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Best SIM card or eSIM to buy in Istanbul for mobile internet

From messages by 3 participants in 2 sources · Last activity: 71 days ago

TL;DR

Both physical SIM cards and eSIMs work in Istanbul. Tripcom eSIM is one option travelers use, but check device compatibility before buying — especially for Android phones.

What the community said

Users note that with the Trip app eSIM, internet works well everywhere, but regular calls don't go through — voice calls only work via messaging/social apps.

Trip eSIM — calls via social apps only

If your phone is carrier-locked, an eSIM can be a workaround since it installs without a physical card. Check in advance whether your specific Android model supports eSIM, as not all do.

eSIM for locked phones

Tripcom eSIM is one option travelers use for Turkey. It's worth checking current user reviews before buying, as some have reported questions about connection stability.

Tripcom eSIM

For internet with a number you can reuse, consider local Turkish SIM cards from Turkcell, Vodafone Turkey, or Türk Telekom — available at the airport and shopping malls. Note that foreign SIMs require passport registration and have usage limits without IMEI registration.

Turkcell / Vodafone Turkey / Türk Telekom

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