Best eSIMS

Best eSIM for Albania in 2025: Compare providers and plans

In 2025, travelers to Albania have plenty of good eSIM choices. Holafly stands out with unlimited data and simple setup, Saily is the most affordable pick with plans starting under $4, and Jetpac is unique for adding perks like free WhatsApp and airport lounge access. In this guide we also compare Nomad, Maya, and Airalo so you can find the eSIM that best matches your trip.

Vukasin Petrovic Headshot

Written by Vukasin Petrovic

Updated: Sep 23, 2025
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The 5 Best eSIM Providers for Travel

1
Holafly unlimited data plans in popular destinations, ideal for seamless travel
2
Ubigi reliable high-speed eSIMs in 190+ countries, great for business or frequent travel
3
Nomad flexible pay-as-you-go data for easy trave
4
BNESIM custom data and call bundles for long-term travelers
5
Airalo affordable eSIM options and solid value for most travelers

Albania has one of the highest internet usage rates in the Balkans, with more than 83 percent of its 2.36 million residents online, and it welcomed over 11 million international visitors in 2024. That makes reliable connectivity essential for navigation, bookings, and staying in touch.

The right eSIM depends on your needs: Holafly is the best choice if you want stress-free unlimited data, Saily keeps costs low for budget travelers, and Jetpac appeals to heavy data users who value extra perks. Alongside these, Nomad, Maya, and Airalo offer flexible alternatives with a mix of prepaid bundles, daily unlimited options, and easy app-based setup.

Things to consider when choosing an eSIM for Albania

  • Network partners in Albania: Not all eSIMs connect to the same local carriers. Prioritize those that partner with Vodafone Albania or One Telecommunications, as they offer the widest 4G/5G coverage (especially outside Tirana).
  • Rural vs. urban performance: Many eSIMs advertise “nationwide coverage” but drop significantly in mountainous regions like Theth or Valbona Valley. Check if your plan maintains usable speeds in remote areas.
  • Data vs. calls & SMS: Most international eSIMs only cover data. If you need a local Albanian number for calls or SMS (e.g., restaurant bookings, bank verifications), confirm whether the provider includes or supports add-ons for voice/SMS.
  • Fair usage on “unlimited” plans: Some providers throttle speeds after a hidden daily cap (often around 2–3GB). Look for transparency in fair use policies to avoid surprise slowdowns.
  • Hotspot/tethering availability: Certain eSIMs block personal hotspot use. If you plan to share data with a laptop or travel companion, double-check this feature is enabled.
  • Plan duration flexibility: Albania is often a stop on Balkan trips. Flexible plans (5–90 days) or multi-country Balkan bundles can be far more cost-effective than buying separate short-term packages.
  • Activation ease & support: Reliable QR code delivery, fast activation in Tirana airport or on arrival, and 24/7 support matter more in Albania, where local SIM shop hours can be irregular.

The best eSIM for Albania

We compared prices, coverage, and features—these are the best eSIMs for Albania right now.

1. Holafly

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 62,000+ Trustpilot reviews)
  • Pricing: from $9.90 per day (unlimited data)
  • Coverage: Nationwide via Vodafone Albania and One Albania (excellent in cities, weaker in rural mountains)
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only (use WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype for calls and texts)

What sets Holafly’s Albania eSIM apart is truly unlimited data on every plan, so you never have to worry about topping up mid-trip. Unlike other providers that cap data or shorten validity, Holafly gives you flexible coverage from 1 to 90 days

It also includes hotspot sharing (500 MB/day) so you can connect your laptop or share with fellow travelers. Setup is fast: a QR code is delivered instantly after purchase, and once you land in Albania, activation takes just minutes.

On top of that, Holafly offers one of the most generous refund policies in the market, covering incompatible devices, unused plans, or technical issues, backed by 24/7 live chat support

Key features

  • Unlimited data on all plans (1 to 90 days)
  • Hotspot sharing up to 500 MB/day
  • Refunds available for incompatibility, plan changes, or issues
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and email
  • Fast 4G/5G speeds in Tirana, Saranda, Shkodra, and other urban hubs
*Plan/DurationDataPrice
1-day planunlimited$9.90
5-day planunlimited$29.90
10-day planunlimited$43.90
15-day planunlimited$63.90

*Longer plans up to 90 days are available; prices scale accordingly.

Pros

  • Unlimited data (no top-ups required)
  • Instant delivery and simple setup
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Hotspot sharing included (500 MB/day)
  • Flexible refund policy

Cons

  • Data-only (no native calls or SMS)

2. Maya

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (based on 10K+ of Trustpilot reviews)
  • Pricing: from $4.99 (3 GB)
  • Coverage: Vodafone Albania (reliable 4G/LTE, especially in cities)
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only, but works with Wi-Fi calling and VoIP apps (WhatsApp, Skype, Viber)

Maya Mobile’s plans range from small 3 GB packages at $4.99 to larger 50 GB bundles, as well as a daily unlimited plan priced at $24.99. All connect to Vodafone Albania’s 4G network, delivering stable speeds in Tirana, coastal towns, and other major cities. 

Data can be activated immediately or scheduled for a future date, which is useful for trip planning. Maya also backs its service with a 180-day money-back guarantee for unused or incompatible eSIMs and offers 24/7 customer support. 

However, it’s important to note that Maya’s “unlimited” plan is priced per day and subject to a fair use cap, which means costs add up quickly on longer trips and heavy users may find it less practical than Holafly’s fixed multi-day unlimited plans. 

Key features

  • Choice of prepaid (3 GB to 50 GB) or daily unlimited data
  • Connects to Vodafone Albania’s 4G/LTE network
  • Hotspot sharing available on all plans
  • Refunds up to 180 days after purchase if unused or incompatible
DataValidityPrice
3 GB5 days$4.99
5 GB5 days$7.99
10 GB5 days$14.99
20 GB5 days$23.99
50 GB5 days$48.99
unlimited5 days$24.99

Pros

  • Wide choice of prepaid and unlimited plans
  • Hotspot use allowed
  • 24/7 support + 180-day refund guarantee
  • Flexible activation date option

Cons

  • Unlimited plan is priced per day
  • No native calls or SMS (apps only)
  • Locked to Vodafone network (no multi-network fallback)

3. Saily

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 6K+ reviews)
  • Pricing: from $3.99 (1 GB for 7 days)
  • Coverage: Reliable connections via Albania’s top local networks (strongest in cities, variable in rural areas)
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only (works with VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype)

Saily’s eSIM for Albania is designed for travelers who want simple, affordable data without roaming headaches. Unlike some competitors, Saily places no restrictions on hotspot use, so you can share data freely with a laptop or travel companions.

The service is managed entirely through the Saily app, where you can buy, install, and activate your Albania eSIM in just a few minutes. Plans activate automatically once you land, so you’re online the moment you step into Tirana Airport. 

Extra perks include 3% credit back on every purchase, 24/7 live chat support, and added security features powered by NordVPN, such as tracker blocking and virtual location masking.

Key features

  • Affordable prepaid data plans (1 GB to 20 GB)
  • Earn 3% back in Saily credits
  • Security extras: ad/tracker blocking, virtual location masking
  • 24/7 live chat support in the app
DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 days$3.99
3 GB30 days$8.99
5 GB30 days$12.99
10 GB30 days$22.99
20 GB30 days$35.99

Pros

  • Cheapest entry-level eSIM Albania option
  • App-based setup, activation, and management
  • 24/7 support plus built-in privacy tools
  • Credit rewards for future plans

Cons

  • No unlimited data option (max 20 GB)
  • Data-only, no calls or SMS
  • Coverage weaker in remote mountain zones

4. Nomad

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (based on 19K+ reviews)
  • Pricing: from $4.50 (1 GB for 7 days) 
  • Coverage: Vodafone Albania with 4G/5G speeds across major cities 
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only (works with apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram)

Nomad’s eSIM for Albania offers travelers a wide range of prepaid data options. For short trips, Nomad also includes unlimited data plans starting at $11 for 3 days, scaling up to $31 for 10 days. 

All plans connect through Vodafone Albania’s 4G/5G network, ensuring strong coverage in Tirana and along the coast, with performance varying in remote mountain areas.

Setup is straightforward: after purchase, you receive a QR code by email. Scan it, add the eSIM, and the plan activates automatically upon arrival in Albania. Nomad’s app makes it easy to manage usage, purchase add-ons, or extend your plan mid-trip.

Key features

  • Unlimited short term plans (3–10 days) available
  • Coverage via Vodafone Albania with 4G/5G speeds
  • Transparent pricing with taxes included upfront
  • Simple QR-based installation and automatic activation
DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 days$4.50
3 GB30 days$9.50
5 GB30 days$13
10 GB30 days$24
20 GB30 days$39
50 GB30 days$69
unlimited3 days$11

Pros

  • Large variety of prepaid and unlimited plans
  • Strong Vodafone coverage in cities and tourist regions
  • Free 1 GB trial for new users

Cons

  • Unlimited capped to short-term (max 10 days)
  • Data-only, no local calls or SMS
  • Coverage can weaken in rural mountain zones

5. Airalo

  • Rating: 3.8/5 (based on 8K+ reviews)
  • Pricing: from $4.50 (1 GB / 7 days) to $36 (20 GB / 30 days)
  • Coverage: One Albania network (4G LTE, some 5G in Tirana and larger cities)
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only (works with WhatsApp, Messenger, Viber, etc.)

Airalo’s Hej Telecom eSIM for Albania is one of the cheapest and most accessible options, especially for budget travelers. For longer stays, Airalo offers tiered plans up to 20 GB for $36, all prepaid with no contracts or hidden fees.

Installation is quick through the Airalo app, simply buy a package, scan the QR code, and activate the eSIM when you land in Albania. Plans connect to One Albania, offering good speeds in cities like Tirana, Berat, and along the coast, though coverage can be patchier in remote mountain areas. 

A big advantage is the top-up option, so if you run out of data mid-trip, you can instantly extend your plan without reinstalling a new eSIM. However, Airalo currently doesn’t offer unlimited options for trips to Albania.

Key features

  • Affordable data-only plans from 1 GB to 20 GB
  • Instant top-up available directly in the Airalo app
  • Valid for 90 days after purchase before activation
DataDurationPrice
1 GB7 days$4.50
2 GB15 days$7
3 GB30 days$9
5 GB30 days$13
10 GB30 days$22
20 GB30 days$36

Pros

  • Cheapest entry price among Albania eSIMs
  • Flexible plan sizes up to 20 GB
  • Easy top-up if you need more data mid-trip
  • App-based setup in minutes

Cons

  • No unlimited data option (unlike Holafly or Nomad)
  • Coverage limited to One Albania (no network switching)
  • Weaker reception outside urban areas
  • Data-only, no calls or SMS

6. Jetpac

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (based on 2,000+ Trustpilot reviews)
  • Pricing: from $4 (1 GB / 4 days) 
  • Coverage: Vodafone Albania (4G LTE)
  • Calls/SMS: Data-only (supports WhatsApp, Messenger, Viber, etc.)

Jetpac is a newer but fast-growing eSIM provider that positions itself as a high-data, value-driven option for travelers. With frequent promotions it’s an attractive choice if you want lots of data at a low price.

Plans range from a symbolic $1 for 1 GB (new users) to 40 GB for $85, with most packs valid for 30 days. All plans are prepaid, and setup is handled through the Jetpac app in just a few minutes.

Jetpac connects to Vodafone Albania, which gives solid 4G coverage across cities and tourist areas. While there’s no 5G yet, Jetpac includes unique perks like free WhatsApp chat, Uber, and Google Maps access on plans above 3 GB (even after your main data runs out). 

Travelers also benefit from Jetpac’s extras like airport lounge access and discounted fast-track services.

Key features

  • Free WhatsApp, Uber, Grab & Google Maps (3 GB+ plans)
  • Instant top-up and pack management via Jetpac app
  • Add-ons: Lounge access & fast-track passes at discounted rates
  • Valid up to 3 months after purchase before activation
DataDurationPrice
1 GB4 days$4
3 GB7 days$10
5 GB30 days$20
10 GB30 days$25.99
20 GB30 days$65
40 GB30 days$85

Pros

  • Great value with flash deals & bulk discounts
  • Free WhatsApp/Google Maps even if data runs out
  • Extra perks: Smart Delay lounge access & fast track options

Cons

  • No unlimited data option (Holafly & Nomad offer this)
  • Higher entry prices
  • Single network (Vodafone only), no switching between operators
  • Data-only, no calls or SMS

Comparison of best eSIMs for Albania

Here’s a side-by-side look at the best eSIM options for Albania in 2025 so you can quickly see which one fits your trip:

Provider*RatingStarting priceData plansBest for
Holafly4.5/5$9.90 (1 day, unlimited)Unlimited (1–90 days)Travelers who want unlimited data with no top-ups
Maya4.6/5$4.99 (3 GB, 5 days)3 GB–50 GB + daily unlimitedFlexible users who want prepaid or daily unlimited
Saily4.5/5$3.99 (1 GB, 7 days)1 GB–20 GB (7–30 days)Budget travelers & privacy-focused users
Nomad4.4/5$4.50 (1 GB, 7 days)1 GB–50 GB + unlimited short-term (3–10 days)Tourists & business travelers needing variety + add-ons
Airalo3.8/5$4.50 (1 GB, 7 days)1 GB–20 GB (7–30 days)Budget-conscious travelers needing simple prepaid data
Jetpac4.8/5$4 (1 GB, 4 days)1 GB–40 GB (4–30 days)Heavy data users who want big bundles + perks (WhatsApp, lounge access)


*Ratings are based on Trustpilot and review counts vary widely

Why do I need an eSIM in Albania

Why do you need an eSIM in Albania? Simple: because it saves you from hunting down a SIM shop the moment you land, and it just works across the whole country.

  • You’ll use it for maps and navigation when driving the SH8 coastal road or finding your way through Tirana’s traffic.
  • It lets you book ferries, buses, and last-minute rooms in Saranda or Berat without relying on café Wi-Fi.
  • You stay connected even in mountain regions like Theth or Valbona, where coverage depends heavily on the right local partner network.
  • It doubles as a hotspot for your laptop or friends during long journeys.
  • If your eSIM includes a number, you can call restaurants, guides, or receive SMS codes for banking and apps.

In Albania, an eSIM isn’t a luxury, it’s peace of mind, whether you’re in Tirana, by the sea, or deep in the Accursed Mountains.

How we chose the best eSIM for Albania

  • Local network quality & coverage: We checked which eSIMs use Vodafone Albania or One, and how good their signal is outside Tirana (mountains, rural towns, coastal roads).
  • Price per GB + overall cost: We compared what you pay per gigabyte and the full price of reasonable plans (5-20 GB, 30 days) to see real value.
  • Plan durations & flexibility: Travel length varies. Some travelers stay just a week; others a month or more. We gave higher ranking to eSIMs with multiple durations (7, 15, 30 days, etc.) or flexible activation windows.
  • Unlimited or high-data options with fair usage When “unlimited” shows up, we dug into the fine print: are there hidden daily caps, throttling, or speed limits? Plans that claim unlimited but impose fair-use policies got docked unless they’re transparent.
  • Hotspot/tethering + call/SMS support: Because many travelers want to share data (with laptops or companions), or need a local number for calls/SMS or verification codes.
  • Activation speed & ease of use We looked for plans that deliver a QR code immediately, activate quickly (ideally right on arrival), with clear support / app, so you're not left waiting.
  • Transparency around extra fees & hidden limits: We ruled out or downgraded providers that hide roaming fees, surge charges, or throttle speeds after a certain usage without making it obvious. 

How do I know if my device is eSIM compatible 

​​On iPhones, checking this is straightforward: open Settings, go to General, then tap About. Scroll down until you see a section called “Digital SIM” or “eSIM IMEI.” 

If those appear, your iPhone has eSIM support. If they’re missing, your device only works with a physical SIM card. As a general rule, Apple added eSIM capability starting with the iPhone XS (2018), so anything newer is covered.

For Android phones, open Settings, then go to Connections (or Network & Internet on some models). From there, select SIM Manager or Mobile Network and look for an option like “Add eSIM” or “Download SIM.” 

If you can see this option, your phone supports eSIM; if not, it relies solely on physical SIM cards. Popular models like recent Samsung Galaxy S, Z Flip/Fold, and Google Pixel devices generally include eSIM functionality.

If you’re curious about other devices, don’t miss our complete breakdown of eSIM-compatible laptops and eSIM smartwatches, so you can stay connected whether you’re working on the go or traveling light.

When to order and how to activate eSIM Albania

The best time to order your eSIM is a few days before your trip. Most providers deliver a QR code instantly by email or in their app, but ordering early gives you time to test compatibility and avoid last-minute stress. 

You don’t need to activate it right away, you can usually choose the start date or activate upon arrival in Albania, once you’re ready to use data.

How to activate on iPhone:

  1. Open the email or app from your eSIM provider and scan the QR code with your iPhone camera.
  2. When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan.
  3. Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Plans to confirm it has been added.
  4. Select your new eSIM as the primary or secondary line (for data use while traveling).
  5. Turn on Data Roaming so the eSIM connects to a local Albanian carrier.

How to activate on Android:

  1. Open Settings → Connections (or Network & Internet, depending on your phone).
  2. Tap SIM Manager or Mobile Network, then choose Add eSIM.
  3. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to install the plan.
  5. Enable Data Roaming so your phone connects to Vodafone Albania or One’s network once you arrive.

Benefits of having an Albanian eSIM

  1. Immediate internet access: The moment you land in Tirana, Saranda, or even a smaller airport, you can go online instantly. No waiting in line at SIM kiosks or struggling with language barriers to get connected.
  2. No physical SIM needed: With an eSIM, there’s no fiddling with tiny plastic cards or worrying about losing your home SIM while abroad. Everything is digital, so setup is clean, fast, and secure.
  3. Multiple profiles on one device: eSIM technology allows you to keep your home number active for calls and SMS while running a separate data plan.
  4. Reliable coverage: The best eSIM providers connect you to Albania’s top carriers like Vodafone Albania and One, ensuring strong 4G/5G coverage whether you’re in Tirana or hiking in Valbona.
  5. Flexible travel use: Many eSIMs offer Albania-only data as well as regional Balkan bundles. That means you can move seamlessly between Albania, Montenegro or Greece.

Best eSIM for Albania: Which one to use

After comparing all the major eSIM providers for Albania in 2025, one stands out above the rest: Holafly. While competitors like Airalo, Nomad, Maya, Saily, and Jetpac offer solid prepaid bundles, they all come with limits.

Holafly removes that stress completely with truly unlimited data plans lasting anywhere from 1 to 90 days. That means no juggling top-ups, no surprise slowdowns, and no worrying about hitting a cap halfway through your trip. 

Add in instant setup, hotspot sharing, and 24/7 live chat support, and it’s the most traveler-friendly option for Albania right now. So if you want an eSIM that “just works” the moment you land, Holafly is the safest bet.

Best eSIM for Albania FAQ

How do I activate my Albanian eSIM?

Once you purchase an Albanian eSIM online, you’ll receive a QR code by email or through the provider’s app. 
On an iPhone, you simply scan the QR code via Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM, confirm the plan, and switch on data roaming. 
On Android, the process is similar: go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Manager → Add eSIM, scan the code, and follow the prompts.

Is eSIM available in Albania?

Yes, eSIM is widely available in Albania. Major carriers like Vodafone Albania and One Albania support it, and many international providers sell Albanian eSIM plans online. 
For most travelers, ordering one in advance is the easiest way to avoid SIM shop lines and start browsing as soon as the plane touches down.

Which SIM is best for tourists in Albania?

For physical SIMs, Vodafone Albania is often the top choice for strong coverage and speeds in cities and along the coast, while One Albania can be slightly stronger in rural areas. 
If you want to skip registration and queues altogether, an international eSIM from providers like Holafly, Saily, or Nomad is usually the most convenient option.

Vukasin Petrovic is an experienced content specialist and copywriter with expertise in digital marketing, on-page SEO, and inbound lead generation. With a degree in English and a master's in creative writing, he creates compelling content that delivers measurable results for businesses.

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