Traveling to Croatia and landing in Zagreb? You’ll want to get connected with a local SIM card as soon as you arrive. A Croatia SIM card Zagreb Airport allows you to access maps, translation services, and contact options while navigating a new country. This article outlines everything you need to know about getting a Croatia SIM card when you land at Zagreb Airport (ZAG).

CROATIA SIM CARD at ZAGREB AIRPORT

1. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Zagreb Airport

At ZAG, you can buy SIM cards at convenience stores like Tisak. These stores typically offer a range of prepaid SIM cards suitable for tourists, even though there aren’t dedicated mobile carrier shops available.

1.1. Tisak Convenience Store

The Tisak shop at Zagreb airport offers Croatia SIM cards from all major carriers, including prepaid plans perfect for tourists. To buy, go to Tisak with your passport, pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for immediate use.

  • Opening hours: open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week
  • Location: in the Arrival Hall, after the baggage claim area.
  • Language Support: English, Croatian
TISAK STORE AT ZAGREB AIRPORT

1.2. Tisak Media

Tisak Media offers a variety of Croatia SIM card Zagreb airport options, the same as the Tisak store. To purchase a Croatia SIM card Zagreb airport, simply go to the staff and present your passport. Once you have paid, the staff will activate the SIM card for you.

  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
  • Location: Departure Hall, next to the security checkpoint.
  • Language support: English, Croatian
TISAK MEDIA AT ZAGREB AIRPORT

2. Croatia Zagreb Airport SIM Card Options and Costs

There are several Croatia SIM card Zagreb Airport options for purchasing a Croatia SIM card once you arrive at Zagreb Airport. Keep in mind that most kiosks and stores at the airport that sell SIM cards only accept cash payments. The main SIM card providers available are:

Operators Physical SIM Price Data Speed Local minutes Messages Validity
A1 A1 Tourist SIM 10€ (~ 11 USD) Unlimited 5G 100 minutes 100 SMS 10 days
HT Pay 1 get 2 11€ (~11 USD) Unlimited 4G/LTE - - 10 Days
120GB For 90 days 20 (~22 USD) 120 GB 4G/LTE - - 90 Days
Telemach NET2GO PLUS 9.95€ (~11 USD) Unlimited 4G/5G 200 - 10 days
SIM2GO 9.95€ (~11 USD) 10 GB 4G/5G 200 - 30 days

Please note that these are just a few options of the SIM card available at Zagreb Airport. There are many other SIM to choose from, depending on your needs and budget. Also, remember that providers may run special promotions or deals on SIM cards around peak travel times.

3. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Zagreb Airport

Purchasing a SIM card when you arrive at Zagreb Airport is quick and easy, especially if you come prepared. Here are a few tips:

  • Have cash ready – Most kiosks and stores at the Zagreb airport that sell SIM cards only accept cash payments in the local currency, Croatian Kuna (HRK). There are ATMs available at the airport if needed.
  • Unlock your phone – Confirm that your phone is unlocked and able to accept a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider in advance if you need to arrange for an unlock.
  • Know your phone’s SIM card size – Bring your phone with you when purchasing your SIM to ensure you get the correct size card (standard, micro, or nano). The providers can help you with this as well.
  • Carry your passport – You will likely need to show your passport as proof of ID when buying a SIM card in Croatia.
  • Activate right away – Activate your SIM card as soon as you purchase it by following the provider’s instructions. This ensures you have working service immediately.

As long as your phone is unlocked and you have cash on hand, getting a Croatia SIM card at the Zagreb airport is quick and straightforward. Activating it right away allows you to use maps and other internet services as soon as you leave the airport.

4. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Zagreb Airport

New Buy Croatia Buy eSIM Plans

While physical Croatia SIM card Zagreb airport is still the norm, eSIM technology is emerging as a convenient alternative for travelers. An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into your phone that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your device settings.

Some key benefits of using an eSIM when traveling to Croatia include:

  • Easy activation – eSIMs can be set up completely digitally without having to physically switch out SIM cards. Just use an app or scan a QR code.
  • Multi-SIM functionality – eSIMs allow you to have your home country SIM and a Croatia eSIM active simultaneously.
  • Ease of use – No chance of losing or damaging a physical SIM card. Everything is configured through your phone settings.

While eSIM functionality is still limited on some smartphone models, it is becoming more widely supported. Providers like croatiaesim.com offer Croatia eSIM data packages, calls and SMS that can be great for travelers heading to Croatia and Zagreb Airport.

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5. FAQs about Getting a SIM Card at Zagreb Airport

How much does a SIM card cost at Zagreb Airport?

Prepaid SIM cards from the major Croatia providers like Telekom HR, A1, and Telemach range from 75 HRK (around $10 USD). The SIM card will include a prepaid data package, calls and texts. Check different providers for best rates.

Can I purchase a SIM card with a credit card at Zagreb Airport?

Most SIM card kiosks and shops at Zagreb Airport only accept cash payments in the local currency, Croatian Kuna. There are ATMs in the airport where you can withdraw from Kuna.

How do I activate my Croatia SIM card?

Providers include instructions for activating your SIM when you purchase it. Usually you will need to call a freephone activation number or use SMS codes. Consult the store staff if you need help activating the SIM card.

Can I use my SIM card in other European countries?

Croatia is part of the EU so Croatia SIM cards can be used when traveling to other EU nations. However, roaming charges will apply outside of Croatia unless you purchase a special roaming package. Check with your provider.

6. Final Words

Buying a prepaid SIM at Zagreb Airport should be a top priority when arriving in Croatia. Cards from providers like Telekom HR, A1, and Telemach are available at kiosks throughout for reasonable prices. Have cash and an unlocked phone. Activate the SIM right away for instant connectivity. Alternatively, consider an eSIM for flexibility. Getting a local SIM is simple and affordable at Zagreb Airport.