TL;DR: Best eSIMs for Lisbon in 2025
Whether you're coworking from Lisbon's sunny rooftop cafés, exploring the Alfama district, or grabbing brunch in trendy Príncipe Real, staying connected in Lisbon is simple with an eSIM. Instead of searching for a physical SIM card on arrival, download a digital eSIM before your flight.
What you should know:
✅ Install your eSIM before you arrive and activate it when you land
✅ Avoid roaming fees and local SIM hassles
✅ Plans typically cost under €15/week
✅ Works in central Lisbon, surrounding suburbs and all over Portugal
✅ Easy plan switching and top-ups via app
We tested multiple providers and found that Ubigi, Airalo, and Saily offer the best eSIM options for digital nomads and travelers spending time in Lisbon.
Using an eSIM in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of Europe’s top hubs for remote workers. With affordable living, fast internet, and a vibrant coworking scene, it’s no surprise digital nomads love it here. But to make the most of your time in the city, having mobile data is essential.
Whether you're ordering a Bolt in Bairro Alto, checking coworking availability on the go, or hotspotting from a riverside café in Cais do Sodré, a reliable eSIM makes all the difference.
I’ll admit: I didn’t use eSIMs during my first year as a digital nomad. But once I tried one, I never went back to juggling local SIM cards or finding a telecom shop after a long flight.
In this guide, you'll find our top 3 eSIM picks for Lisbon, plus a directory to explore more. All recommendations are based on personal use and digital nomad reviews.
What is an eSIM, and why use one in Lisbon?
An eSIM ("embedded SIM") is a digital SIM card you install directly on your device. Instead of inserting plastic cards, just install the profile via app or QR code and you're good to go.
Why eSIMs are great for Lisbon:
✅ No need to visit a phone shop
✅ Set up before your flight
✅ Avoid expensive roaming
✅ Works across Lisbon and all over Portugal
✅ Easy to manage and top up from your phone
Best eSIM providers for Lisbon
Ubigi is a reliable provider with solid coverage across Lisbon, from Belém to Parque das Nações. Setup is fast, and the app clearly displays data usage and expiry time.
Why we recommend Ubigi:
- Setup takes less than 5 minutes via app or QR code
- Plans only activate when you land in Portugal
- Speeds of up to 200+ Mbps
- Great for tethering and video calls from cafés
- Plans from 500MB to unlimited
- Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off your first plan
Airalo is one of the most popular eSIM platforms for digital nomads and works smoothly across Lisbon. Their interface is clean, and the installation process is great for first-timers.
Why travelers choose Airalo:
- Coverage in 200+ countries, including Portugal
- Affordable and prepaid plans with no hidden fees
- Install the eSIM before departure
- Support is available 24/7 in-app
- Choose between country-specific, regional, or global plans
👉 Try Airalo here
Saily is built by the creators of NordVPN, and comes with added online security features. Great if you’re working from cafés or coworking spaces and want extra protection.
Why we recommend Saily:
- Built-in ad blocker and web protection
- Strong and stable connections throughout Lisbon
- Easy top-ups through a clean, simple app
- Great customer support and fast issue resolution
- 5% off with the code NOMADWISE5
👉 Explore Saily plans
Looking for more options?
Want to compare more eSIM providers for Lisbon or other destinations? Our eSIM directory has you covered.
👉 See all Lisbon eSIM providers here
How to choose the right eSIM for Lisbon
- Check compatibility: iPhones XR+, Pixel 4+, and most new phones support eSIM
- Know your data needs: 3–5GB/week is usually enough for Lisbon
- Traveling beyond Lisbon? Choose a provider with wider EU coverage
- Support: Go for a provider with good customer service or live chat
Quick setup guide: eSIMs in Lisbon
- Check phone compatibility in Settings > Mobile Network > Add eSIM
- Choose your eSIM plan
- Install the eSIM via app or QR code
- Activate and test it before leaving Wi-Fi
FAQ: eSIMs for Lisbon
Can I use an eSIM across Lisbon?
Yes! All three providers offer solid coverage throughout Lisbon and nearby areas.
How much does it cost?
Plans usually range from €5 to €15 per week.
- Use NOMADWISE for 10% off with Ubigi
- Use NOMADWISE5 for 5% off with Saily
Can I use it for calls?
eSIMs are data-only. Use WhatsApp or FaceTime for calls.
Can I store more than one eSIM?
Yes, most phones support multiple eSIM profiles.
Summary: Best eSIM for Lisbon
Whether you're working from a coworking space in Santos, taking tram 28 through the city, or streaming music on the ferry to Cacilhas, an eSIM will keep you connected.
- Fast activation & full app control → Ubigi (10% off with code NOMADWISE)
- Easy-to-use & flexible → Airalo
- Extra security while you work → Saily (5% off with code NOMADWISE5)
👉 Compare all eSIM options for Lisbon
No SIM swaps, no surprises. Just easy, affordable data in Lisbon.
