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If you're looking to buy a phone at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, your options may be limited. While some sources suggest that it is possible to purchase phones at the airport, others indicate that this may not be the case. However, you can easily purchase a SIM card at the airport from providers like Orange and Bouygues Telecom, which offer data and calling plans for tourists. Alternatively, you can opt for an eSIM, which provides convenience and flexibility, allowing you to switch between different network operators without physically changing SIM cards. If you're travelling to Paris with a US cell phone, it's good to know that most modern smartphones are compatible with Europe's mobile infrastructure, and you may also have the option to sign up for an international plan with your carrier.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ability to buy a phone | Unlikely, but possible |
| Ability to buy a SIM card | Yes |
| SIM card providers | Orange, Bouygues Telecom |
| SIM card prices | €39.90 EUR ($40 USD) for 30 GB data and 30 days validity |
| eSIM availability | Yes |
| eSIM prices | Start from $1 USD and $4.5 USD |
| SIM card top-up | Yes |
| Data package purchase | Yes |
| Phone charger compatibility | Yes, but a French outlet adapter is required |
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What You'll Learn
Buying a SIM card at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) has three terminals, connected by a free train service. All terminals have ATMs, money exchange, convenience stores, and other tourist facilities.
You can buy a SIM card at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport in person, at carrier stores, Relay convenience stores, or online. The two primary providers offering SIM cards at the airport are Orange and Bouygues Telecom.
Relay Stores are located in both the departures and arrivals terminals, and they are open from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. Here are the Relay Store locations within Terminal 1 and Terminal 2:
- Terminal 1: Hall A, Levels 1-4, Store n°A-101, A-202, A-301, A-401
- Terminal 2: Hall D, Levels 1-4, Store n°D-101, D-202, D-301, D-401
Tourism Information desks are also located in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and they are open from around 7:00 am to 9:00 pm. The staff at the Tourism Information desks can provide you with information about the prepaid SIM cards available for tourists.
SIM card shops at CDG Airport generally do not stay open after midnight, so it is recommended to consider an eSIM if you are arriving late. eSIMs are a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards, as they can be downloaded and activated wirelessly, and they allow you to switch between different mobile network operators without changing physical SIM cards.
Prices at the airport can be higher than in the city center, so it may be worth considering other options if you are looking for a cheaper alternative. For example, an Orange Holiday Europe SIM card costs €39.99 for 30 GB of data and unlimited calls/SMS in Europe for 14 days.
If your phone is e-sim compatible, you can order an eSIM online before you arrive in France. This way, you can avoid having to queue at the airport or open the SIM card tray on your phone. Prepaid eSIMs for France start from just $1 USD, and there are many providers to choose from.
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eSIMs for Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
ESIMs are available at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. eSIMs are an ideal solution for travellers as they allow you to stay connected without relying on uncertain WiFi networks. They are also more convenient than physical SIM cards as they can be downloaded and activated wirelessly on your device, without having to insert or remove a physical card. This also means you can easily switch between different mobile network operators.
You can purchase an eSIM at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport from Relay Stores, which are convenience stores located in both the departures and arrivals terminals. These stores are open from 6 am until 11 pm, so they are a good option if you need to pick up a SIM card before your flight or train journey.
Alternatively, you can buy an eSIM online before you arrive at the airport. This means you won't need to queue or search for a store when you get there. You can compare different eSIM plans for France online and choose the one that best suits your needs. Once you've made your purchase, you'll receive all the information you need to set up your eSIM via email.
If you want more data for your eSIM, you can simply buy a new plan. This flexibility is one of the benefits of eSIMs over physical SIM cards.
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Buying a phone at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
It is possible to buy a phone at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, although options may be limited. Relay.com, for example, offers a few phones that can be used with French SIM cards. However, it may be more economical to purchase a second-hand phone online or from someone you know before your trip.
If you are looking to purchase a new, top-of-the-line phone, you may be disappointed with the selection at the airport. In this case, it might be better to visit a phone store in Paris or make your purchase before you travel.
Buying a SIM card at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
There are several options for SIM cards at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. The two primary providers are Orange and Bouygues Telecom, which both offer SIM cards for €39.90 EUR ($40 USD). However, Bouygues Telecom provides 30 GB of data and is valid for 30 days, while the Orange SIM card only offers 20 GB of data and is valid for 14 days.
Another option is to purchase an eSIM, which can be downloaded and activated wirelessly. eSIMs are often cheaper, starting at $4.50 USD, and can be purchased online before you arrive.
Regardless of whether you purchase a new phone or a SIM card, it is important to consider your options carefully and ensure that your device is compatible with the chosen network.
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Phone charger and adapter for Paris
If you're planning a trip to Paris, it's important to ensure that you have the correct phone charger and adapter to stay connected and charged. Here are some detailed instructions and recommendations for choosing the right adapter and ensuring a seamless phone-charging experience during your stay in Paris:
Phone Charger and Adapter Recommendations for Paris:
- Adapter Type: The standard voltage in Paris and France is 230V, whereas the US and some other countries use 100-127V. Most modern phone chargers, including iPhone chargers, can accept the higher voltage in France. Therefore, you likely do not need a voltage converter for your trip to Paris. Instead, you only need a plug adapter that fits French sockets.
- Adapter Options: The best type of electrical outlet adapter for Paris and France is a Type E adapter, which accommodates both grounded and ungrounded devices. You can purchase this adapter online or from hardware stores. Amazon offers highly-rated options such as the Ceptics Ultra-Compact Europe Travel Plug Adapter, which is lightweight, solid, and affordable.
- Multi-Device Adapters: If you plan to charge multiple devices simultaneously, consider a multi-device adapter like the VINTAR European Travel Plug Adapter. This adapter features two American/Canadian plug outlets, one USB-C port, and three USB ports, allowing you to charge up to six devices at once.
- Multi-Plug Adapters: If your hotel has limited electrical outlets, consider a multi-plug adapter such as the TESSAN US to Europe Travel Plug Adapter. It comes with three outlets and three USB chargers, enabling you to charge multiple devices conveniently.
- International Plans and eSIMs: Depending on your wireless carrier, you may have the option to sign up for an international plan or purchase an eSIM to stay connected while in Paris. This can be more convenient than relying solely on WiFi. Check with your carrier for specific offerings, such as the AT&T International Day Pass or the AT&T Prepaid International Travel Add-On.
- SIM Cards at the Airport: If you prefer to use a local SIM card, you can purchase one at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). The two primary providers are Orange and Bouygues Telecom, with the latter offering a better deal: 30GB of data and 30 days of validity for €39.90 EUR ($40 USD).
- Security and Backup: Paris, like any tourist destination, has its share of pickpocketing incidents. Take precautions by keeping your phone secure and avoiding open pockets, tables at restaurants, and areas near metro doors. Additionally, back up your photos and data online using services like Dropbox, Google, or Flickr.
In summary, for your trip to Paris, ensure you have the correct adapter type (Type E) and consider purchasing a multi-device or multi-plug adapter to suit your charging needs. Explore international plans or eSIM options with your carrier, and if needed, you can conveniently purchase a SIM card at the Paris airport upon arrival. Stay vigilant about your phone's security and regularly back up your data to ensure a worry-free trip.
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International phone plans for Paris
If you're looking for international phone plans for Paris, there are several options available. Firstly, you can check with your current wireless carrier to see if they offer an international plan. This may be the simplest way to stay connected, but it might not be the most affordable, depending on the length of your trip. For example, AT&T offers an International Day Pass for $10 a day, and Verizon offers a TravelPass with unlimited talk, text, and data in over 210 countries for a daily fee of $6 in Canada and Mexico and $10 in other countries. T-Mobile also offers an international roaming service with no setup required, but it may not be suitable for extended international use.
Another option is to purchase a local prepaid SIM card when you arrive in Paris. You can buy SIM cards at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) from providers such as Orange and Bouygues Telecom. The Orange SIM card costs around €35 and includes calls, texts, and 15GB of data for 14 or 21 days. The Bouygues Telecom SIM card costs €39.90 and offers 30GB of data and is valid for 30 days. You can also find cheaper prepaid SIM cards online, such as those offered by Lebara Mobile, which uses Orange coverage.
Alternatively, you can consider an eSIM, which is a digital SIM that can be downloaded and activated wirelessly. eSIMs are available from various providers, including Bouygues Telecom, and can be purchased online or at the airport. They offer convenience, flexibility, and dual SIM capability. Prices for eSIMs start at $4.50, making them a cost-effective option for staying connected while travelling.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can buy phones at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). Relay.com, for example, sells phones that can be used with French SIM cards.
There are two primary providers offering SIM cards at Paris Airport: Orange and Bouygues Telecom. Both cost €39.90 EUR ($40 USD), but Bouygues Telecom offers 30 GB of data and is valid for 30 days, while Orange only offers 20 GB and is valid for 14 days.
Buying a SIM card at the airport is a quick and easy way to get connected as soon as you arrive in France. Airport staff often speak several languages, which is helpful for international travellers.
The selection of plans and providers at the airport is limited and might not meet your requirements. SIM cards at the airport also tend to be more expensive than those in phone stores in Paris city centre.
