Whether you’re spending a week exploring the Mediterranean island of Malta or just passing through for a short stopover, keeping in touch with friends, family and work during your travels is important. However, with international roaming charges potentially adding up, finding an affordable local mobile solution is key.
As one of Malta’s major network providers, Epic offers tourists easy access to fast 4G LTE speeds through prepaid SIM options designed specifically for visitors. Let’s find the best options in this guide.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Epic
Epic is the mobile arm of Malta’s largest telecom company Melita and aptly describes their services – epic network, epic speeds and epic holiday connectivity. Here are some key facts about Epic:
- Founded year: Founded in 1991.
- Full company name: Epic Group Limited, trading as Epic Malta.
- Types of services provided: Epic provides mobile network and telecommunications services including mobile plans, fixed services, eSIM and more.
- Number of subscribers: It does not disclose its exact subscriber numbers but it is one of the largest mobile operators in Malta serving hundreds of thousands of customers.
- Coverage: It provides nationwide 4G LTE mobile coverage across Malta.
- Estimated number of network of stores, agents: It has over 20 retail stores and partners with numerous bill payment and top up agents across Malta.
- Customer support: Customers can call their 24/7 call center for support. Language support is available in Maltese and English. Support hours are available daily from Monday to Sunday.
II. Why Epic When You’re Exploring Malta – Coverage and Speed
When you’re exploring a new place, having a reliable cell network is key. Epic goes above and beyond in ensuring seamless connectivity all over Malta, so you can stay linked up no matter where your adventures lead you.
1. Epic coverage in Malta
Epic Malta has established itself as one of the leading providers of mobile connectivity in the nation, with its high-quality 4G LTE network reaching nearly every corner of Malta. Epic’s 4G network is reported to provide reliable outdoor coverage across over 99% of the population in Malta. This includes major areas like Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, Bugibba and Mellieha.
Epic’s network also supports roaming in over 140 countries worldwide, allowing Maltese travelers to stay connected when overseas. So you stay connected on your Epic SIM while traveling to Italy, Malta, Greece or other European destinations.
2. Epic Speed
Epic Malta has one of the fastest 4G networks in the country, according to recent network speed tests. In their analysis of network performance in Malta during Q4 2023, Ookla recognized Epic’s top speeds with median download speeds of 97.53 Mbps, upload speeds were also excellent, with a median of 20.38 Mbps compared to the country average of 13.73 Mbps. Whether you’re video calling family back home or streaming movies after a tiring day of Malta sightseeing, Epic data speeds won’t disappoint!
III. Epic Connectivity Options for Travelers to Malta
Epic offers various connectivity options for travelers visiting Malta, including SIM cards, pocket WiFi devices, and roaming onto their local network. Let’s look at connectivity options for tourists:
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| SIM Card | – Enables use of local Maltese phone number – Can be less expensive than roaming or pocket WiFi for longer stays | – Requires compatible device with SIM slot – Coverage limited to 4G/3G footprint in Malta |
| Pocket WiFi | – Portable hotspot device works on any device with WiFi – No roaming charges | – Daily/weekly rental fees apply – Limited data allowances can incur extra costs |
| Roam onto Epic network | – Uses existing cellular plan – No extra rental or SIM fees | – Roaming charges from home provider may be high – Coverage depends on provider’s roaming partnerships |
In summary, Epic SIM cards are best for compatible devices staying 1+ weeks, pocket WiFi offers flexibility but incurs rental fees, and roaming home cellular plans avoids local costs but risks high bills from roaming charges. Pick what suits your travel style and duration of stay!
Good to know: For the best value, eSIM from esimmalta.com offers the cost-effective data-only plans for short stay visitors
IV. Best Epic SIM Card Malta for Tourists & Cost
Here are the best Epic tourist SIM cards in Malta providing great value with lots of data and free EU roaming:
| Plan | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Monthly Cost (USD) | Data Allowance in EU/UK | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | €24.99 | $25.57 | 35GB | Unlimited calls and SMS in Malta, EU and UK. Free use in Malta. |
| Standard | €34.99 | $35.80 | 50GB | Unlimited calls and SMS in Malta, EU and UK. Faster 5G speeds. Free use in Malta. |
| Extra | €41.99 | $42.94 | 57GB | Unlimited calls and SMS in Malta, EU and UK. 1GB data in select non-EU countries. Faster 5G speeds. Free use in Malta. |
| Premium | €71.99 | $73.76 | 101GB | Unlimited calls and SMS in Malta, EU and UK. 3GB data in select non-EU countries. Faster 5G speeds. Free use in Malta. |
Whenever you buy a Epic tourist SIM, don’t forget to carry your passport as ID proof. Also check the SIM card validity as soon as you insert and activate it on your phone.
V. Does Epic Support eSIM in Malta?
Absolutely yes! Epic offers eSIMs for both local users and tourists visiting Malta.
With eSIMs steadily gaining global adoption, Epic Malta is staying ahead of the tech curve just like their advanced 4G+ network.
Here are key details about getting and using Epic eSIM in Malta:
- Convenience – eSIMs don’t require inserting a physical card into your device. You can activate an eSIM directly from the Epic Malta app on your smartphone without having to swap SIM cards. This makes it much more convenient for tourists who want connectivity right away.
- Flexibility – With an eSIM, you can easily switch between cellular plans and carriers directly from your device settings. This gives users more flexibility to choose plans based on their current needs. Physical SIMs lock you into one plan/carrier.
- Dual SIM support – Many new smartphones support dual SIM functionality with one eSIM slot. Tourists can keep their primary SIM from home country and activate a local Epic Malta eSIM for connectivity in Malta.
VI. Where Can I Buy Epic SIM Cards and eSIM?
Where to buy Epic SIM card Malta
Here are all the ways to purchase Epic SIM cards and eSIM when visiting Malta:
- Epic Stores: Epic SIM cards and eSIM are sold at all Epic retail outlets in Malta and Gozo. Find their store locator here. Carry your passport for tourist SIM cards. Staff can help set up eSIM via QR code as well.
- Malta International Airport: You’ll find a Epic shop at Malta International Airport Arrivals area to pick up your Epic SIM or eSIM right after exiting customs.
- Authorized Dealers: Apart from Epic stores, many local mobile dealers and convenience stores also retail Epic SIM cards in Malta.
Where to buy Epic eSIM Malta
Here are the main options to purchase an Epic eSIM:
- Epic Malta Website: You can buy an eSIM plan directly from Epic Malta’s website at www.epic.com.mt. Just select the eSIM option and follow the prompts to activate it on your device.
- Visit an Epic Store: You can visit one of Epic’s physical retail stores located around Malta and purchase an eSIM from their staff. Stores are in Sliema, Paceville, Valletta and other areas.
Alternatively, buying an Epic eSIM data package from esimmalta.com is a great choice for tourists visiting Malta who want to save time and have more flexibility. Having a Malta eSIM plan provides more options since you can switch between the Epic and Melita networks with a simple toggle, ensuring good coverage no matter where they are exploring the scenic islands of Malta.
VII. How to Activate Epic SIM Cards & eSIM in Malta?
Activating your new Epic SIM Cards and eSIM is very simple when you arrive in Malta:
1. How to use Epic SIM Card in Malta
- Insert the SIM Card
- Power on Your Device
- Activate the SIM Card
- Configure APN Settings
- Top Up Your Account
- Start Using Digicel Services
2. How to activate Epic eSIM Malta
- Install the eSIM: Connect to any available WiFi netwrok with the eSIM-enabled device on which you want to activate your eSIM profile.
- Activate the eSIM: Scan the unique QR activation code and your eSIM profile will automatically be installed on your device.
- Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.
VIII. Malta Epic Call & SMS Rates
Here are the standard Epic prepaid call and text rates without any active plan:
| Zone | Calls & Video calls (without 1099 prefix) | SMS | Calls (with 1099 prefix) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 2 | $0.31 | $0.24 | $0.31 |
| Zone 3 | $0.36 | $0.24 | $0.36 |
| Zone 4 | $3.03 | $0.24 | $4.64 |
In general, rates are competitive for EU neighbors but become expensive quickly for long-distance international calls from Malta, especially without using the 1099 prefix. The zone structure provides transparency on pricing variations based on destination.
IX. FAQs about Epic in Malta
Do I need to show passport/ID for getting SIM?
Yes, you need to show original passport at store to verify identity for activating any Tourist SIM card or eSIM in Malta.
Can I use Epic SIM in Gozo and Comino?
Yes, Epic network works perfectly in Gozo and Comino with the same coverage and speeds. Even the free EU roaming allowance can be freely used while island hopping!
What’s an Epic PIN and how to get it?
It’s a 4 digit passwordCredential: cred2 that provides secured access for *100# and *101# self-care USSD services.
You get your unique EPIC PIN via SMS when you activate a new SIM card in Malta or buying a tourist eSIM online.
If you lose EPIC PIN, contact customer care to regain access to self-care menu.
X. Final Words
We hope this guide covered everything you need to know about getting and using Epic SIM cards and eSIM for visiting Malta! With their strong reliability, great speeds plus free EU roaming – Epic mobile prepaid connections are your best travel buddy.
Be it a short trip or a month-long remote work-vacation, you’ll stay super connected across Malta with an Epic SIM. Just don’t forget to snap stunning Instagram pics that capture the Mediterranean magic with your phone.
