Germany is one of Europe’s most connected countries, offering excellent 4G/LTE and rapidly expanding 5G coverage. Whether you are a traveler, international student, digital nomad, or a short-term visitor, prepaid SIM cards in Germany provide reliable data, affordable prices, and nationwide availability without the need for a long-term contract.
This complete guide covers network basics, where to buy SIMs, frequencies, coverage, operator comparisons, tourist SIM options, eSIM, activation, top-ups, and full details for all major German mobile operators.
Basic Information About German Prepaid SIM Cards
Networks: Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and O2 (Telefónica).
MVNOs: Aldi Talk, Lidl Connect, Congstar, Lebara, Blau, Otelo, Ay Yildiz.
Identification: Mandatory ID verification (biometric or passport).
Germany does not offer a dedicated “tourist SIM”. Best options for tourists:
Telekom Prepaid
Vodafone CallYa
O2 Prepaid S/M/L
eSIM Options
Available for:
Telekom
Vodafone
O2
Congstar
Aldi Talk
Lebara (partial)
Activation Process
Insert SIM
Complete ID verification
Restart phone
Register in app
Activate prepaid plan
How to Check Remaining Balance
Network
Code
Telekom
*100#
Vodafone
*100#
O2
*101#
Aldi Talk
In app
Lidl
In app
Customer Care Numbers
Operator
Helpline
Telekom
2202
Vodafone
1212
O2
55222
Aldi Talk
1155
Lebara
5588
Top-Up Methods (Germany)
Recharge vouchers at supermarkets
Online top-up via apps
Bank card payments
EU roaming top-ups
Conclusion
Prepaid SIM cards in Germany are affordable, accessible, and backed by excellent 4G/5G coverage. Telekom offers the best performance, Vodafone provides balanced value, and O2 is ideal for budget users. Additionally, MVNOs like Aldi Talk, Congstar, and Lidl Connect offer cheap plans tailored for heavy data use or international communication.
