Best European Cities for Digital Nomads

If you are in search of the best digital nomad destinations in Europe, you have arrived at the correct location!

Europe is not solely riding the digital nomad trend, but is actually creating its own unique space. Within every city, whether well-known or lesser-known, digital nomad-friendly areas are being integrated into historic landmarks and contemporary structures.

After residing in different European cities as digital nomads for several months, we came to the realization that each city represented a chapter of an untold story. In light of this, our purpose became evident: exclusively revealing the finest spots in Europe and sharing them with you.

We are trying to create a comprehensive guide to help people experience the best places in Europe. These places have a special combination of inspiration, affordability, and spaces suitable for digital nomads.

What Makes Europe Ideal for Digital Nomads?

There is no need to mention that Europe has already become a popular choice among digital nomads, as its status as a leading destination has been firmly established.

Not only does the continent provide a wide range of cultures, lively cities, and a harmonious mixture of historical and modern beauty, but it is also a center that offers numerous opportunities and conveniences for remote workers.

The excellent Wi-Fi connectivity and limited internal borders in numerous European cities are advantageous for European Union citizens who desire to work while exploring different countries within the EU.

Despite not being as expensive as popular destinations in Southeast Asia or South America, certain European destinations still offer an affordable cost of living. This allows digital nomads to maintain a reasonable budget of less than $2,000 per month in some cases.

Furthermore, there has been an increase in visa programs catering to nomads on the continent, guaranteeing that individuals working remotely can fully engage with a particular location for a prolonged duration and genuinely embrace the lifestyle and culture it has to provide.

Now, without delay, let’s dive right into our top choices for the best cities in Europe for the digital nomad community.

Lisbon, Portugal

To begin with, let’s consider a popular option for digital nomads. Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, has always been well-liked by those who work remotely. It stands out for having the most affordable living expenses in all of Europe, a fact that may come as a surprise given its location in Western Europe.

In the vicinity of Lisbon, there are numerous co-working spaces available for digital nomads to join and interact with individuals who share similar interests. Moreover, if you prefer not to enter into formal rental agreements, but desire a more reliable option than making hostel reservations, co-living spaces are also beginning to emerge.

Lisbon is undeniably a city that holds the title of a foodie capital. Whether you are a fan of delightful wines and cheeses or the abundant supply of fresh seafood brought by local fishermen daily, if you have a passion for food, Lisbon is the place to be.

Budapest, Hungary

What reasons make the capital of Hungary attractive are the fact that it has a rich history, it is affordable, it is well connected to various destinations in Europe, and there are numerous outdoor spas to indulge in. There is nothing to dislike about this place, as it offers so much.

Because Hungary does not use the Euro, Budapest is significantly affordable, particularly for expenses such as food, drinks, and rent. Comparatively, the city’s affordability is even greater in comparison to many European destinations as well as the United States. This makes Budapest highly appealing for digital nomads who prioritize using their funds to explore their new surroundings rather than spending it entirely on lodging and basic needs.

Porto, Portugal

In my humble opinion, it is a major oversight to disregard the second city of Portugal, often in favor of Lisbon, the capital, or the coastal atmosphere of Lagos and the Algarve.

Porto appears to be the more mature iteration of numerous cities in Portugal, renowned for its wine, rivers, and architecture.

While Lisbon is characterized by its bright tiles and Moorish architecture, Porto has a more medieval atmosphere and can evoke Renaissance vibes in certain neighborhoods. Being relatively affordable compared to other Western European cities, Porto is an attractive destination for digital nomads looking to settle down, offering a sophisticated environment and a thriving co-working community.

If you prefer a smaller and more walkable city, Porto is a great option compared to Lisbon, which has more hills. Porto also has a cozy atmosphere and offers big city amenities without the hustle and bustle. Additionally, you can enjoy a wide selection of great wine in Porto. Therefore, if you’re looking for a digital nomad hotspot, consider checking out Porto for your next destination.

Split, Croatia

If you are seeking beachy coastal vibes without breaking the bank, consider exploring Split in Croatia. While it attracts tourists during the summer, Split maintains a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the rest of the year.

While there may be fewer co-working spaces and networking events compared to other places on this list, there is an abundance of laptop-friendly cafes available where one can comfortably work for extended periods.

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and are not fond of the hustle and bustle of big cities, Split could be an ideal choice for becoming a digital nomad. Unlike Dubrovnik or Zagreb, Split is more like a large town than a city.

Barcelona, Spain

Please be patient with me for a moment. Barcelona is an expensive city, I acknowledge that fact. However, if you have sufficient income to sustain a living there, it is undoubtedly among the finest European cities for digital nomads.

The strong digital nomad community in Barcelona is evident with its world-class transportation system, numerous co-working spaces, and the option to join dedicated professional clubs for digital nomads.

Despite the delay in Spain’s announcement of their Digital Nomad Visa, it proved to be worthwhile. By allowing individuals to remain as digital nomads for a maximum of five years, they become eligible for a unique non-resident income tax regime, resulting in reduced taxes on their earnings.

Krakow, Poland

Looking for an affordable city with historical charm and vibrant nightlife? Krakow is a top choice among Europeans seeking a budget-friendly weekend escape, particularly favored by Brits due to the abundance of affordable flights available to this destination.

If you desire to become a digital nomad in a city where you can have an incredibly lively social life without having to spend a considerable amount of money, this well-liked Polish city may be ideal for you.

One can conveniently explore Europe from Krakow, particularly by either returning through Germany or heading east towards the Baltic Region. Due to relatively low wages in Krakow, it is advisable to either have pre-arranged clients from overseas or secure a permanent remote working contract with a foreign company.

Las Palmas, Canary Islands, Spain

Are you interested in living on a Spanish island that experiences sunshine nearly all year? Las Palmas, located in Gran Canaria (part of the Canary Islands), has always been beloved by families and tourists.

In terms of cost, it is more affordable compared to Tenerife, Lanzarote, or Fuerteventura, and it also tends to attract fewer tourists. Consequently, it exudes a more relaxed atmosphere. Frankly speaking, the irresistible beaches contribute to its appeal as well.

You have the opportunity to live and work in an island paradise, taking advantage of the generous Spanish digital nomad tax rules, with an average all-inclusive cost of living that amounts to just $1800 per month.

Athens, Greece

Let’s discuss the possibility of becoming a digital nomad in Athens, the birthplace of democracy. Even if you have never visited Athens, you would recognize its reputation for remarkable Ancient Greek artifacts and temples, including the Acropolis.

In Athens, while many people only spend a few days before embarking on island hopping, there is a growing digital nomad community.

The WiFi on the Greek islands is not as good as on the mainland, which is quite easy to understand. Additionally, Athens offers excellent nightlife, impressive co-working spaces, and very affordable accommodation.