* This article is targeting our attendees from non EU + EEA countries (European Union/European Economic Area). Anyone who already has a mobile data subscription in any of the EU + EEA countries, can roam for free and make calls against their normal tariffs.

Whether you need a physical SIM card or prefer eSIM, there are many options for adding data and calls to your mobile phone in Italy if you do not have an EU plan. Consider your needs when choosing a service provider and plan. This article describes the most inexpensive and easiest option based on local advice one of our organisers tested upon arrival.

Do you need data?

While WordCamp Europe will offer WiFi in the Lingotto Centre, having access to your own data gives you the freedom to stay connected while traveling, coordinate with WCEU friends outside the conference centre, and navigate within and beyond Torino. Data also makes it easy to buy and use digital public transit tickets wherever you roam in Torino and Italy, request ride share services, buy museum tickets, and more.

One of our organisers traveled from Milano to Torino without data and documented the process of getting an iliad SIM the next day in Torino. Roaming is inexpensive if you already have a European plan, but if you’re traveling from outside the EU, you may be astonished to discover that you can get 150 GB of data for as little as €18!

iliad

Recommended by Italians as an affordable service provider with top quality coverage, iliad offers inexpensive, prepaid SIM packages with good coverage in Italy and other European countries, including the UK.

Overall, the process was easy and quick, the price was good, staff was friendly, information was available in English, and data coverage has been consistent in Torino.

iliad Service Plans

All Plans

• Your choice, SIM card or eSIM. If you’re not sure which to get, the machine has a list that makes it easy to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible.
• 30-Day Plans: Length of stay is not an issue; your data with any iliad plan is good all month. Plans can be renewed at the monthly rate if you’re staying longer.
• Monthly plans do not offer top ups, so pick the plan that covers your expected usage and turn off mobile data and extra apps when not needed.
• Iliad works in European countries, including the UK. See website for full list of coverage.

Monthly packages

One-time activation fee of €9,99 for SIM (physical or digital) and:

• €7,99 per month
  • 150 GB data in Italy
  • 9 GB data in Europe
  • unlimited calls and texts within Italy
• €9,99 per month
  • 200 GB data in Italy
  • 11 GB data in Europe
  • unlimited calls and texts within Italy
• €11,99 per month
  • 250 GB data in Italy
  • 9 GB data in Europe
  • unlimited calls and texts within Italy
• €14,99 per month
  • 250 GB data only
  • 16 GB data in Europe
  • no calls or texts

Where to buy

If you are flying into Milano, there’s an iliad shop near Milano Centrale Station (1 km) that is open until 8 pm. Our organiser arrived in Milano after the shop had closed, but it was easy to take public transit from the airport in Milano to Torino without data. (Neither the bus nor train had WiFi.)

When you get to Torino, the iliad shop in Piazza Castello (the heart of historic Torino and a must-visit while you are here) is also open until 8 pm, and at least 1 staff member speaks English. However, you can buy a SIM card anytime. The machine outside the shop is open 24 hours a day and will issue your SIM card the same as inside the store.

How to use the machine to buy a SIM

The first two screens on the machine are in Italian, but once you know where to click (photos below), you can change the language to English to complete the process on your own. You’ll need to scan your passport and identify yourself with a quick video to complete the transaction and you’ll be online within minutes of activating your SIM. If you have further questions or difficulties, the shop is happy to help.

Screen 1: Press “Clicca qui” (Click here”)

Screen 2: Under Mobile, press “Scopri” (“Discover”)

Screen 3: Switch to English in the lower right hand corner of the screen to select your plan and complete the purchase.

Plans:

After selecting your plan, you can view the list of phones compatible with eSIM. If yours isn’t on the list, select a physical SIM and it will come out of the machine when you complete the purchase.

As you go through the purchase process, you will need to enter your personal details, scan your passport, and record a short video stating your name and that you are selecting iliad. This is to confirm your identity. When asked, the staff member said this will not be used for marketing purposes.

Enjoy your data!

Being online in Torino makes a lot of things easier, including navigation, digital transit tickets, ride sharing, and connecting with WCEU friends. With 150 GB of data in Italy for just €18, you can do anything!

We hope you enjoy your time in Torino, both on- and offline.

Buon viaggio!

Disclaimer: WordCamp Europe is not affiliated with any of the brands or service providers mentioned in this article. The information provided is based on personal experiences and local advice to help our attendees from non-EU and non-EEA countries stay connected during their time in Italy. Our goal is to offer helpful and unbiased guidance to ensure you have a seamless experience at WordCamp Europe and beyond. Please note that prices and plans mentioned in this article are subject to change, and we cannot be held accountable for any discrepancies. We recommend checking the latest prices and details with the service providers before making a purchase.