Staying connected in Vilnius, Lithuania, is easy and affordable by purchasing a local SIM card. Our guide will help you navigate the simple process of buying a SIM card, choosing the best providers, and getting the best deals for data, calls, and texts which makes your Vilnius experience more convenient!
Table of Contents
I. Which mobile operator is the best in Vilnius?
When you arrive in Vilnius, it’s not difficult to find suitable network providers for communication and easy access. Based on network coverage, speed, and plans, here are the top suggestions you can refer to:
| Network | Telia | Bitė | Tele2 |
| Coverage | Covers 99% of the population with 4G/LTE. Also has 5G coverage. | Covers 97% of the population with 4G/LTE. Also has 5G coverage. | Covers 99% of the population with 4G/LTE. Also has 5G coverage. |
| Speedtest median download speed (Mobile) | 116.58 Mbps (Q4 2023) | 69.34 Mbps (Q4 2023) | 63.94 Mbps (Q4 2023) |
| Speedtest consistency (Mobile) | 94.7% (Q4 2023) | 90.1% (Q4 2023) | 89.5% (Q4 2023) |
| Prepaid brand | Ežys | Labas | Pildyk |
| Data roaming in the EU | Available up to FUP on Ežys plans | Available but surcharged | Available but surcharged |
| VoLTE/VoWiFi on prepaid | No | Yes | Yes for VoLTE |
In conclusion, all three major mobile networks in Lithuania – Telia, Bitė, and Tele2 – provide extensive 4G/LTE coverage across over 97% of the country, including Vilnius.
Telia has the fastest median mobile download speeds according to Speedtest analytics for Q4 2023. However, Bitė and Tele2 networks are also performing well with consistent speeds.
However, the choice of mobile operator depends on the length of the trip, as well as the needs of each traveler.
Unlock more insights with our guide Lithuania Mobile Operators: Which One is the Best to get more useful tips!
II. Best Vilnius SIM Card and cost
Based on network quality and tourist plan value, here is a comparison of recommended options:
| Provider | Plan | Data | Validity | Price (USD) |
| Telia (Ežys) | NARŠYK 7 | 7 GB | 30 days | $8.11 |
| Telia (Ežys) | NARŠYK NERIBOTIGB | Unlimited* | 30 days | $15.15 |
| Tele2 (Pildyk) | NMIN10GB | 10 GB | 30 days | $12.88 |
| Tele2 (Pildyk) | NMINNGB | Unlimited | 30 days | $18.71 |
| Tele2 (Pildyk) | NMINNGB5G | Unlimited + 5G | 30 days | $20.88 |
| Bitė (Labas) | 3 GB | 3 GB | 30 days | $3.51 |
| Bitė (Labas) | NGB | Unlimited | 30 days | $14.94 |
| Bitė (Labas) | VISKAS5G | Unlimited + 5G | 30 days | $19.43 |
Telia, Tele2, and Bitė – offer affordable and generous prepaid data plans. Unlimited plans are available for around $15-20 USD per month, providing good value compared to prices in other European markets.
Tele2 and Bitė stand out for offering unlimited 5G data access on some of their plans. This allows customers to take advantage of the latest network technology.
III. Where to buy A SIM Card in Vilnius
Visitors can purchase SIM cards easily upon arrival or during their Vilnius travels. Here are some recommended place options:
1. Getting a SIM Card at Vilnius International Airport
- Mobile operators kiosk
Major mobile operators such as Bitė or Telia both have kiosks located at Vilnius International Airport where visitors can easily get a SIM Card here. Travelers also can get assistance easily at these places if they face any trouble during the purchasing process.
- Convenience stores
Many convenience stores in the airport arrivals area also offer SIM Cards from major mobile operators. It may be an alternative if mobile operators’ stores are closed.
2. Getting a Prepaid SIM Card in Vilnius
- Mobile operators stores
There are several mobile operator stores from Bite or Telia located across the city. Visitors can find different plans for their traveling goals
- Narvesen kiosks
These small kiosks located near transportation hubs like bus/train stations stock multi-network SIMs starting at $10.85.
- Maxima supermarkets
Larger Maxima stores also have self-service prepaid mobile stands.
In conclusion, getting a SIM Card immediately at Vilnius Airport is the best choice of convenient and fast processing.
For an alternative, visitors may consider buying an eSIM from #1 Lithuania eSIM provider – esimlithuania.net which provides diverse eSIM plans for any traveling goals.
Keep the purchase receipt safe in case you need to top-up credit or have connectivity issues later on.
IV. eSIM for Vilnius travelers – a smart alternative
Choosing an eSIM is a wise option for any tourist visiting Vilnius. Unlike physical SIM cards that require swapping out or retailers to purchase, eSIM allows travelers to easily activate mobile plans right from their smartphone using just the device’s online connectivity.
Here are some of the top options to buy eSIM in Vilnius:
- Major carrier website
Major carriers like Bite or Telia offer eSIM profiles that can be purchased straight from their websites. Easy activation.
- eSIM provider
Experience the simplicity of eSIM when visiting Vilnius, Lithuania. Skip the roaming worries and discover the necessity to switch from a physical SIM card to an eSIM with #1 Lithuania eSIM provider – esimlithuannia.net which offers extremely convenient eSIM plans that are the perfect solution for tourists traveling to Vilnius with a different range of packages. Here’s what makes esimlithuania.net stand out:
- Purchase online, then install with a snap by scanning the QR code through email, this digital SIM loads instantly – you don’t need to wait for a physical card.
- eSIMs from esimlithuannia.net provide affordable data-only plans without roaming charges. Options include 7, 15, and 30 days with competitive prices.
- Our eSIMs are compatible with 200+ smartphones. Compatibility checklist and setup instructions reassure travelers.
- No roaming fees or expensive pay-as-you-go daily limits. Stream music or check maps without bill shock. Additional data can be topped up easily as needed.
Find the best options for your trip below:
Plan that may interest you
V. Things to prepare when buying SIM cards in Vilnius
To ensure the smooth and fast purchasing process, there are a few things to consider:
- Passport/ID – You will need to present your passport or other photo ID for verification when purchasing a SIM card.
- Unlocked phone – Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with local networks. Dual/triple SIM phones work well.
- Payment method – Most places accept cash but bringing a credit/debit card provides flexibility.
- Budget and Data Needs: Before making your purchase, determine your budget and data needs for your stay in Vilnius. Consider factors such as prices, streaming, using GPS navigation, and the length of your stay, to choose the most suitable plans.
Providing these key identity documents to you makes the SIM purchase process smooth by addressing all potential verification requirements upfront at Vilnius outlets.
VI. Tips and Recommendations
Here are some helpful tips for tourists buying SIM cards in Vilnius:
- Purchase from major operators like Bitė, Tele2, or Telia for reliable coverage nationwide.
- Consider purchasing a SIM with an initial data package like 1GB for 1-2 days if just need minimal connectivity while sightseeing. Or buy a week-long package if planning extended stays.
- SIMs are locked to the first network inserted by default. Ask the vendor to request an unlock if you plan usage on different networks.
- Keep activation receipts and SIM package details in case you need to top-up credit or have usage queries later.
- Be aware that, unlike most other EU countries, the major Lithuanian providers still apply surcharges for roaming within the EU/EEA. Check roaming package rates carefully if traveling outside Lithuania.
- Learn some basic Lithuanian phrases like “I need a SIM card” to make interactions smoother.
VII. FAQs
Where can I buy a prepaid SIM card in Vilnius?
Prepaid SIM cards from the main carriers Telia (Ežys brand), Tele2 (Pildyk brand), and Bitė (Laba’s brand) can be purchased from the carriers’ stores, supermarkets like Maxima, Iki and Rimi, kiosks, petrol stations, post offices and other locations. They typically cost around $1.09 – 2.18.
How do I activate a SIM card?
For Ežys (Telia) cards, dial 1544 and follow the voice menu instructions. For Pildyk (Tele2) cards, use their smartphone app or website. Labas (Bitė) cards require activation by SMS but details are only provided in Lithuanian on packaging.
What networks provide good coverage in Vilnius?
All three main carriers – Telia, Tele2, and Bitė – provide good 4G/LTE coverage in Vilnius and the most populated areas. Telia and Tele2 have the most extensive coverage nationwide as well. Check each carrier’s coverage map for details.
How can I top up my prepaid balance?
Top-up cards denominated in € are widely available from shops. You can also top up online using a credit/debit card for Ežys or Pildyk accounts. Sending an SMS is another option for some carriers.
What data packages are available?
Carriers offer short-term 1-7 day packages as well as monthly packages with fixed data allowances and unlimited options. Social media bundles are also common. Plans typically auto-renew if credit remains.
VIII. Conclusion
Traveling and navigating are made simple with the use of a Vilnius SIM card or an eSIM package. Choose an operator that meets your needs for duration, equipment, and budget to avoid hassles. Finish your homework before you leave so that setting up mobile data on your trip won’t cause you any stress.
To save time and money when experiencing the beauty of Vilnius, consider using an eSIM from esimlithuania.net as an alternative!
