MOBILE DATA AND INTERNET IN ALBANIA

Staying connected in Albania is easy, but it is worth planning ahead. Albania is not currently part of the EU's standard "Roam Like at Home" area, so calls, text messages and mobile data used through a Czech or other EU SIM card may incur additional charges.

Before travelling, check the roaming conditions offered by your mobile provider. If Albania is not included in your plan, a local prepaid SIM card or tourist eSIM will usually be the more affordable option.

Mobile Operators in Albania

Albania currently has two main mobile operators:

• Vodafone Albania

• One Albania

The former ALBtelecom and One Telecommunications brands have merged and now operate under the name One Albania.

Both operators offer prepaid tourist packages with mobile data, national calls and text messages. Coverage is generally reliable in Tirana, Durrës, Golem and other popular coastal resorts. In remote mountain areas, however, the signal may be weaker.

How Much Does a Tourist SIM Card Cost?

Tourist packages and prices may change during the year. As of July 2026, packages from both major operators start at approximately 2,700 LEK for 15 days.

Current offers can be found on the official websites of Vodafone Albania and One Albania.

For most visitors, these packages provide more than enough data for navigation, social media, video calls and browsing during their stay.

Where to Buy a SIM Card at Tirana Airport

The most convenient option is to buy your SIM card immediately after arriving at Tirana International Airport. Official Vodafone and One Albania shops are located in the arrivals area, so you can have your SIM card registered and activated before continuing to Golem or Durrës. Both operators are listed among the official shops at Tirana Airport.

Airport prices may occasionally differ from offers available in city shops, but buying your SIM card there is quick and convenient.

You can also visit an official operator shop in Tirana, Durrës or another larger town.

What Documents Do You Need?

You will need a valid passport or identity card when purchasing a local SIM card. The card must be registered in your name before it can be activated.

A passport is generally the safest document to carry. Before leaving the shop, make sure that:

• the SIM card has been activated,

• mobile data is working,

• the correct package has been added,

• you know when the package expires.

Your phone must also be unlocked for use with SIM cards from other operators.

Physical SIM Card or eSIM?

If your phone supports eSIM technology, you may not need to replace your physical SIM card. Vodafone Albania currently offers tourist eSIM packages that can be purchased and activated online before or during your journey.

An eSIM is particularly useful if you want to keep your Czech SIM card active for incoming messages, online banking or authentication codes.

When using two SIM cards, make sure that mobile data is assigned to the Albanian SIM or eSIM. Keep data roaming disabled on your Czech SIM to avoid unexpected charges.

Buying a SIM Card in Golem or Durrës

If you do not buy a SIM card at the airport, you can purchase one later from an official operator shop. Durrës has several Vodafone and One Albania stores, while smaller phone shops and sales points can also be found around Golem.

We recommend using an official store whenever possible. The staff will register the SIM card correctly, activate your chosen package and help you check that the internet connection works.

Wi-Fi at Apartment Rehati in Golem

Guests staying at Apartment Rehati in Golem have free high-speed Wi-Fi available throughout their stay. It is suitable for everyday browsing, communication, streaming and remote work.

A local SIM card is still useful when you are away from the apartment. Mobile data makes it easier to use navigation, book a taxi, find restaurants or stay connected during trips to Durrës, Tirana, Lake Bovilla or Mount Dajti.

Practical Tips for Staying Connected

Before arriving in Albania, we recommend that you:

• disable data roaming on your Czech SIM card,

• check whether your phone supports dual SIM or eSIM,

• download an offline map of Albania,

• save the address of your accommodation,

• keep your passport or identity card with you when buying a SIM,

• ask the shop assistant to activate and test the package.

If you keep your original SIM card in your phone, you can continue using WhatsApp with your existing number. You do not need to change your WhatsApp number simply because you are using an Albanian SIM for mobile data.

Is a Local SIM Card Worth Buying?

For most visitors, the answer is yes. A local tourist SIM card offers an affordable and convenient way to stay connected without worrying about unexpected roaming charges.

Combined with the free Wi-Fi at Apartment Rehati, it gives you everything you need to enjoy a comfortable and carefree stay in Golem while exploring the coast, nearby Durrës and the rest of Albania.