The digital nomad lifestyle has taken off worldwide, especially as remote work became the norm during the pandemic. If you’re searching for the top digital nomad cities in Europe, you’re in the right place.
Several cities across the continent have emerged as hotspots, thanks to digital nomad visas, numerous coworking spaces, events geared towards remote workers, and their overall appeal.
Having lived in various European cities, I, along with our team at Goats On The Road, have compiled a list of the seven best places for digital nomads in Europe. This list isn’t just based on our experiences but also draws on the insights of over 15 nomadic writers who bring a wealth of knowledge from their travels.
We used strict criteria to select these cities. They all offer great internet, a thriving digital nomad community, easy visa programs, good flight connections, pleasant weather, a mix of nature and city amenities, and suitable accommodation options. Affordability wasn’t the main focus, as many digital nomads prefer comfort and amenities over just the cheapest options.
Here are the top seven digital nomad cities in Europe:
Lisbon:
Lisbon regularly ranks among the best digital nomad cities in Europe. This vibrant and culturally rich city offers numerous cafes and coworking spaces, fast internet, and events for remote workers. Though it’s not the cheapest, you can still find decent one-bedroom apartments for under €1,200 per month. The city is well connected, with great restaurants, accessibility to the rest of Europe, and a solid digital nomad visa program.
Bansko:
Nestled in Bulgaria, Bansko is a favorite for digital nomads seeking lower costs without compromising on perks. This town boasts numerous annual events, a high number of coworking spaces, and affordable living, with one-bedroom apartments starting at under €300 per month. Beyond its popular ski slopes, Bansko offers excellent summer hiking and a variety of international and local dining options.
Barcelona:
Barcelona is a city we love returning to. With its mix of trendy neighborhoods, beach fronts, walking areas, and nearby mountains, it offers a fantastic lifestyle. The internet is quick, accommodations are affordable (around €750 per month for a one-bedroom), and the city has a vibrant digital nomad scene with plenty of coworking spaces and events.
Budapest:
Budapest is another top digital nomad destination. It offers fast WiFi, excellent dining options, affordable living, and a lively expat community. One-bedroom apartments are available from around €400 per month, and the city is well connected for travel. Budapest’s parks, thermal baths, and the picturesque Danube River enhance its appeal, making it a great value-for-money city for digital nomads.
Tbilisi:
Tbilisi in Georgia has become a magnet for digital nomads, thanks to its lenient visa policies, favorable tax system, and affordable cost of living. A one-bedroom apartment outside the old town can be as cheap as $250 per month. The city also boasts a rich culture, fascinating history, and welcoming community, alongside a growing digital nomad network.
Split:
Split in Croatia is an underrated gem for digital nomads. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites like Diocletian’s Palace, and ample dining and wine options, Split offers an ideal lifestyle. Although the internet speeds are lower, accommodations are still affordable. Croatia’s recent addition to the Schengen Zone and a good digital nomad visa program make it an attractive option.
Saranda:
Saranda in Albania has quickly risen as a digital nomad destination. Americans can stay for a year visa-free, the internet is decent, and living costs are low, with one-bedroom apartments starting at €400 per month. The area offers plenty of beachside cafes, bars, restaurants, and coworking spaces, along with excellent food and numerous activities around Albania.
Different digital nomads have varied needs, so it’s essential to choose a city that fits your specific preferences, whether that’s affordability, beach access, nature, a lively expat community, or great amenities. Europe offers a plethora of excellent cities for digital nomads, providing safety, comfort, and connectivity to support a remote working lifestyle.