Telenor is one of the leading mobile operators in Sweden and a great choice for tourists visiting the country. This guide is everything you need to know about getting a Telenor SIM card or eSIM when traveling to Sweden.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Telenor
Telenor is one of the largest telecommunications companies in Sweden. Here are some quick facts about this brand.
- Established: 1963
- Branding name: Telenor
- Services provided: Mobile services, fixed telephony, broadband and TV
- Number of subscribers: Over 182 million worldwide, 2.8 million in Sweden (2021)
- Number of stores: Over 8000 worldwide, around 90 in Sweden
- Customer service: Available online, over the phone and in stores
- Awards: Ranked in top 100 most sustainable companies (Corporate Knights 2022)
II. Why Telenor When You’re Exploring Sweden – Coverage and Speed
2.1 Telenor Coverage in Sweden
Telenor Sweden has reliable nationwide 3G/4G coverage with minimal gaps. Their network is on par with competitors in terms of population and geographic reach.
Telenor has excellent coverage across Sweden, particularly in populated areas. It uses 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE networks to provide consistent connections. Telenor has over 99% population coverage meaning you can stay connected wherever your travels take you. It’s 3G network covers around 95% of the population. The 4G network reaches 99% of Swedes. Overall, Telenor is a reliable choice for connectivity across the country.
2.2 Telenor Speed
In addition to great coverage, Telenor also offers fast data speeds. Telenor has average download speeds of around 140Mbps on 4G LTE, which is fast enough for browsing, streaming, gaming and more.
Speeds are fastest in cities and large towns where there is excellent infrastructure. With wide coverage and high speeds, Telenor makes it easy to stay connected across Sweden.
III. Telenor Connectivity Options for Travelers to Sweden
There are many main options which travelers have for connecting with Telenor in Sweden:
Connectivity Options
Option | Pros | Cons |
Buy Telenor SIM card |
- Convenient to get at airport & retailers - Use in unlocked phone - Flexible data packs |
- Need unlocked phone - Physical card can be damaged |
Pocket Wifi Rental |
- Convenient for group travel - No SIM required |
- Must return device - Limit on number of devices |
Roaming on Home Network |
- Use existing phone & number - Don't need new SIM |
- Expensive roaming rates - Limited data |
Buying a local Telenor SIM card is the most convenient and flexible option for getting data in Sweden. SIMs give you more data at lower costs compared to roaming. Pocket Wifi rentals are another alternative but limit the number of devices that can connect. For individual travel, getting a Telenor SIM is the best choice.
IV. Best Telenor SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
Telenor has prepaid SIM cards perfect for tourists visiting Sweden. Here are some options:
Telenor SIM Option | Validity | Inclusions | Price (SEK) | Price (USD) |
Travel & Weekly | 7 days | 1GB data, calls/texts in SEK | 149 SEK | $16.70 |
Travel Smart 30 | 30 days | 2GB data, 1000 mins, 500 texts | 299 SEK | $33.60 |
Travel Smart 60 | 60 days | 2GB data, 1000 mins, 500 texts | 499 SEK | $56.12 |
World SIM | Pay-as-you-go | Calls/SMS in 75+ countries | Activation 10 SEK | $1.12 |
Travel Internet SIM | 30 days | 5GB data | 199 SEK | $22.40 |
Monthly Plan | 30 days | 10-50GB data, unlimited usage | 269-699 SEK | $30.28-78.72 |
Day Pass SIM | 1 day | 1GB data | 79 SEK | $8.88 |
Top-Up SIM | Pay-as-you-go | Purchase top-up amounts | 99 SEK | $11.12 |
These tourist SIMs offer generous amounts of data – enough for maps, social media, and more. The cost is also very reasonable. You can buy the SIM cards at Stockholm Arlanda airport and Telenor stores across Sweden. Overall, Telenor SIMs give you excellent value when traveling.
V. Does Telenor Support eSIM in Sweden?
Yes, Telenor does offer eSIM support in Sweden. An eSIM allows you to activate a data plan digitally without needing a physical SIM card.
Some key advantages of using a Telenor eSIM include:
- Convenience – no need to buy a SIM card
- Easy to set up on your phone
- Flexibility to change plans as needed
There are many eSIM providers that offer Telenor’s network. One reputable option is Sweden eSIM with flexible data packs. With an eSIM, you can easily connect to Telenor’s fast network around Sweden.
VI. Where can You Buy a Telenor SIM and eSIM?
1. Where to Buy Telenor SIM for Sweden?
You can easily purchase a Telenor SIM card at these locations:
- Airport – Telenor counters in arrival halls
- Telenor retail stores – Over 90 stores across Sweden
- Pressbyran convenience stores – Found in many towns/cities
- Online on Telenor website – Delivered or collect in store
Telenor makes it very convenient to buy a SIM card as soon as you arrive at the airport. You can also order online and pick it up later during your trip.
2. Where to Buy Telenor eSIM in Sweden?
To get a Telenor Sweden eSIM, you can purchase from providers such as:
- Online – Through Telenor’s Website
- Third-party provider – Such as Sweden eSIM from GIGAGO.
These reputable providers make it easy to buy a Telenor eSIM securely online before your trip. You can activate and start using the eSIM right on your phone.
Note: Make sure that your device is eSIM compatible before purchasing.
VII. How to Activate Telenor SIM/eSIM in Sweden
1. How to Use Telenor SIM Card in Sweden
Activating a Telenor SIM card is very straightforward:
- Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone. Locate the SIM slot, open it and insert the card.
- Power on your phone and wait for the SIM to be recognized.
- The SIM card should already be activated when purchased. If not, follow activation instructions.
- Configure the APN settings on your phone if required. The APN helps connect to the Telenor network.
- Check your phone and data connection to confirm everything is working.
With just those simple steps, your Telenor SIM will be ready to use in Sweden!
2. How to Activate Telenor eSIM
Here is how to activate and start using a Telenor Sweden eSIM:
- Install the eSIM app provided by your eSIM provider. Scan the QR code they provide.
- Activate the eSIM by following the in-app prompts. Confirm the activation.
- Set up the eSIM on your phone using the device settings. Select the Telenor plan.
- Once activated and set up, you can start using the eSIM! Connect to data and make calls as needed.
For detailed steps, follow the eSIM activation guides below:
With a few taps, you’ll be connected on the Telenor network!
VIII. Sweden Telenor Call & SMS Rates
Telenor prepaid SIM cards in Sweden have the following domestic call and SMS rates:
Call & SMS Rates
Call/SMS Type | Rate (SEK) | Rate (USD) |
Calls to Telenor numbers | Free | Free |
Calls within Sweden to other networks | 0.99 SEK/min | $0.11/min |
Calls to landlines in Sweden | 0.49 SEK/min | $0.06/min |
Calls to EU/EEA countries | 0.99 SEK/min | $0.11/min |
Calls to non-EU/EEA countries | 2.5-5 SEK/min | $0.28-0.56/min |
SMS within Sweden | 0.49 SEK/SMS | $0.06/SMS |
SMS to other countries | 0.99 SEK/SMS | $0.11/SMS |
For calls and texts to international numbers, rates start from 2.50 SEK per minute and 1 SEK per SMS. Overall, great rates for keeping in touch domestically and very affordable international rates too.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Telenor SIM/eSIM
Here are some useful USSD codes for checking your Telenor account balance and more:
USSD Codes
USSD Code | Description |
*#100# | Check phone number |
*111# | Check balance and validity |
135amt# | Top up with specified amount |
*133# | Check credit expiration date |
*137# | Check data usage |
134days# | Extend validity by days |
156pin# | Change PIN code |
USSD codes let you easily check your prepaid account status directly from your phone. Dial the code, press call, and you’ll get balance information instantly.
X. How to Top-up Telenor SIM/eSIM
It’s easy to top-up your Telenor prepaid SIM or eSIM when needed:
- Online – Use credit/debit card on Telenor website or app
- Vouchers – Enter recharge code from voucher purchased at stores
- Stores – Top up at Telenor stores and many convenience stores
You can recharge both physical SIM cards and eSIMs. Topping up online or with vouchers is the most convenient method. But you can also recharge easily in-store when needed.
XI. FAQs about Telenor in Sweden
Does Telenor have good coverage in Sweden?
Yes, Telenor has excellent coverage in Sweden with 99% 4G LTE population coverage. It provides reliable service across the country.
Does Telenor offer 5G service in Sweden?
Not yet, but Telenor is working on rolling out 5G service in Sweden over the coming years. Currently it offers high-speed 4G/LTE connectivity.
Can I use Telenor SIM in other Scandinavian countries?
Telenor has roaming agreements that allow you to use your SIM throughout Scandinavia. But rates are higher so best to get local SIM in each country.
How can I track my Telenor data usage?
ou can text “Saldo” to 1919 or dial *137# to check your remaining data balance. The Telenor app also shows data usage.
How long is a Telenor SIM card valid for?
Telenor prepaid SIMs are valid for 6 months. As long as you top up, you can continue using it for up to 6 months at a time.
XII. Final Words
In summary, a Telenor SIM card or eSIM is a great choice for staying connected when exploring Sweden. Telenor offers wide coverage, fast speeds and affordable prepaid plans. SIMs can be purchased at the airport, online or in stores across the country.
Telenor provides reliable service and an excellent mobile experience across Sweden. Consider using Sweden eSIM for the best trips. Enjoy!