Verizon phone options when traveling from US to Europe?

So my ED is coming up in like 3 weeks. I have a Verizon iPhone 5S. For anyone else that's done ED with a Verizon phone, what did you do to be able to get data, text, and calling capabilities over there?

Based on my research, I think it boils down to 2 options:

• Buy a short-term international plan from Verizon directly, which gives you the data, texting, and calling limits for something like $40
• Buy a pre-paid SIM card in Germany once I get there, which also gives you the data, texting, and calling limits. Unsure yet on price

I'm pretty sure all of Verizon's "world phones", which includes my 5S, are unlocked. Meaning popping in a new SIM card should just work.

Anybody have insight on their experience? Better to go through Verizon, or just do the SIM card route? I'm leaning toward SIM card because I believe Verizon bends you over at every possible opportunity.

Thanks.

Verizon phone options when traveling from US to Europe?