Internet in Greece: roaming, eSIM, local SIM and VPN explained
With a plan from an EU or EEA provider, you can usually browse across Greece without extra roaming costs. Mobile coverage on smaller or remote islands can be more limited, though.
Roaming with your own plan
As an EU citizen, you usually already travel Greece for free with an EU or EEA plan. Do check your plan's fair-use limits, they aren't unlimited.
eSIM for Greece
For travelers from outside the EU/EEA, people without a usable roaming plan, or anyone needing a lot of extra data, a local eSIM is worth it. For most EU travelers on a shorter stay, your own plan is often already enough.
Local SIM card
Local prepaid SIMs from Cosmote, Vodafone Greece or Nova are available everywhere. Activating an eSIM beforehand saves time after landing.
Mobile coverage in Greece
On tourist islands like Santorini and Mykonos, 4G and 5G are generally excellent, while on smaller islands like Amorgos or Kastelorizo, or in mountainous areas, expect less signal.
Do you need a VPN?
Greece has no internet censorship, so a VPN isn't necessary. Many tavernas, hotels and beach bars offer free wifi, on such shared networks a VPN adds an extra layer of security, especially for online banking.
Practical tips
- Check whether your own plan already includes free EU roaming, for EU citizens that's usually the case
- On smaller islands like the Cyclades, coverage is more variable than on the mainland or in Athens
- During peak season (July-August), networks on popular islands can get congested
- Check that your device supports eSIM before you leave
Our recommendation
For most Dutch and Belgian travelers, a separate eSIM or SIM for Greece isn't needed, just check your provider's fair-use limits first. Traveling from outside the EU or need a lot of data? A local eSIM is a practical choice. Check our eSIM comparison for Greece for current options, or read more about VPNs for Greece.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an eSIM in Greece?+
As an EU citizen, usually not, your own plan already works via EU roaming. For non-EU travelers or heavy data use, a local eSIM is handy.
Does roaming work with a Dutch or Belgian plan?+
Yes, as an EU citizen you usually already travel for free thanks to EU roaming. Check your fair-use limits though.
Is coverage the same on all Greek islands?+
No, on tourist islands like Santorini and Mykonos coverage is excellent, on smaller islands like Amorgos signal can be more limited.
Do I need a VPN in Greece?+
Not necessary, Greece has no internet censorship. Useful on shared wifi at tavernas and hotels.
Can networks get congested in peak season?+
Yes, in July and August networks on popular islands can get busier.
Ready for your trip across Greece?
Check out our eSIM tips and recommended plans for Greece.
See eSIM for Greece