As remote work becomes the new norm, more professionals are embracing a lifestyle that combines work with travel. Digital nomadism—a blend of work and wanderlust—offers the chance to explore new places without sacrificing productivity. For those looking to dive into this lifestyle, some cities around the world offer the perfect blend of affordability, strong digital infrastructure, and quality of life. Here’s a look at some of the best cities for digital nomads looking to work remotely while experiencing a unique, adventurous lifestyle.

**Portugal** is home to the world’s oldest bookstore, Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon, open since 1732!

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has become a hotspot for digital nomads in recent years. With its vibrant culture, affordable cost of living, and scenic coastal views, it’s easy to see why. The city has a thriving tech scene, reliable internet, and plenty of coworking spaces, making it ideal for remote professionals. Beyond work, Lisbon offers an exciting mix of historical sites, delicious cuisine, and year-round pleasant weather. The welcoming local culture and relatively low cost of living add to its appeal.

Highlights: Affordable cost of living, great weather, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to Europe.

**Thailand** is home to over 40,000 temples, each with unique designs and cultural significance.

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai has long been a favorite among digital nomads. Known for its low cost of living, fast internet, and friendly community, this Thai city provides a perfect base for those seeking an exotic work location. Chiang Mai’s appeal lies in its combination of serene temples, lively markets, and nearby mountains. Coworking spaces like Punspace and CAMP are popular, offering ample networking opportunities. Plus, the city’s affordable street food and local events make it easy to immerse in the local culture without breaking the bank.

Highlights: Low cost of living, excellent food scene, and strong digital nomad community.

**Colombia** is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to around 10% of the planet's species!

3. Medellín, Colombia

Dubbed the "City of Eternal Spring" for its year-round mild climate, Medellín is fast becoming a digital nomad haven. Colombia’s second-largest city is known for its strong sense of community, scenic landscapes, and affordability. With a growing number of coworking spaces and a vibrant expat community, Medellín provides an ideal setup for remote workers. The city’s efficient public transportation, reliable internet, and modern infrastructure make it a prime choice. Plus, you can spend weekends exploring Colombia’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights: Affordable living, excellent weather, and a supportive digital nomad community.

**Estonia** is one of the most digitally advanced countries, offering e-residency and voting online since 2005, making it a leader in digital governance.

4. Tallinn, Estonia

For digital nomads looking for a taste of Northern Europe, Tallinn is a hidden gem. Known for its digital-forward approach, Estonia offers an e-residency program that allows foreigners to establish an online business in the EU without being physically present. The capital city, Tallinn, blends medieval charm with modern amenities, including fast internet and coworking spaces. Although the cost of living is slightly higher than in Southeast Asia, it remains relatively affordable by European standards. Estonia’s vibrant startup culture and supportive infrastructure make it a great choice for entrepreneurs and freelancers alike.

Highlights: Digital-forward policies, strong tech scene, and access to EU markets.

**Mexico** introduced chocolate to the world! The ancient Aztecs and Maya were the first to make a drink from cacao beans, calling it the "food of the gods."

5. Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City has emerged as an appealing destination for digital nomads, offering a balance between cultural richness and affordability. As one of the largest cities in Latin America, it provides countless amenities for remote workers, including numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a range of accommodation options. The food scene is unparalleled, from street tacos to high-end restaurants, and the city’s blend of modernity and tradition keeps it exciting. Plus, with Mexico’s proximity to the U.S., it’s a convenient location for North American digital nomads.

Highlights: Cultural diversity, affordable lifestyle, and convenient proximity to North America.

**Vietnam** has an impressive motorbike culture, with around 45 million motorbikes on the road—roughly one for every two people in the country!

6. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a dynamic city that has grown popular among digital nomads. Vietnam offers an affordable cost of living, with budget-friendly housing, delicious street food, and plenty of coworking spaces. The city’s high energy, combined with an array of coffee shops and working-friendly spots, makes it ideal for remote workers. The tropical climate, proximity to beaches, and vibrant expat community add to its charm. Although the city can be bustling, it’s balanced by the slower-paced, scenic regions nearby, perfect for a weekend escape.

Highlights: Affordable cost of living, thriving expat community, and easy access to Southeast Asia.

**Spain** has more than 8,000 kilometers (nearly 5,000 miles) of coastline, making it one of Europe’s top destinations for beautiful beaches and seaside escapes.

7. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a fantastic option for digital nomads seeking a mix of beach life, rich history, and city convenience. Known for its art, architecture, and warm Mediterranean climate, it offers a high quality of life with an array of coworking spaces and a welcoming community. While the cost of living can be higher than in some other cities, the lifestyle, cuisine, and scenery more than make up for it. The city’s efficient public transit, fast internet, and diverse neighborhoods make it ideal for remote workers who want both productivity and leisure.

Highlights: Mediterranean lifestyle, rich cultural scene, and vibrant international community.

**South Africa** is the only country in the world with three capital cities: Pretoria (administrative), Cape Town (legislative), and Bloemfontein (judicial)

8. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town offers a unique experience for digital nomads with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and affordable living. With a growing number of coworking spaces and reliable internet, remote workers can balance productivity with outdoor adventures like hiking, surfing, and wine tasting. The city’s mix of modern amenities and natural beauty makes it a top choice for those seeking an adventure-packed remote work lifestyle. Plus, Cape Town’s diverse food and arts scenes add even more flavor to the experience.

Highlights: Affordable living, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor adventure options.

Being a digital nomad offers the freedom to explore the world while maintaining a career. Each of these cities offers something unique, allowing remote workers to blend productivity with adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the historical streets of Lisbon, the energy of Mexico City, or the tranquility of Chiang Mai, the digital nomad lifestyle lets you redefine how and where you work. So pack your bags, charge your devices, and get ready to work and wander in the best cities for digital nomads!

Remote Work & Wander: The Best Cities for Digital Nomads