My Top 5 European Cities for Digital Nomads

When looking for a place to stay for an extended time as a digital nomad, Europe isn’t usually the first region on my list. Like most, I'd typically lean towards Southeast Asia, which is exactly where I'm heading next. This isn’t to say SE Asia ticks every box, but it does hit some key ones that can be a bit tougher to find in Europe. Let’s dive into what I find most important in a nomad destination and share a few of my European favorites – three you might know and two that might be new to you.

Over the past two years as a digital nomad, I’ve come to value certain things highly:

Cost: The beauty of being a digital nomad lies in the cost arbitrage. Earning in a more expensive economy while spending in a cheaper one leads to a relaxed, higher quality of life and better savings!

Beauty: Sure, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but some places just have an edge. For me, it's about breathtaking architecture and natural integration, whether through greenery, parks, or coastlines.

Walkability: This ties in with beauty, but it's really about the ease and pleasure of getting around. Avoiding traffic is a plus, especially in foreign lands. It’s what separates a city that invites exploration from one where a gym trip becomes a daunting hour and a half journey (a true story from Cairo).

Infrastructure: As a digital nomad, dependable internet is crucial. But it’s more than that – easy access to coworking spaces, cafes, transportation, and food delivery can make a world of difference.

Friendliness: While there are nice people everywhere, some places just naturally feel more welcoming and accepting towards foreigners.

Safety: Essential for enjoying your stay. Sometimes, the real sense of safety is found not through the news but by being there – like how I felt safer in Guatemala than in some parts of Paris.

Now, for my favorite European spots that meet these criteria:

1. Lisbon, Portugal

2. Budapest, Hungary

3. Prague, Czechia

4. Tirana, Albania

5. Belgrade, Serbia

These cities are all beautiful, friendly, affordable, walkable, safe, and comfortable for work. As a digital nomad or a traveler, I’m sure you’d have an incredible time in each. Lisbon is at the top of my list, but it’s worth noting that its growing popularity among digital nomads might have begun to impact cost and friendliness – though I didn’t find this to be the case two years ago. Budapest and Prague are simply gorgeous and easy to navigate. Tirana and Belgrade were new to me, but they checked all the boxes just like the others – really social, friendly, and beautiful places.

Would love to hear your thoughts and any places you’d add to this list.

Till next time,

✌️