I am landing in Milan with a fully charged unlocked gsm cell phone. What is my next step. From what I have read, there should be kiosks selling sim cards that i can place in my phone and off I go. Anyone have a personal experience with getting a sim card at MXP or should I wait to get into Milan central? also, a reccomendation for which card to use. thanks Marc
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32206 posts
Marc, Based on information I've seen here in other posts, buying a SIM card in Italy may take some time. Apparently it's necessary to have a Codice Fiscale now, and will need to present your Passport to register. Hopefully, Roberto or one of the others will be able to provide more details on the procedure. An easier solution (and the one I use) is to use a SIM from one of the "travel phone" firms such as Roam Simple, Cellular Abroad, Call In Europe, Telestial, Mobal or EuroBuzz. The rates are slightly higher than with an in-country SIM (but still reasonable), and are consistent for most of the countries across western Europe. Many of these firms use U.K.-based numbers and offer post-paid billing (calls charged to a credit card) so there's no need to top-up. One thing I like with the travel SIM is that I have a working phone as soon as I step off the plane, so no need to look for Cell shops, stand in a queue or whatever. One other advantage with a travel SIM is that it's capable of accessing a variety of networks, based on strongest signal. If using a SIM purchased in-country, it will only be able to access the network it was sold by. If that network has weak coverage in one area (not likely, but it can happen) then the person using it may not have cell service. Good luck and happy travels!
Posted by
OP
High Falls, NY, USA
20 posts
I did follow a link from this site,completed an online application and printed out a codice fiscale. I have since read that you cannot apply for a CF on the internet but I did print out what appears to be a CF.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32206 posts
Marc, I suppose you'll find out if the Codice Fiscale is valid when you try to buy a SIM card. Good luck!