Visiting Slovenia, a local  A1 SIM card can be very useful for staying connected

One of the top mobile carriers in Slovenia is A1. Here is what you need to know about getting an A1 SIM card in Slovenia as a tourist.

A1 Slovenija SIM Card

I. Quick Facts about A1

A1 Slovenia is the largest mobile operator and a key digital enabler in the country.

  • Established: In 1994 (formerly known as Mobitel)
  • Branding name: A1
  • Services provided: 4G/LTE mobile service, 5G service, home internet, TV, IoT solutions
  • Number of subscribers: Over 1 million
  • Number of stores: 130+ stores across Slovenia
  • Customer service: Available by phone, email, social media, and in A1 centers
  • Awards: Most reliable network (P3, 2022), Fastest mobile network (Ookla Speedtest Awards, 2022)
A1 SIM Card - Best Mobile Operators in Slovenia
A1

II. Why A1 When You’re Exploring Slovenia – Coverage and Speed

A1 Coverage in Slovenia

A1 SIM card - Coverage map
A1 SIM card – Coverage map. Source: nperf.com

A1 has over 99% 4G population coverage across Slovenia. This means you can access high-speed data nearly everywhere you go from dense cities to small remote villages. A1 is continuously improving its network and has begun rolling out 5G service as well.

A1 Speed

Download Speed - A1 SIM Card
Download Speed – A1 SIM Card

In addition to expansive coverage, A1 also offers lighting fast mobile data speeds. In 2023, A1 was recognized by Opensignal Speedtest for having the fastest mobile network in Slovenia with average download speeds of about 60Mbps on modern devices. This means you can easily stream music and video, upload photos, use maps/navigation, and more without frustration.

Conclusion: With excellent coverage across Slovenia paired with blazing fast mobile data speeds, A1 is undoubtedly a great connectivity choice for visitors.

III. A1 Connectivity Options for Travelers to Slovenia

There are a few different options travelers have for connecting a mobile device to A1’s network during a trip to Slovenia:

Connectivity Options

Connectivity Option Pros Cons
A1 SIM Card Local number Device must support SIM card 
Cheap calling/data rates in Slovenia Coverage depends on A1 network
Can share data to other devices
Pocket WiFi WiFi hotspot for multiple devices Higher costs than SIM
No need to insert SIM in each device Limited data allowance
Roaming Continuity while visiting Slovenia Higher costs than local SIM
Use existing number/plan Coverage depends on roaming agreements

Purchasing a A1 SIM card is the most popular option. These SIM cards provide you a Slovenian phone number and mobile data plan that can be used during your stay in the country. They are easy to set up and convenient for short trips.

IV. Best A1 SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

A1 offers 3 prepaid data plans:

Plan Name Data Amount Data Speed Price Validity
A1 Go! M 2 GB Up to 40/5 Mbit/s 5€ / 3 days
A1 Simpl net 7 GB 7 GB Up to 40/5 Mbit/s 10€ / 30 days
A1 Simpl net 15 GB 15 GB Up to 40/5 Mbit/s 15€ / 30 days

For hassle-free connectivity throughout their stay, the 7GB 30-day plan strikes the best balance of features for most traveling on a budget in Slovenia. Additional packages can be purchased if required.

V. Does A1 Support eSIM in Slovenia?

Yes, A1 does offer eSIM support in Slovenia. An embedded SIM (eSIM) allows you to activate a cellular plan digitally without needing to insert a plastic SIM card.

There are some great benefits of using eSIM when traveling internationally including:

  • Convenience: Add plans instantly without visiting store
  • Flexibility: Change plans easily as needed
  • Security: No physical SIM card to lose or damage

However, eSIM adoption is still relatively early in Slovenia. And most tourist eSIM providers currently do not support Slovenia yet. But having eSIM capabilities future-proofs A1’s network as eSIM usage grows globally.

VI. Where can You Buy a SIM Card and eSIM?

Where to Buy A1 SIM card for Slovenia?

There are a few convenient places you can easily purchase an A1 prepaid tourist SIM card in Slovenia:

  • A1 stores – Located in major malls, cities
Getting A1 SIM Card at Store
Getting A1 SIM Card at Store
  • Grocery stores/kiosks – Like Tuš, Mercator
Getting A1 SIM Card at Grocery Store
Getting A1 SIM Card at Grocery Store
  • Post offices – Some larger post office locations

Prices don’t vary between locations. Just look for the green and white A1 branding to spot seller signs. Bring your passport for registration.

Where to Buy A1 eSIM in Slovenia?

You can buy A1 eSIM  A1 Online Store – A1 eSIM profiles can be purchased directly from their official online store at eshop.a1.si. Profiles will be delivered digitally.

With reliable coverage through A1 and the multiple data packages, Slovenia eSIM from GIGAGO provides a convenient and affordable solution for travelers to stay connected in Slovenia. 

Slovenia eSIM data plans
Slovenia eSIM data plans

VII. How to Activate A1 SIM card/eSIM in Slovenia?

How to Use A1 SIM Card in Slovenia

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready:

  1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
  2. Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
  3. Activate the SIM card
  4. Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
  5. Check your services.

That’s all it takes to get connected on the A1 mobile network in Slovenia!

How to Activate A1 eSIM

  1. Install the eSIM
  2. Activate the eSIM
  3. Set up the eSIM

And you’ll be ready to start using A1’s high-quality coverage and fast mobile data speeds conveniently through the eSIM!

VIII. Slovenia A1 Call & SMS Rates

Slovenia has just one country code (+386), so calling locally is simple. Here are the standard prepaid rates:

Call & SMS Rates

Call/SMS Type Rate (USD)
Calls to other A1 numbers $0.15/min
Calls to other Slovenian mobiles $0.19/min
Calls to Slovenian landlines $0.19/min
Calls within the EU $0.19/min
Calls to non-EU countries Rates vary
SMS to other A1 numbers $0.06/SMS
SMS to other Slovenian mobiles $0.08/SMS
SMS within the EU $0.08/SMS
SMS to non-EU countries $0.08/SMS

IX. Useful USSD Codes for A1 SIM card/eSIM

USSD codes allow you to easily check your prepaid SIM card balance and status directly from your phone without needing to install any apps.

Here are some handy A1 Slovenia USSD check codes:

  • *100# – Check account balance
  • *101# – Check minutes used
  • *102# – Check SMS used
  • *147# – Check data balance

Simply dial the codes above like you would make a phone call and information will pop up instantly.

X. How to Top-up A1 SIM/eSIM

When your A1 prepaid SIM is running low, you can quickly add more data, minutes, and validity period by topping up the balance.

  • Using vouchers: Buy top-up vouchers from A1 stores, newsstands, supermarkets. Scratch to reveal a code then dial 110[voucher code]#
  • A1 Wallet app: Use the A1 Wallet app (or Moj A1) to purchase data packs, minutes, SMS with stored payment info.
  • A1 self-service website: Visit the A1 SI self-care site and sign in to recharge online with credit card.

Now you’ll be able to keep your A1 SIM active continuously while exploring Slovenia!

XI. FAQs about A1 in Slovenia

Can I use 4G/LTE on my A1 SIM?

Yes, A1 prepaid SIM cards include high-speed 4G/LTE data access allowing fast web usage, video streaming, and more while traveling.

Is 5G available on A1?

A1 has begun deploying its 5G next-generation network in Slovenia focused on large cities. But 4G coverage is still far more extensive currently.

Do I need to register the A1 SIM card?

Yes, you need to register prepaid SIM cards with your passport info by law. Registration is quick during purchase.

Can I recharge my SIM online?

Yes, you can easily top-up your A1 prepaid SIM through the A1 Wallet app, A1 website, or buying top-up vouchers throughout Slovenia.

XII. Final Words

Getting an A1 SIM card is highly recommended for travelers headed to Slovenia. It provides excellent coverage across the country with ultrafast 4G speeds at affordable rates. 

With eSIM Slovenia you will have a reliable connectivity while exploring Slovenia’s beautiful landscapes!