2 Best SIM Cards for Monaco in 2024
Planning a trip to Monaco? Bonjour! Are you ready for your trip? Located in the south of France and facing the Mediterranean Sea, the beautiful principality of Monaco is known for its luxury and elegance. With the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino, a port lined with luxurious yachts, and as the city where the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix is held, Monaco attracts visitors. Although it is only about 2 square kilometers in area, there are many things to see. When you go to Monaco, a smartphone is essential for a comfortable trip, such as map apps, restaurant searches, and updating SNS. In this article, we will introduce in detail how to choose the recommended SIM card that you can use during your stay in Monaco and the points to be careful about!
1. Choosing a SIM card for Monaco
Range and quality
Choose a carrier that can provide smooth service not only in the city of Monaco and major areas such as Monte Carlo, but also along the coast and in the suburbs of Monaco. By choosing a carrier that can provide stable connections not only to major tourist attractions, hotels, and shopping areas, but also to ports and leisure facilities, you can reduce concerns about communication. This allows you to connect to the Internet wherever you are and smoothly use map apps, social media, restaurant reservations, and more.
Choose your data plan
How much internet will you be using during your stay in Monaco? It's important to choose the best data plan for your purpose, whether that be gathering information about tourist attractions, posting photos and videos to social media, or using navigation apps. 4G LTE connections are widespread in Monaco, so if you plan to frequently stream videos or use large amounts of data, choose a large data plan. On the other hand, if you plan to mainly check your email, a smaller data plan will be sufficient.
Choose your rate plan
Choose the most suitable plan depending on the length of your stay and the amount of internet use you will be using. If you are staying for a short period of time, a pro-rata plan that allows you to use the service on a daily basis is convenient and will help you keep costs down. If you are staying for a long period of time or have a lot of data usage, a monthly plan with a flat rate is economical. Comparing multiple plans and choosing the plan that best suits your needs will ensure you can use the internet comfortably in Monaco.
You must check the SIM card type.
It is important to choose the right SIM card for the smartphone you will use during your stay in Monaco. When choosing a physical SIM (standard SIM, micro SIM, nano SIM), choose one that fits the size of your smartphone. If you have a modern smartphone, consider an eSIM. Using an eSIM eliminates the need to insert a physical SIM card and allows you to easily set it up online by scanning a QR code. Before traveling, it is important to check which SIM type your smartphone supports. It is also a good idea to bring a pin to open the SIM card tray and a holder to store your original SIM card.
2. Buying a SIM card in Monaco
Where to buy a SIM card
There is no airport in the Principality of Monaco, so you can conveniently purchase a SIM card at the nearest Nice Côte d'Azur Airport in France, at official telecommunications carrier stores in Monaco, or at kiosks and tourist information centers in the city. When purchasing a SIM card, you may be asked to show your passport as identification, so be sure to carry it with you. After purchasing, make sure you are properly connected to the Internet before leaving the store. Also, the official language of Monaco is French, so if you are unsure about the local language, we recommend purchasing a SIM card in advance in Japan.
■The eSIM "VOYAGE eSIM" for traveling to Monaco, which can be purchased in advance in Japan , can be purchased here .
Recommended SIM cards for Monaco
■ Monaco Telecom SIM
Monaco Telecom is the only major telecommunications operator in Monaco, offering fast and reliable mobile services. It has excellent coverage throughout Monaco, with 4G LTE connections being the norm. They also offer short-term prepaid plans for tourists, with great value packages that include data, calls and SMS. They have plans for short and long stays, making it convenient for travelers.
■ Orange Monaco SIM
Orange Monaco is a popular SIM card option available in Monaco. It uses the network of major French carrier Orange, so it offers wide coverage and excellent signal quality. It offers prepaid plans with generous data plans for short-term travelers, and can be used not only in Monaco but also in the surrounding French regions. This makes it a good choice for those who are on the move a lot during their trip.
*Please be sure to check the details of the SIM card yourself before purchasing and consult with the store staff if necessary. We recommend that you check whether the plan you choose meets your communication needs during your stay.
Important points to remember when buying a SIM card in Monaco
Purchasing a SIM card and preparations
To use a SIM card smoothly in Monaco, it is essential to prepare in advance. SIM cards can be purchased at mobile phone shops in and around Monaco.
When purchasing a SIM card, you will usually be asked to show your passport information for registration. Also, although credit cards are the most common payment method, you may need cash, so it's a good idea to have some euros (EUR) ready. Activation after purchase usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, so we recommend that you plan to do it with plenty of time.
By making these preparations carefully, you will be able to easily access the Internet during your stay in Monaco and enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Be sure to check the SIM card type.
For smooth communication in Monaco, it is important to check the type of SIM card your smartphone supports in advance. Nano SIMs are common in the latest smartphones, but older models may require micro SIMs or standard SIMs. While most SIM cards are compatible with all sizes, nano, micro, and standard, it is a good idea to check in advance which size is right for your device just to be safe. In addition, if you have an eSIM-compatible device, you may want to consider using an eSIM. Using an eSIM eliminates the need to replace a physical SIM card, and you can easily set it up online by scanning a QR code. By making these preparations, you will be able to set up a smooth communication environment even after arriving in Monaco.
Is your smartphone SIM unlocked?
In order to use a local SIM card in Monaco, your smartphone must be SIM-unlocked. If your current smartphone is locked by a specific carrier, you will not be able to use it even if you insert a SIM card purchased in Monaco. The same applies to eSIMs. Before traveling, be sure to check the SIM lock status of your smartphone and unlock it if necessary.
You can unlock your SIM by contacting the customer service of your telecommunications company. The unlocking process can take a few days to a week, so we recommend that you start the process as soon as possible after deciding on your travel plans. This will allow you to use the Internet and make calls without stress during your stay in Monaco.
■The eSIM "VOYAGE eSIM" for traveling to Monaco, which can be purchased in advance in Japan , can be purchased here .
We recommend using an eSIM when traveling to the Principality of Monaco!
Why use an eSIM in Monaco?
If you are planning to visit Monaco, preparing an eSIM in advance will greatly improve your convenience during your trip. Here we will explain why an eSIM is useful when traveling to Monaco!
1. Simple setup for stress-free operation
Using eSIM eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. This means there is no need to worry about replacing it, it is hygienic, and there is no need to worry about losing it. There is no risk of accidentally losing the SIM card you used in Japan, making it easy to connect to the Internet in Monaco. Just use the local Wi-Fi and set it up online, and you can immediately use the Internet. There is no need to search for a mobile phone shop in an unfamiliar place, so it is safe even for first-time visitors to Monaco!
2. Convenient and comfortable! High-speed Internet connection
eSIM allows you to connect to the Internet at high speed and with stability anywhere in Monaco. You can use a map app to find nearby shops, check tourist information and the latest event information, and use translation apps smoothly. You can connect at any time, even in places without Wi-Fi, so you can use the Internet with confidence even when traveling abroad.
3. Pay in advance for peace of mind! No need to worry about overspending
eSIMs are usually available with prepaid plans. You can choose a plan based on the length of your trip, making it easier to control your budget and avoid surprises with international roaming charges. For example, you can use it with peace of mind even if you are traveling with your family or staying for a long time, and you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about communication costs during your stay in Monaco.
4. Travel light! Reduce your luggage and enjoy your trip
With an eSIM, you can communicate with just one smartphone, just like you would in Japan. There's no need to carry a Wi-Fi router around with you during your stay in Monaco, and you can avoid the hassle of checking in, receiving, charging, and returning it. There's no need to worry about losing or dropping the router. All communication is completed with just one smartphone, so your luggage will be lighter and your travels will be easier and more convenient. This is sure to make your trip to Monaco even more comfortable and enjoyable!
■Start your trip to Monaco easily with "VOYAGEESIM"!
VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE
Supported countries are here
Click here for a list of products
You can choose from four plans: 5G for 10 days, 10GB for 15 days, 20GB for 30 days, and 50GB for 60 days.
With VOYAGEE SIM, you can easily purchase the SIM card you use in Japan at home. There's no need to wait in long lines at the airport or worry about waiting times. After arriving in Monaco, you can use data immediately by simply setting up online using the airport's Wi-Fi. Data can also be used in 42 countries and regions across Europe. Even if you're unsure about the settings, you can refer to the setting guide and receive chat support in Japanese, so you can use it with peace of mind.
*The communications service provided by this product is Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl.
■VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE review
"I was very satisfied with the hassle-free and time-saving service. I used it in Copenhagen. I was able to use it without any problems during my trip, and there were many situations during my trip where I needed to make touch payments or purchase airline tickets, but I was able to use it with peace of mind." - August 29, 2024 -
"It has become an essential item for overseas travel.
This was my first trip abroad in six years. Last time, I stayed at a friend's house so I didn't need a mobile phone, but this time I was traveling abroad with my children, so I bought an eSIM just in case. Installation and setup were easy, and I was able to use it as soon as I arrived at the local airport. In the UK, all payments are made by credit card or mobile phone touch payment, so it was very helpful. I was really glad that I had it prepared, as I was able to look up Google Maps, of course, and purchase train tickets on the spot. It was a six-night, eight-day trip, and there was plenty of storage space, so there were no problems. I will definitely use it again next time. " - August 10, 2024 -
"First esim
I bought this for 5 days to watch the Olympics in France. It was my first time using an eSIM, so I was worried about whether I could use it properly since I'm not very good at using computers, but I was able to use it easily after setting it up according to the instructions. I plan to buy it again on my next trip.
" July 30, 2024
Source: VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 10 days/5GB
summary
In this article, we introduced recommended SIM cards, especially the benefits of eSIMs, and some points to keep in mind when using them to make your trip to Monaco more comfortable and enjoyable. To make your stay in Monaco even more convenient and comfortable, we recommend that you consider VOYAGEe SIM's eSIM. With a stable communication environment, you can be sure to enjoy your trip even more and have a fulfilling time. Bon voyage!
*The contents of this blog post are based on information available at the time of writing. Please be sure to check the latest information for yourself.
