Best eSIM for France – You know it: You’re finally going on vacation, but when you arrive you first have to find a SIM card store – before panic breaks out because you don’t know the way to the hotel and can’t call an Uber. In addition, you may not speak French or may not be familiar with local providers.
These problems are now a thing of the past! With an eSIM you are perfectly prepared and online immediately after your arrival. We introduce you to the best providers for France – and on top of that there is even a discount on your first purchase!
In France, eSIMs are a practical alternative to the traditional SIM card, especially for international travelers. The major providers support eSIMs, allowing tourists to use a local connection without delay.
The Best eSIMs for France
Saily - Product Infos and Review
- Data volume: 5GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Hotspot: No restrictions or limitations for hotspots.
- Price: USD 11.99
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
Saily makes it easy for you to stay in touch with friends and family on your trip through France. Instead of going to a store first and having to laboriously change your card, you have internet immediately after your arrival.
Activation works in just a few steps directly via your smartphone, so you can access the internet shortly after arrival. With various data plans –from smaller packages to unlimited data volume– you can quickly find the right offer for your needs. Whether you’re traveling in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux or the Cote d’Azur, with a Saily eSIM you’ll enjoy a reliable internet connection throughout France.
Here are the six data plans from Saily so that you always stay connected during your holiday in France:
- 1 GB valid for 7 days = 3.99 USD
- 3 GB valid for 30 days = 8.99 USD
- 5 GB valid for 30 days = USD 11.99
- 10 GB valid for 30 days = 19.99 USD
- 20 GB valid for 30 days = USD 31.99
- Unlimited data for 15 days = USD 49.99
A common question about Saily’s tariffs is whether you can activate them later.
All packages have a 30-day activation period.
Network: Saily does not specify which French network is used.
Network coverage: Not available
Compared to the best providers, the disadvantage of Saily is that the mobile network used is not specified.
✅ Pros
- ✔ ️ User-friendly app – Intuitive and easy to use
✔ ️ 24/7 Customer Service – Round-the-clock support available - ✔ ️ Cheap prices – Budget-friendly tariffs for every need
- ✔ ️ Hotspot –No restrictions or limitations for hotspots
❌ Cons
❌ No pay-as-you-go or unlimited data plans – Limited plan options
Conclusion: Saily eSIM France
Saily is one of the best eSIM providers for France, mainly due to the very affordable prices. In addition, you can use the hotspot without restrictions, which is not always the case when comparing other providers.
eSIM.sm - Best eSIM for Short Trips
Airalo offers France a total of eight limited eSIM data plans and several “unlimited” plans.
Here’s an example:
- Data volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Hotspot: Yes
- Price: EUR 10.60
The provider from San Marino once again impresses with an extensive selection of data plans at affordable prices. Regardless of whether it is limited or unlimited, everyone will find the right data package here.
Three local mobile networks (Orange, Bouygues, SFR) are used, which guarantee you good network coverage not only in large cities such as Paris and Lyon, but also in more rural regions.
The following data plans are offered:
- 1 GB for 7 days = 3,00 EUR
- 3 GB for 10 days = EUR 4.40
- 3 GB for 15 days = 4,50 EUR
- 5 GB for 15 days = 5,80 EUR
- 10 GB for 30 days = EUR 10,60
- 20 GB for 30 days = 20,00 EUR
- 50 GB for 60 days = EUR 46,30
- 100 GB for 60 days = 86,20 EUR
Unlimited from EUR 3.80 per day
Network: Orange, Bouygues, SFR
Network coverage: Very good
✅ Pros
✔ ️ Very good selection of data plans
✔ ️ Cheap prices
✔ ️ Use of multiple local mobile networks
✔ ️ Very good network coverage, even outside of big cities
❌ Cons
❌ No rates with SMS and calls
❌ Fair usage policy for unlimited tariffs
Conclusion: eSIM.sm
eSIM.sm becomes one of the absolute top providers thanks to the very good selection of tariffs, the low prices and the fast, stable connection. If you need mobile data quickly and easily, this provider is highly recommended. Installation and activation are easy and the user-friendliness of the app is high.
Whether in Paris, Marseille or the Cote d’Azur with eSIM.sm, you always have a stable connection.
Airalo
Airalo offers a total of six eSIM data tariffs for France.
Here’s an example:
Data volume: 10 GB
Validity: 30 days
Calls and SMS: Not included
Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
Price: 22,50 EUR
Get a 15% discount and existing customers 10% if you register via my link!
Airalo is one of the best-known and most experienced eSIM providers and is considered a pioneer in the market. Airalo has been around since 2019 and since then Airalo has delivered a good product that ensures a stable connection.
There is a good selection of mobile data plans that use the well-developed Orange network.
Airalo offers six different eSIM plans for France:
- 1 GB for 7 days = EUR 4.50
- 2 GB for 15 days = 7,50 EUR
- 3 GB for 30 days = EUR 10,00
- 5 GB for 30 days = EUR 13,50
- 10 GB for 30 days = 22,50 EUR
- 20 GB for 30 days = 35,00 EUR
Mobile network: According to Airalo, these data-only tariffs use the Orange 5 G/4 G/LTE network.
Network coverage: Very good
You can check the network coverage for Orange here.
Because these are data-only plans, no incoming or outgoing calls or SMS are possible, and the eSIMs do not have their own phone number.
Airalo eSIMs with data, calls and SMS
As of 2025, Airalo also has eSIMs with call and SMS function, but unfortunately they are not available for France at this time, but you can of course make your phone calls via Skype or other apps.
An Airalo eSIM must be activated within 90 days of purchase. The validity period begins from the first connection to a supported network, usually after arrival in France.
✅ Pros
✔ ️ Supports calls and SMS – Available in Discover+ Global plan
✔ ️ Local, regional and global rates – coverage throughout France
✔ ️ No identity verification required – Easy and quick activation
✔ ️ Multiple eSIM activation methods – Flexible to use
✔ ️ User-friendly app – Intuitive and easy to use
❌ Cons
❌ Local rates for France are for data only – No call or SMS function
❌ No pay-as-you-go or unlimited data plans – Limited plan options
Conclusion: Why is Airalo one of the best eSIM providers for France?
Airalo has been established for years and supplies reliable eSIMs – in most countries, and this also applies to France. We particularly like that Orange’s mobile network is used, which guarantees excellent network coverage. Installing and activating the card is very easy and customer service proves to be extremely helpful. The overall package makes Airalo one of the best providers for France.
Holafly - Best eSIM France Unlimited
- Data Volume: Unlimited Data
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: Sharing up to 500 MB of data per day possible
- Price: 7 days unlimited dates = 26,90 EUR
5% Discount with Code: TRAVELASTRONAUT
Holafly is one of the best known companies in the field of eSIM technology. Holafly offers a simple and fast one for heavy users, as only plans with unlimited data are offered. Holafly was founded in 2018 and has since made a name for itself worldwide by offering travelers simple, instant eSIM plans for over 190 countries.
With Holafly, the activation of the virtual cards can be achieved via QR code, by clicking in the app or automatically. If problems do arise, Holafly offers very competent customer service.
What often stands out about Holafly is that it places great emphasis on good network coverage, as it often works with several local mobile networks.
Holafly is perfect for people who stream or download a lot, as well as digital nomads.
At Holafly, prices depend on the period of validity of your data package. All packages offer unlimited data volume, and the longer your data plan is valid, the cheaper the daily price will be.
Holafly offers unlimited data plans with terms ranging from 1 to 90 days.
Here are a few examples of the prices:
1 day unlimited dates = 5,90 EUR
7 days unlimited data = EUR 26,90 (€3,84 /day)
15 days unlimited data = EUR 46,90 (3,13€ /day)
30 days unlimited data = 68,90 EUR
(2,30€ /day)
Network: Orange SA./ Altice/ Iliad/ Free Mobile
Network coverage: Very good
Positive: By using different mobile networks, you can easily switch to another one in the event of a problem.
✅ Pros
✔ ️ Unlimited data volume – Don’t worry about additional fees
✔ ️ Easy installation – Quick activation via QR code or manually
✔ ️ 24/7 Customer Service – Support available in multiple languages
✔ ️ No physical SIM card required – Can be activated directly online
✔ ️ Good network coverage in France – Reliable connection during travel
❌ Cons
❌ Higher cost – More expensive than some alternatives, but with unlimited data
❌ No calls or SMS possible – Can only be used for mobile data
❌ No data hotspot – Sharing the mobile data connection not always possible
Conclusion: Holafly
Holafly offers a user-friendly and reliable eSIM solution for travelers who want to stay connected worldwide. The combination of easy installation, unlimited data schedules and excellent customer service makes Holafly a recommended choice for international travel. What is particularly impressive is that Holafly uses mobile networks from several providers, which provides more security and guarantees good network coverage.
Maya Mobile
- Data Volume: 10 GB
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls and SMS: Not included
- Network: Use of the 5 G/4 G/LTE network
- Hotspot function: Yes
- Price: 12.99 $
Maya Mobile eSIMs are among the best eSIMs for France for many travelers, thanks to their ease of setup, fair prices, and wide plan selection.
Installation is easy and can be done in just a few minutes: After purchase, you will receive an email containing a QR code, which you can simply scan to activate, or you can activate your eSIM profile directly via the app.
Maya Mobile offers a good selection of data plans for France, from 5 GB packages for short trips to unlimited data options.
Additionally, users benefit from practical extras such as automatic top-ups (Auto-Recharge), a clear app and fast customer support.
If you are looking for a reliable, flexible and user-friendly solution, Maya Mobile offers one of the best eSIM options for traveling to France. The reviews on Trustpilot are predominantly very good and the average overall rating of 4.6 is also very high.
The following data plans are offered on the Maya Mobile website:
- 100 GB for 15 days = 52.99 USD
- 50 GB for 15 days = 32.99 USD
- 20 GB for 15 days = 19.99 USD
- 10 GB for 15 days = 9.99 USD
- 5 GB for 15 days = 6.99 USD
- Unlimited data for 15 days = 39.99 USD
Network: SFR (5G/4G/LTE), Free (5G/4G/LTE)
Network Coverage: Very Good
✅ Pros
- Wide selection of data plans – suitable for short trips and longer stays
- Fair and competitive pricing
- Uses two mobile network providers – improves coverage and stability
- Easy installation – activate via QR code or directly in the app
- Hotspot use allowed – ideal for laptops and sharing data
❌ Cons
- Data-only plans – no calls or SMS included
- Fair usage policy for unlimited plans – speeds may be reduced after heavy usage
Conclusion: Maya Mobile - Best Provider 15 Days
The provider offers a good selection of data plans, low prices and, for good network coverage, uses two local mobile networks. Setting up the eSIM profile is quick and straightforward, so even beginners should have no problems. If problems do arise, competent customer service can help.
In addition, hotspot use allows you to connect to the Internet using other devices or share your data with friends
Even though Maya Mobile only offers data plans and the unlimited plans have a fair use policy, these restrictions are common among many eSIM providers. Overall, Maya Mobile impresses with excellent value for money, reliable connectivity and very easy use, making it one of the best eSIMs for France.
Airhub - 7 GB für 6.00 USD
- 7GB data
- Valid in France
- No calls or text messages
- Hotspot: Yes
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 5G/4 G/LTE network
- Price: 6.00 $
Airhub offers a total of seven pure eSIM data plans and two call+data plans for France.
Airhub’s eSIMs for France are a flexible and straightforward solution for those who don’t want to change a physical card at the beginning of their journey and want a stable internet connection directly.
The provider offers a wide range of data plans that are suitable for both short city trips and longer stays. Setting up the virtual map is easy via a QR code or directly via the app, and thanks to the use of local 4G and 5G networks, you can enjoy a stable connection in cities, along the Côte d’Azur, but also in more remote areas. If you are looking for a simple solution at fair prices, then Airhub is the right place for you.
Airhub is one of the few providers that doesn’t just offer data-only tariffs. Here you can also choose a plan of call minutes and dates.
The following packages are available on the Airhub website:
Data only
3 GB valid for 7 days = 3.50 USD
4 GB valid for 30 days = 4.50 USD
7 GB valid for 30 days = 6.00 USD
12 GB valid for 30 days = 10.50 USD
23 GB valid for 30 days = 14.50 USD
300 GB valid for 15 days = USD 29.00
300 GB valid for 30 days = 35.50 USD
Calls + Data
35 GB valid for 15 days = USD 35.00
40 GB valid for 30 days = 40.00 USD
Network: Airhub uses the Bouygues France network in France.
Network coverage: Medium
Compared to other networks like Orange, Bouygues has done a little worse.
✅ Pros
✔ ️ Free trial plan – 200 MB free to try before purchasing
✔ ️ Versatile tariff options – Different data packages for different needs
✔ ️ User-friendly app – Easy management of eSIMs via an intuitive interface
✔ ️ Fast and reliable connection – Stable internet speed for traveling in France
❌ Cons
❌ No live chat support – Customer service only available via email
❌ Unclear tariff conditions – Some users report misunderstandings about data limits
❌ Uncommon connection problems – Reports of sudden service interruptions
Conclusion: Why is Airhub one of the best providers in our comparison?
The large selection of tariffs particularly stands out at Airhub – and not just for data-only tariffs. Airhub is the only provider in our comparison to also offer combination tariffs of data and calls, which makes it particularly versatile and attractive. The price-performance ratio is also convincing: you get reliable service for fair prices.
Jetpac - 10 GB for 11,50 EUR
- 10GB of data
- Valid in France
- No calls or text messages
- Valid for 30 days
- Uses the 5G/4 G/LTE network
- Price: EUR 11.50
Jetpac offers a total of ten different eSIM tariffs for France, which also include packages that include several countries.
Jetpac eSIMs for France are a good choice if you want to surf flexibly and easily on your mobile device.
Jetpac offers a comprehensive range of tariffs at very affordable prices. The mobile data plans start at one gigabyte for one euro and go up to 50 GB
With a virtual map from Jetpac you have a stable connection in the most important cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux and Lille. But eSIM also ensures reliable internet in tourist-popular regions such as Cote d’Azur, Provence or the Alps, so you can easily navigate, share photos or use streaming.
The following plans are offered:
1 GB valid for 4 days = 1 EUR (instead of 4 EUR, 1FOR1 offer for new users, 30 countries)
1 GB valid for 4 days = 1 EUR (instead of 4 EUR, 1FOR1 offer for new users, 1 country)
3 GB valid for 7 days = 5 EUR
5 GB valid for 30 days = 7 EUR
10 GB valid for 30 days = EUR 11,50 (instead of EUR 13,50, 15% discount)
15 GB valid for 30 days = EUR 14,50 (instead of EUR 17,50, 17% discount)
20 GB valid for 30 days = EUR 17.50 (instead of EUR 21, 17% discount)
30 GB valid for 30 days = 28,50 EUR
40 GB valid for 30 days = 33,50 EUR
50 GB valid for 17 days = 19 EUR
Network: Uses the Bouygues France network.
✅ Pros
✔ ️ Local, regional and global fares – Ideal for travelers to France
✔ ️ Supports 5 G speeds – Fast and stable connection
✔ ️ Budget-friendly prices – Low-cost tariffs for various needs
✔ ️ Easy eSIM activation – Quick and easy setup
✔ ️ User-friendly app – Intuitive operation for easy use
❌ Cons
❌ No support for calls and SMS – Can only be used for mobile data
❌ No pay-as-you-go or unlimited data plans – Limited plan options
Conclusion: Jetpac
Jetpac is a very good choice if you are looking for a reliable and affordable eSIM for France. Local, regional and global rates are offered at affordable prices.
Jetpac works with renowned mobile phone providers, so you can expect speeds of up to 5G in the countries it offers. By using well-developed networks, you have a good and stable connection, which means that even digital nomads will be satisfied with what is available. The easy activation and user-friendly app make setup particularly straightforward, even for eSIM beginners.
While Jetpac doesn’t offer calls, text messages, or pay-as-you-go options, its affordable pricing and clearly structured data packages make it an excellent option for those who need a fast, affordable, and high-quality mobile data connection.
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Quick Comparison of eSIM Providers:
- Airhub: 7 GB for 6.00 EUR
- Saily: 5 GB for 11.99 EUR
- Airalo: 5 GB for 13.50 EUR
- eSIM.sm 5 GB for EUR 15.80
- Jetpac: 5 GB for 7.00 EUR
- Holafly: 1 week unlimited dates for EUR 26.90
What should you consider before buying an eSIM?
Check device compatibility: First of all, check whether your smartphone is eSIM-capable. Older models in particular are often incompatible with the technology. You can check this in your settings or on special lists of providers.
Lock status of the device: If you have a contract, your phone may be “locked”. Check the status of your phone before buying one of the best eSIMs for France.
Network coverage: Network coverage is arguably one of the most important factors when purchasing an eSIM. Make sure your chosen provider uses a well-developed local network. It is particularly good if the provider works with several local mobile networks.
Data-only or including calls/SMS: What kind of plan are you looking for? Would you like to be able to make phone calls and send/send SMS messages, or is a data-only plan sufficient for you? Most providers only offer data-only plans, but there is an exception like alosim. If making phone calls via apps like WhatsApp is enough for you, then a pure data plan is probably enough.
Hotspot / tethering allowed?: Not every provider allows hotspot use. However, if this is an option that is important for you to connect to other devices, then you should keep this in mind.
Observe fair use policy: With „unlimited“ data, there is often a throttling after a certain data quota is used up.
Activation process: If you prefer in-app activation instead of the regular QR code, make sure this option is available from your chosen provider.
Airalo, for example, is one of the best eSIMs for France that makes this possible.
Tariff duration and validity: Pay attention to how long your data plan is valid. Some companies have fixed tariffs for a certain period of time, for some you can adjust the validity period see Maya Mobile
Refund & Support: Good customer service can be worth its weight in gold. We have had very good experiences with Airalo and Holafly in particular.
Conduct price comparison: Before you decide on a plan, you may want to do a price comparison. What is important is that the price performance ratio is correct.
Benefits of Using an eSIM
No physical SIM card necessary: If you choose an eSIM, you don’t have to go to a store and change your plastic SIM card first. Everything works easily online
Immediate activation: After purchase, you can easily install your eSIM profile in the app by scanning a QR code or by clicking on it. Activation occurs automatically after landing in your destination country.
Multiple eSIM profiles on one device: You can create multiple eSIMs for different countries and data volumes on your device.
Security: You can’t lose your card and the best eSIMs for France often offer additional security features
Environmentally friendly: No long transport routes necessary and packaging material and plastic waste are avoided.
No expensive roaming charges: You save yourself expensive roaming fees and don’t have to expect an expensive surprise at the end of your vacation. With the prepaid cards of the best eSIM for France you have full cost control.
Easy top up: If you run out of data on your trip, you can easily add more data. Some providers also allow you to switch on an “auto-renew” function for automatic charging.
Perfect for digital nomads: You are not bound by any contract and can install a new eSIM for another country at any time. Regional or global packages are also particularly popular with digital nomads.
Best eSIM France - Frequently Asked Questions
When should you buy/activate an eSIM for France?
To ensure everything runs smoothly, you should buy your eSIM before you leave for France. However, it is advisable to activate them upon arrival or shortly before departure to make the most of the validity period. Some providers also allow scheduled activation so your eSIM is available when you need it
How do I install my eSIM?
Installation is quick and easy:
- Buy an eSIM from providers such as Airalo, Holafly, Airhub or Jetpac.
- You will immediately receive a QR code by email or the provider’s application.
- Go to your smartphone settings and scan the QR code.
- To use the eSIM follow the instructions to select it as the default data plan.
- Enable roaming to connect to a local French network. Most eSIMs activate themselves when they detect a French network.
What are the advantages?
You don’t have to look for a store after you arrive in France, you are immediately connected to the local network. This saves you high roaming fees and you no longer have to change a physical SIM card.
What is the best mobile network in France?
The best mobile network with the highest network coverage in France is Orange. SFR follows closely behind. Providers who use these networks are definitely recommended.
For travelers to France, eSIMs offer a practical and cost-effective way to stay mobile online during your stay. With an eSIM, the need for physical SIM cards is eliminated because the technology is integrated directly into the device.
Availability and network coverage:
In France, eSIM providers cooperate with leading mobile network operators such as Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom, which offer excellent network coverage in urban areas such as Paris, Marseille and Lyon. Coverage may vary in rural regions, so it is advisable to check each provider’s network coverage in the planned travel areas.
Benefits of eSIMs:
Easy activation: eSIMs can be activated immediately after purchase, eliminating the need to visit a local store.
Flexibility: Different data plans make it possible to select a tariff according to individual usage habits and length of stay.
No physical SIM change: Since no physical SIM card is required, the device’s SIM slot remains available for other purposes.
Important notes:
Device Compatibility: Make sure your device is eSIM enabled and unlocked.
Data sharing: Some providers allow sharing of the mobile data connection (hotspot), but restrictions may apply.
Voice and SMS services: Not all eSIM plans include voice or SMS features. If you need these, check the provider’s specific tariff details.
eSIMs offer a comfortable way to stay connected during your stay in France. However, it is important to compare the different offers from the providers to find the tariff that best suits your needs.
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