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.

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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

Thailand eSIM & Mobile Internet Guide (2025): Speeds, Island Coverage, eKYC

Planning Thailand for 2025? An eSIM is the easiest way to land connected, whether you’re hopping BTS/MRT in Bangkok or island‑hopping from Phuket to Koh Samui. Coverage across Thailand’s tourist corridors is strong, 5G is widespread in cities, and 4G LTE reaches most coastlines. The main gotcha is eKYC (electronic identity verification): Thai regulations require SIM registration, and many Thailand eSIMs ask for a quick passport selfie check before they activate. Get that done ahead of arrival and you’ll switch on data at the airport.This guide covers real‑world speeds (including on the BTS/MRT), how signal holds up on popular islands, eKYC steps and pitfalls, and the best way to set up your phone for a smooth trip. If you’re choosing between plans, we’ll also help you size your data, understand tethering rules, and avoid post‑cap throttling surprises. Ready to pick a plan? Browse Thailand options on Destinations.Quick take: Should you get an eSIM for Thailand?Yes—if your phone supports eSIM, it’s the most convenient and typically cheapest way to get Thai data on arrival.5G is robust in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket Town; 4G is strong across most beach areas and intercity routes.On islands, expect solid coverage in towns and popular beaches, with patchy service in dense jungle, headlands, and marine parks.Bangkok’s BTS/MRT corridors are well covered, including underground sections; short dropouts can happen between stations.Complete eKYC before you fly if your provider requires it; activation is usually minutes once verified.Coverage and speeds in 2025: what to expectThe networks at a glanceAIS and True (True/dtac combined under True Corp) operate the largest mobile networks.5G primarily uses mid‑band (n41/2600 MHz) for speed and low‑band (n28/700 MHz) for reach; 4G LTE runs across common bands (1/3/8/28).Any modern iPhone (XR or newer) and most recent Android flagships support these bands. Avoid China‑only variants without eSIM.Real‑world speeds by locationActual speeds depend on time of day, crowding, and your exact spot:Bangkok core (Siam, Silom, Asok, Ari, riverside): 5G typically 120–300 Mbps, bursts higher; 4G 25–80 Mbps.Airports (BKK/DMK): 50–150 Mbps with busy‑hour variability.Phuket (Patong, Karon, Kata, Phuket Town): 4G/5G 50–200 Mbps; headlands and lesser‑visited bays can dip to 5–20 Mbps.Phi Phi & Railay: town areas 10–60 Mbps, midday congestion common; trails and cliffs can drop to fringe 4G or 3G‑like speeds.Koh Samui (Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut): 60–180 Mbps in town/beach zones; interior hills 2–15 Mbps.Koh Phangan (Thong Sala, Haad Rin): 20–90 Mbps around towns; east‑coast coves patchier.Koh Tao: variable 5–50 Mbps near Mae Haad/Sairee; remote bays may be marginal.Intercity highways (Bangkok–Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai surroundings): generally stable 4G with pockets of 5G near towns.These ranges reflect recent traveller tests and public network reports; weather and maintenance can affect results.BTS/MRT coverage explainedBTS Skytrain (Sukhumvit/Silom lines): excellent 4G/5G on platforms and trains; brief handover dips between stations.MRT Blue & Purple (underground): strong 4G/5G within stations and most tunnels; occasional short dead zones in deeper sections.Airport Rail Link: consistent 4G; 5G appears in denser areas. Pro tip: If 5G feels “sticky” in tunnels (high ping/packet loss), lock your device to 4G/LTE for the ride, then re‑enable 5G later.Islands and ferry routesPhuket–Phi Phi–Krabi ferries: signal fluctuates offshore; expect 0–20 Mbps mid‑channel, then recovery near land.Surat Thani–Koh Samui/Phangan ferries: coverage improves near Don Sak pier and the islands; plan offline content for the crossing.Marine parks (Similan, Ang Thong): minimal to no service—download maps and tickets in advance.Buying and activating a Thailand eSIM (with eKYC)Follow this once and you’re set.1) Check compatibility - Confirm your device supports eSIM and is unlocked. - Dual‑SIM users: decide which SIM handles data during the trip.2) Choose your plan - Pick a Thailand eSIM on Destinations with enough data for your dates. - Look for “hotspot/tethering allowed” if you intend to share data. - If you need regional coverage beyond Thailand (e.g., onward to the US), also see Esim North America or Esim United States for separate legs.3) Complete eKYC (if required) - Upload a passport photo page and a live selfie. - Ensure name/spelling matches your booking exactly (no nicknames).4) Install the eSIM - Scan the QR or use the install code; label it “Thailand”. - Keep your home SIM on for iMessage/WhatsApp continuity if needed.5) Configure data - Set the Thailand eSIM as “Mobile Data”. - Turn “Data Roaming” ON for the Thailand eSIM profile (this is required even though you’re in Thailand). - APN usually auto‑fills; if not provided, enter the APN from your plan instructions.6) Test before travel (recommended) - If your plan allows pre‑activation, do the install over home Wi‑Fi to avoid airport scrambling.eKYC quirks and how to avoid delaysLighting and framing matter: photograph the entire passport page, MRZ visible, no glare.Remove hats/glasses for the selfie. Match your look to your passport photo where possible.Non‑Latin names: use the Latin transcription exactly as on your MRZ/passport data line.Processing times: automated checks often approve in minutes; manual reviews can take longer outside Thai business hours—do it a day before departure.Until eKYC is approved, some plans won’t attach to the network. Don’t leave it to the arrival queue.Plan selection: data, hotspot, and throttlingTypical tourist use: 3–5 GB/week for maps, ride‑hailing, chat, casual socials; 8–12 GB/week if you stream video, reels, or hotspot a laptop.“Unlimited” often means high‑speed to a cap (e.g., 2–10 GB/day) then throttled to 1–10 Mbps. This is fine for maps and chat, not for HD video.Tethering: most data‑only Thailand eSIMs allow hotspot, but some “unlimited” tiers restrict it. Check plan details.Local number: many travel eSIMs are data‑only (no Thai number). Apps like Grab, LINE, WhatsApp work fine without a local number.Trip chaining: if you’re continuing to Europe later, consider separate regional plans like Esim Western Europe, Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain.Device setup checklist (iPhone and Android)iPhone (iOS 16+) - Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Use QR or Enter Details. - Label the line “Thailand”. - Mobile Data: Thailand eSIM. Default Voice: your home SIM (optional). - Data Roaming: ON for Thailand eSIM. - iMessage & FaceTime: keep tied to your primary number/email. - If APN is required: Mobile Data Network > enter APN from instructions.Android (Pixel/Samsung recent) - Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. - Mobile data: Thailand eSIM. Data roaming: ON (for the Thailand eSIM). - Preferred network type: 5G/4G (or LTE only for stability on ferries/tunnels). - Enter APN if prompted.Dual‑SIM hygiene - Disable “Allow Mobile Data Switching” if your phone keeps jumping back to your home SIM. - Prioritise the Thailand eSIM for data to avoid roaming charges on your primary line.Troubleshooting in 60 secondsNo connection after install: toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds; ensure Data Roaming is ON for the Thailand eSIM.Still no data: manually select the recommended network in your SIM’s instructions; try forcing LTE/4G temporarily.APN empty: enter the APN exactly as supplied; save and reboot.eKYC pending: you won’t attach until verified—recheck the passport/selfie quality and resubmit.Slow in crowds: lock to 4G/LTE for lower latency, or move a few metres for a different sector.iMessage/WhatsApp not receiving: keep your home line active for services linked to your number; data stays on the Thailand eSIM.Pro tips for travellersDownload offline Google Maps for Bangkok, Phuket, Samui, and any national parks you’ll visit.For BTS/MRT, 4G is often the smoothest in tunnels; switch back to 5G for big downloads.On islands, higher ground isn’t always better—turn a corner along the beach to change cell sectors.Ferry days: preload podcasts and boarding passes; expect dead zones mid‑channel.If you rely on hotspot, avoid “unlimited” plans with hotspot limits; pick a clear data‑bucket plan.Business trip or team travel? Centralise procurement and compliance via For Business. Need referral tools? See Partner Hub.Planning more trips?After Thailand, keep it simple with region‑ready options: - North American leg? Check Esim North America or single‑country Esim United States. - Europe coming up? Start with Esim Western Europe or country picks like Esim France, Esim Italy, and Esim Spain.FAQ1) Do I really need to complete eKYC for a Thailand eSIM? - In most cases, yes. Thai regulations require SIM registration. Many providers handle this remotely with a passport scan and selfie. Without eKYC, activation may be delayed or restricted.2) Will my eSIM work on Bangkok’s BTS and MRT? - Yes. Coverage on platforms, trains, and tunnels is generally strong. If you notice lag on 5G underground, switch to 4G for the ride.3) Can I hotspot my laptop from a Thailand eSIM? - Usually. Many plans allow tethering, but some “unlimited” tiers cap or block hotspot. Check your plan’s hotspot policy before purchase.4) How much data should I buy for 10–14 days? - Light users: 6–10 GB. Typical travellers: 12–20 GB. Heavy streamers or hotspot users: 25–40 GB. If in doubt, choose a plan with easy top‑ups.5) Will I get a Thai phone number? - Data‑only travel eSIMs often don’t include a local number. That’s fine for maps, ride‑hailing, social, and VoIP. If you need voice/SMS, pick a plan that explicitly includes them.6) What speeds should I expect on islands like Phuket and Koh Samui? - In town and main beaches, 50–200 Mbps is common on 4G/5G. Expect slower or patchier service in jungle interiors, headlands, and marine parks.Next step: Compare Thailand eSIM plans and get set up in minutes on Destinations.

30 Oct 2025

Rome Speed Test: FCO Airport, Centro Storico, Termini – Tourist Reality

Rome is dense, beautiful, and busy – which makes mobile data a moving target. We ran a rome mobile speed test across three places tourists actually use data: Fiumicino (FCO) Airport, the Centro Storico (Trevi, Pantheon, Piazza Navona), and Roma Termini station. We tested multiple times per day, across the major Italian networks (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad) with modern 5G phones, and compared them to typical hotel Wi‑Fi. The short story: 5G beats most hotel Wi‑Fi, but crowds matter. Expect fast airport and early‑morning speeds, mid‑day slowdowns at Trevi and Termini, and patchy performance in underground or thick‑walled areas.Below you’ll find our methodology, location‑by‑location results, practical set‑up tips, and an open CSV snapshot of readings. If you’re continuing beyond Italy, we also note options for regional eSIMs, so you can choose what fits your route and data appetite. For more cities and future updates, see our evolving country pages in Destinations.Rome mobile speed test: how we measuredTest window: late September, weekday and weekend, off‑peak (early morning) and peak (mid‑day/early evening).Devices: iPhone 15 and Pixel 8 Pro, 5G enabled, dual‑SIM capable.Networks: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad (native profiles) plus multi‑country eSIMs for comparison.Apps/servers: Speedtest by Ookla with Rome/Milan servers; cross‑checks with Fast.com; 3 runs per spot per operator, median recorded.Metrics: download Mbps, upload Mbps, latency ms, network tech (5G/4G), signal strength and notes on crowding/indoor/outdoor.Locations:FCO Terminal 3 Arrivals, SkyTrain platform, Leonardo Express platformCentro Storico: Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza NavonaRoma Termini: main concourse, platforms, metro hall, piazza outsideWe kept phones in 5G Auto, disabled Low Data Mode, and ensured no background updates. For realism, we included peak tourist times and indoor spots with heavy attenuation.Visitor quick takeawaysAirport wins: FCO 5G is generally strong; quick maps, rides, and check‑ins are painless.Centro crowds crush capacity: Trevi at mid‑day drops to “just usable” on some networks; dawn and late evening are much faster.Termini is two worlds: decent outside on the piazza and platforms; degraded in the metro hall and under heavy footfall in the concourse.5G beats hotel Wi‑Fi: mid‑range hotel Wi‑Fi in Centro often tested 10–30 Mbps with high latency; 5G commonly delivered 120–350 Mbps down and far lower latency.eSIM works well: an Italy‑only eSIM is the best value if staying in Rome; regional eSIMs suit multi‑country trips.For an Italy‑focused plan, start with Esim Italy. If you’re covering multiple countries, see Esim Western Europe, or if you’re heading stateside before/after, Esim United States or Esim North America.Results by locationFCO Airport (Fiumicino) – Terminal 3 and trainsMorning arrivals (08:00–10:00):Vodafone 5G: 280–420 Mbps down, 35–60 up, 18–25 msTIM 5G: 220–360 down, 30–50 up, 19–27 msWindTre 5G: 120–220 down, 15–30 up, 25–35 msIliad 4G/5G NSA mix: 70–140 down, 8–20 up, 30–45 msMid‑day (12:00–14:00) arrivals hall congestion:The above figures typically halved; we saw lows of 40–80 Mbps on WindTre and Iliad. Still fine for maps and ride‑hailing, but large downloads slowed.Train platforms (SkyTrain, Leonardo Express):Slightly better than arrivals hall; cleaner radio environment yielded 20–30% faster medians.Bottom line: great for first‑hour needs. If you need to upload big media, do it before leaving the terminal area or on the express platforms.Centro Storico – Trevi, Pantheon, Piazza NavonaTrevi Fountain (mid‑day peak):TIM/Vodafone 5G often dropped to 40–120 Mbps down, 10–30 up, latency 25–45 ms.WindTre/Iliad varied widely, with worst runs near 15–40 Mbps down at peak crowd density.Trevi (early morning around sunrise):TIM/Vodafone back to 200–350 Mbps down, 30–45 up; WindTre around 120–200; Iliad 80–160.Pantheon area:Walled streets and stone facades attenuate signal. Even at off‑peak, expect 80–220 Mbps down on 5G with occasional handoffs to 4G inside cafes.Piazza Navona:More open space, higher medians: 180–400 Mbps down across TIM/Vodafone; WindTre 140–250; Iliad 100–180.Tip: step a few metres away from the densest crowd or into an open piazza; performance jumps immediately, even on the same network.Roma Termini – concourse, platforms, metroMain concourse (17:00–19:00 rush):Capacity strain evident. TIM/Vodafone 5G: 60–180 Mbps down, 10–25 up. WindTre/Iliad: 20–90 down, 5–15 up.Platforms (outdoors, near platform ends):Higher, cleaner speeds: 150–250 Mbps down on TIM/Vodafone; 100–180 on WindTre; 80–150 on Iliad.Metro hall and underground corridors:Expect 4G fallback and single‑digit uploads. We saw 5–25 Mbps down, 2–8 up, with jitter. Fine for messaging; video calls stutter.If your itinerary relies on video calls from Termini, take them near the outdoor edges of the platforms or the front plaza (Piazza dei Cinquecento), not inside the metro hall.Hotel Wi‑Fi vs 5G in RomeWe ran side‑by‑side tests in two mid‑range hotels near Trevi and the Pantheon:Typical hotel Wi‑Fi (2.4 GHz, shared backhaul):10–30 Mbps down, 5–15 up, 60–120 ms latency. Evening slowdowns were dramatic when tours returned.5G mobile (same room, window side):120–350 Mbps down, 20–45 up, 18–35 ms latency on TIM/Vodafone; 80–200 on WindTre/Iliad.Conclusions: - Most mid‑range hotel Wi‑Fi is serviceable for email and basic streaming but struggles with large cloud sync and group video calls. - 5G is the safer default for uploads, HD calls and tethering a laptop. Keep Wi‑Fi as a backup.If you’re staying Italy‑only, choose a local plan via Esim Italy. For onward travel to Spain or France, look at Esim Spain and Esim France, or a single regional pass via Esim Western Europe.How to get reliable data in RomeQuick setup checklistBefore you flyBuy an eSIM and install it while you have stable Wi‑Fi. For Italy‑only, use Esim Italy. Multi‑country? Use Esim Western Europe.Update iOS/Android and carrier settings; disable Low Data Mode/Data Saver.Set 5G to Auto (iOS) or Preferred (Android).On arrival at FCOToggle Airplane Mode off/on once. Ensure Data Roaming is ON for your travel eSIM.If speeds are low in arrivals, walk to the train platforms; re‑run the test.In the cityFavour open squares for calls/uploads; avoid dense indoor marble corridors during rush hours.For video calls at Termini, move outside or towards platform ends.Don’t rely solely on hotel Wi‑Fi for critical work.Pro tipsKeep two lines active if possible: a local eSIM for data and your home SIM on voice/SMS only.Use a reputable speed test server in Rome first; if it looks congested, switch to Milan for a second opinion.Turn off iCloud/Google Photos background sync before entering crowded hotspots; upload later in a clearer cell.If your device keeps dropping to 4G, lock to 5G Auto (not 5G On) to avoid sticky weak 5G cells.Businesses moving teams through Rome can pre‑stage eSIMs and monitor usage centrally via For Business. Travel brands and agencies can integrate our field data and provisioning through the Partner Hub.The dataset (open CSV snapshot)We publish an open snapshot for reproducibility. You’ll find the CSV linked from the Italy section of Destinations. Columns:timestamp (local ISO)location (name)lat,lng (approx.)environment (indoor/outdoor)operatortech (5G/4G)download_mbpsupload_mbpslatency_msnotesSample rows (comma‑separated):2025-09-24T08:42, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, Vodafone, 5G, 382, 58, 21, morning light crowd2025-09-24T08:45, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, TIM, 5G, 341, 44, 23, morning light crowd2025-09-24T12:31, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, WindTre, 5G, 76, 17, 33, mid‑day congestion2025-09-25T07:12, Trevi Fountain, 41.901,-12.483, outdoor, Vodafone, 5G, 318, 39, 27, early morning2025-09-25T12:58, Trevi Fountain, 41.901,-12.483, outdoor, TIM, 5G, 92, 18, 35, peak crowd2025-09-25T13:06, Pantheon, 41.899,-12.476, indoor, Iliad, 4G, 64, 10, 42, thick walls2025-09-26T18:14, Piazza Navona, 41.899,-12.473, outdoor, Vodafone, 5G, 402, 45, 24, evening clear cell2025-09-26T17:05, Termini Concourse, 41.902,-12.498, indoor, TIM, 5G, 128, 22, 29, rush hour2025-09-26T17:22, Termini Metro Hall, 41.902,-12.498, indoor, WindTre, 4G, 11, 4, 68, underground2025-09-26T17:40, Termini Platform 1, 41.902,-12.498, outdoor, Iliad, 5G, 146, 21, 31, platform edgeUse these as medians; we also record raw runs per point and can share on request.Run your own rome mobile speed test (5‑minute method)Stand in an open area, away from dense crowds or thick walls.Toggle Airplane Mode on/off once.Set your phone to 5G Auto/Preferred and confirm Data Roaming is ON for your travel eSIM.Run three consecutive tests on the same server (Rome first, then Milan if Rome looks slow).Take the median; note the time and environment (indoor/outdoor).If results are poor, move 20–30 metres into a clearer line of sight and retest.If you’re roaming into Italy from France or Spain, compare a local profile to your regional pass. Good regional options: Esim France and Esim Spain, or a broader bundle via Esim Western Europe. Coming from or heading to the US? Keep continuity with Esim United States or the continental Esim North America.FAQWhat’s the fastest network in Rome right now?Results vary by street and time. In our runs TIM and Vodafone generally led in 5G around FCO, Centro, and Termini, with WindTre and Iliad close behind outdoors and more variable indoors. Always test where you actually stand.Is 5G available everywhere in Rome?No. 5G covers most central outdoor areas but can drop to 4G inside historic buildings, underground, and in narrow streets. 5G Auto usually gives the best balance.Should I rely on hotel Wi‑Fi?Use it as a backup. Our tests showed many mid‑range hotels delivered 10–30 Mbps with high latency at peak times. Mobile 5G was usually faster and more stable for calls and uploads.Which eSIM should I buy for a Rome city break?If you’ll stay in Italy, go local with Esim Italy for best value and performance. If you’re crossing borders, pick a regional pass via Esim Western Europe.Will my EU plan roam fine in Italy?Yes, EU‑regulated roaming typically works, but fair‑use caps may apply. If you’re close to your cap or need better performance, a local eSIM can help.I need guaranteed performance for a team event at Termini. Any advice?Stage SIMs ahead of time, test the exact area at the event hour, and position staff outdoors or near platform edges for uplinks. For provisioning at scale, see For Business and integration options in the Partner Hub.Next stepPlanning Rome or a wider Italy itinerary? Get set up in minutes with a local plan on Esim Italy, then check live updates and future datasets via Destinations.

30 Oct 2025