.70 to ~€2.10.Pan-Europe regional 20 GB: effective €/GB from ~€2.40 to ~€1.95.Asia regional 5 GB: effective €/GB from ~€3.20 to ~€2.40.Select single-country (France/Italy/Spain) 3–5 GB: effective €/GB from ~€3.00 to ~€2.20–€2.40.Notes: - Exact prices vary by bundle size, country mix, and real-time FX. - Performance and access technology (4G/5G) are unchanged; you’re just paying less per GB.Before and after: quick tableThese examples illustrate the new structure for popular bundles. See live pricing per destination on Destinations.Plan typeExample bundleBeforeNow€/GB before€/GB nowWestern Europe (regional)5 GB / 15 days€15.00€11.00€3.00€2.20Western Europe (regional)10 GB / 30 days€27.00€21.00€2.70€2.10Pan-Europe (regional)20 GB / 30 days€48.00€39.00€2.40€1.95Asia (regional)5 GB / 15 days€16.00€12.00€3.20€2.40Asia (regional)10 GB / 30 days€29.00€23.00€2.90€2.30France (single-country)3 GB / 15 days€9.00€6.90€3.00€2.30Italy (single-country)5 GB / 15 days€14.00€11.50€2.80€2.30Spain (single-country)5 GB / 15 days€14.00€11.50€2.80€2.30Tip: If you’ll hop between UK, France, Italy, and Spain, a regional pass like Esim Western Europe often beats stacking multiple single-country plans.Who’s eligible and whenNew purchases: New prices are live now. If you buy today, you’ll see the reduced rates at checkout.Existing customers (active plan): Your current active eSIM keeps its original price and data. Any top-ups or new bundles you add will use the new pricing.Existing customers (unused plan): If you bought but haven’t installed or used data yet, you can typically switch to a cheaper equivalent by purchasing the new plan and contacting support to retire the unused one. Final eligibility depends on usage status.Auto-renew and scheduled plans: Future renewals and scheduled activations will bill at the new price.Business accounts: Organisation workspaces get the new pricing automatically. See For Business for centralised billing and fleet controls.Partners and resellers: Pricing updates are reflected in the dashboard and catalogues. Check the Partner Hub for updated SKUs and assets.Timeline: - Effective immediately on web, app updates rolling out now; all storefronts complete within a few days. - No end date—this is the new base pricing. Promotions may further reduce costs during peak seasons.How to switch to a cheaper planIf you’re mid-trip or planning ahead, use the path that fits your situation.If you haven’t installed or used dataBuy the equivalent new plan at the lower price.Do not install or activate the old eSIM.Contact support in-app with both order numbers and request a swap to the new plan.We’ll retire the unused one and keep you on the lower rate.If your current plan is activeOption A: Add a top-up or buy a second bundle on the same eSIM profile. The new add-on will reflect the lower €/GB.Option B: Install a fresh eSIM for the new plan and switch your Mobile Data line to it when ready.Checklist for a smooth switch: - Confirm your device supports multiple eSIM profiles.- Note your remaining data—use it up before switching if you prefer.- Keep data roaming on for the active eSIM only.- Run a quick speed test in your current location after switching.Which plan should you pick?Use the price drop to optimise for your actual route, not just a headline region.Western Europe city-hopping: Pick a regional plan for cross-border continuity such as Esim Western Europe. Great if you’ll cover France, Italy, Spain and neighbours in one trip.Single-country stays: If you’ll be largely in one country, a local plan can be even cheaper. See Esim France, Esim Italy, and Esim Spain.Asia multi-country loops: Asia regional plans now deliver better €/GB—ideal for Thailand–Vietnam–Malaysia circuits without SIM swaps.Transatlantic add-on: Heading to North America after Europe? Queue a regional pack like Esim North America or country-specific Esim United States for a seamless handover.Not sure what’s covered? The live country list per plan is always current on Destinations.Pro tips to stretch your data even furtherDownload heavy items on Wi‑Fi: Maps, playlists, and streaming episodes for offline use.Control background data: Disable auto-updates and cloud photo sync while roaming.Prefer 4G if 5G is patchy: In some areas, locking to 4G can stabilise performance and reduce battery drain.Tether responsibly: Personal hotspots are supported on most plans; watch your GB burn rate if you’re sharing with a laptop.Set data alerts: Use your phone’s built-in data usage alerts at 80% and 95%.Keep your primary SIM for calls/SMS: Use eSIM for data only to avoid unexpected voice charges.Frequently asked questions1) Do I need a new eSIM to get the lower price?No. You only need a new purchase (top-up or bundle) to benefit from the new €/GB. Your existing eSIM profile can host additional bundles at the new rate.2) Will network speed or coverage change with the price drop?No. Network partners, access technologies (4G/5G) and fair usage terms are unchanged. What’s changed is how much you pay per GB.3) I bought last week at the old price. Can I get the new rate?If your plan is completely unused (not installed and no data consumed), contact support and we’ll help you move to a lower-priced equivalent. If it’s already in use, the new rate applies to any top-ups or future purchases.4) Are single-country plans cheaper than regional now?Often, yes—especially for fixed itineraries. Compare local options such as Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain against regional bundles on Destinations.5) Does this affect business accounts and invoices?Yes. The new pricing flows through to team purchases and consolidated invoices. If you manage multiple travellers, visit For Business to enable central payment, policy controls, and reporting.6) I’m a reseller/affiliate. Where can I get updated SKUs and creatives?The latest price files and marketing assets are in the Partner Hub. If your catalogue syncs via API, the new rates populate automatically.What this means for your tripsLower €/GB unlocks more freedom to navigate, translate, ride-share, and stream—without rationing data. For weekend breaks, smaller bundles are more affordable; for remote work and multi-country loops, larger packs now stretch further. If you’re combining regions (Europe then North America) or mixing single-country and regional plans, it’s easier to stack exactly what you need at the lowest total cost.As always, check the live country lists and bundles on Destinations and choose the plan that matches your route and usage.Next step: Compare live Europe and Asia plans and pick your bundle on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

Airport & Underground Coverage: Why Signal Drops and What To Do

Travelling often means jumping from open streets into steel-and-glass terminals and deep underground platforms. It’s no surprise your bars can vanish at the worst moments: boarding passes won’t load, ride-hail pickups fail, and messages loop endlessly. Airport and metro environments are brutal for radio signals, with thick materials, interference, and rapid movement that stress even the best networks. The good news: with a little prep and the right settings, you can keep your phone usable through most weak-signal zones. In this guide, we explain exactly why coverage collapses in airports and tunnels, how modern networks try to fix it (from distributed antenna systems to femtocells and “leaky feeder” cables), and what you can do—step by step—to stay connected. We also cover Wi‑Fi calling as a fallback and what happens if you need to place an emergency call when your device shows no service. If you’re planning trips, we’ll show how the right eSIM choice helps too.Why airports and subways kill your signalThe physics problemMaterials: Reinforced concrete, metal cladding, and low‑emissivity glass reflect and absorb mobile signals, especially higher‑frequency 4G/5G bands.Distance and line of sight: You’re often far from macro towers, buried below street level, or behind multiple walls.Crowds: Thousands of devices in a terminal create contention and interference; uplink (your phone to the network) becomes the bottleneck.The mobility problemHandoffs: Moving quickly—airport rail links, shuttles, escalators—forces frequent “handoffs” between cells. If the handoff fails or the next cell is congested, calls drop and data stalls.Bands and tech mix: Networks may drop you from 5G to 4G to 3G/2G for coverage. Each step down can disrupt active sessions.The infrastructure gapNot every venue invests in indoor solutions. Where they do, systems vary:DAS (Distributed Antenna System): A network of indoor antennas rebroadcasting outdoor cell coverage inside terminals and concourses.Small cells/femtocells: Mini base stations installed for targeted capacity—lounges, gates, or staff areas.In tunnels: “Leaky feeder” coaxial cables or dedicated radiating antennas carry mobile signals along the track.Multi-operator support varies. One operator may have great signal; another may have none.How networks try to keep you connectedLow-band spectrum: 700–800 MHz bands penetrate buildings better; you’ll often see more bars on these, though speeds may be lower.Carrier aggregation and DSS: Combine bands or share 4G/5G to keep sessions alive as you move between cells.VoLTE and VoWiFi: Modern calling stays on 4G/5G or falls back to Wi‑Fi calling, reducing circuit-switched handoff issues.Priority paths: Airports sometimes prioritise back-of-house and critical services. Public areas may share limited capacity.Emergency handling: Networks attempt to place emergency calls on any available cell, sometimes even on a rival network, depending on local regulations.Before you go: a 10‑minute prep checklistInstall a local or regional eSIM - A multi-network or strong local profile can massively improve indoor performance. - Regional options like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America let your phone choose among partner networks. - Check country specifics on Destinations or install a country plan such as Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain.Enable Wi‑Fi calling - iOS: Settings > Mobile Data > Wi‑Fi Calling. - Android (varies): Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Wi‑Fi calling. - Confirm your phone shows “Wi‑Fi” or an icon in the dialler when active.Download essentials for offline access - Boarding passes, rail tickets, hotel directions, offline maps, and translation packs. - Authentication apps: sync or note backup codes to avoid SMS dependency.Adjust network settings - Prefer 4G/5G Auto; avoid “5G Only”. - Turn on Data Saver/Low Data Mode to handle captive Wi‑Fi and weak uplinks.Power plan - Weak signal drains batteries fast. Start with 70%+ and carry a power bank.Pro tip: Add airline and airport apps to “unrestricted battery” so they can load passes on flaky connections.At the airport: practical tactics that workUse venue connectivity wiselyJoin official airport Wi‑Fi and complete the captive portal; Wi‑Fi calling may not activate until the portal is cleared.If Wi‑Fi calling still won’t engage:Toggle Airplane Mode on, then enable Wi‑Fi only to force calling over Wi‑Fi.Disable VPN temporarily; some VPNs block Wi‑Fi calling’s IMS traffic.Forget and rejoin Wi‑Fi if the portal pops up again.Choose your spotNear windows or open atriums generally improves signal.Avoid dense metal structures (security lanes) and sublevels when placing important calls.Lounges may have small cells; a quick signal check can be worthwhile.Manage handoffsIf a call keeps dropping as you move, step aside and finish the call stationary.For video calls, switch to audio or pause video while walking between concourses.If data stalls but bars look fineTry switching to 4G/LTE from 5G; some indoor DAS nodes still deliver steadier 4G.Toggle Mobile Data off/on, or briefly toggle Airplane Mode to trigger reselection.Manually select a different network if your eSIM allows it.Pro tip: Some gates have better indoor coverage because they sit under newer DAS clusters. If you find one that loads fast, stay put while you upload photos or sync documents.Underground and on the metro: what’s differentNot all lines have mobile coverage. Some systems cover platforms only, others include tunnels, and some rely purely on station Wi‑Fi.Coverage can switch every few hundred metres as the train passes tunnel antennas, causing brief dropouts.Speed matters: fast lines can outrun small-cell footprints, making uplink patchy.Staying connected below groundMake Wi‑Fi your default:Set your phone to auto-join official metro Wi‑Fi; finish any captive portal step at the first station.Keep Wi‑Fi calling enabled. You can often place calls and send messages between stops.Prepare for tunnel blackouts:Queue messages and downloads.Use offline navigation between stations and refresh when the train stops.For critical tasks:Wait for a station with platform coverage.If you must call, stand near the platform centre where antennas are typically positioned.Pro tip: If the metro has partial coverage, switch chat apps to “low bandwidth” or audio-only modes to ride out tunnel gaps.What if you need to call emergency services?Your phone will attempt to place emergency calls (e.g., 112, 911, 999) on any available network, even if your own provider has no service. This behaviour depends on local regulations and device support but is widely implemented.If you see “No Service”:Try the emergency number anyway; the phone will scan for any cell that can carry the call.Move towards open areas, station entrances, or near windows to improve odds.Wi‑Fi calling and emergencies:In many countries, emergency calls are supported over Wi‑Fi calling, but not everywhere. If Wi‑Fi is the only option, complete the captive portal and try—your phone will choose the best available path.If Wi‑Fi calling is unavailable for emergency calls, the device will attempt cellular instead.Location sharing:Modern systems can transmit your location (Advanced Mobile Location/AML) when you call emergency numbers. This may not work over all Wi‑Fi networks.Note: Rules and capabilities vary by country and operator. If in doubt, move to an area with clear cellular coverage as soon as it’s safe.Troubleshooting quick winsTry these in order when signal or data misbehaves:Toggle Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds, then off.Turn Wi‑Fi off and on; complete any captive portals.Switch network mode to 4G/LTE and back to 5G Auto later.Manually select a different partner network (if your eSIM allows).Reset network settings only if the above fails (you’ll need to rejoin Wi‑Fi networks).Pro tip: Save your eSIM QR and plan details offline before you travel in case you need to reinstall after a network reset.Picking the right eSIM for hard-to-reach placesPrefer plans with multi-network access in your destination so your phone can latch onto the operator with the best indoor/DAS presence.If you’re visiting multiple countries or transiting through major hubs, regional eSIMs simplify coverage:Esim Western Europe for intra‑EU travel where metro coverage varies city by city.Esim North America for the US and Canada, where low-band 5G/4G differs by carrier and airport DAS deployments are uneven.Country-specific options can outperform roaming in airports with single-operator DAS:Esim United StatesEsim FranceEsim ItalyEsim SpainCheck operator notes and airport/metro coverage on Destinations.For teams on the move, pooled data and policy controls help ensure staff stay reachable in terminals and tunnels. See For Business for options. Venue and travel partners exploring indoor solutions can visit our Partner Hub.Tech corner: femtocells, DAS, and “leaky feeders” explainedFemtocells and small cells: Low‑power base stations that improve coverage in a small area like a lounge or gate cluster. They attach to backhaul (often fibre) and broadcast licensed spectrum.DAS: A centralised system that pulls in operator signals and redistributes them via fibre/coax to many indoor antennas. Great for large airports where uniform coverage is needed.Leaky feeder cables: Special coax that acts like a long antenna, “leaking” RF along tunnels so trains and platforms receive consistent signal. Common in metros and long airport service tunnels.Handoffs: Your device measures signal quality and the network commands a move to a better cell. In dense or poorly tuned systems, handoffs can fail, causing drops. Staying still during calls helps.Fast setup steps (iOS and Android)Force Wi‑Fi callingiOS: Control Centre > enable Airplane Mode > turn Wi‑Fi back on > ensure “Wi‑Fi” shows in the Phone app status line.Android: Quick Settings > Airplane Mode > enable Wi‑Fi; confirm Wi‑Fi calling icon in the dialler or status bar.Lock to LTE temporarilyiOS: Settings > Mobile Data > Voice & Data > 4G.Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Preferred network type > LTE/4G.Switch networksiOS: Settings > Mobile Data > Network Selection > turn off Automatic and pick another partner.Android: Settings > Mobile network > Network operators > Search networks.Pro tip: After leaving the airport or surfacing from the metro, return to Automatic network selection and 5G Auto.FAQsWhy do I have full bars but no data in an airport?Indoor systems can show strong signal but be congested on the backhaul or uplink. Try switching to 4G/LTE, move to a quieter spot, or use airport Wi‑Fi with Wi‑Fi calling.Does 5G work underground?Often only low‑band 5G or 4G is deployed in tunnels. High‑band 5G (especially mmWave) struggles with penetration and is rare below ground.Will Wi‑Fi calling charge me roaming fees?Wi‑Fi calling uses the internet, not cellular roaming, but call billing depends on your home operator. For data, airport Wi‑Fi is typically free or time‑limited. Using a local eSIM avoids surprises.Can I rely on emergency calls without mobile coverage?Your phone will try any available cellular network for an emergency call. It may also attempt the call over Wi‑Fi if supported. This is common but not guaranteed everywhere.Why does my battery drain faster in terminals and tunnels?Phones boost transmit power and scan more aggressively when signal is weak. Use Low Power Mode, keep a power bank handy, and prefer Wi‑Fi when available.Should I turn off 5G to save battery indoors?Sometimes. If 5G is weak or inconsistent, locking to 4G can stabilise connectivity and reduce scanning.The bottom lineAirports and underground systems are challenging radio environments. Expect reflections, rapid handoffs, and capacity crunches—then prepare accordingly: enable Wi‑Fi calling, carry a multi‑network eSIM, download essentials for offline use, and know a few quick toggles to recover service when it falters. With the right setup, you’ll get your boarding pass, message your pickup, and place calls even when your bars dip.Next step: Choose a regional plan that keeps you covered across borders and terminals. Start with Esim Western Europe.

31 Oct 2025