In late April 2017, a new form of workers emerged unbarred from the usual corporate culture and locus. The digital nomads are setting the new age of work when all you need is a laptop and the internet. Why restrict yourself to a desk? This is the question that these nomads put up on the current professional norms. While the world is an oyster for these individuals some places are better suited than others. This blog will help you pick the best places to live as a digital nomad but before that here’s how we picked these cities.

Table of Contents

---

How do you choose the best location for digital nomads? 

When you have the option to work from anywhere in the world the next question is or should be where do you go? To save you time with crunching numbers and overthinking back and forth we picked locations based on these key factors.

1. Safety -  Before moving to a new city, it is important to know how safe it is for expats. For this, we took a look into other people's experiences and respected and authoritative sources to determine which are the safest digital nomad cities in the world.
2. Culture - One of the biggest reasons to travel is to discover a new culture. Some of the cities in this list are known to attract tourists from around the world to experience living in their customs and festivals.
3. Accessibility - What makes a city digital nomad-friendly are the facilities that are available to make the city accessible to others. This means having a well-developed infrastructure and English translation for signs and shops wherever needed. In addition to this facilities for the specially abled or those travelling with family or pets are a major positive.
4. Economy - One of the major factors when considering a place to visit is the economy of that country. It’s important to determine the inflation and expenses that could occur when staying there.
5. Diversity -  Usually travellers prefer a city that is more diverse in terms of its residents. This helps them in seeking communities in case of any issues they face.

With these factors out of the way here are the digital nomad destinations that should be on every traveller's bucket list:

 

1. Bali, Indonesia    

There's a free visa on arrival for people visiting from any of the 169 countries. What makes Bali, Indonesia the hub of digital nomads from different parts of the world?     
There is so much to admire about this city. From the stunning landscape to the friendly people, staying on the island of the gods feels like living inside a storybook. Visit the beautiful Kuta Beach, and Pandawa Beach or go hiking at Mount Agung. There are plenty of adventures that can be had here. It’s important to know that while the visa does grant easy access to the city it does not allow you to work with companies in Indonesia for that you will need to apply for a work permit.  
You can check out our page for serviced apartments in Bali to cater to your every need. You can check out our page for serviced apartments in Bali to confirm a place to stay, work, and play, ensuring a seamless experience from day one.

 

2. Lisbon, Portugal

One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon combines the charm of its rich Portuguese past with the modern lifestyle of today. There’s a strong expat and remote workers community which makes it easy for anyone who is planning to visit this city. One can choose to work in trendy neighbourhoods such as Chiado or Bairro Alto. Digital nomad travellers can avail of the D7 visa which grants a temporary stay visa for independent workers and entrepreneurs. 

Enjoy the European Mediterranean lifestyle while visiting the beaches and art galleries. The vibrant suburban areas offer a bit of distance from the city’s daily noise. At the same time, the resident communities are buzzing with life.

We have serviced apartments in Lisbon to take care of your needs while you can work and play.

 

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Ranked as the safest city in Southeast Asia, Chiang Mai in Thailand has been a popular hub for expats. Travellers often marvel at the fact that this northern Thailand city has a small-town feel despite its large size. There’s a lot to explore in this city such as the Khao Soi- egg noodles, a popular street dish made out of golden coconutty curry and crunchy herb toppings. 

With the digital nomad life being so popular over here, it's no surprise that you will find a lot of coworking spaces with great Wi-Fi. One of the most popular spaces is Punspace, there are also more than 2,000 coffee shops where one can choose to socialise or network. There are tons of events and meetups hosted around the city for professionals. One of the main reasons why it is the central point for all digital nomads is the low cost to live, one can live here for the cost of $500 per month. 

To boost the culture of digital nomads, the Thailand government has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV which mainly targets remote workers. This visa offers a five-year multiple-entry option. 

Check out Accommodation options to stay in top furnished apartments in Thailand

4. Tokyo, Japan    

Culture, future and cherry blossom trees. There are so many elements that make Tokyo one of the most desirable places to visit. As a digital nomad, one can be part of the Japanese working culture that values productivity and efficiency along with quality. The diversity of landscape from the metropolis to traditional architecture. There are plenty of high-end coworking spaces where you can work. With its robust public transport, one can easily access the other parts of the city. There are many expats and digital nomad communities where one can connect and explore the city. 

In 2024 Japan launched a Japanese Digital Nomad Visa that offers remote workers to stay in Japan for 6 months. The visas are currently available in 50 countries. 
 

5. Barcelona, Spain

When it comes to going to a destination that offers stunning scenery, the Spanish capital, Barcelona tops the list.  One of the safest cities for women digital nomads. Travellers can be part of the Barcelona nightlife and visit the trendy bars and local cuisine. Take the high-speed trains to visit other cities such as Madrid as well as Seville. Barcelona attracts a large number of digital nomads as it has one of the best internet infrastructure in Europe. There is a thriving international community of expats that are quite active in the city, there are plenty of events where people can connect with others.

Digital nomads can apply for a visa to stay and work in Spain only if the company they are working for is not based in the country.

Check out our page on Luxury serviced apartments in Tokyo to confirm a place to stay.

 

6. Tallinn, Estonia

With a welcoming population Tallinn, Estonia is situated between Northern Europe, Russia and Scandinavia. There is a good selection of co-working spaces as well as cafes. One of the most popular areas to work is Baltic Cowork. Since Estonia has a mixed population from different countries the same is seen in its traditional cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes to try are dark rye bread, Verivorst and Mulgipuder. Stroll through the cobbled streets with the traditional European architecture that makes it feel like you have just stepped into a storybook. 

Estonia has launched a new Digital Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers to live in Estonia while legally working for a foreign employer or business. To learn more about the Estonian Digital Nomad visa check out their website.      

7. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam    

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's bustling metropolis, offers a vibrant and affordable haven for digital nomads seeking a unique cultural experience. With its blend of French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and delectable street food, this city is a feast for the senses. 

The city boasts a thriving co-working scene, with spaces like Dreamplex and Toong providing professional environments for remote workers to thrive. The cost of living is remarkably low, allowing digital nomads to stretch their budgets further. 

Explore the city's dynamic neighbourhoods, from the charming District 1 to the trendy District 2, where you'll find a diverse array of cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to every taste. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum.    

 

8. Medellín, Colombia    

    

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Medellín, Colombia, offers a perfect blend of temperate weather, vibrant culture, and a growing digital nomad community. The city's nickname, "The City of Eternal Spring," is well-deserved, with a comfortable climate year-round.

Medellín boasts a thriving co-working scene, with spaces like Selina and Espacio Creativo providing modern amenities and a collaborative atmosphere. The city's cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western countries, making it an attractive option for digital nomads.

Explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods, from the trendy El Poblado to the vibrant Laureles. Indulge in the local cuisine, which features a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Guatape Lake or hike through the nearby coffee plantations.

 

9. Berlin, Germany      

Berlin, Germany, is a city that embraces creativity, innovation, and diversity, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads. The city's rich history, lively arts scene, and thriving startup ecosystem create a unique atmosphere that attracts remote workers from around the world.

Berlin offers a wide range of co-working spaces, from the sleek and modern Mindspace to the quirky and creative Betahaus. The city's public transportation system is efficient and affordable, making it easy to navigate.

Explore Berlin's diverse neighbourhoods, from the trendy Kreuzberg to the artsy Friedrichshain. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Don't miss the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the East Side Gallery.    

 

10. Bangkok, Thailand        

Bangkok, Thailand, is a bustling city that offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern conveniences, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. The city's rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and affordable cost of living create a compelling draw for remote workers.

Bangkok boasts a thriving co-working scene, with spaces like Hubba and Launchpad providing professional environments for remote workers. The city's public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, makes it easy to navigate.

Explore Bangkok's diverse neighbourhoods, from the historic Rattanakosin to the vibrant Khao San Road. Indulge in the city's renowned street food, with a wide range of dishes that cater to every taste. Don't miss the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

 

Final thoughts 

The cities highlighted offer vibrant cultures, safety, and affordability, making them ideal for digital nomads. Whether you prefer Ho Chi Minh City’s energy or Berlin’s creativity, each destination provides unique experiences. Embrace the freedom of remote work, explore new environments, and connect with fellow nomads.

When choosing a city as a digital nomad, one of the main concerns is finding the right accommodation. Fortunately, in many of these top digital nomad cities, you don't have to worry. We offer serviced apartments in prime locations, ensuring you have a comfortable and convenient place to stay while you work and explore. Whether you're looking for a short-term rental or a longer stay, our properties are designed to meet the needs of modern nomads.

Pack your bags and embark on a transformative journey—adventure awaits!