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Heading to the Netherlands? With many UK providers reintroducing EU roaming charges, staying connected can be surprisingly pricey.
I visited family back home in Amsterdam last summer, which was the perfect opportunity to put the top travel eSIMs to the test. I found this particularly interesting because I have worked for various Dutch telecom companies in the past.
Because of the high population density and complete lack of natural obstacles (no mountains), mobile coverage in the Netherlands is world-class. Any eSIM provider that underperforms here simply falls through the cracks.
The good news? All 12 providers I tested performed well, offering an excellent balance between price and quality. There are a few things to look out for depending on your needs and budget, but there is no real cause for concern.
Short on time? For a short city trip to Amsterdam or a layover at Schiphol, eSIM4Travel is the smartest choice. Use code FYESIM for 10% off.
Netherlands eSIM for UK Travellers
The very first thing to do before travelling to the Netherlands is to check your contract for EU roaming status. O2 is often favourable (retaining free EU roaming), but many other providers have reintroduced daily charges, so checking the small print is crucial.
If EU roaming is included in your plan, then a travel eSIM is generally unnecessary. The only exception would be if you expect to run out of your monthly data allowance.
In all other cases (i.e. if your plan charges for EU roaming), purchasing a travel eSIM will likely save you money and is worth comparing anyway.
The alternatives: you have two options, a local pay as you go SIM card (which is generally very expensive in the Netherlands) or a travel eSIM. In most cases, a travel eSIM is the superior choice. It offers a fast, local connection from the moment you arrive, without the hassle of airport queues.
Browse 40+ providers in our Netherlands eSIM comparison, or read on for my personal review.
eSIM4Travel: Best budget
It might not be the absolute premium provider, but for 90% of travellers eSIM4Travel is simply the smartest choice for a Dutch trip. Use code FYESIM for 10% off (if you use our link, the discount is applied automatically).
Heading to Amsterdam for a city trip or stuck on a layover at Schiphol? If you need around 10 GB of data (or less) like most people, this option is hard to beat.
In my tests it clocked download speeds of over 150 Mbps, handling streaming and video calls perfectly fine. You can pick a specific Netherlands eSIM, or go for their extremely affordable European bundle (which, handily, also works in the UK and Turkey).
Be aware that there is no mobile app; you receive a QR code via email and manage the eSIM via their website. Additionally, data is routed via the Polish network "Plus", so you don't get a local Dutch IP, but the connection remains solid.
eSIM4Travel: Pros
- Great speeds (150+ Mbps) for a budget price
- Ideal for city trips and Schiphol layovers
- Affordable European bundle that also works in the UK and Turkey
eSIM4Travel: Cons
- No mobile app (web-based management only)
- Roaming IP address via the Polish network "Plus", not a local Dutch IP
Featured eSIM4Travel plans for Netherlands
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eSIM4Travel Best Europe 4141 countriesData1 GBValidity7 days£0.52£0.47£0.47/GB£0.52£0.52/GB−10% with code - eSIM4Travel NetherlandsNetherlands onlyData10 GBValidity30 days£5.03£4.53£0.45/GB£5.03£0.50/GB−10% with code
Airalo: Best local connection
The new "Hé Hé" eSIM perfectly illustrates why I remain such a fan of Airalo. While there are now over 200 apps selling cheap eSIMs, 9 out of 10 are just selling generic roaming data with high latency (lag). Airalo is shifting the game by becoming a seller of genuine local connectivity.
New users can use discount code FYESIM15 for 15% off your plan.
The real deal: instead of the hassle at Schiphol or hunting for a convenience store (Albert Heijn), you are buying a real local SIM card directly through the app. Crucially, you can choose a version with a Dutch phone number (+31). This is incredibly useful if you need to use local Dutch services, receive 2FA codes, or book restaurants.
The downside: Dutch prepaid plans are expensive. As a result, this Airalo eSIM is not the cheapest option on this list. However, for travellers who value a native connection (and that phone number), it is the premium choice.
Alternative: if you purely want a massive amount of data and a local number for a lower price, you should also check out a Lyca Mobile eSIM via Sim Local. They are often more attractive for bulk data users.
Airalo: Pros
- Genuine local connection with low latency
- Option of a Dutch phone number (+31)
- Ideal for 2FA codes and local Dutch services
Airalo: Cons
- Higher price point than data-only roaming options
- EU roaming not included
Featured Airalo plans for Netherlands
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Airalo Hè Hè+Netherlands onlyVoice SMSData3 GBValidity7 days£6.00£5.10£1.70/GB£6.00£2.00/GB−15% with code - Airalo Hè Hè+Netherlands onlyVoice SMSData20 GBValidity15 days£20.50£17.43£0.87/GB£20.50£1.03/GB−15% with code
GoMoWorld: Best for bulk data
In Europe, the Irish provider GoMoWorld is always a solid choice if you need a massive amount of data but want to avoid the hidden speed caps and restrictive fair use policies of "unlimited" plans. Use code FYESIM for 10% off your plan.
The background: GoMoWorld is an initiative of GoMo, a local Irish service provider that runs on the Eir network. Unlike generic resellers, they offer international travel eSIMs that route via Europe, giving you a European IP address.
Value for money: their price-to-quality ratio within Europe is arguably the company's best asset. They offer incredibly competitive eSIMs with huge allowances (like 50 GB or 75 GB), all managed through a very slick, user-friendly app.
GoMoWorld: Pros
- Massive data allowances (50 to 75 GB)
- No hidden throttling or vague fair use policies
- Slick, user-friendly app
- European IP address
GoMoWorld: Cons
- No local Dutch IP address (routes via Ireland on Eir)
Featured GoMoWorld plans for Netherlands
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GoMoWorld Europe (incl UK and Switzerland)33 countriesData11 GBValidity30 days£10.99£9.89£0.90/GB£10.99£1.00/GB−10% with code - GoMoWorld NetherlandsNetherlands only5GData50 GBValidity30 days£19.99£17.99£0.36/GB£19.99£0.40/GB−10% with code
SimWallet: A Local Initiative
I was genuinely intrigued by SimWallet, a local initiative backed by the Dutch network giant Odido (formerly T-Mobile).
The experience: I was initially a bit disappointed. I expected a direct, native Odido eSIM, but discovered it is actually powered by 1Global (the same tech behind Saily). However, there is a crucial difference: unlike the global roaming versions, this eSIM gets a local Dutch IP address and runs exclusively on the premium Odido network.
Performance: my disappointment vanished quickly during testing. It clocked 94 Mbps. While technically the "slowest" on this list, let's be realistic: that is plenty fast enough for 90% of users. SimWallet is refreshingly transparent, clearly displaying the speed caps (100 Mbps) and Fair Use Policy before you buy.
The plans:
- Day Pass (2.50 euros / around £2.10): 20 GB per day (max 100 Mbps).
- Monthly "Fastest" (25.00 euros / around £21.00): 20 GB per day (max 100 Mbps).
- Monthly "Fast" (20.00 euros / around £16.80): 20 GB per day (max 20 Mbps).
Note: SimWallet prices are correct at the time of writing and are not updated daily.
The verdict: my only big criticism is the marketing. Calling these capped plans "Fastest" or "Fast" feels a bit generous; in the Netherlands it feels more like "Unlimited Lite". Also note that this is data-only (no phone number) and works strictly in the Netherlands, not the rest of Europe.
Would I use it? If I were staying in the Netherlands for a month and needed to work remotely via a hotspot, why not. For heavy data users staying within the borders, the price-to-data ratio is good. These kinds of local initiatives are fascinating to watch: local network operators are losing significant revenue to travel eSIMs, but in theory they have the infrastructure to launch superior products themselves if they get the execution right.
Unlimited Data eSIM for the Netherlands
Are there "unlimited" eSIMs for the Netherlands? Yes, and you can compare hundreds of options in our comparison tool.
The purpose of an "unlimited" plan is to provide peace of mind. However, be aware that truly unlimited high-speed data, as you might know it from home, does not really exist for travellers. These plans are almost always subject to a daily high-speed limit. Some offer great value, but transparency is important.
You should choose providers who are fully transparent about their Fair Use Policy (FUP). I advise avoiding any provider that does not clearly communicate this limit or hides behind vague terms.
Alternatively, providers like GoMoWorld, Sim Local and Bouygues have some excellent options with large data volumes. With these fixed plans, you know exactly where you stand.
All Test Results
Among the eSIMs I tested for the Netherlands, there really isn't a bad choice. All eSIMs were blazing fast, even the cheaper ones. With the exception of Holafly, every eSIM offered 5G support. Thanks to the high population density and lack of natural obstacles, coverage is simply not something you need to worry about.
Maya Mobile was the fastest, clocking over 900 Mbps download speed. However, Saily, Ubigi and Jetpac are also excellent options. In my tests, Voye Global (just like Airalo and Ubigi) provided a Dutch IP address.
All tests were carried out with an iPhone 16 Pro using the Ookla app. The tests took place at the end of August 2025. All providers were tested in Amsterdam and The Hague, and the best results are shown in the table below. Please note that this is a snapshot and providers can change network partners at any time without prior notice.
| Provider | Speeds | Stability | Routing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo | 231 ↓ / 73.3 ↑ | Excellent. Very low latency (11 ms) and jitter. Ideal for browsing, streaming, video calls and remote work. | Netherlands (KPN, local) |
| Ubigi | 237 ↓ / 51.3 ↑ | Excellent. Stable and responsive with low jitter. Great for video calls and heavy data use. | France (but Dutch IP assigned) |
| Nomad | 330 ↓ / 50.1 ↑ | Fast and stable. Slightly higher latency through Belgium, still good for all common use. | Belgium (BICS) |
| GoMoWorld | 267 ↓ / 53.1 ↑ | Reliable and smooth. Latency a bit higher via Ireland, but video calls and streaming perform well. | Ireland (Eir) |
| Holafly | 238 ↓ / 48.8 ↑ (0.08 ↓ after fair use limit) | Decent before the FUP limit, but throttled heavily afterwards (~0.08 Mbps). Only provider without 5G support. | Southern France (Orange) |
| Voye Global | 212 ↓ / 53.5 ↑ | Stable and quick. Low latency (26 ms) and consistent throughput. Good all-round performance. | Netherlands (Webbing) |
| Saily | 279 ↓ / 96.8 ↑ | Excellent performance. Very high speeds and solid stability, ideal for streaming and remote work. | United Kingdom (1Global) |
| Jetpac | 236 ↓ / 32.1 ↑ | Speeds are good but latency higher (108 ms). Fine for browsing and streaming, less ideal for calls. | France (Telna) |
| Maya Mobile | 944 ↓ / 99.6 ↑ | Extremely high speeds, but latency (94 ms) is quite high. Great for downloads and streaming; less ideal for live calls. | France (Telna) |
| eSIM4Travel | 160 ↓ / 116 ↑ | High upload rate and steady connection. Slightly elevated latency but overall reliable. | Poland (Plus) |
| GlobaleSIM | 102 ↓ / 80.0 ↑ | Consistent and smooth for everyday use. | Poland (Plus) |
| SimWallet | 93.8 ↓ / 17.8 ↑ | Usable for basic browsing and messaging, but slower than expected for a Dutch MNO brand. | Netherlands (1Global) |
All tests were carried out with an iPhone 16 Pro using the Ookla app. The tests took place at the end of August 2025. All providers were tested in Amsterdam and The Hague, and the best results are shown. Please note that this is a snapshot and providers can change network partners at any time without prior notice.
Local Networks in the Netherlands
These are the three major mobile networks in the Netherlands:
- KPN (the Royal Dutch telecom provider)
- Odido (formerly T-Mobile Netherlands)
- Vodafone (VodafoneZiggo)
The bottom line for travellers: honestly, it really doesn't matter which network you are on. Unlike in many other countries, the "worst" network in the Netherlands is still world-class.
Generally speaking, Odido and KPN are often rated slightly higher than Vodafone for raw speed or coverage consistency. However, I have personally been a subscriber to all three networks over the years, and I honestly couldn't tell the difference in day-to-day use.
To be clear, this isn't necessarily because Dutch telecom companies are exceptionally gifted (though their marketing departments would certainly claim otherwise). It is simply a matter of geography.
My advice? Don't stress about the specific local network partner; they are all excellent. Instead, focus on the plan terms. While poor routing (e.g. data travelling via Asia) can be a major issue with travel eSIMs, none of the providers in my test suffered from this. The only real "gotcha" I encountered was annoying speed throttling on some "unlimited" offers.
Buying a Local SIM Card
You often hear that travel eSIMs are convenient but more expensive than local SIM cards. That is an oversimplification that often does not hold up, and the Netherlands is the perfect proof.
As good as the networks are, the local pay as you go market is poor. Dutch providers simply are not interested in prepaid customers. Consequently, prepaid plans are very expensive. There is also a major practical issue for tourists: online top-ups often only accept iDEAL, a local payment system that strictly requires a Dutch bank account. The only real advantage is that there is no mandatory identification.
My advice: personally, I wouldn't bother hunting for a local SIM card upon arrival. Unlike in countries like Spain, where local data is cheap, Dutch prepaid rates are simply too high to be worth the hassle.
At Schiphol Airport: even at the airport, you won't find a bargain. The "best" option is usually a Lyca Mobile SIM at the Airport Telecom shop on Schiphol Plaza, but even that is overpriced (and cheaper when purchased online with Sim Local). You might see other stalls, but be careful: they often advertise low prices that turn out to be monthly subscription rates, useless for a short-term tourist.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the key concern for UK travellers visiting the Netherlands is the cost of EU roaming. With many providers reintroducing daily charges in Europe, a travel eSIM is the perfect solution to avoid bill shock.
The Dutch mobile infrastructure is world-class, and the best eSIMs take full advantage of it. My tests showed massive performance differences, with the top providers hitting speeds of over 300 Mbps (and Maya Mobile over 900) while others lagged significantly behind.
To sum up, here are my top picks for mobile data in the Netherlands, based on my tests:
- eSIM4Travel (best budget option for city trips)
- Airalo (best for a local presence, with an optional +31 number)
- GoMoWorld (best for bulk EU data, up to 75 GB)
Or compare 40+ providers yourself via our Netherlands eSIM comparison. Whatever your choice, comparing the available options ensures you get the best deal, avoid unnecessary roaming charges, and get the world-class connection you expect.
Founder of Find Your eSIM. An avid traveller with roots in telecom, he works fully remote and has been hands-on testing travel eSIMs since 2023. He only recommends providers he'd use himself.
