Larnaca International Airport (LCA) in Cyprus is a major travel hub in the Mediterranean region. If traveling via Larnaca Airport, you will likely want to purchase a Cyprus SIM card upon arrival. This guide will provide key information on where to buy a SIM card at Larnaca International Airport along with the best SIM card options, required documentation, and more. Keep reading to ensure you are prepared for purchasing a SIM card once you land at Larnaca International Airport.
Table of Contents
1. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Larnaca International Airport
There are several locations within Larnaca International Airport where you can purchase a pay-as-you-go SIM card upon arrival. The most convenient options include:
1.1. Airport Kiosks
After passing through customs, you will find various kiosks selling SIM cards and eSIMs from major local carriers like CYTA, Epic, and Primetel. These kiosks offer prepaid plans with no contracts. Popular kiosk locations include near baggage claim and in the arrivals concourse.
1.2. Electronic Shop
There are also Electronic shops at the airport. These shops sell SIM cards from various providers. Prices may be slightly cheaper here compared to the main provider stores.
2. Cyprus Larnaca International Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Several main mobile network providers in Cyprus offer prepaid SIM cards at Larnaca Airport. Here is an overview of the major options:
| Operators | SIM Plan/Top-up | Price (USD) | Data | Local Calls | Messages | Validity | Total Price (USD) |
| Cyta-Vodafone | soeasy Unlimited GB Pack | ~$5 | Unlimited | - | - | 7 days | ~$7 |
| EPIC | Top Up €5 | $5 | - | - | - | 180 days | ~$7 |
| Top Up €10 | $10 | 30MB | 40 mins | 100 SMS | 365 days | ~$12 | |
| Top Up €20 | $20 | 60MB | 120 mins | 250 SMS | 365 days | ~$22 | |
| Top Up €35 | $35 | 90MB | 240 mins | 500 SMS | 365 days | ~$37 | |
| Top Up €50* | $50 | 150MB | 400 mins | 750 SMS | 365 days | ~$52 | |
| Data Top-up card $5 | $5 | 5GB | - | - | 10 days | ~$7 | |
| Data Top-up card $10 | $10 | 12GB | - | - | 30 days | ~$12 | |
| Data Top-up card $15 | $15 | 25GB | - | - | 30 days | ~$17 | |
| Primetel | Travel Internet Pack | ~$20 | 100GB | - | - | 20 days | ~$20 |
You can also find SIM cards from Cyta-Vodafone and Epic at the airport. Overall, CYTA and Epic tend to have the best prices and speeds based on user reviews. Expect to pay around $15-25 for a prepaid tourist SIM with 5-15GB of data.
3. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Larnaca International Airport
When purchasing a Cyprus SIM card at Larnaca Airport, you will need:
- Passport – Your passport is required as proof of identification by the mobile carrier.
- Passport Photo – Some providers may ask for a passport photo when buying a SIM card. Have one ready to make the process faster.
- Unlocked Phone -Your phone must be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider in advance to request an unlock.
- Local Currency – Have some Euro cash on hand to pay for your prepaid SIM plan as not all kiosks accept credit cards. ATMs are available in the arrivals hall.
Overall, ensure your phone is unlocked, have your passport handy, and carry some local currency to make buying a SIM card smooth once you land at Larnaca International Airport.
4. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Larnaca International Airport
If you have an eSIM-compatible phone like a newer iPhone or Google Pixel model, you could set up an eSIM for Cyprus prior to your trip instead of buying a plastic SIM card at Larnaca Airport. Some benefits of eSIM include:
- No need to find & purchase SIM card on arrival
- Remotely set up Cyprus plan before you arrive
- Dual SIM functionality to keep your existing number
- Digitally switch between plans easily
Providers like cyprusesim.com offer Cyprus eSIM plans you can activate before landing. Get a Cyprus eSIM from cyprusesim.com starting at just $3. No SIM swapping needed – just install the digital eSIM and surf like a local. Buy now at gigago.com before your trip!
5. FAQs about SIM Cards At Larnaca Airport
What network providers are available?
The main options are CYTA, Epic, and Primetel. CYTA and Epic have the widest coverage.
Can I buy a SIM card with passport of any country?
Yes, Larnaca Airport retailers sell SIMs to tourists of all nationalities if you provide your passport.
Do they sell both prepaid SIMs and eSIMs?
Most kiosks/stores offer traditional plastic prepaid SIM cards also eSIM from major providers.
How much talk time/data comes with SIM cards at the airport?
Prepaid SIMs aimed at tourists typically include 5-15GB of data and 100-200 minutes of local talk time. Some data-only SIMs are available too.
How long does the airport SIM card activation process take?
Activation is generally quick, within 5-10 minutes after providing your passport details. Instructions are provided to get your SIM card working right away.
6. Final Words
To sum up, if you use the system for a local Cyprus SIM card when arriving at Larnaca International Airport (LCA), it’s very convenient. There you can buy prepaid tourist SIM cards with tempting data packages at stores and kiosks belonging to major providers such as CYTA and Epic, located within the arrivals terminal area. Make sure your passport, photo, phone, and local cash are stored in your carry-on luggage to grease the bumpy transition that’s sure to occur after you touch down. Enjoy your time in Cyprus!
