So Where’s the Best Spots to Stay?
A Guide to Affordability, Culture, and Connectivity
Explore the best digital nomad cities in 2025! Discover affordable, connected, and culturally rich destinations perfect for remote work.
Remote working and the digital nomad lifestyle is many people’s dream, offering workers a chance to earn money and explore the world at the same time. As experiencing travel as a digital nomad has become increasingly more popular, cities worldwide are stepping up as ideal hubs for international remote workers, offering culture, connectivity, and vibrant communities.
For those ready to take their work on the road in 2025, we’ve put together a list of the top cities for digital nomads and those ready to replace the office with the open road. From the tech-forward streets of Lisbon to the tropical paradise of Bali, these cities offer something for every taste. Whether you’re after fast internet, rich cultural experiences, or budget-friendly living, you’re sure to find somewhere on our list to make your next adventure and earn as you explore.
To choose the best cities for the digital nomad life, we’ve factored in connectivity, safety, cost of living, visa terms, community, and experiences, so that you can be well-informed and inspired when choosing your destination.
Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon consistently ranks high among the top digital nomad destinations, and for good reason. This picturesque city combines affordable living, a laidback lifestyle, stunning views and a vibrant tech scene, making it a must-visit for many.
Known for its Mediterranean climate and welcoming vibe, Lisbon offers a range of co-working spaces, bustling cafes, and an active community of remote workers, meaning that you can easily settle into a perfect work-life balance by the coast. Lisbon is also rated as one of the safest cities in Europe, with crimes against tourists very uncommon. The Portuguese government’s supportive policies toward digital nomads only add to Lisbon’s appeal, offering a specific Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (D8 VISA) that makes it possible to work there on a freelance or contract basis for workers earning €3,040 per month or more. This generally covers stay for a year, but this can be extended annually for up to five years.
- Pros for Visiting Lisbon: Affordable cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, thriving nomad community, scenic cityscapes.
- Key Attractions: Alfama district, historic trams, beaches in Cascais and Sintra.
- Portugal Nomad Visa: Extendable one-year visa.
Chiang Mai
Thailand has long been an iconic destination for tourists and travellers, so it’s no surprise that it has developed as a hub for expats and digital nomads. In particular, Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand offers the ideal setting for international remote workers, combining affordability with practicality. The modern infrastructure, multitude of co-working spaces and high-speed internet availability means that workers can remain connected, and the strong sense of community between expats and locals offers an ideal work-life balance.
The city’s proximity to nature, with nearby mountains and lush jungles, allows an escape from work and into the wild. Thailand’s government also supports digital nomads through long-term visas for those earning €3,000 per month, making it even easier to settle down and work remotely here.
- Pros for Visiting Chiang Mai: Low cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, thriving nomad community, close to nature.
- Key Attractions: Doi Suthep Temple, Sunday Walking Street Market, Huay Keaw Waterfalls.
- Thailand Nomad Visa: Long-stay visa available.
Mexico City
Mexico City is fast becoming a hotspot for digital nomads, offering a mix of rich culture, world-famous cuisine, and an affordable cost of living. In recent years, Mexico City has seen a rise in the number of international remote workers and as a result, an increasing amount of co-working spaces have popped up, welcoming digital nomads with a great range of places to work from.
- Pros for Visiting Mexico City: Low cost of living, efficient internet access, easy travel to neighbouring countries, energetic urban scene.
- Key Attractions: Frida Kahlo Museum, Chapultepec Park, Roma and Condesa neighbourhoods.
- Thailand Nomad Visa: Four-year visas.
As Mexico’s capital, Mexico City has a vibrant nightlife, an exciting atmosphere and up-to-date connectivity, making it a popular destination for those looking for excitement as they work. The city is also well-connected to other parts of Latin America and North America, making it a convenient starting point for digital nomads who plan to explore the continent further.
Digital nomads need a minimum income of $2,595 per month to obtain a Mexican Digital Nomad Visa which can cover stay for up to four years. However, it is also important to remember that Mexico City has had a troubled past, and tourists are advised to be cautious when it comes to personal safety in the city.
Tbilisi Georgia
Georgia has quietly emerged as a digital nomad haven, thanks to its low cost of living, iconic architecture, and excellent internet speeds. The low rent costs make it easy for digital nomads to find a space to live and work from among the famous patchwork array of buildings that make up Tbilisi. Just 5km from the Tbilisi Sea and close to breathtaking mountainous landscapes, the city is perfect for travellers looking for a relaxed lifestyle and rich history with most ‘Western-style’ amenities available.
Georgia’s relaxed visa policy means that residents from 94 countries can stay for up to a year with no visa or fees. Georgia is not particularly a country that springs to mind for many travellers when choosing their destinations, but Tbilisi is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered by digital nomads.
- Pros Of Visiting Tbisili: Low cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, rich history, close to nature.
- Key Attractions: Tbilisi Old Town, Sulfur Baths, Georgian Wine Region.
- Thailand Nomad Visa: Free one-year visa for many nationalities.
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
For many years, Bali has been at the forefront of dream destinations for travellers, resulting in a thriving and embracing expat community. In particular, the small town of Ubud has grown as a hub for international remote workers, with its proximity to some of Bali’s most Instagrammable landmarks within driving distance.
As far as the cost of living goes, the prices across Bali differ significantly based on the draw of tourism, but Ubud is relatively inexpensive, adding to the list of reasons that make it popular amongst those looking to make a life on the island. Ubud is also a hub for those with an interest in wellness and conscious living, with countless yoga centres, eco-tourism sites, and spiritual activities that form a welcoming expat community for like-minded travellers.
Indonesia’s recent introduction of a five-year visa program specifically for remote workers, but workers need a monthly income of $5000 per month.
- Pros Of Visiting Ubud: Affordable cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, thriving expat community, tropical scenery, wellness hub.
- Key Attractions: Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ancient Temples.
- Indonesia Nomad Visa: Five-year visa option.
Medellín, Colombia
Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant climate, Medellín has become another popular digital nomad destination in South America in recent years. Medellín is rich in history and embodies the iconic vibrant culture of Colombia, with its dynamic mix of innovation and tradition drawing in international workers looking to embrace the Latin American lifestyle whilst maintaining homely convenience.
The city boasts excellent infrastructure, reliable internet in many areas, and a cost of living that’s in the top 25% of affordable cities in South America. Though Medellín has had a reputation for crime in the past, the city has put those days behind it, and most areas are safe for tourists, though it is still wise to exercise caution. The city’s area of Poblado in particular is a hotspot for digital nomads and has a large and welcoming nomad community, making it easy for travelling workers to find their place in Medellín.
The Colombian government has also introduced initiatives aimed at attracting remote workers and offers a digital nomad visa for those earning $1,220 per month. This typically comes as a two-year visa but can be extended.
- Pros Of Visiting Medellín: Low cost of living, thriving nomad community, great weather.
- Key Attractions: Comuna 13 murals, El Poblado district, Flower Festival.
- Colombia Nomad Visa: Extendable two-year visa.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is famously home to a vibrant art scene, abundant history and exciting nightlife, making it a top destination for creatives. As with most major European cities, Budapest has modern infrastructure and up-to-date connectivity, offering convenience and stability for digital nomads. The iconic architecture of Budapest also houses countless co-working spaces and well-connected public transport, making living and working in the city hassle-free. Straddling the Danube River and full of relaxing green spaces, Budapest has a unique atmosphere that makes it the perfect city for those who don’t like ‘city life’, and its safety and affordability make it a firm favourite European city for travellers.
Hungary offers a one-year Digital Nomad Visa with possible extensions, allowing workers from overseas with a monthly income of €3,000 per month residency, however, digital nomads cannot work for a Hungarian company.
- Pros Of Visiting Budapest: Affordable cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, rich art scene.
- Key Attractions: Buda Castle Cave, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, ruin bars.
- Hungary Nomad Visa: Extendable one-year visa.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vietnam is widely popular with visitors to Southeast Asia, with Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, attracting a wide range of digital nomads as a base for their travels. The modern metropolis has the infrastructure and advanced technology to allow remote workers reliable connectivity and an abundance of co-working spaces and work cafes.
Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in Vietnam, welcoming travellers from all corners of the globe, so the expat culture here is varied and vibrant. Out of the Southeast Asian countries, many regard Vietnam as the most affordable to live in, so while Ho Chi Minh is one of the more expensive cities in Vietnam, it is still considerably cheaper than most other cities in the region.
Since Vietnam doesn’t currently have a Digital Nomad Visa, most travelling workers apply for a 30-day tourist visa with possible extensions if they are not planning a long stay, but for those wanting to stick around for longer, a more complicated long-term or business visa will need to be applied for.
- Pros Of Visiting Ho Chi Minh: Affordable cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, diverse expat community, modern metropolis.
- Key Attractions: Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon River Cruise.
- Vietnam Nomad Visa: Extendable 30-day visa or long-term business visa.
Cape Town, South Africa
The port city of Cape Town in South Africa has long been a top holiday destination, however, up until recently the city was hindered by slower internet infrastructure. In recent years, the city has dramatically caught up with the need fast speed WiFi and reliable connectivity, and as a result, Cape Town has become a buzzing centre for digital nomads. The natural beauty that enriches the local areas includes the imposing figure of Table Mountain and the famous penguins of Boulders Beach, giving the city an edge for travellers who want to shun the office and enjoy the great outdoors.
Though Cape Town has three main languages -Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa – since the majority of locals speak English there are usually no language barrier issues for English-speaking travellers, which can be a big plus for digital nomads and expats. Though Cape Town is the most expensive city in South Africa to live in, it is still significantly cheaper than most European countries, making staying there affordable even on a budget.
It should be noted that travellers are usually advised to be safety-cautious when visiting Cape Town, as the city has experienced high crime rates in the past, but with common sense, most visitors don’t encounter any issues. South Africa has implemented a Digital Nomad Visa that allows remote workers a three-year stay provided they can prove that they earn at least $3125 per month to qualify.
- Pros Of Visiting Cape Town: Affordable cost of living, efficient internet access, adventure-friendly, stunning scenery, English native tongue.
- Key Attractions: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Cape Peninsula.
- South Africa Nomad Visa: Three-year visa.
Tallinn, Estonia
Known for its digital-first approach, Tallinn is one of the most tech-forward cities in Europe. Tallinn’s gothic architecture adds to the appeal, drawing in visitors who are looking for a city that has kept up with the modern world whilst maintaining its historic charm. The expat community in Tallinn is still growing, but nomadic workers who have spent time in the city widely report affordable living and exceptionally low crime rates.
To add to the abundance of reasons to make a stop in Tallinn is the fact that it is one of Europe’s biggest startup hubs, with innovation and forward-thinking alive amongst the mediaeval buildings and rich history. Estonia was also the first country to offer an e-residency program that is notably more accessible than their Digital Nomad Visa which requires an income of at least €4,500 per month, making e-residency the better choice.
- Pros Of Visiting Tallinn: Affordable cost of living, safe, efficient internet access, rich history.
- Key Attractions: Old Town, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Kadriorg Palace.
- South Africa Nomad Visa: Available e-residency program or one-year nomad visa.
Top Tips for Digital Nomads
- Research visa options – While many countries offer a Digital Nomad Visa or similar, thoroughly research which visa is best suited to your needs and length of stay.
- Look into tax policies – Different countries have hugely varied tax policies, so if you’re earning money whilst travelling it is important to be aware of tax requirements so that you don’t get caught out.
- Insure your equipment – Needless to say, the key part of your success as a digital nomad is your digital equipment. Even with care, anything could go wrong, and prices for replacements or repairs can be high depending on the country. It’s wise to get your equipment insured, just to be on the safe side.
- Get health insurance – Not all countries are blessed with affordable healthcare, so having sufficient health insurance is a responsible choice. Furthermore, some countries require proof of health insurance when acquiring a visa.
- Get an e-SIM – Since connectivity is imperative for digital nomads, preparing yourself with an e-SIM can not only make sure that you can access local service carriers but can also allow you to keep your original phone number, avoiding the risk of losing contact with clients and the hassle of changing numbers. For more about e-SIMs, click here.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right city for your digital nomad adventure requires a lot of consideration. It is about more than affordability and internet connection; it’s about finding a place you love, a community you can engage with and an environment you can enjoy outside of work.
These top 10 destinations for digital nomads in 2025 offer a variety of experiences, from the familiarities of Europe to the adventures of Southeast Asia and beyond. So, if you’re ready to embrace the freedom of working remotely, these are the ultimate cities for the ideal place to live, work, and grow in the coming year.
To book your flights to one of our top 10 cities for digital nomads, click here.
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