Getting A1 SIM cards and eSIM when visiting Bulgaria is so important to stay connected, use maps & translation apps, contact local businesses, update friends & family back home, and stay safe in any situation. This complete guide to A1 telecom covers everything tourists need to know about buying and using A1 while exploring this beautiful Eastern European destination in 2023.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about A1
A1 is the largest telecom operator in Bulgaria with the best coverage nationwide. Here are key details about A1 to know:
- Founded in 1994
- Over 26 million users
- A1 offers high-speed 4G/LTE reaching over 250 Mbps across 99.4% of populated areas in Bulgaria
- Fast connectivity for streaming, posting photos, using maps/transit apps, and more
- A1 allows activating prepaid plans on eSIM compatible phones
- Has been actively developing its 5G network, which as of 2022 covers the majority of settlements with a population of 3,000 or more.
So, travelers get excellent coverage, speeds, and value by using A1 while visiting Bulgaria.
II. Why A1 When You’re Exploring Bulgaria-Coverage and Speed
With A1 having over 6000 base stations throughout Bulgaria, their network reaches extensive areas – from small villages to popular tourist destinations to the bustling capital of Sofia. You’ll stay connected with A1 during sightseeing, roadtrips to remote areas, and everywhere in between.
1.A1 Coverage in Bulgaria
- Over 98% of the populated areas in Bulgaria fall under A1 coverage, so you can depend on service in heavily touristed cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna.
- Strong connectivity across the country’s diverse landscapes means your Bulgaria travel photos and videos can reach social media instantly too!
- According to Opensignal’s July 2023 Mobile Network Experience Report, A1 remains at least joint first for every experience award, including coverage.
2. A1 Speeds
According to Opensignal’s July 2023 Mobile Network Experience Report:
- A1 users in Bulgaria enjoy the fastest average download speeds on A1’s network.
- A1 wins the Download Speed Experience award with a score of 82.3Mbps, which is significantly ahead of its competitors Vivacom and Yettel.
- A1 also wins the 5G Download Speed award with a score of 395.3Mbps, leading over Vivacom.
- A1 shares the Upload Speed Experience award with Yettel, with statistically similar scores of 14.8-16Mbps.
III. A1 Connectivity Options for Travelers to Bulgaria
For travelers heading to Bulgaria, A1 makes staying connected simple by offering multiple connectivity options:
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons |
| A1 SIM Card | - Widely available and easy to purchase | - Requires a physical SIM card |
| - Provides reliable mobile network coverage in Bulgaria | - May not be compatible with all devices | |
| - Offers various data plans and packages for travelers | - Need to switch SIM cards, which can be inconvenient and may result in downtime | |
| - Can be used in any unlocked mobile device | - May incur additional charges for international roaming | |
| A1 eSIM | - No need for a physical SIM card | - Limited device compatibility |
| - Easy to activate and manage through supported devices | - Not widely supported by all mobile devices and networks | |
| - Can switch between multiple profiles or providers without changing SIM cards | - Availability may be limited depending on your home country or mobile operator | |
| - Offers flexibility and convenience for travelers | - Requires compatible eSIM-capable device | |
| Public Wi-Fi | - Can be easily accessed in many public areas such as airports and cafes | - Security risks: public Wi-Fi networks may be less secure and prone to hacking attempts |
| - Usually free or available at a low cost | - Limited coverage and availability in some areas | |
| - Suitable for light internet usage and basic tasks | - Slower speeds compared to mobile data | |
| International Roaming | - Seamlessly use your existing mobile number and services | - Higher costs compared to local SIM cards |
| - No need to switch or purchase a new SIM card | - Coverage may vary depending on the roaming agreements between your home operator and A1 | |
| - Convenient for short-term trips or occasional travel |
So whether you need a SIM card, eSIM, or roaming, A1 has reliable connectivity options when exploring Bulgaria.
IV. Best A1 SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost
For tourists visiting Bulgaria, A1’s prepaid SIM packs provide an affordable way to call, text, and use data during your trip. The best value options include:
| Plan | Price (USD) | Data Allowance | Calling Rates (domestic) | Roaming Availability | Validity Period |
| Tourist SIM | $6.21 | 20GB | Under 0.30 BGN/minute | Yes | 30 days |
| $9.32 | 30GB | Under 0.30 BGN/minute | Yes | 60 days | |
| $15.53 | 50GB | Under 0.30 BGN/minute | Yes | 90 days | |
| Prepaid SIM | $3.10 | 7GB | 0.13 BGN/minute | Yes | 30 days |
| $6.21 | 14GB | 0.13 BGN/minute | Yes | 60 days | |
| $12.42 | 28GB | 0.13 BGN/minute | Yes | 120 days | |
| eSIM | $3.10 | 7GB | N/A | Yes | 30 days |
| $6.21 | 14GB | N/A | Yes | 60 days | |
| $12.42 | 28GB | N/A | Yes | 120 days |
V. Does A1 Support eSIM in Bulgaria?
Fortunately for travelers, A1 offers eSIM support in addition to physical SIM cards. With an eSIM you can remotely download a Bulgaria data plan straight to a compatible device vs inserting a nano-SIM.
The A1 eSIM plans in Bulgaria offer identical fantastic coverage and speeds just like their physical SIM cards do within the country. Remember check eSIM compatibility list for your devices before purchasing Bulgaria eSIM.
If you’re thinking about getting an eSIM for A1 in Bulgaria, the eSIM from esimbulgaria.net could be a fantastic option. Plus, esimbulgaria.net provides a range of data plans, allowing you to pick the ideal plan that suits your requirements without worrying about costly roaming fees.
Experience Bulgaria for a whole week with data starting at just $4.84. No more worries about roaming fees when you have 1-20GB using the Bulgaria eSIM 7 Day Plan. Grab it now and stay connected hassle-free throughout your trip!
VI. Where can You Buy an A1 SIM card and eSIM?
When visiting Bulgaria, multiple purchase options exist for getting an A1 SIM card or eSIM:
1.Where to buy A1 SIM Card in Bulgaria?
- A1 Retail Stores: Visit the official A1 retail stores located in major cities and towns across Bulgaria.
- A1 Authorized Retailers: Look for authorized retailers and dealers that sell A1 SIM cards. These can include mobile phone shops, electronics stores, and convenience stores.
- Airports: A1 SIM cards may be available for purchase at international airports in Bulgaria, such as Sofia Airport, Burgas Airport, and Varna Airport.
- Online: A1 SIM cards may be available for purchase on the official A1 website or through authorized online retailers.
When you’re making a purchase in person, you’ll have to show your passport as identification. It’s way easier to get it delivered to your home or hotel in Bulgaria if you order online.
2. Where to Buy A1 eSIM Bulgaria
- Online: You can snag the A1 eSIM for Bulgaria straight from A1’s official site or from other providers such as esimbulgaria.net.
- A1 boutiques: A1 boutiques are your go-to spots for snagging an A1 eSIM Bulgaria if you’re keen on checking out various plans and getting some expert assistance. You can find these boutiques scattered throughout Bulgaria, from bustling urban hubs to popular tourist destinations.
Uncover the joy of seamless travel throughout Bulgaria using a digital eSIM. Say farewell to those pesky roaming fees, just buy online and link up within moments. Embark on your adventures with rapid data starting at only $5. Grab your eSIM today!
VII. How to activate A1 SIM/eSIM in Bulgaria?
Activating a new A1 SIM card or eSIM in Bulgaria will enable making calls, sending SMS, and getting online. Here are the steps for setup:
1. How to use an A1 SIM Card in Bulgaria
- Grab the SIM pack that comes with the scratch card revealing the PIN code.
- Pop the regular SIM card into your phone and power it up!.
- When you plug in the A1 SIM, a setup prompt will pop up and it will automatically detect it.
- Input the PIN when prompted, and you’ll be greeted by the A1 network.
- Fire up your browser and head to the A1 prepaid portal. Once there, pick out your preferred plan and complete the payment using your card.
- You’ll receive a confirmation via text message once it’s activated. Then, you can dive into using mobile data, making calls, and sending texts!
2. How to Activating A1 eSIM
To start using your A1 eSIM data plan:
- Finish online signup and receive QR activation code
- Scan QR code using My A1 app to link plan to device
- Select A1 eSIM cellular plan when prompted
- Connect to A1 mobile data and begin using
Switch between eSIM and regular A1 SIM cards from device settings when needed. So within minutes of SIM setup, you’ll be connected for maps, travel apps, posting updates, and coordinating meetups while exploring Bulgaria!
Read more: How to Install Bulgaria eSIM: Full Guide
VIII. Bulgaria A1 Call & SMS Rates
For travelers who plan to call or message local Bulgaria numbers, A1 offers very affordable rates. Both prepaid SIM packs and standard recharge amounts include competitive calling and SMS pricing.
| Call Type | Rate (USD/min) |
| Calls to other A1 numbers | $0.07 |
| Calls to other domestic networks | $0.08 |
| Calls to landlines | $0.06 |
| SMS Type | |
| Standard SMS to domestic numbers | $0.03 |
| Picture MMS | $0.20 |
IX. Useful USSD code for A1 SIM/eSIM
USSD codes allow checking SIM card balances and info directly from the phone dial pad. Here are handy USSD shortcuts for A1 Bulgaria prepaid service:
- *123# – Remaining data balance
- *100# – Account info and validity
- *222# – Main balance
- *134# – Bonus balance
- *135# – Last 5 transactions
Quickly peek data or minute levels, then top up if running low during your Bulgaria travels. Avoid mid-trip surprises with easy USSD balance snapshots!
X. How to top-up A1 SIM/eSIM
When prepaid credit runs low on your Bulgaria A1 SIM, conveniently recharge both data and general account balances:
- Online Top-up: Visit the official A1 website or use their mobile app. Look for the “Top-up” or “Recharge” section.
- Top-up Vouchers: Purchase a top-up voucher from A1 retail stores, authorized resellers, or convenience stores.
- A1 Self-Service Machines: Locate an A1 self-service machine, typically found in A1 stores or shopping centers.
- A1 Retail Stores: Visit an A1 retail store near you. Inform the staff that you wish to top up your A1 SIM or eSIM.
XI. FAQs about A1 in Bulgaria
Do I need to show ID to buy SIM card?
Yes, A1 shops require seeing valid government photo ID to purchase any SIM pack. Bring your passport when picking up your tourist plan.
Can I use A1 SIM in another Eastern European country?
You can temporarily roam in most neighboring countries, but fees apply outside Bulgaria. Purchase a separate local SIM when visiting non-EU states like Serbia, North Macedonia or Turkey for affordable rates.
How long does A1 prepaid SIM pack last?
A1’s tourist combo SIMs provide 30, 60 or 90 days of validity depending on selected bundle. Regular prepaid SIM packs last 30-120 days based on initial recharge amount chosen.
How do I check A1 SIM number?
Your new Bulgarian phone number will be printed on your SIM card or receipt. You can also dial *100# to pull up account details including assigned number.
XII. Final words
Choosing A1 for connectivity in Bulgaria means fast speeds and wide coverage to share your Eastern Europe adventures smoothly. A1 SIM cards and eSIM options cater to every traveler whether you’ll be road tripping remote terrain or mingling in busy Sofia.
