As a tourist visiting Austria, having access to mobile data through a local SIM card can be very useful during your travels.

In this article, we will look at the options for purchasing SIM card at Austria Airports.

Where to buy SIM card at Austria Airport

I. Which airport in Austria offers SIM cards for tourists

The main international airports in Austria are Vienna International Airport (VIE) and Salzburg Airport (SZG). All three airports have locations where you can purchase SIM cards after arriving in Austria.

II. Where to buy SIM cards at Austria Airports

Operator stores

  • Prices: Prices range from $10-50 depending on data allowance and plan duration.
  • Opening hours: generally 6am-9pm daily.
  • Waiting time: Could wait 10-20 minutes during peak times.
Buy SIM Card at Austria Airports- Operators Stores
Drei Store at Airport

Convenience stores

  • Prices: Pay-as-you-go SIMs from $10 with 1 week validity.
  • Opening hours: Open similar airport hours (5am-10pm daily).
  • Waiting time: Minimal wait time, just purchase and go.
Getting SIM card at Austria Airport - Convenience Store
Getting SIM card at Austria Airport – Convenience Store

You can also order Austria SIM cards online in advance and pick up at the airport when you arrive. However, the airport arrivals halls tend to have the best deals and packages.

III. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Austria Airports

When purchasing a SIM card at an Austria airports, here are the key documents to have ready:

  • Passport: This is required for registration and activation of prepaid SIM cards in Austria. You’ll need to show your passport at the kiosk when buying a SIM.
  • Austria Visa (if required): Citizens of some countries require a visa to enter Austria. Have your valid Austria visa ready if applicable.
  • Cash in Euros: Austria SIM card kiosks accept cash payments in Euros. Have 15-25$ cash on hand per SIM card you plan to purchase.
  • Unlocked Phone: Your phone will need to be unlocked to insert and use a different SIM card in Austria. Confirm your phone is unlocked before departure.
  • SIM Card Size: Check what size SIM card (standard, micro, or nano) your device requires and purchase accordingly. Most kiosks stock all sizes.
  • Passport Photos: Some kiosks may request passport photos, though not required at all locations. Have some ready in case.

IV. Austria eSIM – an Alternative to SIM Card at Austria Airports

In addition to physical SIM cards, eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative that is growing in popularity in Austria.

Here are some key benefits of using an Austria eSIM for travel instead of a traditional airport SIM card:

  • Convenience: eSIMs can be purchased online ahead of time and activated immediately upon landing with just a scan. No need to locate a kiosk or wait in line at the airport.
  • Flexibility: eSIM allows you to change plans digitally. You can purchase short term data packages and top up as needed through an app. With a physical SIM, you’re typically stuck with one package for the duration.
  • Multi SIM Capability: Many modern phones support dual SIM through eSIM + physical SIM. This allows you to keep your existing home SIM and add a local Austria eSIM.
  • Ease of Use: Once an eSIM is set up, it’s very simple to manage data usage, top up, and enable/disable service through an app. No need to fiddle with swapping physical SIMs.

One of the leading Austria eSIM providers is GIGAGO. Using an eSIM through a provider like Austria-eSIM can be a convenient, flexible option for staying connected during your travels. Check their best plans:

Austria eSIM data plans
Austria eSIM data plans

V. FAQs

Can I buy a SIM card at Austria Airports late at night upon arrival?

Yes, SIM card kiosks at Austria’s major airports are open 24/7, so you can purchase a SIM card late at night or early morning when you land. However, an Austria eSIM may be more convenient than locating an airport kiosk at odd hours.

What are the SIM card shop opening hours at Austria airports?

The major providers like A1, Magenta and Drei have 24/7 opening hours for SIM card shops and vending machines. Smaller providers may have more limited hours – but there is always 24/7 access to SIM cards between the major companies.

Can I order a SIM card online for airport pickup?

Some Austria SIM card providers like A1 allow you to order SIM cards online before your trip and pick them up at the airport when you arrive. However, the in-airport kiosks often have better deals available.

Are SIM cards more expensive at Austria airports than downtown shops?

SIM card prices are generally the same at Austria airports compared to downtown shops. However, you’ll have fewer provider options at the airport. Downtown shops offer more providers and may have some discounted deals. But for convenience upon arrival, airport SIM prices are reasonable.

Is there a long wait time to buy SIM card at Austria airports?

Most travelers report little to no wait time at Austria airport SIM card kiosks, even during peak arrival periods. The kiosks are staffed appropriately and purchasing a SIM card takes only a few minutes once helped. You’ll likely have no wait or just 1-2 people in line at most.

VI. Conclusion

Purchasing a local SIM card at Austria airports upon arrival is a very convenient option for short-term travelers who need mobile data access.

As an alternative, Austria eSIM provides additional flexibility and remote activation capabilities – albeit with some device limitations currently.