What is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card, embedded directly in your smartphone or device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, it allows you to download and activate cellular plans without having to physically swap or insert anything, via a QR code or app. This makes eSIMs especially useful for travelers looking for a free eSIM alternative or eSIM Europe.
For the latest eSIM iPhone products (iPhone XS and newer) or most modern Androids, setup is a simple scan of the code sent to your email, and you're connected in under five minutes from that. In Paris, this is useful, so you're connecting quickly, and spending less time messing around with technology, and much more time eating croissants and cruising down the Seine.
Benefits of Using an eSIM in Paris
Are you traveling to Paris? Take away the roaming headaches and enjoy an eSIM France:
Avoid Roaming Charges
Travel all over France and Europe with free EU roaming on your Lycamobile plan. Travel without limits, all whilst ensuring seamless connectivity.
Easy to Set Up & Manage
Get active in minutes by scanning your QR code, and manage your entire account via the Lycamobile app.
Multiple Lines/ Plans on One Device
Keep your home phone number and install a local eSIM for your travels, work, or prompt your loved ones!
Why Choose Lycamobile eSIM in Paris?
For eSIM users traveling to France, Lycamobile is a solid choice. With 16 million subscribers globally, Lycamobile provides affordable options. A popular MVNO, it utilizes extensive infrastructure to provide eSIM service, proving to be an advantageous solution for travelers or tourists, and offers eSIM plans to avoid tying customers into contracts or hidden/extra fees.
Reliable 4G/5G Network Coverage in Paris
Lycamobile delivers fast 5G throughout the city, from the Champs-Élysées to less-trafficked neighborhoods. You can have speeds up to 1Gbps, and there should not be any discernible lag time, even in congested tourist locations.
Flexible Data Plan To Fit Your Needs
Whether you are interested in,
- Value eSIM bundles for your budget in France, such as €4.99 for the Lyca S (50GB); or
- Prepaying for premium data usage, i.e., for fast use, like €11.99 for the Lyca M (350GB).
The plans you prepay for will have no contracts and are geared toward travelers and tourists looking for eSIM Europe travel. All plans include unlimited national calls and texts and are 5G-ready. EU is roaming too, which on the starter tiers means you can use €5 in EU data while you are outside of France.
Easily Activate and Manage Online
Order your eSIM online at lycamobile.fr, verify your identity in a few minutes with KYC, and we will send you an instant QR code via email. You won’t need a physical SIM. Instead of 30 minutes to activate like physical SIMs, it takes just a few minutes, once you receive your code, scan it in your iPhone’s or Android’s settings if it’s a compatible eSIM.
The ‘My Lycamobile app’ enables you to manage your entire mobile experience (top-ups and usage) as needed in real-time. French regulations require you to upload your ID no later than 30 days after purchase, but Lycamobile makes it easy so you can start your travels hassle-free, right at the airport.
Customer Support
Customer service is available by phone (dial 322 if on a Lycamobile line or 01 77 72 23 22 from a different line), live chat, or email, Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm.
Why settle for less when Lycamobile offers eSIM Free Mobile-style ease at competitive rates?
How to Get Started with Lycamobile eSIM
Choose Your Lycamobile eSIM Plan
Choosing the appropriate eSIM France plan relies on your visit to Paris, a short weekend, or long-term.
Lycamobile's prepaid plans fit any need:
| Plan Name | Data | Calls & Texts | International Minutes | EU Roaming | Price (30 Days) | Best For |
| Lyca S | 50GB 5G | Unlimited France | 30 mins (51 countries) | 5GB | €4.99 | Short trips, light users |
| Lyca M | 350GB 5G | Unlimited France | 120 mins (51 countries) | 16GB | €11.99 | Heavy data needs, social media sharers |
| Lyca L | Unlimited (fair use) | Unlimited France + EU | 300 mins (51 countries) | Unlimited | €19.99 | Long stays, video callers |
Note: All plans are compatible with eSIM iPhone and Android devices, and eSIM is free on activation. If you are going to Paris for a romantic getaway, the M plan is ideal for a balance between cost and coverage. If you are going to Paris for business, then use Plan L.
Activate Your Lycamobile eSIM
Activating your eSIM is a simple process that does not involve handling a physical SIM.
- Order: Go to lycamobile.fr/en/esim and order your plan and carry out a quick KYC check (legitimately required in France).
- QR code: The QR code will be emailed to you immediately with no waiting or store visit required.
- Scan: Scan the QR code by going to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM on your phone connected to Wi-Fi.
- Data Roaming: When “Lycamobile” appears on your network, you can call, text, and enjoy full EU access to data.
Managing Your Lycamobile eSIM
You can manage your eSIM at any time at mylyca.com.
- Check your usage, add data, or upgrade in minutes.
- You will also be connected to Maps, Calls, and Video chats, without worrying about needing a tourist SIM.
Order eSIM now and book your smarter adventure in Paris!
FAQs for LycaMobile France eSIM
Can I buy eSIM at Paris Airport?
Yes, you can purchase a LycaMobile France eSIM through kiosks at both Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport for immediate connectivity. Our eSIM France plans offer data, calls, and text plans, and the eSIM will be activated via QR code on ANY compatible device. You will save money by purchasing our eSIM online rather than buying your eSIM at the airport.
Which eSIM is best for tourists in France?
LycaMobile’s eSIM is the best eSIM for tourists in France, offering unlimited data for as low as €9.90 for 30 days. In addition to eSIM Europe roaming, we also offer eSIM in compatible locations, including eSIM iPhone in Paris and beyond.
How to activate eSIM in France?
Once you have purchased your eSIM from LycaMobile, simply scan the QR code your eSIM generated in your phone settings (eSIM iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM) and you are ready to go! A simple restart of the phone takes less than 5 minutes for your eSIM to be active, and no physical eSIM is necessary. If you need more information, feel free to check out our guide on c'est quoi une eSIM, which is a simple way to learn how to set up your device.
Can a tourist buy a SIM card in France?
Tourists may purchase a LycaMobile eSIM or a physical SIM at the airport, in terminals, or online upon registering their passport. Our prepaid eSIM plans are ideal for short stays, offering more flexibility.
Should I buy an eSIM at the airport?
Purchasing an eSIM France at the airport for convenience is 30% more expensive. You may save money by pre-purchasing an eSIM from LycaMobile. This will include eSIM EU roaming, making activation easier when you arrive in France.
Can I buy an eSIM before I travel to France?
Yes, you can purchase a LycaMobile France eSIM online before your trip for immediate activation upon arrival in France. You can test eSIM free data on eSIM on iPhones. The eSIM plan provides a French number and ensures an active data connection from the minute you land.
Will I receive a French phone number with an eSIM?
Yes, every LycaMobile eSIM France includes a French number that starts with +33, which can be used to make calls as well as use any application that requires a phone number. It’s especially convenient if you have an eSIM francaise so you can avoid roaming fees.
Can I get a SIM card at Paris Airport?
Yes, you can order a LycaMobile eSIM and physical SIMs at the airport desks in Paris, but make sure you get the digital eSIM France version so you can quickly set up your eSIM via scanning a QR. If you’re on holiday, the eSIM Europe is a great feature, especially for tourists.
Is it more expensive to get a SIM card at the airport?
Yes, if you get an eSIM from the airport, it could be 20% to 50% more than purchasing a prepaid eSIM online. A LycaMobile eSIM France still offers a €10 eSIM package that has similar coverage to the SIM purchased at the Airport.
Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM?
Yes, the LycaMobile eSIM France option supports WhatsApp completely. It’s optimized to your mobile data settings if you're using an eSIM iPhone in France or using an eSIM anywhere in Europe.