Tele2 Russia SIM Card and eSIM for tourists – All you need to know

While MTS and Beeline are the most popular choice for tourists who want to get a local SIM card when traveling Russia, Tele2 SIM cards are another option worth considering. As Russia’s fourth-largest mobile operator, Tele2 offers competitive prices and reliable coverage in major cities and tourist destinations, though their network might be limited in remote areas. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting a Tele2 Russia SIM card in Russia.

I. Quick Facts about Tele2 Russia

Here are some quick facts about Tele2 Russia:

• Established: 2003.
• Branding name: Tele2.
• Services provided: Tele2 provides mobile voice and data services, fixed broadband, IPTV and other telecom services.
• Number of subscribers: Over 20 million mobile subscribers (2022).
• Number of stores: Over 3,000 stores across Russia.
• Customer service: Customers can access 24/7 support via call centers, live chat, social media and company-owned stores.
• Awards: Tele2 Russia has won several awards for best mobile network, customer service and sales & marketing initiatives in Russia. It was recognized as the ‘Most Reliable Mobile Operator’ in Russia in 2020-21 by Ookla Speedtest.

II. Tele2 Coverage and Speed in Russia

Tele2 coverage in Russia

Tele2 operates a comprehensive 4G/LTE network that covers approximately 60% of Russia’s populated areas, with particularly strong coverage in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other major cities. While their coverage map extends across most urban and suburban regions, the network may be less reliable in remote or rural locations compared to larger operators like MTS or Beeline.

For most tourists staying in popular destinations and major cities, either network will suffice, with Tele2 often being the more budget-friendly choice despite its somewhat limited coverage area.

Tele2 speed

Tele2’s average download speed of 13.8 Mbps, while not the fastest among Russian carriers, is generally sufficient for most daily activities. This speed allows users to comfortably browse websites, use social media, send instant messages, make video calls, and stream standard-definition videos without significant issues. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, average 4G speeds on Tele2 are around 20-40 Mbps.

Tele2 generally has fast enough for these everyday needs. But speeds may not be suitable for data heavy usage like streaming ultra HD content or gaming.

III. Tele2 Russia Connectivity Options for Travelers to Russia

Tourists have several connectivity options to stay connected, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The main choices include using pocket WiFi devices, relying on international roaming from their home carrier, or purchasing a local Tele2 SIM card.

Option	Pros	Cons
Tele2 SIM Card	Inexpensive rates for calls/data	Requires local phone number
	Easy to purchase in Russia	Coverage depends on travel locations
	Can access 4G coverage
Pocket WiFi	Shares internet between devices	More expensive than SIM
	No need for local SIM	Speed limited by cellular network
	Coverage via own network
International Roaming	Use home phone number abroad	Very expensive data and call rates abroad
	No need to swap SIMs	Coverage may be worse than local networks
	Familiar network coverage

So in summary, Tele2 SIM cards deliver excellent coverage at very affordable local rates while being the easiest and most flexible option for travelers in Russia.

IV. Best Tele2 Russia SIM Card Plans for Tourists

Tele2 Russia has some great options when it comes to tourist SIM cards. Here are some of the best picks:

Plan Name	Data	Minutes	Price (RUB)
Black	60 GB + 60 GB (3rd month)	1200	600
Everywhere Online	50 GB + 50 GB (3rd month)	100	300
My Online+	Unlimited	800	600
My Online	35 GB + 35 GB (3rd month)	400	500
My Conversation	6 GB + 4 GB (3rd month)	200	400
My Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	700

Tele2 offers competitive tourist SIM plans ranging from 300 to 700 RUB monthly, with data packages from 6GB to unlimited. While they provide good value, especially with their double data bonus in the third month, Tele2’s coverage is more limited compared to Beeline and MTS, particularly outside major cities.

V. Does Tele2 Russia Support eSIM?

Yes, Tele2 Russia now supports eSIM for their mobile services. Tele2 launched eSIM support in early 2022 for both consumer and corporate customers. eSIM profiles can be generated and activated remotely through the Tele2 online account service. No need to visit stores.

Here are some of the key benefits of eSIM for Tele2 customers in Russia:

• Convenience of remote activation
• Flexibility of multiple profiles
• Dual SIM compatibility
• Compatibility with future devices

In summary, eSIM provides Tele2 customers greater convenience, flexibility and continuity of service compared to physical SIM cards, especially in today’s digital global environment.

VI. Where can you buy a Tele2 Russia SIM card and eSIM?

1. Where to buy Tele2 Russia SIM for Russia

• Tele2 stores: There are many official Tele2 retail stores in cities and airports where you can purchase new SIM card or top-up.
• Airport kiosks on arrival: Many Russian airports have Tele2 kiosks after arrivals where SIM cards can be bought.
• Convenience stores: Many small stores, supermarkets, kiosks etc also sell Tele2 prepaid SIMs in Russia.

So in summary, Tele2 physical SIM cards are easily available at stores, airports, hotels in Russia.

2. Where to buy Tele2 Russia eSIM

For more convenience, purchasing Tele2 eSIM profiles directly from their website or app provides remote activation options.

• Online via Tele2 Russia website: Go to tele2.ru, log in or create an account, select an eSIM data or calling plan, and activate it remotely. Payment by credit/debit card.
• Tele2 app: Download the Tele2 Russia mobile app for iOS or Android. Browse plans and activate an eSIM profile directly within the app.

VII. How to Activate Tele2 Russia SIM card/eSIM

As eSIM is not an option, you can only activate the physical Tele2 Russia SIM card.

How to use Tele2 Russia Russia SIM card

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready.

1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
2. Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
3. Activate the SIM card
4. Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
5. Check your services.

How to activate Tele2 Russia eSIM

1. Install the eSIM
2. Activate the eSIM
3. Set up the eSIM
4. Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.

Please check your detailed instructions below:

• Activate eSIM on iPhone
• Activate eSIM on Samsung
• Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

X. Alternatives to Tele2 Russia SIM card

Looking beyond Tele2 Russia, both Beeline and MTS are top-tier network providers offering exceptional coverage across Russia’s vast territory. These carriers deliver reliable 4G LTE connectivity throughout major cities, tourist destinations, and rural areas.

For a smooth and flexible travel experience, try an eSIM from russiaesim.com. With reliable data coverage on MTS and Beeline networks, this digital SIM keeps you connected across Russia—no physical card needed. Setup is instant, so you’re online as soon as you land.

XI. FAQs about Tele2 Russia in Russia

XII. Final words

Tele2 Russia provides excellent connectivity options for tourists visiting Russia at affordable rates. The network has wide 4G coverage, fast speeds and low-cost prepaid packs. But consider eSIM from Russia eSIM for the best experience in Russia. Have a great trips!