TOP 3 SIM Operators in Estonia – Where to Buy a SIM Card

If you’re planning a trip to Estonia — for business, study, or tourism — getting a local SIM card is one of the easiest ways to stay connected without high roaming fees. Estonia has excellent mobile coverage, affordable prepaid options, and fast 4G/5G networks. Below you’ll find the Top 3 SIM operators in Estonia, their main advantages, and the best places to buy your SIM card.

💡 Our top recommendation for 2025: Elisa Eesti – the best value-for-money SIM operator with fast speeds and easy activation.

🇪🇪 The 3 Main Mobile Operators in Estonia

There are three main network providers in Estonia with their own infrastructure — Telia Eesti, Elisa Eesti, and Tele2 Eesti. They all offer prepaid and postpaid plans with reliable nationwide coverage, but their offers and strengths differ slightly.

Operator Highlights Notes
Elisa Eesti
Elisa Eesti
Competitive prices, solid coverage, fast-growing 5G network in cities, easy prepaid options such as Kõnekaart and Zen. Best overall choice in 2025 – perfect mix of price, speed, and service. Highly recommended by Eesti Consulting.
Elisa Eesti
Telia Eesti
Widest 4G/5G coverage in the country, great speeds, several sub-brands (Diil, Simpel, Super), strong customer support. Slightly more expensive than competitors, especially for large data plans.
Elisa Eesti
Tele2 Eesti
Very affordable starter packs, good data offers, popular budget brand Smart. Network may be slower in remote areas; 5G rollout still in progress.

💳 Typical Prepaid Starter Packs

Operator / Brand Price of Starter Pack What’s Included Validity / Notes
Elisa (Kõnekaart / Zen) €1–5 Starter credit (€1–5) and small data/minute bundle. Best prepaid option in Estonia; validity depends on top-ups, easy activation in stores or online.
Telia (Diil / Simpel / Super) €2.95 (Diil, Simpel) / €1 (Super) Credit, local minutes & data (depending on the plan). Usually valid for 30 days.
Tele2 / Smart €0.95–3.95 Basic credit and data, ideal for short stays. Check EU roaming availability before travel.

*Prices as of 2025 – may vary by store or location (airport shops tend to be more expensive).

🛒 Where to Buy a SIM Card in Estonia

You can purchase Estonian SIM cards both in-person and online. Here are the most common options:

  • Official Operator Stores: Visit Elisa Eesti, Telia, or Tele2 shops in major cities like Tallinn, Tartu, or Narva. Staff can assist with activation and choosing the best plan. Elisa shops are known for quick service and English-speaking staff.
  • Convenience Stores, Kiosks & Supermarkets: Look for SIM cards at R-Kiosk, Circle K gas stations, or supermarkets like Rimi, Selver, Prisma, and Maxima. Prepaid packs are often displayed near the cashier — Elisa is the most widely available brand.
  • At the Airport: Upon arrival at Tallinn Airport, you’ll find Elisa SIM cards at R-Kiosk and other retail points. Prices may be slightly higher, but it’s the fastest option for travelers.
  • Online / eSIM Options: If your phone supports eSIM, Elisa allows online activation of prepaid and contract eSIM plans, perfect for digital nomads.

📑 Registration & Requirements

  • Estonia’s prepaid SIM cards are simple to buy and use — no complex registration is required.
  • In some stores, you may be asked to show an ID (passport or national ID) when purchasing.
  • To keep your SIM active, you’ll usually need to top up periodically. Elisa offers the easiest online top-up process in English.

💡 Which SIM Should You Choose?

Your Needs Recommended Operator
Best nationwide coverage, including rural areas Telia Eesti
Best value for money Elisa Eesti ✅ (recommended)
Cheapest short-term option Tele2 / Smart
Reliable EU roaming Telia or Elisa (check included EU packages)

🏁 Summary

Estonia offers excellent mobile services with simple prepaid options and strong 4G/5G coverage across the country.

Elisa Eesti is a great all-around choice — affordable, fast, and easy to activate.

🟣 Telia Eesti offers the most reliable coverage and top-tier service quality.

🟢 Tele2 Eesti is perfect for budget travelers or short-term users.

Whichever you choose, getting connected in Estonia is quick, easy, and affordable — but if you want the best overall experience, we confidently recommend Elisa Eesti.