best-esims-barcelona

Best eSIMs for Barcelona in 2025

Jonathan Heavens
July 8, 2025
Spain
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TL;DR: Best eSIM for Barcelona (Tested 2025)

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations for digital nomads, remote workers, and creatives. Whether you're coworking in Poblenou, relaxing at the beach in Barceloneta, or enjoying tapas in El Born, staying connected is essential.

What you should know:

✅ Install your eSIM before arrival and activate it when you land

✅ Avoid roaming charges and local SIM card hassle

✅ Plans typically cost under €15/week

✅ Great coverage across Barcelona and Catalonia

✅ You can manage or top up your plan easily via app or browser

We tested several providers and found that Ubigi, Saily, and eSIM4Travel offer some of the best eSIMs for Barcelona in 2025.

Using an eSIM in Barcelona

I didn’t start using eSIMs until a few months into my full-time travel lifestyle, but once I made the switch, I never went back. eSIMs have saved me hours of hunting for physical SIM cards, waiting in airport lines, or trying to understand mobile plans in Spanish.

Barcelona has fast 4G/5G coverage in nearly all neighborhoods, from Gothic Quarter to Gràcia and the more residential areas. If you’re planning to work from cafés or coworking spaces, a reliable eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected.

In this guide, you’ll find our top 3 eSIM picks for Barcelona, plus a link to our full eSIM directory for more options.

What is an eSIM, and why use one in Barcelona?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card built into your phone. Instead of swapping plastic cards, you install an eSIM profile through an app or QR code and you're ready to go.

Benefits of using an eSIM in Barcelona:

✅ Set it up before your trip and activate it on arrival

✅ No queues, paperwork, or ID checks

✅ Cheaper and more flexible than roaming

✅ Reliable service across city and coast

✅ Easily manage data and top-ups via app or site

Best eSIM Providers for Barcelona

1. Ubigi: Best for fast setup and reliable coverage

Ubigi is perfect for travelers who want fast speeds, transparent plans, and an easy app experience. Their plans only activate once you arrive, so you can buy your eSIM in advance.

Why we recommend Ubigi:

  • Easy setup via app or QR code
  • Smart activation: plan starts on arrival
  • Speeds up to 250 Mbps
  • Great for hotspotting or tethering
  • Track your usage in real time
  • Plans from 500MB to unlimited
  • 10% off with code NOMADWISE

2. Saily: Best for privacy and secure browsing

Saily is made by the team behind NordVPN. If you plan to work from public networks like cafés or shared coworking spaces, Saily’s built-in protection and clean app are a big plus.

Why we recommend Saily:

  • Built-in ad blocker and privacy tools
  • Reliable speeds across Barcelona
  • Simple app and smart top-ups
  • Excellent live chat support
  • 5% off with code NOMADWISE5

👉 Explore Saily plans and get 5% off with the code NOMADWISE5

3. eSim4Travel: Best price for basic usage

eSIM4Travel is a solid budget option for basic needs like browsing, messaging, and navigation. No app needed, and setup is handled via browser or email.

Why travelers choose eSIM4Travel:

  • One of the cheapest options on the market
  • Works well in Barcelona and all over Spain for daily use
  • No app download neededsimple browser-based setup
  • Live chat support if needed

👉 Get your Try eSIM4Travel plan

Looking for more options?

Want to compare more Barcelona eSIM providers or check pricing across Spain? Our full eSIM directory has you covered.

👉 See all Spain eSIM providers here

How to choose the right eSIM for your Barcelona trip

  • Device compatibility: iPhones XR+, newer Pixels, and modern Androids support eSIM
  • Data usage: 3–5GB/week works for most digital nomads. Heavy users may want unlimited
  • Staying in Spain or traveling EU-wide? Choose a Europe-wide plan from Ubigi or Saily
  • Need support? All 3 providers offer live chat or help documentation

Quick Setup Guide: eSIMs in Barcelona

  1. Check for compatibility on your phone: Open Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM
  2. Purchase your plan from Ubigi, Saily, or eSIM4Travel
  3. Install the profile using the provider’s app or QR code
  4. Activate and test it before leaving your accommodation Wi-Fi

FAQ: eSIMs in Barcelona

Can I use an eSIM across Barcelona?

Yes, all three providers offer full coverage across central districts and nearby towns.

How much does a Barcelona eSIM cost?

Most plans range from €5–15.

  • Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off Ubigi
  • or NOMADWISE5 for 5% off Saily

Can I call or text with these eSIMs?

No. Most are data-only. Use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or FaceTime.

Can I store more than one eSIM?

Yes. You can save multiple profiles and switch between them as needed.

Summary: Best eSIM for Barcelona

Whether you're coworking from Poblenou, enjoying sunset drinks in Gràcia, or streaming while on the move, a reliable eSIM keeps you connected across Barcelona.

  • Want speed and unlimited data? → Ubigi (10% off with code NOMADWISE)
  • Want security while working in cafés? → Saily (5% off with code NOMADWISE5)
  • On a tight budget? → eSIM4Travel is a simple, affordable option

👉 Explore all Spain eSIMs

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