How to set up an eSIM in Greece (iPhone & Android)

Table of contents

• Before you start
• iPhone: add the eSIM
• Android: add the eSIM
• APN and mobile data settings
• Hotspot / tethering
• If the eSIM has no internet: quick checks
• Which plan should you choose?
• When to activate
• Who benefits from eSIM in Greece
• Device compatibility
• Cost planning for Greece
• Connectivity on the ground: Greece
• Useful links
• FAQ

Before you start

• Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
• Have Wi-Fi available for installation.
• Keep the QR code / activation details ready.
• You can keep your main SIM active for calls/SMS and use the eSIM for data.
• Many travel eSIM plans are data-only. If you need calls/SMS, keep your main SIM active (and check plan details).

iPhone: add the eSIM

Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code. Name the eSIM (e.g. “Travel”).

Set the eSIM as your Mobile Data line while you are in Greece.

Android: add the eSIM

Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM. The exact path may differ by device (Samsung/Pixel/etc).

Scan the QR code and set the eSIM as the data SIM.

APN and mobile data settings

APN is usually configured automatically. If data does not work, check APN/network selection and try toggling Airplane mode or restarting the phone.

Hotspot / tethering

In many cases you can share data via hotspot. If it does not work, check hotspot settings and any plan limitations.

If the eSIM has no internet: quick checks

• Is the eSIM selected as the Mobile Data line?
• Are Mobile Data enabled for the eSIM?
• Network selection set to Automatic and you have signal?
• Toggle Airplane mode on/off or restart the phone.
• If needed, enable Data Roaming for the eSIM line.

Which plan should you choose?

For a 5–7 day trip, a smaller plan is often enough; for 10–14 days, a mid-sized plan is usually more comfortable.

See available options here: eSIM for Greece.

If you will travel across multiple countries, Balkans eSIM may be a better fit.

When to activate

Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi — this way you're ready before the trip. Enable mobile data after landing.

Who benefits from eSIM in Greece

• exchange students and interns who need connectivity from day one
• freelancers working from cafés and coworking spaces
• elderly travelers who value simplicity

Device compatibility

Before buying eSIM, make sure your phone is not carrier-locked (SIM-lock). An unlocked phone is required for eSIM to work.

Cost planning for Greece

Family savings: for a family of 3-4, one phone with eSIM + Wi-Fi hotspot is cheaper than a separate package for each device.

Connectivity on the ground: Greece

For booking accommodation (Booking, Airbnb) and restaurants (Google Maps, TripAdvisor), you need internet. eSIM lets you compare prices and read reviews on the spot.

Useful links

Official sources on mobile networks and roaming:

• EU roaming rules (official EU website)
• EETT – Greece's telecom & post commission
• Check eSIM device compatibility (Apple)
• Set up an eSIM on iPhone (Apple Support)
• Set up an eSIM on Pixel (Google Support)
• How to use an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy (Samsung Support)
• How much data does Netflix use? (Netflix Help Center)

Quick recommendation

Recommended plans

Summary

FAQ