Mobile telecommunications in Greece is a competitive market comprising three major mobile network providers and numerous MVNOs. The decision on which mobile operator to go for in Greece is not a simple one given the many operators available in the market. In this sense, this guide gives information about all the Greece mobile operators so that you can choose the most suitable for you and your needs.

Greece mobile operators

1. List of Mobile Operators in Greece

There are three major mobile network operators in Greece that own and operate their own network infrastructure. Additionally, there are several MVNOs that lease network capacity from the main operators to provide mobile services.

1.1. Main Mobile Operators in Greece

  • Cosmote: Cosmote is the largest Greece mobile operator with over 7 million subscribers. It uses the brands Cosmote and What’s Up for its mobile services. Cosmote provides 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE services and has the best overall coverage in Greece.
Cosmote Greece
  • Vodafone Greece: It has about five million subscribers that make it the second largest Greece mobile operator. This provides 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE networks. Vodafone also has its own network, as well as a network-sharing agreement with Nova (Wind) for better coverage.
  • Nova (formerly Wind): Nova has nearly 4.5 million customers, who are in third place in the Greek market. It provides 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE networks. Though the coverage is limited, it still boasts affordable offerings.
Nova Greece

1.2. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in Greece

Some popular MVNOs in Greece include:

  • Forthnet: Uses Wind’s network. Prepaid plans come with unlimited data.
  • Cyta: Uses Vodafone’s network. Mobile and fixed broadband bundles.?ه:
  • Premium Net: Uses Wind’s network. Has good roaming rates.
  • Vectone Mobile: Uses Cosmote’s network. Offers low-cost prepaid plans.

2. How to Choose the Best Mobile Operator in Greece

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a Greece mobile operator:

  • Coverage: Refer to coverage maps to determine which operator has coverage that is suitable for you and which areas should be prioritized. In general, Cosmote usually has the largest network coverage.
  • Data speeds: In most tests, Vodafone and Cosmote provide the fastest speeds of 4G. However, Nova is slightly lagging but is getting better.
  • Prices and plans: Compare monthly plans, prepaid rates, roaming charges, data packages, etc across operators.
  • Customer service: Read reviews online and ask friends/family for recommendations on customer service.
  • Perks and benefits: Some operators offer extra perks like free Spotify, discounted international calls, etc.
  • Network technology: All three major networks offer 4G/LTE but if you need 5G, for now only Cosmote has launched 5G services.

3. Best Mobile Operators in Greece – Detailed Comparison

Let’s take a more detailed look at the main Greece mobile operators:

Operator Market Share Bandwidth Coverage 4G Coverage Objects of Use Average Price in USD
Cosmote 40% 1 Gbps Excellent Excellent Mobile phones, tablets, laptops $21/month
Vodafone 35% 1 Gbps Excellent Excellent Mobile phones, tablets, laptops $20/month
Nova (Wind) 25% 500 Mbps Good Good Mobile phones, tablets, laptops $19/month

Which Greece mobile operator should you choose?

If you need the best coverage and the fastest data speeds, then Cosmote is the best option, following the July 2023 Greece mobile network experience report from Opensignal. If you’re on a budget, then Nova is the best option. If you’re looking for a good balance of coverage, speed, price, and reliability, then Vodafone is the best option.

Overall, Cosmote is the best Greece mobile operator in terms of market share, bandwidth, coverage, 4G coverage, and average price. However, Vodafone is a close second and Nova (Wind) is a good option for those on a budget.

4. Where to Buy SIM Cards from Greece Mobile Operators?

You can easily find SIM cards from all the major Greek operators at these locations:

When buying a SIM, take your passport as proof of ID. The process is quick and SIMs are usually activated immediately. Top-ups can be done online or at thousands of shops displaying top-up signs.

SIM Local at Athens Airport
SIM Local at Athens Airport

5. Do Mobile Operators in Greece Offer eSIM?

Greece eSIM

eSIM technology that allows your mobile plan to be digitally downloaded is slowly making inroads in Greece:

  • Cosmote launched eSIM in 2022 for Greeks.
  • Vodafone currently offers eSIM but trials are underway.
  • Nova does not have eSIM capability yet.

So currently, eSIM is very limited in Greece. The only option is Cosmote eSIM for iPhone users. As more smartphones adopt eSIM globally, other Greek operators are likely to roll out eSIM activation soon. 

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6. FAQs

Which operator has the best deals for tourists visiting Greece?

Nova and Vodafone have good value prepaid SIM deals for tourists with generous data, calls, and texts. Cosmote also has competitive tourism packages.

Do I need to show ID to buy a Greek SIM?

Yes, you need to show your passport when purchasing a SIM card in Greece for identification.

Can I use my Greek SIM in other European countries?

Yes, Greek SIMs can roam freely within the EU so you can use your plan’s allowances when traveling across Europe. But check roaming rates.

Who has the cheapest monthly plans in Greece?

Nova tends to have slightly lower-priced contract plans, followed by Vodafone. But compare inclusions as lower price may mean less data or mins.

Which operator has the widest 5G network in Greece?

Currently only Cosmote has launched commercial 5G services, available in Athens, Thessaloniki and a few other cities. Vodafone and Wind are yet to launch 5G.

7. Conclusion

Choosing a Greece mobile operator involves balancing coverage, speeds, prices, and other factors. For most people, Vodafone or Cosmote are the best options that deliver high speeds along with competitive rates. Nova (formerly Wind) is great for budget seekers willing to compromise a bit on coverage. Make sure to check coverage maps for places you visit often. With an increasing number of MVNOs, you can also find deals tailored to certain usage needs. Overall, Greece has a world-class mobile network infrastructure so you can’t go wrong with either of the top players.