Purchasing a Cell Phone in Italy?
Nov 19, 2007, 12:14 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: IAD
Programs: Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold
Posts: 105
Purchasing a Cell Phone in Italy?
I have reviewed a number of threads detailing the process for buying an unlocked phone and SIM for use in Europe. I have a question that I have not seen a detailed discussion of in the forum -- Is it possible to simply purchase a phone and SIM once I get to Italy? Is that cost effective? If it is possible, where should I make the purchase?
If it is not possible, can I simply purchase a SIM in Italy (assuming I have an unlocked phone)? If it is possible, where should I make the purchase and which service does anyone recommend?
As additional information, I plan on making calls within Italy and to the United States. Further, I do not need to know the phone number in advance nor do I need a phone that works in the U.S.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
If it is not possible, can I simply purchase a SIM in Italy (assuming I have an unlocked phone)? If it is possible, where should I make the purchase and which service does anyone recommend?
As additional information, I plan on making calls within Italy and to the United States. Further, I do not need to know the phone number in advance nor do I need a phone that works in the U.S.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Nov 19, 2007, 12:43 pm
#2
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: A Southern locale that ain't the South.
Programs: Bah, HUMBUG!
Posts: 8,014
Can't recommend a specific service or purchase point but if I remember correctly Italy does not permit sales of locked phones. So you can buy phone and sim when you get there and the phone will work with any SIM you wish later on. It's often quite a bit cheaper to purchase such items in country vs. before you go.