The Best 6 SIM Card Providers in Netherlands in 2025

In this guide, we explore what local SIM cards are, how they work, and why they remain a practical choice for both travelers and residents. Leading Dutch providers such as KPN, Odido, and Lebara stand out for their strong coverage, competitive pricing, and easy prepaid options that fit a range of needs. Choosing the right plan can help you stay connected affordably and confidently across the Netherlands.

Beyond traditional SIMs, eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular in 2026 for their flexibility and instant activation. Providers like Holafly, Nomad, and GigSkylet you set up your data plan digitally even before arriving, making them a convenient alternative for modern travelers. By comparing both SIM and eSIM solutions, this article will help you find the best way to stay connected during your time in the Netherlands.

Note *All pricing information in this article is accurate as of October 5, 2025. Prices are subject to change at any time, so we recommend checking directly with each Sim and eSIM provider for the most up-to-date details before making a purchase.*

Why Get a SIM Card in the Netherlands?

Getting a local SIM card in the Netherlands is one of the easiest ways to stay connected while keeping costs low. It helps travelers avoid expensive international roaming fees and ensures better data coverage across the country. With a Dutch SIM, you can use Google Maps for navigation, stream videos on YouTube, or share your connection through a mobile hotspot without worrying about unreliable Wi-Fi. Whether you’re exploring city streets or visiting smaller towns, a local SIM gives you fast and dependable access to calls, texts, and mobile data wherever your trip takes you.

How Much Does a SIM Card Cost in the Netherlands?

SIM cards in the Netherlands are widely available and reasonably priced, making it easy to find a plan that fits your needs. For example, KPN offers prepaid SIMs with data plans starting around €15–€21 for 8–10GB, while Odido provides similar packages with competitive pricing and flexible top-ups.

Alternatively, you can choose from other local providers like Lebara or Youfone, which offer affordable prepaid options for light or moderate data users. If you prefer a digital solution, eSIMs from providers like Holafly, Nomad, or GigSky start at around €10.64–€18.39 for 5–10GB of data, letting you activate your plan instantly without a physical SIM.

How to Purchase and Activate a SIM Card in the Netherlands

Getting a local SIM card in the Netherlands is generally simple, but it involves a few steps. You can find SIMs at airports, mobile shops, convenience stores, or supermarkets. To complete the purchase, you’ll usually need to show a valid passport or ID and select a prepaid plan before the SIM becomes active.

Once you have the SIM, you’ll need to insert it into your phone and follow the activation instructions, which may include verifying your plan or restarting your device. One limitation of physical SIM cards is that you won’t have internet access immediately upon arrival, since you must first find a place to buy and activate the card. For travelers who want instant connectivity, digital eSIMs offer a convenient alternative that can be activated before landing.

Check this guide for tips and steps to get it up and running if your SIM card is not working.

1. KPN

• Rating: 1.6/5 (based on 6k  reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €14 for 150 call/sms
• Coverage: Extensive 4G and 5G coverage across the Netherlands, including rural areas
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited talk and text included; data varies by plan

KPN is one of the largest mobile network operators in the Netherlands, known for its reliable coverage and fast speeds. It offers both prepaid and postpaid plans, making it suitable for short-term visitors and long-term residents alike. KPN also supports eSIM options for travelers who want instant activation.

Main Features:

• Strong 4G and growing 5G coverage nationwide
• Flexible prepaid and postpaid plans
• eSIM available for instant setup
• Reliable network for both urban and rural areas

2. Odido

• Rating: 2.9/5 (based on 16K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €15 for 2GB
• Coverage: Good 4G/5G coverage in cities and most rural regions
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited talk and text; data depends on plan

Odido is a major mobile operator in the Netherlands offering competitive pricing and fast mobile data. It is ideal for travelers and residents looking for good speeds and flexible prepaid options.

Main Features:

• Fast 4G/5G data speeds
• Flexible prepaid options
• Wide urban coverage
• eSIM support for instant activation

3. Vodafone 

• Rating: 4.6/5 (based on 97K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €4 for Unlimited /1 day
• Coverage: Strong coverage in cities; good EU roaming options
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited talk and text; data varies by plan
  

Vodafone is one of the largest mobile operators in the Netherlands, offering strong nationwide coverage and fast 5G speeds. It provides a wide range of prepaid and postpaid plans suitable for both residents and travelers. The Vodafone eSIM is also available, allowing users to activate their plan digitally and enjoy instant connectivity without needing a physical SIM card.

Main Features:

• Solid urban coverage with EU roaming
• Multiple prepaid and postpaid plans
• eSIM available for travelers
• Competitive pricing for data-heavy users

4. Lebara

• Rating:4.4/5 (based on 55K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €5 for 10€ prepaid call credit
• Coverage: Uses KPN network for nationwide coverage
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited talk and text included; data varies

Lebara is a budget-friendly MVNO targeting international travelers and light data users. It is known for flexible top-ups and easy registration, and the Lebara eSIM is also available for quick and convenient activation on compatible devices.

Main Features:

• Affordable prepaid options
• Good KPN network coverage
• Flexible top-ups
• eSIM available for instant use

5. Youfone

• Rating: 4.1/5 (based on 34K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €5 for 1GB/200min/sms
• Coverage: Uses KPN network for broad coverage
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited calls and texts; data depends on plan

Youfone is a no-frills MVNO offering simple and cost-effective prepaid plans. It’s ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want reliable mobile service without extra features.

Main Features:

• Low-cost prepaid plans
• Uses KPN network for reliable coverage
• Simple plan structure
• eSIM available

6. Ben

• Rating: 4.3/5 (based on 7K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €7 for 2GB/200min/sms
• Coverage: Operates on Odido network with good city coverage
• Calls/SMS: Unlimited calls and texts; data varies

Ben is an affordable MVNO targeting students and budget-conscious users. Its prepaid plans are simple, and eSIM options allow travelers to get online quickly.

Main Features:

• Affordable SIM and data plans
• Odido network coverage in most cities
• Easy registration and activation
• eSIM support for instant setup

eSIMs as Alternatives to Local SIM Cards in the Netherlands

Digital eSIMs are an excellent alternative for travelers who prefer instant setup and flexibility. They allow you to activate mobile service before landing, avoiding the hassle of visiting a store. Below are three top-rated eSIM options for use across the Netherlands.

1. Holafly

• Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 61K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €3.79 for unlimited data/1 day
• Coverage: Reliable 4G/5G across the Netherlands
• Calls/SMS: Data-only; calls and texts available through apps like WhatsApp or Skype

Holafly is a popular choice for international travelers who want fast setup and generous data allowances. The Holafly eSIM can be activated in minutes and offers strong coverage across major Dutch cities.

If you’re unhappy with the service or something hasn’t gone to plan, you can find guides on how to request a Holafly refund.

Pros:

• Reasonable coverage in many popular travel destinations
• Instant activation with QR codes or app setup
• Good data speeds in urban and well-populated areas
  

Cons:

• Customer service, especially for urgent issues, can be slow
• Some users report setup or QR-code issues on first use
• More expensive per GB than certain local SIM options

2. Nomad

• Rating: 4.4/5 ( based on 20K reviews on Trustpilot)
• Pricing: Starts at €3.83 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: Excellent coverage using major Dutch networks
• Calls/SMS: It’s data only; calls/SMS must be done via apps.

Nomad provides a wide range of affordable travel eSIM plans with dependable coverage in the Netherlands. The Nomad eSIM is ideal for those who need flexibility and prefer managing everything through an app.

If you’re unhappy with the service or something hasn’t gone to plan, their help center explains how to refund your Nomad eSIM.

Pros:

• Wide global coverage, often 100-200+ countries.
  
• Flexible data plans (regional, global, or per-GB) and frequent top-ups.
  
• User-friendly app and fairly transparent pricing. 

Cons:

• All or most plans are data-only; no traditional phone number, no SMS/voice included
   
• Device compatibility issues: older phones may not support eSIM.
  
• Some users find costs high for smaller data plans or longer usage periods.

3. GigSky

• Rating: 3.4/5 (based on 399 reviews on Trustpilot) 
• Pricing: Starts at €4.99 for 1GB/7 days
• Coverage: Works on top Dutch networks with 4G/5G speeds
• Calls/SMS: Data-only; no voice or SMS service included

GigSky is an excellent option for travelers visiting multiple European destinations. The GigSky eSIM lets you stay connected across countries without switching SIMs, offering reliable speeds and solid network coverage throughout the Netherlands.

Additionally, new customers can test the service with a free 100 MB trial. Save on your plan using a GigSky discount code at checkout.

Pros:

• Strong European and global coverage
  
• Supports hotspot use for multiple devices
  
• Simple app-based management
  

Cons:

• No local number or call/SMS support
  
• Higher cost for large data packages
  
• Occasional setup delays in rural areas