Guide to buying a phone and connection in Italy (2025) | Current information for Erasmus students

Introduction: One of the first problems with Erasmus – the telephone line

One of the most common problems for students traveling to Italy for their Erasmus studies is finding a telephone line and internet package . Using a Turkish phone line can be expensive and unsuitable for official transactions. This guide explains how to get a telephone line in Italy, which providers are best, prices, and other tips to keep in mind.

Why should you have a local connection in Italy?

• Roaming charges are very high → Using a Turkish connection will put a strain on your budget in the long run.

• Requirement for banking and official transactions → Universities, banks and consulates often require an Italian number.

• Easy communication with friends and hosts → Using a local line makes everyday life easier.

  
  

The most common operators in Italy

The main GSM providers you can choose in Italy are:

1. TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) – The oldest and most widespread operator in the country.

2. Vodafone Italia – Offers a strong infrastructure, especially in large cities.

3. WindTre – Affordable rates for students.

4. Iliad – Popular with its new generation, affordable and transparent tariffs.

5. PosteMobile – the low-cost line of the Italian post office.

   
   

Documents required to obtain a line

The following documents are usually required to obtain a SIM card:

• Passport or identity card if you are an EU citizen

• Codice Fiscale (tax number) – most operators require this

👉 Note: You can get the Codice Fiscale online from Turkey or pick it up at the Agenzia delle Entrate office after your arrival in Italy.

Telephone connection prices in Italy (2025)

Average student packages:

• 5 – 10 € / month → 50 – 100 GB Internet, unlimited calls

• 10 – 15 € / month → 100 – 150 GB Internet, international calls may be included

Example tariffs:

• Iliad: €9.99/month – 100 GB data, unlimited calls and texts

• Vodafone: €12.99/month – 70 GB internet, strong coverage

• TIM: 14.99 € / month – 100 GB Internet, largest coverage

  
  

Where can I buy a SIM card?

• Operator stores: TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre stores are frequently found in city centers.

• Airports: Easy to reach on the first day, but prices are slightly higher.

• Post offices: For the PosteMobile line.

• Apply online: Some providers can deliver the SIM card to your address.

  
  

What you should pay attention to

• Be sure to keep a copy of your passport with you.

• Packages renew automatically and are debited from your bank account or prepaid balance.

• Check the coverage in the city you are in.

• English may not always be spoken in shops, so learning simple Italian phrases will make things easier.

  
  

Advice for Erasmus students

• Short-term stay (1–3 months): Iliad is affordable and convenient.

• Long-term stay (6 months – 1 year): TIM or Vodafone are better in terms of coverage and reliability.

• If you choose the same provider as your friends, you can get additional benefits for internal calls.

  
  

Diploma

Getting a phone line in Italy is easy. However, choosing the right provider depends on your budget and usage habits . The most popular options for Erasmus students are Iliad (cheap and transparent) and TIM/Vodafone (strong coverage). With your documents, you can set up a line in minutes and avoid high roaming charges.