How to set up an eSIM in Italy (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 Italy
• Device compatibility
• Cost planning for Italy
• Connectivity on the ground: Italy
• 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 Italy.

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 Italy.

If you will travel across multiple countries, Europe (34 countries) eSIM may be a better fit.

When to activate

We recommend installing the profile the day before your flight. Check that the eSIM appears in your settings. Enable mobile data at the destination airport.

Who benefits from eSIM in Italy

• transit travelers (layover, 1–2 day stop)
• hikers and nature lovers who need maps
• those planning to use hotspot for a laptop

Device compatibility

iPad, Apple Watch, and some tablets also support eSIM. If you need internet on multiple devices — consider using hotspot from your main phone.

Cost planning for Italy

Financial tip: buy eSIM in advance — prices don't depend on the date. Emergency purchase at the airport costs the same, but installing over weak Wi-Fi can be problematic.

Connectivity on the ground: Italy

Public transport in Italy often has Wi-Fi, but it can be unreliable. eSIM frees you from dependence on public networks and ensures a stable connection.

Useful links

Official sources on mobile networks and roaming:

• EU roaming rules (official EU website)
• AGCOM – Italy's communications authority
• 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