eSIM Netherlands
Best eSIM For Netherlands: Travelers Guide
Nov
Amsterdam’s iconic canals, Rotterdam’s modern architecture, tulip fields stretching to the horizon. The Netherlands offers experiences that blend historic charm with cutting-edge innovation.
Finding Your Perfect eSIM for the Netherlands
Amsterdam’s iconic canals, Rotterdam’s modern architecture, tulip fields stretching to the horizon. The Netherlands offers experiences that blend historic charm with cutting-edge innovation. To share these moments, navigate efficiently, and stay in touch with family and friends, you need a reliable internet connection.
Public wifi spots are limited outside major cities, and your home carrier’s data roaming fees add up quickly. Local physical SIM cards mean wasting valuable travel time in stores and dealing with activation delays.
Travelers who know better choose eSIM technology for their mobile phones. An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a virtual SIM built into your device. Download a mobile data plan and connect the moment you arrive. It costs less, works faster, and gives you peace of mind throughout your trip.
Our team tested 11 providers to identify the best eSIM options for the Netherlands. One eSIM provider stands out for combining strong performance with competitive pricing and unique calling capabilities.
Our Recommendation: eSIM4
For Netherlands travel, we recommend eSIM4. This prepaid eSIM service delivers reliable connectivity on the premium KPN network, transparent pricing, and features designed specifically for international travelers.
Why eSIM4 Leads for the Netherlands
- Premium Network Partnership: eSIM4 connects through KPN, the Netherlands’ most reliable carrier, giving you solid 4G and 5G coverage across cities and rural areas.
- Calls & SMS Included: Unlike most competitors, every plan includes voice minutes and text messages via the Yabb app – no extra apps or workarounds needed.
- Instant Setup: Get your eSIM QR code with instant delivery by email right after purchase. Install your eSIM at home before your flight.
- Clear Pricing: No surprise charges or hidden fees. Save up to 40% compared to standard data roaming rates.
- Proven Track Record: Over 100,000 global travelers trust eSIM4, backed by a responsive customer support team available 24/7.
- Data Sharing Allowed: All mobile data plans include hotspot support, so you can share data with other devices.
Quick Comparison: Leading eSIM Options
Compare the top eSIM providers for the Netherlands at a glance.
| Rank | Provider | Rating | Network Partner |
Plans | Starting Price |
Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⭐ eSIM4 | 4.9/5 | KPN | 6 options | $3.98 | Best overall package |
| 2 | Saily | 4.7/5 | Major networks | 6 options | $3.99 | Budget short trips |
| 3 | Airalo | 4.7/5 | Vodafone/KPN | 12 options | $4.40 | Quick trips |
| 4 | Jetpac | 4.5/5 | Vodafone/KPN | 6 options | $1.00 | Budget travel |
| 5 | Nomad | 4.6/5 | KPN/Vodafone | 7 options | $4.50 | Simple setup |
| 6 | aloSIM | 4.4/5 | Vodafone/KPN | 6 options | $4.50 | Data with calls option |
| 7 | GigSky | 4.4/5 | Multiple carriers | 6 options | $3.99 | Plan flexibility |
| 8 | Holafly | 4.0/5 | KPN Mobile | Unlimited only | $3.90 | Heavy data users |
| 9 | Roamless | 4.4/5 | Vodafone/KPN | Pay-as-you-go | $5.00 | Flexible usage |
| 10 | Instabridge | 4.0/5 | KPN/Vodafone | 4 options | $2.00 | Social impact |
Choosing the Right eSIM for Your Trip
eSIM4 is our top pick when you want to buy the best eSIM for Netherlands, but every traveler has different needs. Modern mobile phones support multiple eSIM profiles, allowing you to switch between plans easily.
Key Factors to Evaluate
| Factor | Considerations | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Data Amount | How much data do you need? Light browsing and navigation use minimal mobile data. Video streaming and hotspots consume data quickly. | Better to estimate high or select a provider offering easy top-ups mid-trip if you run low. |
| Plan Duration | Match your plan’s validity (7, 15, or 30 days) to your trip length. A 30-day plan wastes money if you’re only visiting for a week. | A 30-day plan wastes money if you’re only visiting the Netherlands for a week. |
| Network Coverage | Check which local carrier the eSIM uses. Services on KPN or Vodafone networks offer reliable coverage across the Netherlands. | Urban and rural coverage excellent on major networks throughout the country. |
| Cost Per Gigabyte | Don’t just compare total prices. Calculate cost per GB for true value. A $25 plan with 20GB ($1.25/GB) beats a $16 plan with 10GB ($1.60/GB). | Calculate true value by dividing total price by data amount. |
| Voice Calls and SMS | Most eSIMs provide data only. Need a local phone number for calls on your regular phone? Only specific eSIM providers offer this built-in. | eSIM4 includes calls and SMS. Others require separate apps like WhatsApp. |
| Connection Speed | Look for 4G/LTE or 5G support. This ensures fast browsing and smooth navigation throughout the Netherlands. | Essential for streaming, video calls, and real-time navigation. |
Top eSIM Services for the Netherlands
Detailed reviews of our recommended providers, starting with our featured choice.
eSIM4
Best Overall Package
For Netherlands travel, eSIM4 delivers the best combination of network quality, pricing, and features. Operating on KPN, the Netherlands’ most reliable carrier, it offers dependable 4G and 5G speeds throughout the country – from Amsterdam to rural villages.
What sets eSIM4 apart is the inclusion of voice minutes and SMS messages in every plan through the Yabb app, eliminating the need for multiple apps or workarounds.
eSIM4 Plans for the Netherlands (Current Promotion)
| Data | Includes | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 10 Mins + 10 SMS | 7 Days | $7.20 $3.98 |
| 2 GB | 20 Mins + 20 SMS | 15 Days | $12.60 $6.98 |
| 3 GB | 30 Mins + 30 SMS | 30 Days | $13.50 $6.98 |
| 5 GB | 50 Mins + 50 SMS | 30 Days | $18.00 $8.98 |
| 10 GB | 100 Mins + 100 SMS | 30 Days | $32.40 $16.98 |
| 20 GB | 200 Mins + 200 SMS | 30 Days | $48.60 $25.98 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Voice calls and SMS included
- Operates on premium KPN network
- Immediate activation
- Save up to 40% versus roaming
- Round-the-clock support
- Hotspot functionality included
Limitations
- Requires compatible device
- Calls/SMS through Yabb app
Saily
Budget short trips
Saily offers the most affordable entry point for Netherlands travel with excellent coverage options. It provides fast, reliable internet at competitive prices, supporting 3G, 4G, and 5G networks.
Saily Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.99 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | up to $48.99 |
*6 plan options available ranging from 1GB to Unlimited.
Advantages:
Pros
- Competitive starting price
- Easy app-based activation
- Unlimited data option available
- Supports data sharing
Limitations
- No support for calling/texting
- Limited plan duration options
Airalo
Quick trips
Airalo ranks among the most recognized eSIM brands globally. It offers flexible data plans with impressive network coverage through partnerships with Vodafone and KPN for 5G internet in the Netherlands.
Airalo Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 3 Days | $4.40 |
| 50 GB | 30 Days | $35.75 |
*12 plan options available.
Advantages:
Pros
- 12 data plans available
- User-friendly app
- Supports mobile hotspot
- Multiple duration options
Limitations
- Local plans offer data only
- No pay-as-you-go plans
Jetpac
Budget travel
Jetpac is one of the cheapest eSIMs available. In the Netherlands, it works with Vodafone and KPN. It offers perks like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed. Their Europe regional plans cover the country.
Jetpac Plans (Europe Regional)
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 4 Days | $1.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Lowest starting price ($1.00)
- Hassle-free eSIM activation
- 24/7 customer support
Limitations
- Doesn’t support calls or texts
- Uses Europe regional plans
Nomad
Simple setup
Nomad is user-friendly and excellent for non-tech-savvy users. In the Netherlands, it works with KPN and Vodafone to provide LTE and 4G internet.
Nomad Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
Advantages:
Pros
- 7 data plans for the Netherlands
- Straightforward eSIM activation
- Reliable network coverage
Limitations
- No support for calls or texts
- Support via ticket only
aloSIM
Data with calls option
aloSIM supports calling and texting through its sister app, Hushed. Each plan includes 30 minutes of call credits and 50 text messages.
aloSIM Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $27.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Supports calling/SMS via Hushed app
- Simple eSIM activation
- Supports data sharing
Limitations
- Requires separate Hushed app
- More expensive than data-only rivals
GigSky
Plan flexibility
GigSky offers a free 100MB trial plus diverse data plans. It is the only provider offering cruise, land, and inflight plans.
GigSky Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 100 MB | 7 Days | Free Trial |
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $3.99 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $25.99 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Free 100MB trial
- Multiple plan types (cruise/inflight)
- 24/7 customer support
Limitations
- Throttles speeds after 2.5GB/day
- Other rivals are cheaper
Holafly
Heavy data users
Holafly specializes in unlimited data. Perfect for streaming or remote work. Trade-off: hotspot sharing limited to 500MB daily.
Holafly Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 1 to 90 Days | $3.90 |
Advantages:
Pros
- True unlimited data packages
- Flexible duration (1-90 days)
- Reliable KPN Mobile connection
Limitations
- Restricted hotspot sharing (500MB/day)
- No voice calls
- Higher cost for long trips
Roamless
Flexible usage
Roamless works as true pay-as-you-go. Add credit to your account and data never expires. Perfect for uncertain usage or multiple trips yearly.
Roamless Netherlands Rates
| Data Amt | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ~2.04 GB | $5.00 | Minimum top-up |
| ~10.2 GB | $25.00 | Flexible wallet |
Advantages:
Pros
- Non-expiring data
- Pay only for usage
- No speed throttling
Limitations
- No fixed plans for high-data usage
- Requires wallet setup
Instabridge
Social impact
Instabridge donates every GB of data purchased to someone in a developing nation. It connects to KPN, Vodafone, and Odido in the Netherlands.
Instabridge Netherlands Plans
| Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 Days | $2.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 Days | $12.00 |
Advantages:
Pros
- Affordable plans start at $2
- Supports social good
- Reliable coverage on major networks
Limitations
- Email-only customer support
- Data plans capped at 20GB
Our Final Recommendation
For the vast majority of travelers planning a trip to the Netherlands, we recommend eSIM4.
It delivers the perfect balance of high-speed data on the top-tier KPN network, a wide range of plans to suit any itinerary, and the unique, powerful ability to add calls and SMS via the Yabb app. You get the best eSIM functionality without compromising on speed, support, or value.
Get eSIM4 For the Netherlands →Why eSIMs Work Better in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has excellent mobile infrastructure, but there are still compelling reasons to choose an eSIM Netherlands solution over a local SIM or relying on roaming.
The eSIM Advantage
- No Store Visits: Unlike a local SIM card that requires finding a mobile shop in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or your arrival city, eSIMs activate instantly.
- Dual SIM Functionality: Keep your home number active for important calls and SMS verification codes while using your eSIM for data.
- Better Than Roaming: Traditional carrier roaming in the Netherlands can cost $10-15 per day. eSIM plans cost a fraction of this amount.
- Instant Activation: Your eSIM activates the moment you land at Schiphol Airport. No hunting for wifi to message family.
Making Phone Calls with Your eSIM
Most travel eSIM options provide data-only plans, which means you’ll use internet-based calling apps to make phone calls while traveling in the Netherlands. However, there’s also a dedicated solution specifically designed for calling with your eSIM: Yabb.
Using Yabb for International Calls
Yabb is owned by eSIM4 and provides a seamless way to make international calls using your eSIM data connection. With Yabb, you can:
Yabb Calling Features
- Pay As You Go: Purchase calling minutes as you need them with flexible calling packages.
- Call Anywhere: Make calls using your data to friends and family on any landline or mobile, no matter where you are in the Netherlands.
- Multiple Countries: Call to 200+ countries worldwide to stay in touch with family.
- No Hidden Fees: Transparent pricing with no surprise charges or contracts.
Yabb integrates perfectly with your eSIM4 data plan, allowing you to make calls using your data plan without relying solely on WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other apps.
Learn More About Yabb Calling →Sending Text Messages
Sending text messages internationally is easy with eSIM, and if you’re using eSIM4, you have the option to use Yabb for SMS messaging as well. Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans, but Yabb provides a dedicated SMS service that works perfectly with your travel eSIM setup.
Yabb SMS Messaging Service
Yabb allows you to send and receive text messages to 200+ countries, making it ideal for staying in touch with family while you’re using data from your eSIM in the Netherlands.
Yabb SMS Features
- Flexible Packages: Choose from various SMS credit options without committing to contracts.
- Global Coverage: Send text messages to friends and family across 200+ countries.
- Text Anywhere: Send and receive SMS messages from anywhere in the Netherlands using your eSIM.
- Receive Messages: Get text messages to your Yabb number included with your SMS credit package.
Common Questions Answered
Will my phone work with an eSIM in the Netherlands?
Most smartphones manufactured after 2018 support eSIM technology. This includes iPhone XR and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer. You can check your phone settings or dial *#06# to see if an EID number appears, indicating compatibility.
Can I use WhatsApp with a new eSIM?
Yes. When you switch to an eSIM for data, WhatsApp will ask if you want to keep your existing number. Select “Keep” and you can continue using your original account and contacts seamlessly.
Which network is best in the Netherlands?
KPN offers the most extensive and reliable coverage across the Netherlands, particularly in rural areas. Vodafone also provides excellent coverage in major cities. Our top recommendation, eSIM4, operates on the KPN network.
Can I share my data (Hotspot)?
Yes, most providers including eSIM4, Airalo, and Nomad allow tethering/hotspot usage. However, Holafly (Unlimited plans) restricts hotspot usage to 500MB per day.
Do I need to register with identification?
No. Unlike some countries, purchasing a travel eSIM for the Netherlands does not require submitting passport copies or undergoing identity verification. The process is completely digital and instant.
How much data do I need for a week?
For typical tourist usage, 3GB to 5GB is usually sufficient for maps, messaging, and social media. If you plan to stream video or work remotely, consider a 10GB or unlimited plan.
Travel Tips for Using Your eSIM in the Netherlands
- Before You Leave: Install your eSIM using the QR code while you have stable Wi-Fi at home. Don’t activate roaming yet.
- Upon Arrival: Enable the eSIM in your phone settings when you land. It connects to KPN/Vodafone automatically.
- Monitor Usage: Check your data usage in the provider’s app to avoid running out unexpectedly.
- Wifi Availability: The Netherlands has excellent free Wi-Fi in cafes and trains, which helps conserve your mobile data.
Final Thoughts
Staying connected in the Netherlands shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. Whether you’re cycling through Amsterdam, exploring Rotterdam’s architecture, or visiting the windmills of Kinderdijk, having reliable internet makes the trip smoother.
eSIM4 stands out as our top recommendation because it’s the only service that combines premium KPN network coverage with built-in voice calling and SMS capabilities, all at competitive prices.
Get eSIM4 For the Netherlands →
