The 11 Best European Cities for Digital Nomads in 2025

The best European cities for digital nomads in 2025 offer more than just great Wi-Fi and affordable coffee shops. Across Europe, remote workers are finding destinations that offer a variety of benefits including low cost of living, fast internet, flourishing coworking spaces, and welcoming immigrant communities.

From well-established hubs like Lisbon and Barcelona to emerging hotspots such as Bansko in Bulgaria and Tirana in Albania, Europe has become the go-to region for those who want to combine staying productive with enjoying new cultures and vibrant lifestyles.

In this guide, we explore the top European cities you’ll find digital nomads congregating, look at affordability and connectivity, highlight how to apply for and get the most from a digital nomad visa, and share tips for choosing the perfect base for your remote-work journey.

• 11 Best European Cities for Digital Nomads
• Digital Nomad Visas in Europe: 2025 Update
• Key Factors When Choosing a Digital Nomad Base
• Frequently Asked Questions

11 Best European Cities for Digital Nomads

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal is a buzzing digital nomad destination in Western Europe. It offers great weather, affordable and comfortable accommodation, some of the best laptop-friendly cafés, and creative co-working spaces.

This country ranks 6th in the world when it comes to Global Passport’s Quality of Life index, meaning it’s an affordable place to live in, overall happiness is high, and the locals are welcoming to foreigners.

What’s more is that the economy is constantly growing, especially with foreign investors seeking the Portugal Golden Visa. Foreign remote workers wanting to live in Lisbon can apply for the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. The capital city has emerged as the heart of Europe’s digital nomad scene.

Lisbon is a primary example of a freelance-friendly city. It provides digital nomads with city-spread WiFi with a reliable internet connection, excellent public transportation systems, lively streets filled with amazing architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine at every corner. All of this makes it one of the most popular cities for working remotely in Portugal.

Here is a brief overview of the cost of living in Lisbon:

• Rent (in city center): €1,400 – €1,500 per month (one-bedroom apartment) and €2,600 – €2,700 (three-bedroom apartment in city center
• Rent (outside city center): €1,099 per month (one-bedroom apartment) and €1,717 for a three-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €150 to €350 per month for one person
• Bus Transport: €2 for one-way bus trip, €40 for a monthly pass

2. Valencia, Spain

Valencia has quickly risen as a favorite among digital nomads who want the Mediterranean lifestyle without Barcelona’s high price tag. The city offers plenty of sunshine, a vibrant cultural scene, and a more relaxed pace of life. With Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa now available, Valencia has become an even stronger contender for long-term remote workers.

According to the Global Digital Nomad Report 2024 by Global Citizen Solutions, Valencia is one of the top emerging cities in Europe for remote workers, combining affordability, safety, and a growing international community.

The city boasts modern infrastructure, fast internet, and coworking spaces like Wayco and Vortex. Its mix of beachfront living, affordable housing, and international community makes it an ideal place for digital nomads who want a work-life balance. Valencia is also family-friendly, with good schools and safe neighborhoods.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Valencia:

• Rent (city center): €900 – €1,300 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €650 – €1,000 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €200 – €350 per month for a single person
• Transport: €1.50 per single trip, €45 for a monthly pass

3. Bansko, Bulgaria

Once known primarily as a ski resort town, Bansko has reinvented itself as one of Europe’s most affordable digital nomad hubs. With cheap living costs, fast internet, and a surprisingly vibrant remote worker community, it’s an emerging hotspot for those who want to escape big-city life.

The town is home to Coworking Bansko, which has helped build a strong international network through events, festivals, and coliving opportunities. While it doesn’t have a dedicated digital nomad visa yet, Bulgaria offers other residence permits for longer stays. The appeal here is affordability, community, and easy access to the mountains for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Bansko:

• Rent (city center): €300 – €500 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €200 – €400 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €150 – €250 per month for a single person
• Transport: €0.80 per bus ticket, €20 – 25 for a monthly pass

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the most iconic cities in Europe for digital nomads. With its beachfront location, buzzing nightlife, and thriving startup ecosystem, it strikes a good work-life balance. While the cost of living is higher than in Valencia, many digital nomads choose Barcelona for its international community and vibrant culture.

The city is also a hotspot for coworking spaces and coliving hubs, making it easy to network. Thanks to Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa, remote workers can now legally extend their stay well beyond the Schengen 90-day limit.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Barcelona:

• Rent (city center): €1,200 – €1,800 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €850 – €1,200 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €250 – €400 per month for a single person
• Transport: €2.40 per single trip, €50 for a monthly pass

5. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague offers a rich cultural history paired with modern amenities, making it one of the best cities for digital nomads in Europe. Its Gothic architecture, riverside cafés, and relatively affordable living costs appeal to remote workers looking for a blend of tradition and convenience.

The city is home to many co working spaces like cafés and creative hubs, where freelancers and remote workers gather. English is widely spoken in co working spaces , and Prague’s location makes it a great travel base for Central Europe.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Prague:

• Rent (city center): €1,000 – €1,400 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €700 – €1,000 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €200 – €350 per month for a single person
• Transport: €1.50 per single trip, €25 for a monthly pass

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest consistently ranks as one of the most affordable European capitals for digital nomads. Its stunning architecture, famous thermal baths, and buzzing nightlife make it an exciting city to live and work in.

Internet speeds are fast, coworking spaces are plentiful, and the cost of living is significantly lower than in Western Europe. Many nomads appreciate the balance between low costs and high quality of life.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Budapest:

• Rent (city center): €700 – €1,000 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €500 – €800 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €200 – €300 per month for a single person
• Transport: €1.20 per single trip, €25 for a monthly pass

7. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan cities and a major hub for creatives, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. Known for its vibrant nightlife, art scene, and strong tech ecosystem, Berlin offers excellent infrastructure and an international community.

The downside? Berlin has housing shortages and higher rental prices compared to cities in Eastern Europe. Still, coworking spaces like Factory Berlin and Betahaus remain some of the most influential hubs for startups and freelancers.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Berlin:

• Rent (city center): €1,300 – €1,800 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €1,000 – €1,400 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €300 – €450 per month for a single person
• Transport: €3 per single trip, €65 for a monthly pass

8. Kraków, Poland

Kraków combines medieval charm with affordability, making it one of the best budget-friendly cities for digital nomads in Europe. The city has a thriving cultural scene, a growing number of specifically coworking spaces, and good internet infrastructure.

For nomads looking to keep costs low while enjoying a lively community, Kraków is a solid choice. It also serves as a great travel hub for exploring Central and Eastern Europe.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Kraków:

• Rent (city center): €600 – €900 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €450 – €700 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €150 – €250 per month for a single person
• Transport: €1 per single trip, €25 for a monthly pass

9. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi has quickly grown into a favorite among nomads seeking affordability, unique culture, and relaxed visa rules. Georgia allows many nationalities to stay visa-free for up to one year, making it one of the most nomad-friendly destinations in Europe and beyond.

The city’s internet is reliable, coworking spaces are expanding, and the 1% freelancer tax structure makes Georgia particularly attractive for entrepreneurs. Tbilisi offers a blend of European and Asian influences, historic architecture, and a growing international community.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Tbilisi:

• Rent (city center): €400 – €600 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €300 – €500 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €150 – €250 per month for a single person
• Transport: €0.30 per bus/metro ride, €15 for a monthly pass

10. Tirana, Albania

Tirana has emerged as an underrated digital nomad hotspot, offering low costs, Mediterranean climate, and a laid-back lifestyle. With Albania’s visa-free access for many nationalities and plans to launch a digital nomad visa, the city is becoming more popular every year.

The capital has a young, dynamic feel, with affordable rents, friendly locals, and a growing community of expats and nomads. Its proximity to Adriatic coastal cities adds to the appeal for those who want city life with weekend beach escapes.

Here is an overview of the average cost of living in Tirana:

• Rent (city center): €400 – €650 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €250 – €450 per month (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €150 – €250 per month for a single person
• Transport: €0.40 per bus ride, €12–15 for a monthly pass

11. Valletta, Malta

Malta is a growing business center for avid investors and young entrepreneurs. It offers incredible tax incentives to residents and non-residents. This is a great country for migration, with English as one of its primary languages.

Living and working in Valletta, you’ll have access to fantastic Mediterranean weather, delicious cuisine, and a chill digital nomad lifestyle in a thriving European city.

By acquiring the Malta Digital Nomad Visa, you can easily take advantage of visa-free travel across the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Zone, which makes it easy to maximize your remote working.

The city has strong 5G internet, affordable transportation costs, and high political stability, and it can also be a great place to connect with other digital nomads and successful entrepreneurs.

Here is an overview of the cost of living in Valletta:

• Rent (city center): €900 – €1,400 per month (one-bedroom apartment, €1,200 – €1,800 per month (two-bedroom apartment)
• Rent (outside city center): €700 and €1,100 (one-bedroom apartment)
• Groceries: €200 – €320 per month for one person
• Bus Transport: €2.50 per single day trip (summer) or €2.00 per single day trip (winter), €25 for a 7-day unlimited pass or €21 for 12-journey card

Digital Nomad Visas in Europe: 2025 Update

Here’s a complete list of digital nomad visas available specifically in Europe.

All countries listed are within the Schengen Area (except Romania), offering seamless mobility and travel within most of Europe.

Tax implications will vary according to whether you’re considered a tax resident.

Slovenia has announced they will be launching a remote worker visa in November 2025.

Key Factors When Choosing a Digital Nomad Base

Cost of living

One of the biggest considerations for nomads is how far their budget will stretch as you don’t want to be working while worrying how you’ll be surviving from day-to-day. Take a look at sites like Numbeo to research what the average monthly costs are.

Cities like Budapest, Kraków, and Tirana offer affordable apartment rentals and cheap public transport, while Lisbon and Barcelona tend to be on the pricier side but make up for it with lifestyle perks.

Do always factor in seasonality and overtourism. Prices in coastal cities like Split or Barcelona tend to rise dramatically in summer.

Internet speed and connectivity

Fast, reliable internet is a non-negotiable for those working remotely. European countries like Romania, Estonia, and Portugal consistently deliver high-speed broadband and widespread Wi-Fi.

For frequent travelers, 5G coverage and coworking spaces are a safety net that help you stay connected.

Coliving and coworking spaces

The best European cities for digital nomads feature thriving coworking spaces (for example, Spaces in Berlin, Second Home in Lisbon) and coliving hubs like Selina or Outsite.

These spaces not only provide work infrastructure but also a built-in community and networking platform.

Community and expat networks

How good a city’s digital nomad lifestyle is depends heavily on its social fabric.

Locations like Lisbon, Valencia, and Bansko host regular meetups, Meetup Slack groups, and international festivals specifically for remote workers.

For nomads that are new to the lifestyle, joining an existing community can ease the transition and reduce isolation.

Safety and healthcare

Safety is a key factor, especially for those traveling and working solo most of the time. Cities such as Ljubljana, Vienna, and Lisbon rank high in Europe’s safety indexes.

Access to quality healthcare is equally important. EU cities generally provide strong public healthcare systems, while digital nomads often supplement with nomad travel insurance like SafetyWing, Genki and so on.

Taxes and legal pathways

Tax rules can make or break a destination.

Portugal’s D8 Visa, Croatia’s DN Visa, and Malta’s Nomad Residence Permit all allow legal long-term stays, but tax obligations vary.

Georgia as a country offers a unique perk for freelancers as they just have to pay 1% tax on foreign income earned.

Weather and climate

The type of climate you prefer is entirely personality dependent.

Valencia and Athens promise Mediterranean sun, while Berlin and Kraków have colder winters but vibrant cultural seasons.

If you prefer year-round warm options then Malta or Madeira are ideal for those looking to escape harsh coldness.

Nightlife and social scene

Some digital nomads play just as hard as they work so they will prefer an area with an active nightlife. For this, cities like Berlin, Barcelona, and Belgrade are top picks.

If you’re looking for a quieter environment, cities like Tbilisi or Tirana provide the ideal environment by balancing affordable living with a more laid-back social vibe.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best European Cities for Digital Nomads

What are the best European cities for digital nomads in 2025?

Lisbon, Valencia, Budapest, Prague, and Berlin remain top choices in 2025 thanks to affordable living costs, reliable internet, and thriving communities.

Emerging remote worker hubs like Bansko, Tirana, and Tbilisi are also gaining traction with budget-minded digital nomads.

Which European city is the cheapest for digital nomads?

Cities like Kraków (Poland), Sofia (Bulgaria), and Tirana (Albania) are among the cheapest in Europe, with monthly living costs under €1,200 while still offering good internet and coworking spaces.

What is the best city in Europe for digital nomads with a low cost of living?

Budapest is often rated the best balance of affordability and quality of life, offering low rents, vibrant culture, and a large community of digital nomads.

Which cities in Europe offer digital nomad visas in 2025?

Several European countries now provide digital nomad visas, making long-term stays much easier.

Popular options include Lisbon and Porto in Portugal with the D8 Visa, Barcelona and Valencia in Spain, Zagreb and Split in Croatia, Valletta in Malta, and Athens in Greece.

These cities combine affordability, good internet speed, and strong expat communities, making them some of the best cities for digital nomads in Europe.

What are the top cities in Europe for digital nomads with good internet speed?

Tallinn (Estonia), Bucharest (Romania), and Lisbon (Portugal) consistently rank high for internet speed and connectivity, offering average fixed broadband speeds above 150 Mbps.

Which are the safest European cities for digital nomads?

Copenhagen, Ljubljana, and Vienna are among the safest, with low crime rates, strong healthcare systems, and high overall quality of life.

What are the best cities in Europe for digital nomads who want a vibrant nightlife?

Berlin, Barcelona, and Belgrade are known for their nightlife, festivals, and late-night culture, attracting younger nomads who want both work and play.

Which European cities have the best co-working spaces for digital nomads?

Lisbon, Berlin, and Prague have some of the best coworking hubs in Europe, offering modern amenities, flexible memberships, and opportunities to network with other remote workers.

What are the most affordable places to work remotely in Europe?

Tbilisi (Georgia), Bansko (Bulgaria), and Kraków (Poland) are highly affordable, with low rents, inexpensive food, and strong community networks for nomads.

Which European cities are best for digital nomads looking for tax advantages?

Georgia’s freelancer tax rate (around 1%) and Malta’s favorable tax rules for foreign residents make them appealing for nomads who want to lessen taxes or even avoid paying taxes legally.

What are the best European cities for digital nomads with families?

Valencia, Lisbon, and Copenhagen combine affordable international schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly infrastructure, making them good choices for digital nomads moving with children.

Which European destinations are best for long-term stays for digital nomads?

Portugal, Spain, and Malta stand out, as their digital nomad visas allow stays beyond the typical 90-day Schengen limit while offering paths to residency.