Guide
Switzerland eSIM: why EU roaming doesn't cover you there
Switzerland is in the middle of Europe, but not in the EU. That small detail catches out a lot of travellers. The EU's "roam like at home" rules don't apply there, so many EU phone plans charge extra in Switzerland, sometimes a lot.
Some carriers include Switzerland anyway, so check your own plan before you go. If yours doesn't, a travel eSIM costs a few euros instead.
The same trap in reverse
It works the other way too. Swiss phone plans usually charge roaming in the EU, and even more in non-EU countries like Albania, North Macedonia, Turkey or Morocco. If you live in Switzerland and travel home for the summer, a travel eSIM for your destination is usually far cheaper than your Swiss roaming options.
Which networks does a Switzerland eSIM use?
Switzerland has three networks: Swisscom, Sunrise and Salt. Our Switzerland plan connects to Sunrise and Salt, with 5G where it is available.
Coverage is excellent in cities, on trains and in the big ski resorts. Swiss masts reach surprisingly high into the mountains, but expect gaps in deep valleys and on remote hiking trails.
How much data do you need?
| Trip | Plan we'd pick |
|---|---|
| A few days in Zurich, Geneva or Lucerne | 1 GB for 7 days |
| A week of trains and mountains | 3 GB for 15 days |
| A ski week, sharing with the family | 5 to 10 GB for 30 days |
| A month, or working on a laptop | 20 GB for 30 days |
When we last updated this guide (October 2026), 3 GB for 15 days cost €4.45 and 10 GB for 30 days cost €11.79.
Switzerland plan or Europe plan?
If you only visit Switzerland, take the Switzerland plan. If you combine it with Italy, France, Austria or Germany, the Europe plan covers all of them, Switzerland included, in one eSIM.
Frequently asked questions
Does my EU phone plan work in Switzerland?
It depends on your carrier. Switzerland isn't covered by the EU roaming rules, so many plans charge extra. Check before you travel.
Can I use the eSIM on the train?
Yes. Swiss trains have good coverage along most routes, with short drops in long tunnels.
Does it work in Liechtenstein?
The Switzerland plan covers Switzerland. Our Europe plan covers both Switzerland and Liechtenstein.