When considering the travel destinations of digital nomads, you may not typically think of the best digital nomad cities in Europe as being popular. Instead, you tend to imagine South America, Southeast Asia, and white sandy beaches.
Although the most popular digital nomad destinations can be found in different parts of the world, Europe also provides a variety of incredible cities that cater to the lifestyle of a traveling remote worker.
In my experience as a digital nomad, I have dedicated a substantial amount of time to residing in Europe, and I can confidently declare that it is one of the most preferable regions for embracing this way of life. The unhurried pace of living (in contrast to the United States), culinary delights, and rich historical background have provided me immense tranquility and the opportunity to encounter remarkable individuals within this geographic area.
With the enhancement of wifi speed and the implementation of digital nomad visas in specific countries, Europe is witnessing a fast-paced transformation towards being more accommodating to digital nomads.
I will provide you with the top European countries for digital nomads, which you can consider including in your travel plans.
What to Look for in a Digital Nomad City
If you are new to the digital nomad lifestyle or are in the process of learning how to become one, you may not know what constitutes a digital nomad-friendly city. While you have the ability to work from any location with an available wifi connection, this doesn’t always match with reality.
Although having a good internet connection is important, there are additional factors that contribute to the comfort of cities for digital nomads. Now, let’s explore the aspects to consider when searching for a suitable digital nomad destination.
Cost of Living
Living a location-independent lifestyle, budgeting is a significant component, and it is also a driving factor behind the popularity of South America and Southeast Asia as digital nomad hotspots. For this reason, many nomads opt to reside in regions where their currency holds more value compared to their home country.
This list includes European cities that have an affordable cost of living, despite being generally considered expensive and over-priced for digital nomads.
Before deciding on your next destination, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the cost of living. It is important to consider expenses like rent, groceries, transportation, and dining out, as these can significantly impact your choice of residing in a specific city.
Weather
Before finalizing your next travel destination, be sure to verify the climatic conditions that prevail during the period you intend to visit. Learn from my experience and avoid the error of opting for a Greek island for a duration of one month in January/February, assuming that the weather would be agreeable and not excessively blustery.
I understand that we all have our own preferences for weather, but I assume that most of you who are reading this post prefer a sunny and mild to warm climate.
During the winter months in Europe, it is possible to find warmer places despite the presence of all four seasons.
Considering the wide range of temperature variations across the continent, there are suitable locations for all preferences. Those who enjoy a snow-filled winter can explore northern cities or mountainous regions. Individuals seeking a warmer environment can opt to stay closer to the Mediterranean Sea.
Transportation
The majority of digital nomads do not use cars for traveling; instead, they depend on public transportation. Thankfully, European cities offer exceptional public transportation choices, including train services for international travel. Additionally, it is worth mentioning the highly economical airlines that enable intercountry journeys for under 20€.
Culture and Atmosphere
If you want a more enjoyable experience at your destination, it is important to have an interest in the local history and culture. Therefore, when you are contemplating potential cities and countries to visit, consider the cultures and traditions that pique your curiosity. Which ones capture your interest and make you want to learn more?
Having some understanding and appreciation of the local customs can contribute to one’s comfort and sense of belonging in a new place. Additionally, this presents a valuable chance to interact with the local community and embrace new practices and beliefs.
Germany
- Why Germany: Social programs for families, access to nature, cities with green spaces and affordable costs of living.
- Cost: 100 euros (around US$107)
If you are self-employed in fields such as education, journalism, art, music, or theater and wish to live in Germany, you may qualify for the freelance artist residence permit. There are alternative visa options available as well. However, it is important to plan ahead as appointments at the immigration office are scheduled months in advance. Additionally, as Germany is known for its bureaucracy, there is a significant amount of paperwork that needs to be assembled.
Having a residence permit allows for frequent travel from a conveniently located European country. Moreover, due to the increasing popularity of night train travel in relation to environmental concerns, there are now alternative options for transportation, besides flying, to reach different destinations. For instance, a recently established route connects Berlin to Brussels, Amsterdam, and Prague.
Portugal
- Why Portugal: Affordable cost of living relative to United States, vibrant city life, sun and sea, laid-back lifestyle.
- Cost: 75 euros (around US$85)
In recent years, Portugal has become a popular destination for digital nomads and freelancers. They are especially drawn to the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto. It’s not hard to see why, as the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Lisbon is only around $970 per month, compared to an average of $3,270 in New York, according to Numbeo’s comparison tool. Additionally, the art scenes, culinary offerings, and sense of community among digital nomads and expatriates make Portugal even more appealing. For surfers who work remotely, the Algarve is a top destination. It is a breathtaking stretch of coastline in the southern part of the country, known for its stunning beaches. Portugal offers a renewable Temporary Stay Visa that covers a wide range of activities, including independent work, music, and amateur sports. This visa is valid for long stays of up to a year and allows for multiple entries and exits from the country. Furthermore, after residing in Portugal for five years, individuals can apply for a permanent residence permit and potentially become naturalized citizens.
Croatia
- Why Croatia: Relatively low costs of living, fantastic beaches, historic cities, excellent food and wine.
- Cost: Prices differ depending on how you apply, but start at around $180.
Since January 2021, Croatia has implemented a digital nomad residency program. This country is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, particularly its Adriatic coastline, making it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and those who love the sea. Additionally, Croatia’s cities, such as Dubrovnik and Split, boast Roman ruins, castles, and medieval streets, which served as iconic filming locations for the popular TV series, Game of Thrones. For those deeply interested in this lifestyle, Zadar is home to Croatia’s inaugural digital nomad community, conveniently located on the beach.
Croatia’s digital nomad visa is open to digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers, enabling them to stay for a maximum of 12 months. However, individuals who are employed cannot be working for a Croatian company.
Iceland
- Why Iceland: Impressive natural landscapes and plentiful outdoor activities, English widely spoken, relative proximity to both the United States and Europe.
- Cost: 12,200 ISK (around US$98)
Iceland offers a stunning natural environment that outdoor enthusiasts will love, and its capital city, Reykjavík, is also very appealing. In 2020, Iceland introduced the Long-Term Visa for non-EU/EEA remote workers, allowing them to stay in the country for a maximum of 180 days. However, it is crucial to note that this visa is exclusively available to permanent remote employees of foreign companies; freelancers are not eligible.
Greece
- Why Greece: Tax break, history; artistic city life; beaches, beaches, and more beaches; at least 6,000 islands (did we mention beaches?).
- Cost: 75 euros for the application (around US$85)
Thanks to Greece’s digital nomad visa, introduced in 2021, living and working in this country is incredibly attractive. This visa allows individuals to work from Greece’s beautiful islands. The visas are initially valid for 12 months and can be extended for an additional two years. They are available to freelancers, self-employed individuals, and remote workers for foreign companies or clients. The best part is that digital nomads can reduce their income tax by 50% for the first seven years. To maintain the visa, you must spend at least six months in Greece, but you have the freedom to travel within the Schengen area for the remaining six months. A useful tip: Crete is actively working on implementing 5G throughout the entire island, making it an even more appealing destination.
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