The best European cities for digital nomads

There are a few key factors that make a place attractive to digital nomads and remote workers:

• Access to high-speed internet: Remote workers rely heavily on a stable and fast internet connection to work effectively. A city or accommodations with good connectivity is crucial for them to be able to work productively.
• Affordable cost of living: One of the biggest advantages of remote work is the ability to work from anywhere, but this also means that digital nomads and remote workers need to be mindful of their budget. Cities with affordable housing, food, and transportation can make a huge difference in a remote worker's bottom line.
• Coworking spaces and community: Working remotely can be lonely, so having access to coworking spaces, coworking cafés and a community of like-minded professionals can help remote workers stay motivated and engaged. Cities with a thriving coworking scene can make it easier for digital nomads to network and connect with other professionals.
• Quality of life: Europe is known for its high quality of life, with beautiful architecture, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. A city that offers a good work-life balance can be a major draw for digital nomads.

Overall, European cities that offer a combination of these factors can be incredibly attractive to digital nomads and remote workers looking for a place to call home.

Finding good and affordable accommodation can be a challenge for remote workers, especially in major European cities. However, there are several options that can help digital nomads stay on budget while still enjoying a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Here are some suggestions:

Shared apartments: Renting a room in a shared apartment can be a cost-effective option, especially in cities like Berlin or Lisbon where the cost of living is relatively low. Websites like Wunderflats or HousingAnywhere can be useful to find these types of accommodations.

Co-living spaces: Co-living spaces are a great way to combine affordable accommodation with a sense of community. These spaces are designed for remote workers and offer a range of amenities such as coworking spaces, events, and networking opportunities. Some popular co-living spaces include Roam and Outsite.

Hostels: Hostels can be a great option for digital nomads on a tight budget. Many hostels now offer private rooms and a range of amenities, such as high-speed internet, shared workspaces, and social events. Websites like Hostelworld can be useful to find these types of accommodations.

Airbnb: Airbnb can be a good option for short-term stays or for digital nomads who want more privacy. It can also be cheaper than hotels, especially if you're willing to stay outside of the city center.

Overall, finding affordable accommodation in European cities requires some research and planning, but there are many options available for remote workers that offer a good balance of affordability, comfort, and convenience. I recommend booking.com and Airbnb for finding a suitable accommodation. 

In August 2021, I embarked on a 10-day remote work trip to Barcelona, Spain. As a remote worker, I was excited to explore one of Europe's most vibrant cities while also maintaining my work responsibilities. During my trip, I discovered some of the best coworking cafes, and outdoor spaces to work from. I also immersed myself in the city's rich culture, indulging in its delicious food, exploring its world-famous architecture, and soaking up the sun on its beautiful beaches.Whether you're a freelancer, a remote worker, or a digital nomad, Barcelona is a must-visit destination that offers an excellent balance of work and play.

What’s great about Barcelona for digital nomads?

Barcelona is a popular destination for digital nomads, and for good reason. Besides the thriving coworking scene and affordable cost of living, the city has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant lifestyle. Barcelona offers plenty of opportunities to explore, from its stunning architecture and museums to its lively music and nightlife scenes. The city is located on the coast and is known for its beautiful beaches and warm weather. This makes it a great destination for digital nomads who want to enjoy the outdoors during their free time. 

Barcelona has a good infrastructure, including a reliable public transportation system and widespread access to high-speed internet. This makes it easy for remote workers to get around the city and work from anywhere. Overall, Barcelona offers an excellent balance of work and play, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads who want to combine their work with a rich cultural experience and an active lifestyle.

Where to stay in Barcelona as a remote worker? 

During my stay in Barcelona, I booked a 6-bed female-only dorm at the Airbnb Newly Refurbished Coliving. I was pleasantly surprised by the modern and stylish design of the apartment, which had recently been renovated. The shared kitchen was fully equipped with everything I needed to prepare my own meals, and the shared bathrooms were clean and well-maintained.

The highlight of the coliving space was the shared living area, which had several comfortable coworking spots. It was great to be able to work alongside other remote workers and digital nomads in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The location of the coliving space was also excellent, with easy access to public transportation and plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby.

As a female traveler, I appreciated the added security and privacy of the female-only dorm. It was a great option for me, as I was able to meet other like-minded female travelers while also feeling safe and comfortable. Overall, my stay at the Airbnb Newly Refurbished Coliving was a positive experience, and I would recommend it to other remote workers and digital nomads looking for an affordable and well-located accommodation option in Barcelona.

5 best co-working places and cafés in Barcelona

Barcelona has a great selection of coworking cafes to choose from, each with its own unique vibe and offerings. Whether you're looking for a trendy spot to meet other remote workers or a quiet place to focus and get things done, you're sure to find a great option on this list. These are some of the best remote working cafés in Barcelona:

1. Baldomero: A stylish and modern cafe with a great selection of food and coffee. They also have plenty of tables and power outlets, making it a great place to work.
2. Böl: A cozy and modern cafe located in the Gracia neighborhood of Barcelona. The space has a minimalist and Scandinavian-inspired design, with a mix of wooden and metal furnishings, potted plants, and plenty of natural light.
3. Three marks coffee: A small and charming specialty coffee shop located in the Sant Antoni neighborhood of Barcelona. The space has a simple and rustic design, with exposed brick walls, wooden furniture, and a few plants dotted throughout the space.
4. Granja Petitbo: A charming cafe located in the heart of the trendy Sant Antoni neighborhood in Barcelona. The cafe has a rustic and cozy atmosphere with wooden floors, high ceilings, and vintage decor.
5. Bohl: A trendy and modern cafe located in the heart of the Eixample neighborhood in Barcelona. The space has a contemporary and minimalist design, with high ceilings, white walls, and a mix of wooden and metal furnishings.

In April 2022, I traveled to Porto in Portugal for 10 days to work remotely. I was eager to experience the city's vibrant culture, taste its delicious food and wine, and explore its stunning architecture while continuing to work remotely. I was excited to discover some of Porto's best coworking spaces, cafes, and accommodations that would allow me to balance work and leisure seamlessly. Follow me as I share my top experiences and recommendations for remote workers and digital nomads in Porto.

What’s great about Porto for digital nomads?

Porto is an excellent destination for digital nomads due to its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The city offers a high quality of life with affordable living costs, making it an attractive location for remote workers looking for a balance between work and leisure. The city boasts a vibrant cafe culture, with numerous coworking spaces and cafes that offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating. The city's rich history and stunning architecture provide ample opportunities to explore and unwind after work hours, from wandering through the narrow alleys of the old town to enjoying a glass of port wine while overlooking the picturesque Douro River. With its friendly locals, fantastic cuisine, and stunning scenery, Porto is undoubtedly one of the top destinations in Europe for digital nomads.

Where to stay in Porto as a remote worker? 

During my remote work trip to Porto, I stayed at the Gallery Hostel in a 6-bed female dorm. The hostel is situated in a prime location, close to the city's main attractions and transport links, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. I was impressed by the hostel's modern and stylish design, which features unique artwork and contemporary furnishings. The shared kitchen and living areas were spacious and well-equipped, providing a comfortable and functional space for cooking and socializing with other travelers. 

The hostel also had plenty of dedicated working spaces with reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, which made it easy for me to stay productive while on the go. However, my favorite part of the hostel was the rooftop terrace, which provided a peaceful oasis for relaxation after a long day of work. The staff was super friendly and the rooms were cleaned every day and the beds were always made. Overall, I would highly recommend Gallery Hostel to anyone looking for a comfortable and well-located accommodation option in Porto.

Best co-working places and cafés in Porto

During my remote work trip to Porto, I discovered some fantastic cafes that were perfect for getting work done while enjoying some delicious food and drink. Here are my top five favorites:

1. Early: This cozy cafe in the heart of Porto is the perfect spot for remote workers looking for a quiet and peaceful environment. The minimalist decor, combined with a great selection of coffee and snacks, makes it a popular spot for digital nomads.
2. Nicolau: Located in the trendy Cedofeita neighborhood, Nicolau is a popular brunch spot that also doubles as a great remote work location. The cafe's bright and colorful interior, combined with a relaxed atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for productivity and creativity.
3. Garden Porto: This charming garden cafe located in the center of Porto is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With plenty of seating options, Garden Porto is an excellent spot for remote workers looking for a change of scenery.
4. Fabric: Fabric is a unique concept store that combines a cafe, coworking space, and retail shop in one. The cafe offers fast and reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and delicious food and drinks, making it an excellent choice for remote workers who want to be productive while also exploring the local design scene.
5. Lazy Breakfast Club: A trendy cafe located in the heart of Porto's art district. The cafe offers a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for getting work done while enjoying some of the best breakfast dishes in town. The cafe's ample seating options and fast Wi-Fi make it a popular choice for digital nomads.

Malaga, located in the sunny south of Spain, is an ideal destination for remote workers looking to escape the winter blues. In January 2022, I spent 8 days in Malaga, working remotely while enjoying the city's excellent climate, cultural scene, and beaches. I will share my top tips for remote workers looking to make the most of their time in Malaga, including the best coworking cafés and accommodations.

What’s great about Malaga for digital nomads?

Malaga is a hidden gem for remote workers looking for a destination that combines excellent weather, stunning beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. Malaga boasts of one of the best climates in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine per year. This makes it an ideal location for remote workers who want to combine work with leisure and enjoy the outdoors all year round.

Compared to other major European cities, Malaga offers affordable living costs, including accommodation, food, and transportation. This makes it an excellent choice for remote workers who want to enjoy the perks of living in a big city without breaking the bank. Malaga is a city rich in history and culture, with several museums, art galleries, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. This offers digital nomads an opportunity to explore and learn more about the city's cultural heritage while taking a break from work.

Where to stay in Malaga as a remote worker? 

As a remote worker in Malaga, there are several great accommodation options available. Airbnb rentals are a popular choice, as they offer the privacy and comfort of a home away from home. I also chose to rent an Airbnb during my stay in Malaga, and it provided me with a comfortable and quiet working environment.

However, for those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are several hostels in Malaga that are perfect for remote workers. One such hostel is Picnic Dreams Boutique Hostel, which offers shared and private rooms at affordable rates. The hostel has a modern and chic design, with comfortable common areas for working and relaxing. They also offer free Wi-Fi and a fully equipped kitchen, making it a great option for remote workers who want to save on food costs.

Best co-working places and cafés in Malaga

Malaga is home to several cafes that offer the perfect balance of excellent coffee, comfortable working spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere, making them ideal for remote workers. Here are my top five favorite cafes in Malaga that are perfect for remote working:

1. Polifonia Cafe - This cozy cafe is located close to the University and offers excellent coffee, a friendly atmosphere, and free Wi-Fi. The cafe has a few small tables and chairs, making it a great spot for solo work or for small groups. I loved working outside in the sun on their terrace.
2. Recyclo Bike Cafe - This eco-friendly cafe is a favorite among locals and offers a unique working space with a laid-back vibe. The cafe has several long communal tables and plenty of natural light, making it a great spot for remote workers who need a change of scenery.
3. Brunchit - This popular brunch spot is also a great place to work, thanks to its comfortable seating, reliable Wi-Fi, and extensive menu. The cafe offers plenty of healthy food options and has a warm, inviting atmosphere.
4. La Bella Julieta - This charming cafe is located in the trendy Soho neighborhood and offers excellent coffee, a quiet atmosphere, and free Wi-Fi. The cafe has several small tables and is perfect for solo work or for small groups looking for a quiet place to work.
5. Noviembre - This modern cafe is located in the center of Malaga and offers a trendy working space with plenty of natural light, comfortable seating, and reliable Wi-Fi. The cafe also has a delicious food menu and is perfect for remote workers looking for a productive working environment.