When visiting Ukraine, having reliable cell phone service and data is important for navigation, planning, and sharing your experiences.
In this guide, we’ll provide key information about Vodafone service for tourists.
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Vodafone Ukraine
- Vodafone Ukraine launched service in Ukraine in 2005 after acquiring MTS Ukraine. They rebranded to the global Vodafone brand in 2011.
- As of 2022, Vodafone Ukraine has over 10 million mobile subscribers, making it the 2nd biggest operator behind Kyivstar.
- Vodafone uses 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE on 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2600 MHz spectrum. Their network reaches over 90% of Ukraine’s populated territory.
- In addition to prepaid and postpaid mobile plans, Vodafone Ukraine also offers home broadband services in many areas.
- Vodafone Ukraine is owned by NEQSOL Holding, which acquired a controlling stake in 2020.
II. Vodafone Ukraine Coverage and Speed in Ukraine
Now let’s take a closer look at the details of Vodafone Ukraine’s network coverage and data speeds across Ukraine.
Vodafone Ukraine coverage in Ukraine
Vodafone provides service in all 24 Oblasts (regions) of Ukraine, as well as the major cities of Kyiv and Odesa. Their cellular network covers over 90% of Ukraine’s populated territory.
Coverage is excellent across most major urban areas and along major roadways. Speeds may be slower in rural areas, though Vodafone aims to continuously expand and optimize their network.
Vodafone has particularly strong coverage around Kyiv, Odesa, Lviv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and other large population centers.
Vodafone Ukraine speed
In terms of data network performance, Vodafone can deliver respectable speeds for both 3G and 4G service.
Vodafone has widely deployed LTE-Advanced technology, with theoretical download speeds of 53.73 Mbps on 4G where supported. Real-world speeds will be lower but can still reach over 10 Mbps in many areas.
Average 3G download speeds on Vodafone tend to be in the 5-14 Mbps range. This is fast enough for general use, though 4G will provide better performance for streaming or large downloads.
Vodafone Ukraine has been making ongoing investments to boost capacity and speeds, especially in areas with high usage. Speeds are continuing to improve as they deploy advanced LTE features and densify the network.
III. Vodafone Ukraine connectivity options for travelers to Ukraine
As a tourist visiting Ukraine, you have several options for connecting to Vodafone’s network:
Connectivity Options
| Option | SIM Card | Pocket WiFi | Roaming from home |
| Pros | Local number | Wifi hotspot for multiple devices | Use home plan abroad |
| Works on any device | Unrestricted data use | No need to buy local SIM | |
| Cheaper long-term costs | |||
| Cons | Requires unlocked device | Restricted data allowance | More expensive than local plan |
| Only cellular data, no Wifi hotspot | Addition rental costs | Speed/ coverage depend on home network | |
| Data Allowance | Varies by plan form 1GB up | Typically 5-10GB/month | Depends on home plan |
| Validity | Until account expires | Rental period (1-30 days) | For duration of trip |
| Cost | As low as $5/month | From $10/day | Calls/ data at home rates abroad |
| Speed | Dependent on local coverage | Up to 150 Mbps | Dependent on home/roaming coverage |
| Device Compatibility | Mobile phone | Any Wifi enabled device | Mobile phone |
So in summary, for cost, speed, connectivity ease and flexibility – a local SIM is the clear top choice when spending more than just a few days in Ukraine.
IV. Best Vodafone Ukraine SIM cards for tourists & cost
Vodafone offers several prepaid SIM card options specifically geared for travelers and temporary visitors. These provide excellent value, easy activation, and flexible data packages.
| SIM Card Plans | Details | Estimated Pricing (USD) |
| Premium SIM | 1-5 GB data, 200 minutes | SIM: $10-15/month: $5-10 |
| Traveler SIM | 8GB data valid 30 days | SIM: $15, 8GB for 30 days: $10-15 |
| Network 30 | Unlimited calls/texts, 10GB data | SIM: $10/month: $20 |
| GB Day Packages | 1-3GB data packs valid 1 day | Top ups: $5-10 |
| Weekend/Night Minutes | Minutes valid weekends/nights only | Top ups: $5-10 |
| Youth Tariff | Unlimited social media, 15GB data | SIM: $10/month: $15 (aged under 26) |
The Traveler SIM, Network 30 and Youth Tariff would be my top most recommended picks for tourists based on value, flexibility and coverage of needs.
Overall, Vodafone presents flexible, economical options for staying connected during your visit. With excellent local service and data speeds, it’s a top choice over roaming or using a SIM from home.
V. Does Vodafone Ukraine support eSIM?
Yes, Vodafone Ukraine launched eSIM support in 2019. Availability of their eSIM plans includes:
- Prepaid eSIM – Pay per use, top up as needed. Flexible data add-ons.
- Travel eSIM – Bundled plan with domestic data, EU roaming, and other features.
- eSIM compatible with latest iPhone, Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models. Requires eSIM profile installation and activation.
The main limitation is that foreigners cannot yet sign up for Vodafone eSIM online. You would need to visit a Vodafone shop in Ukraine to activate eSIM service as a tourist.
However, eSIM does provide a convenient connectivity option for Vodafone Ukraine customers with eSIM devices traveling domestically. And in the future, tourists may have access to online eSIM purchase.
VI. Where to buy a Vodafone Ukraine SIM card and eSIM?
While Vodafone makes it easy for tourists to get connected, you’re probably wondering where to actually purchase your new Vodafone SIM or eSIM.
Here are some options:
Where to buy Vodafone Ukraine SIM for Ukraine
As a traveler to Ukraine, you have a few choices for where to buy your Vodafone SIM card locally:
- Vodafone stores – Available in most cities, shopping centers. Widest selection of plans.
- Vodafone representatives – Local resellers found at airport arrival areas, hotels, etc.
- Other retailers – Some convenience stores, supermarkets, phone shops also sell Vodafone SIMs.
- Online -You can order Vodafone Tourist or Travel SIM for delivery in Ukraine.
The most guaranteed option is visiting an official Vodafone company store. There you can get help choosing the right plan and make sure you get the latest SIM card. Vodafone stores also often have English-speaking staff.
Purchasing from Vodafone reps, retail partners, or online works well too. Just be aware of any delivery delays ordering online as a foreigner.
If arriving at Kyiv Boryspil or another airport, look for Vodafone SIMs in airport shops or through representatives meeting arrivals. This lets you activate service immediately upon landing.
Where to buy Vodafone Ukraine eSIM
As mentioned above, there are limited eSIM purchase options for tourists right now:
- Vodafone stores – You can activate an eSIM plan at a Vodafone shop by showing passport.
- Online (residents only) – eSIM plans can only be ordered on Vodafone’s website by Ukraine residents at this time.
Your best current option is to visit a Vodafone store in Ukraine if you want to use eSIM rather than a physical SIM. An employee can help set up an eSIM plan associated with your passport ID.
VII. How to activate Vodafone Ukraine SIM/eSIM
Activating your Vodafone SIM card or eSIM is quick and easy:
Physical SIM
- Purchase your Vodafone Tourist or Travel SIM. Make sure it includes default data allotment.
- Insert SIM and turn on phone. APN settings may automatically configure.
- If prompted, enter SIM PIN provided on SIM pack.
- Check for data connection and SMS with plan details. You’re ready to use the SIM!
- Top up with more data packages as needed by purchasing add-ons.
eSIM
- Purchase an eSIM plan at a Vodafone shop by showing your passport.
- Download eSIM profile onto your phone using QR code provided.
- Follow activation steps shown in phone eSIM settings to complete setup.
- Check data connection and SMS details to confirm plan is active.
- Manage and recharge your eSIM through Vodafone dashboard or app.
Activating Vodafone service is quick and painless. Within minutes you’ll be set up with fast data across Ukraine! Be sure to turn off roaming on your home SIM while traveling.
VIII. Ukraine Vodafone Call & SMS rates
Vodafone has very reasonable rates for calls and texts to local Ukraine numbers:
Call & SMS Rates
| Call/SMS Type | Rate (UAH) | Rate (USD)* |
| Calls to Vodafone numbers | ₴0.85 per minute | $0.03 per minute |
| Calls to other Ukrainian mobile networks | ₴1.00-₴1.25 per minute | $0.04-0.05 per minute |
| Calls to Ukrainian landlines | ₴1.50-₴2.00 per minute | $0.06-0.08 per minute |
| SMS within Ukraine | ₴0.25-₴0.30 per message | $0.01 per message |
Most Vodafone prepaid plans come with bundles of minutes and texts valid for 7 days. Top-up to renew on expiry.
For international calls, enable Vodafone’s roaming pack for discounted rates worldwide.
IX. Useful USSD Codes for Vodafone Ukraine SIM/eSIM
Vodafone Ukraine SIMs can be managed by dialing these USSD codes:
USSD Codes
| USSD Code | Description |
| *101# | To check the account balance |
| 101444# | Activate a package of services for a month |
| 10110# | To check an additional account |
| 7771# | To check bonuses |
| *365# | Activate Year without fees service |
| 1014# | To check the balance of services (minutes, data) |
| 81124# | Activate Data sharing for day service |
| 8118# | Activate Data sharing for month service |
| 60012# | Block data in roaming |
Save the codes in your phone to easily check balances and buy packs on the go.
X. How to top-up Vodafone Ukraine SIM/eSIM
You can top-up or recharge your Vodafone SIM/eSIM in multiple ways:
- Online via the Vodafone website (https://www.vodafone.ua/en). Select “Top Up” and choose a top-up amount to pay with a bank card.
- Via the Vodafone mobile app. Log in to your account, select “Top Up” and pay via card.
- At an official Vodafone store. Visit any Vodafone shop and pay in cash.
When abroad, you can also recharge from roaming partners in 110+ countries. Auto-recharge ensures your Vodafone SIM never expires.
XI. Alternatives to Ukraine Vodafone
Some alternatives to Vodafone are:
- Kyivstar – Biggest mobile network in Ukraine
- Lifecell – Fastest 4G speeds, owned by Turkcell
- ITrike – Budget 4G SIM with cheap data
- Lebara – International SIM card for Ukraine
Evaluate coverage and speeds before choosing a SIM in Ukraine. For most visitors, Vodafone Ukraine provides the best connectivity and value.
Refer to eSIM, Ukraine eSIM from GIGAGO is one of the best options for tourists travelling to Ukraine as it provides excellent value and convenience. With data packages ranging from 3GB to 10GB that are valid for 7-30 days, tourists have flexibility in the amount of data they need at affordable prices starting from just $11.
Let’s take a look at their best plans:
XII. FAQs
Does Vodafone work in Crimea?
No, Vodafone does not provide coverage in Crimea and Sevastopol region. Only Russian networks work there.
Can I use Vodafone SIM in Europe?
Yes, Vodafone SIM cards allow roaming in 110+ countries. Enable roaming for a daily fee to use it across Europe.
How to refill Vodafone balance from abroad?
You can easily top-up your Vodafone Ukraine number using the Vodafone app/website even when abroad. Auto-recharge also works.
Does Vodafone SIM work in hotspot/router?
Yes, Vodafone data-only SIMs will work fine in a hotspot or router device. Tourist SIM cards may have hotspot blocked.
XIII. Final Words
Vodafone Ukraine provides an excellent connectivity option for travelers in Ukraine thanks to their strong nationwide 4G LTE coverage, affordable tourist plans, and easy activation.
With amazing sites to see and experiences to be had, Ukraine is an incredible destination. Having reliable cell service through eSIM providers like Ukraine eSIM allows you to make the most of your visit.
