Best SIM Card for the Netherlands in 2026 + How to Activate It

Getting a local SIM card in the Netherlands sounds simple, but once you start looking at real options, it quickly turns into contracts, promo pricing, and rules that aren’t always tourist-friendly. I compared Dutch SIM cards based on price, data, coverage, validity, where you can buy them, and how much effort it takes to actually get connected.

Among local options, Simyo stands out as the best SIM card for the Netherlands thanks to strong KPN network coverage, very low introductory pricing, and flexible plans that suit most tourist stays.

What’s the best SIM card in the Netherlands?

Travelers expecting heavy data use in the Netherlands will get the most reliable experience on a KPN-based network, especially for fast speeds on trains and in rural areas. 

For most tourists, SIM-only plans with monthly cancellation offer the best balance between flexibility and price, even when they cost slightly more than long-term contracts.

*Introductory pricing for the first months; prices increase after the promotional period.

Buying a SIM at the airport or in a major city like Amsterdam is convenient, but it usually costs more than ordering online or choosing a SIM-only plan. 

Pro tip: Having a simple Amsterdam itinerary helps you plan your days more efficiently and avoid wasting time moving back and forth across the city.

Unlimited data plans are useful for constant navigation, streaming, or remote work, while fixed data bundles are often enough for shorter, lighter-use trips.

Travel length matters too, since short visits may not justify store visits or setup time, while longer stays benefit more from flexible plans.

Outside major cities, network quality becomes more noticeable, and calling or SMS add-ons only matter when local calls are actually needed.

Best 3 SIM Card Providers in the Netherlands

These are the three best SIM card providers in the Netherlands for tourists, chosen for reliable nationwide coverage, good value, and relatively easy sign-up for visitors. 

While many Dutch SIM-only plans advertise the lowest prices with 12- or 24-month contracts, tourists can usually opt for monthly cancellable plans or promotional short-term offers at a higher monthly cost.

Plan availability, pricing, and contract terms can change frequently, so travelers should always confirm the latest options in-store or on the provider’s official website before purchasing.

1. Youfone: Best value SIM-only deal for longer stays

Youfone is a Dutch mobile provider that operates on the KPN network, offering strong nationwide 4G/5G coverage at very competitive prices. While it’s not a traditional tourist SIM, it can be a great option for visitors staying several weeks or months who want local rates instead of short-term prepaid plans. Like most Dutch SIM-only providers, Youfone offers monthly, 1-year, and 2-year contracts, with the lowest prices tied to longer commitments.

Plans & pricing
(Prices shown reflect the lowest available rates; shorter contracts cost slightly more per month.)

Quick verdict: A strong choice for tourists staying a month or longer who want excellent coverage and very low local pricing. The trade-off is that the best deals require a longer contract, while monthly options are more flexible but slightly more expensive.

KPN: Best premium network SIM-only option for tourists in the Netherlands

KPN is the largest mobile network operator in the Netherlands and runs its own nationwide 4G/5G network, delivering excellent coverage and consistently fast speeds. For tourists, KPN is ideal if you want maximum reliability and performance, even in rural areas or while traveling by train.

KPN allows monthly cancellable, 12-month, and 24-month SIM-only plans. The prices below reflect standard monthly pricing as shown in the plan builder; longer contracts may include temporary discounts.

Plans & pricing 

Quick verdict: KPN is ideal for travelers and long-stay visitors who want top-tier coverage, very fast speeds, and strong EU roaming, and who don’t mind paying more than budget carriers. The main trade-off is price and commitment. Flexibility exists, but the best rates are tied to longer contracts.

3. Simyo: Best low-cost and flexible SIM-only option

Simyo is a budget Dutch mobile provider that operates on the KPN network, offering excellent nationwide coverage with far more flexibility than most Dutch carriers. Simyo offers the same monthly, 1-year, and 2-year contract options as other Dutch SIM-only providers, but stands out for its low introductory pricing and plan customization.

Plans & pricing

Calling & texting add-ons:

• 400 min/SMS: €6/month (~$6.55)
• Unlimited min/SMS: €7/month (~$7.65)

Contract options 

• 2 years: €0/month (~$0) — 6-month data discounts
• 1 year: €1/month (~$1.10) — 3-month data discounts
• Monthly cancelable: €2/month (~$2.20) — cancel anytime

Quick verdict: Best for tourists and short-stay users who want KPN-level coverage without being locked into a 2-year contract. Simyo stands out for its very low introductory pricing and plan flexibility, though travelers should note that promo rates are temporary and increase after the discount period.

Where to buy a SIM card in the Netherlands + How to activate it

Local SIM cards are widely available in the Netherlands, but they often involve more steps than travelers expect, especially compared to eSIMs. Based on research and common traveler experiences, these are the usual ways tourists get a SIM and what to expect.

• Airport: Schiphol Airport has mobile shops and kiosks, but options can be limited and prices are often higher than in the city.
• Kiosks & electronics stores: Some city-center shops sell SIM cards, though availability varies and activation support is not always guaranteed.
• Provider stores: Official carrier stores like KPN offer the most reliable setup, but usually require ID checks, plan selection, and setup time.
• Hotel or apartment concierge: Asking where you’re staying can save time. Staff often know the simplest and quickest place nearby to get online.

Activation typically involves showing a passport or ID, choosing a plan, and either having the SIM set up in-store or completing manual setup on your phone.

Alternatives to a SIM card in the Netherlands

Local SIM cards can work well, but they are not always the easiest option, especially for short trips. Store visits, registration requirements, and setup time can add friction that some travelers prefer to avoid.

From my experience using eSIMs on other trips, eSIMs are usually simpler and faster than physical SIM cards. Setup is done digitally, there’s no need to visit a store, and you can get connected within minutes of arrival.

Popular eSIM options for the Netherlands

Provider		Coverage	Plan type	Best for
Holafly		Netherlands, Europe	Unlimited data	Travelers who want the simplest setup with no data limits to manage
Jetpac		Netherlands, Europe	Unlimited and set data options	Short trips or travelers who want flexibility and price control
GigSky		Netherlands, Europe	Unlimited and set data options	Reliable regional coverage and predictable performance

I’ve used some of these eSIM providers on other trips, and they’ve consistently been easier to activate and manage than physical SIM cards. 

They tend to cost more than local SIMs, but the convenience often outweighs the price difference, especially when it’s one less thing to think about and you just want to enjoy your trip.