Visit Germany in 2024 with an eSIM
Euros fever is officially here – this summer, cities across Germany will welcome players, coaches, fans and tourists for one of the most fervently supported events in the sporting calendar: the Men’s UEFA Euro 2024. This year, the competition is set to take place from June 14 – July 14. In typical German style, preparations have been meticulous as the nation readies itself to host 150 athletes and over 2.5 million fans.
Across the country, from Cologne to Leipzig, city centers have been transformed into public viewing areas and dedicated fan zones. Berlin has turned an entire street into a football pitch, complete with 24,000 square metres of lurid green astroturf and a 21-metre high goal under the Brandenburg Gate.
Germany has pedigree in hosting events of this scale, including the 2006 FIFA Men’s and the 2011 Women’s World Cups. Due to its central location within the continent (10 countries alone share a direct border), the Euros have never been more accessible.
How to get mobile data in Germany
When you’re traveling to Germany, mobile internet can be indispensable. From translating menus to navigating new cities and sharing videos from inside the stadium, a reliable mobile internet connection is an indispensable travel help. However, the costs of international roaming can spiral quickly and unexpectedly when you use your usual domestic service provider in other countries.
While local SIM cards are a cost-effective way to get online in Germany, buying a SIM card has its downsides too – apart from the logistical and environmental complications of using a physical card, the process itself is far from user-friendly - from queuing for a SIM at airport terminals (this summer, German airports are expected to handle over 3 million visitors) to removing, storing and keeping track of your domestic SIM card.
German eSIM Plans
Wherever you’re travelling from and whoever you’re supporting, make the most of Euro 2024 by downloading a BetterRoaming eSIM. An eSIM is simply a digital version of a SIM card that can be downloaded to a phone in seconds.
Fast becoming a favorite among tourists and frequent flyers, a major advantage of eSIMs is that they allow international travellers to use mobile data abroad without paying roaming charges. This is one less thing to think about during the usual chaos of holiday planning. Think of them like a local SIM card – just far more flexible.
Why use a BetterRoaming eSIM in Germany?
A travel eSIM for Germany is, simply put, the easiest way to enjoy the full functionality of your phone abroad, while paying local SIM card rates. Keep your old phone number, access your old messages and use two-factor authentication, while browsing the web for a fraction of the price.
A quick guide to Euro 2024:
When does Euro 2024 Start?
The 2024 Men’s UEFA European Championships officially commence with an opening ceremony June 14 in Munich.
The first match, between host team Germany and tournament dark horses Scotland, will then kick off immediately after at 9pm local time (8pm GMT).
Where is Euro 2024 being held?
After the pan-European smorgasbord of Euro 2020, the 2024 Euros return to the traditional model of a single host country. Games will be played across 10 German cities, spanning the length and breadth of the country.
Here’s a quick summary of each one of the host cities and venues for the 2024 European Championships:
- 1
Berlin
Germany’s capital and largest city, Berlin will draw the majority of visitors to Germany in 2024. The final of Euros will take place in Berlin’s iconic Olympiastadion.
- 2
Cologne
The largest city in Germany’s most populous state, North Rhine-Westphalia, Cologne (or Köln in German) is a popular tourist city in its own right. Germany most-visited tourist destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cologne Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter or Kölner Dom) stands at the heart of the old city. This year, tourist numbers are expected to swell further during the course of the tournament.
- 3
Dortmund
The definition of a football-mad town, Dortmund ranks among Naples, Glasgow and Rio de Janeiro as cities whose history and everyday life is inextricably tied to the beautiful game. Dortmund will host 6 matches in the 80,000-capacity Westfalenstadion. Fittingly, the city is also the location of the German Football Museum.
- 4
Düsseldorf
One of the smaller and less busy host cities, Düsseldorf nevertheless has a rich history and an old town centre filled with Germanic charm. Located on the Banks of the Rhine, Düsseldorf has created several riverside public viewing areas for the Euros, making it perhaps the most scenic place to catch a match this summer.
- 5
Frankfurt
For many visitors to Germany in 2024, Frankfurt will be their first port of call – Frankfurt Airport is the largest and busiest in Germany. Situated at the heart of the of the central German State of Hesse, the city is ideally located as a base for exploring the rest of the country.
- 6
Gelsenkirchen
Gelsenkirchen may be more familiar to football fans as the home city of Schalke 04. The former football powerhouses currently play in Germany’s second tier, but still regularly draw crowds of 60,000 to the state-of-the-art Veltins Arena.
- 7
Hamburg
The second-largest city and largest port in Germany, Hamburg has a distinct culture, renowned art galleries and a bustling nightlife. The 57,000-capacity Volksparkstadion, home to the fallen European giants Hamburger SV, will see world-class football finally return to its pitch when it hosts its first Euros Match on June 16.
- 8
Leipzig
Leipzig is one of the least-visited cities on this list, especially by international travellers. With a fascinating history, friendly atmosphere and world-class nightlife, however, Leipzig offers a brilliant alternative to the tourist hotspots of Cologne and Munich for those looking to avoid the crowds during a Euros summer. The nearby hiker’s paradise Sächsische Schweiz (‘Saxon Switzerland’) is a region of outstanding natural beauty, while the nation’s capital, Berlin, is only an hour away by train.
- 9
Munich
The capital of Bavaria, Munich is home to Germany’s most successful football team, FC Bayen München, as well as the originator of many stereotypical German exports: Lederhosen, lager and Okoberfest. In recent years, the affluent city has become a hub for the tech industry. The Alps and the surrounding lakes are easily reachable by train from the city centre.
- 10
Stuttgart
A typically German blend of time-honored tradition and cutting-edge innovation, Stuttgart city centre is a patchwork of medieval houses, Baroque palaces and the glass-and-steel headquarters of local automotive giants Mercedes-Benz and Porsche.
The Black Forest is easily reachable train, as is the Neckar Valley winemaking region, the historic town of Heidelberg, Hohenzollern Castle and Germany’s largest theme park, Europapark. This makes Stuttgart is a perfect destination in Germany for families with children.
From Stuttgart to Berlin, an eSIM is the best way to enjoy uninterrupted mobile internet, whether you’re in remote country or the packed stadium crowd, never lose signal. A BetterRoaming eSIM works keeps you connected across every one of these host cities, on one prepaid data plan
You can be there to share every action shot, penalty video and questionable refereeing decision as they happen.
Is Germany in the EU roaming zone?
Germany is a member of the EU – meaning that it is also a member of the EU’s ‘roam like at home’ policy. In brief, this protocol allows EU residents to travel to Germany (or any of the other 29 participating nations) without having to pay roaming fees, install a travel eSIM or buy a local SIM card.
For everyone else though (including fans of several non-EU member nations in the 2024 Euros), it’s wisest to download a travel SIM before going to Germany this summer. Learn more about data roaming in the EU.
Get an eSIM data plan for your visit to Germany
A BetterRoaming eSIM is quick and free to set up – just follow our easy-installation guide. This can be done at any time, even before you travel. Then, the minute you arrive in Germany, you can get connected to our high-speed international network at a cheap local rate.
No more queuing up for a local SIM – just one simple plan that can be downloaded in minutes, and ready to get online across Germany whenever you are. Don’t miss these Germany 2024 eSIM plans.
European Regional eSIM Plans
Germany’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for a wider European journey. Our European eSIM packages give you the freedom to roam uninterrupted across 49 countries and territories in Europe, including Germany. Or why not continue the sporting journey and visit France this year for the Paris 2024 Olympics? Discover the entire continent with a single eSIM plan. Find out more.
Discover our eSIM Plans
FAQs about Germany eSIM plans
Where can I use a German data plan?
Our eSIM plan for Germany lets you roam at local rates across the whole country. By automatically connecting to the nearest mobile network, a BetterRoaming eSIM ensures you avoid costly roaming charges and unexpected international bills. You can download your eSIM and purchase a data package before you travel – then, the second you arrive, you will automatically connect to local German mobile internet with your BetterRoaming eSIM. Find out more about using a plan here.
We offer a range of plans, including weekly and monthly options, so you can find the perfect one for your trip. And rest assured, there’s no hidden costs or contracts – if you use up your data and would like more, simply purchase another package via your phone and keep roaming.
Should I use a Europe eSIM instead?
If you’re planning on continuing your journey beyond the German border, consider booking a BetterRoaming Europe+ package. This range of data packages gives you the freedom to roam across 49 countries throughout Europe without ever having to alter your mobile plan. No changing providers and no switching out SIM cards at every border – just one seamless experience across 49 countries and territories, including Switzerland, Poland, France, Spain and many more. Find the perfect European package for your trip here.
Is an eSIM free to install?
Our eSIMs are completely free to install. Once installed, you can then purchase a data plan for your eSIM via the SMS we send you. This can be done anytime you need connectivity.
Is BetterRoaming safe?
We are a GSMA-certified network operator, meaning that we uphold the most rigorous regulatory and security standards for network providers. This way, you can ensure your BetterRoaming connection is always secure. Rest assured that your data is safe with us.
Is my device eSIM-compatible?
Most smartphones built after 2018 are eSIM-compatible. Find out if your device is eSIM-enabled. Please note that no smartphones or devices purchased in mainland China will be eSIM-compatible. For certainty, we always recommend checking the product specifications of your device on the manufacturer’s website.
Do I need to activate my BetterRoaming eSIM once I arrive in Germany?
No, not at all. Both Our Germany and Europe+ eSIM plans operate automatically. This means that, as soon as your phone detects you've arrived in Germany or Europe, your plan will activate by itself - and you'll immediately be connected to the local mobile network. One thing to make sure of is that you have 'cellular/mobile data' turned on. You can check this on your handset by going to 'Settings' > 'Cellular/Mobile Data'.
Do I need to uninstall the eSIM after my trip?
There's no need to uninstall the BetterRoaming eSIM after your trip. You can always leave it on your phone - then, if in future, you wish to book another BetterRoaming plan for one of the 160+ destinations we cover, you won't need to re-install the eSIM.
Of course, it's always possible to delete, and re-install, the BetterRoaming eSIM for free at any time.
