This article will explore the best mobile providers in Croatia, compare their services, and help you decide which one is best suited to your needs.
Top 4 best mobile providers in Croatia
Croatia has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, and most providers offer extensive coverage, fast data speeds, and also competitive pricing. As of 2024, the primary mobile network operators in Croatia include:
- Hrvatski Telekom (T-Mobile)
- A1 Croatia
- Tele2 (now known as Telemach)
- Bonbon
Each provider offers a range of prepaid and postpaid plans. Additional services such as international roaming, mobile data packages, and family plans are also available.
2. Hrvatski Telekom (T-Mobile)
Hrvatski Telekom is the largest and most established mobile provider in Croatia. You can say Hrvatski Telekom is “the number one network.’ It is a part of the Deutsche Telekom Group and has a reliable reputation.
Network Coverage and Speed: Hrvatski Telekom has the most extensive network coverage across Croatia, ensuring reliable signal strength even in remote and rural areas.
For everyone who requires high-speed data for remote work, streaming or even gaming, Hrvatski Telekom also offers nationwide 5G coverage.
Plans and Pricing: Hrvatski Telekom offers a wide range of prepaid and postpaid plans, with options tailored to different usage needs.
- Prepaid Plans: These are ideal for short-term visitors or those who prefer not to commit to a contract. A prepaid plan of 120 GB data for 90 days costs €20.
- Contract: Contract plans offer better value for long-term users, especially for those who need more data or international calling options. For €20 monthly, you can get 20 GB of data (5G) and 5000 minutes + texts.
Additional Services: Hrvatski Telekom offers additional services, including international roaming packages, family plans, and discounts for bundling mobile services with other Telekom services like internet or TV.
Why Choose Hrvatski Telekom?
- “Number one network in Croatia”
- Best network coverage across Croatia
- Fast and reliable 5G services
- A comprehensive range of plans and packages
3. A1 Croatia
A1 Croatia is the second-largest mobile network operator in the country, known for its competitive pricing and robust network. Formerly known as Vipnet, A1 rebranded in 2018 and has since become a popular choice among locals and expatriates alike.
Network Coverage and Speed: A1 Croatia offers extensive network coverage, particularly strong in urban areas and along the coast, where many expats and tourists reside. The company has also rolled out 5G services, which are available in major cities such as Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. A1’s network is known for its reliability and fast data speeds, making it suitable for both personal and business use.
Plans and Pricing: A1 offers a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans to suit different needs.
- Prepaid Plans: This is a great option for travellers or those who want a no-commitment plan . The A1 prepaid plan costs between €7.90 and €19.90 and offers 8GB of data and 36 GB, 2500-3000 minutes, and texts.
- Contract: Contract plans with A1 provide more comprehensive data packages and additional services like unlimited calls and texts. Monthly fees range from €15 to €45, depending on the plan. A1 often runs promotions where you can get extra data or discounts if you sign up for longer contracts.
Additional Services: A1 offers attractive bundles, combining mobile services with broadband and television, often at discounted rates. They also provide a range of roaming packages that are particularly useful for those travelling within the European Union.
Why Choose A1 Croatia?
- Competitive pricing with a good balance of value and service
- Strong network performance, especially in urban and coastal areas
- Attractive bundling options with other digital services
4. Telemach (Formerly Tele2)
Telemach, previously known as Tele2, has positioned itself as a value-driven mobile provider in Croatia. It’s known for offering some of the most affordable plans on the market, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious users.
Network Coverage and Speed: Telemach’s network coverage is slightly less extensive than that of Hrvatski Telekom and A1, particularly in rural areas. However, it still provides good coverage in most urban areas and along the coast. Telemach has been expanding its 4G and 5G services to improve network performance in major cities.
Plans and Pricing: Telemach is particularly appealing to those looking for low-cost mobile plans that do not compromise service quality.
- Prepaid Plans: Starting at around €6, Telemach’s prepaid plans are among the cheapest in Croatia. Depending on the plan, they include 8-50 GB of data and 1000 minutes+ texts.
- Contract: Telemach’s contract plans are highly competitive, with monthly fees ranging from €10 to €30. These plans often include unlimited data, which is a significant advantage for heavy data users. Telemach is also known for its no-frills approach, making it straightforward and easy to manage.
Additional Services: Telemach offers some unique features, such as the option to roll over unused data to the next month, which can be a significant benefit for those whose data usage varies month to month. They also provide budget-friendly international calling and roaming packages.
Why Choose Telemach?
- Extremely competitive pricing, ideal for budget-conscious users
- Simple, straightforward plans with no hidden fees
- Innovative features like data rollover
5. Bonbon
Bonbon is a smaller mobile provider in Croatia, operating as a subsidiary of Hrvatski Telekom. It is particularly popular among younger users and those looking for flexible, customisable plans.
Network Coverage and Speed: As a subsidiary of Hrvatski Telekom, Bonbon users benefit from the same extensive network coverage and high-speed data services. This includes access to 4G and 5G networks across Croatia, ensuring reliable service wherever you are.
Plans and Pricing: Bonbon’s key selling point is its flexibility. Users can customise their plans by choosing the exact amount of data, minutes, and texts they need.
- Custom Plans: Prices vary depending on the customisation, but you can create a plan for as little as €5. This makes Bonbon a great option for users who want to control their spending and only pay for what they need.
- Prepaid and Contract Options: Bonbon offers prepaid and postpaid options, with no long-term contracts required, allowing users to switch plans or adjust their usage as needed.
Additional Services: Bonbon also offers data-only plans, which are perfect for those who primarily use their phones for internet access. They frequently run promotions and offer bonuses like additional data or credit for long-term users.
Why Choose Bonbon?
- Customisable plans that allow you to pay only for what you need
- Great network coverage and fast speeds, thanks to Hrvatski Telekom’s infrastructure
- Flexible, no-contract options
E-SIM options
What is eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built into a device that allows you to activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card. It can be activated and configured via software, simplifying the process of switching carriers or managing multiple plans.
eSIMs are particularly useful for international travel, offering a convenient way to access local networks without swapping physical SIM cards.
Three popular eSIM providers available in Croatia:
Summary – Best Mobile Providers in Croatia
Choosing the right mobile provider in Croatia depends on your specific needs, whether it’s extensive coverage, fast data speeds, or affordable pricing.
- Hrvatski Telekom is ideal for those who prioritise coverage and reliability, especially if you plan to travel extensively throughout the country.
- A1 Croatia offers a good balance between cost and performance, with strong coverage in urban and coastal areas.
- Telemach is perfect for budget-conscious users who want affordable plans without sacrificing too much in terms of service quality.
- Bonbon caters to those who value flexibility and customisation in their mobile plans.
By carefully considering what you need from a mobile provider, you can ensure that you stay connected while enjoying all that Croatia has to offer.
