What’s the Best Destination for a Digital Nomad?

Haven’t we all visited a place and just wanted to stay longer? Well, digital nomadism is changing the playing field for travelers, and staying longer isn’t necessarily just a pipe dream anymore.

For digital nomads, the rise of remote work has turned the world into a global office, and the opportunities to explore and settle somewhere new are increasing.

Some countries are rolling out the welcome mat with dedicated visas and nomad-friendly policies, while others remain hidden gems where you’ll have to figure things out for yourself—but isn’t that part of the adventure?

Digital nomadism is no longer a niche lifestyle. According to recent studies, the number of remote workers living abroad has skyrocketed. In 2024 alone, over 35 million people identified as digital nomads, with hotspots like Lisbon, Mexico City, and Chiang Mai leading the way. Trends show that affordability, safety, coworking spaces, and cultural experiences are the biggest draws—but every nomad’s priorities are different.

Whether you’re seeking community, affordability, or a unique cultural experience, these nine destinations offer something for every type of remote worker. Let’s explore what makes them stand out—and why they might be your next office.

1. Portugal: A Digital Nomad’s Dream

Portugal has emerged as a top destination for remote workers, offering options that fit diverse preferences. While Lisbon is the hub for many nomads, the Madeira Digital Nomads Program offers an alternative for those seeking a more tranquil yet equally connected lifestyle.

Lisbon: The Urban Creative Hub

Lisbon’s popularity among digital nomads stems from its rich culture, vibrant neighborhoods, and reliable infrastructure.

• Why Lisbon?
  Lisbon’s D7 Visa is straightforward, requiring proof of €760/month in income. The city also boasts affordable transportation, a thriving expat community, and plenty of coworking spaces in trendy districts like Alcântara and Bairro Alto.
• Cost of Living: $1,500–$2,500/month, depending on your lifestyle.
• The Scene: As of 2023, Lisbon was home to approximately 16,000 digital nomads. Lisbon offers excellent coworking spaces, like Second Home in Cais do Sodré, and an active expat community hosting regular networking events and meetups. 

Madeira: Island Life for Digital Nomads

Madeira offers a unique twist with its dedicated Digital Nomads Village, based in the picturesque town of Ponta do Sol. This initiative, launched in 2021, has grown steadily and provides a supportive community and infrastructure.

• Why Madeira? The program offers access to coworking spaces, free high-speed internet, and an organized social calendar to help nomads integrate.
• Cost of Living: Slightly lower than Lisbon, with living expenses starting at $1,200/month.
• The Scene: Over 10,000 digital nomads have participated in the program since its inception, many drawn to Madeira’s natural beauty and relaxed pace of life.

Insider Tip: Madeira is ideal for remote workers seeking a sense of community and balance between work and leisure. The program’s resources make it easy to settle in, and the island’s natural attractions, like hiking and water sports, are unmatched.

What to know before you go: Double-check Portugal’s visa rules, which can change, and prepare documentation like proof of income or work contracts.

2. Medellín, Colombia: Affordable Living with Vibrant Energy

Medellín’s transformation into a digital nomad hotspot is nothing short of remarkable. Its “City of Eternal Spring” climate and affordable lifestyle make it a top pick for remote workers.

• Why Medellín?
  The M-11 Work Visa allows remote workers to stay for up to two years. Plus, with coworking hubs like Selina, Tinkko, and El Café de la Fábrica, you’ll find plenty of spaces to get work done.
• Cost of Living: Starting at $1,200/month, including rent, utilities, and eating out.
• The Scene: Medellín draws thousands of nomads annually. In 2024, it ranked as one of Latin America’s most affordable cities for remote work, with an emphasis on networking events and local cultural experiences. A study by the consultancy firm Breakthrough estimates that around 8,300 digital nomads arrive in Medellín each month. Additionally, Medellín has been recognized as a top destination for digital nomads in 2024, and has been rated as the favorite city among female digital nomads worldwide as of April 2024.

What to know before you go: Start your visa process early. Many digital nomads recommend hiring a local consultant to simplify paperwork.

3. Tbilisi, Georgia: Europe’s Affordable Gem

Tbilisi continues to grow in popularity among digital nomads, thanks to its affordable cost of living, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. With a visa-free entry policy for citizens of over 95 countries, Georgia makes long-term stays remarkably straightforward.

• Why Tbilisi?
  While the “Remotely from Georgia” program has concluded, the country’s generous visa-free policy allows eligible visitors to stay for up to one year without needing special permits. This makes Georgia a top choice for nomads who value simplicity and flexibility. Tbilisi itself is a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with plenty of cozy cafés offering strong Wi-Fi and an increasing number of coworking spaces.

• Cost of Living: Around $1,000/month, covering housing, food, and leisure, making it one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe.
• The Scene: Tbilisi has become a hub for remote workers and expats, with an expanding network of coworking spaces like Terminal and Impact Hub. Its cultural mix, thriving creative community, and proximity to outdoor adventures in the Caucasus mountains make it a well-rounded choice.

Insider Tip: Join local digital nomad groups on platforms like Facebook or Meetup to find community events, housing tips, and networking opportunities.

4. Mexico City, Mexico: A Cultural Powerhouse

Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis that balances history, innovation, and an unmatched food scene. It’s a hub for remote workers in Latin America, thanks to its flexibility and affordability.

• Why Mexico City?
  With its 180-day tourist visa and Temporary Resident Visa, Mexico makes it easy for nomads to stay longer. Add to that a thriving coworking scene and plenty of expat communities, and you have a recipe for success.
• Cost of Living: Around $1,500/month for housing, food, and entertainment.
• The Scene: Mexico is currently the most popular destination for digital nomads, attracting a significant portion of the global digital nomad community.
• Mexico City’s Appeal: The city offers a dynamic mix of art, culture, and coworking hubs, making it an attractive destination for remote workers.

What to know before you go: Start the Temporary Resident Visa application in your home country to avoid delays.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand: The OG Nomad Hub

Chiang Mai has long been a favorite among digital nomads for its affordability, friendly locals, and relaxed pace of life. Despite its fame, it’s managed to retain its charm.

• Why Chiang Mai?
  Thailand’s Long-Term Resident Visa requires proof of $80,000/year income, but shorter stays can be managed with a 60-day tourist visa. The city also offers an impressive coworking culture, with spaces like Punspace and Hub 53 leading the way.
• Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa:
  Income Requirement: The LTR Visa is designed for various categories of foreigners, including “Work-from-Thailand Professionals” (remote workers and digital nomads). Applicants in this category are generally required to have a personal income of at least USD 80,000 per year over the past two years. However, if the applicant’s income is between USD 40,000 and USD 80,000 per year, additional qualifications, such as a master’s degree or specific work experience, may be necessary.
• Tourist Visa:
  60-Day Tourist Visa: Thailand offers a Single-Entry Tourist Visa valid for a stay of up to 60 days, which can be extended for an additional 30 days. This visa is suitable for shorter stays and is commonly used by travelers and short-term visitors.
• Cost of Living: Around $1,000/month for housing, food, and leisure.
• The Scene: Chiang Mai remains a top destination for remote workers thanks to its vibrant expat community and serene surroundings.

What to know before you go: Stay updated on visa changes, as Thailand’s policies frequently evolve.

6. Cape Town, South Africa: Breathtaking Views and a Unique Lifestyle

Cape Town’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant urban culture make it an enticing choice for digital nomads. While South Africa doesn’t yet offer a dedicated nomad visa, its Visitors Visa allows for stays of up to 90 days, with a possible extension.

• Why Cape Town?
  With coworking spaces like Workshop17 and a welcoming entrepreneurial community, Cape Town has become a hub for remote workers seeking adventure. The city’s blend of outdoor activities, diverse cuisine, and art scenes ensures you’ll never be bored.
• Cost of Living: $1,200–$1,800/month for housing, food, and activities.
• The Scene: Cape Town attracts adventure-seeking nomads who value nature and culture. In 2024, Cape Town was ranked 17th among global destinations for ‘executive nomads,’ highlighting its growing appeal.

What to know before you go: While South Africa doesn’t permit remote work on its Visitors Visa, many nomads operate in a gray area. For a longer, fully compliant stay, consult with a visa expert or immigration attorney.

7. Valencia, Spain: Coastal Living with Modern Comforts

Spain recently launched a Digital Nomad Visa, and Valencia is emerging as a top choice for those seeking a mix of Mediterranean charm and urban convenience.

• Why Valencia?
  The Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to stay up to one year, renewable for up to five years, with proof of €2,000/month income. Valencia’s slower pace of life, beautiful beaches, and coworking spaces make it ideal for a balanced lifestyle.
• Cost of Living: $1,800–$2,500/month, depending on your lifestyle.
• The Scene: Valencia has been recognized as a top destination for digital nomads. Forbes selected the city as a leading destination for remote workers looking to work remotely in 2024, highlighting its vibrant culture, natural beauty, and thriving digital nomad community.

What to know before you go: Be prepared for a potentially slow visa process, as the Digital Nomad Visa is relatively new. Start your application early, and make sure your documentation is complete.

8. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: High Energy, Low Costs

Vietnam doesn’t currently offer a digital nomad visa, but its Tourist Visa allows stays of 30 days, extendable once. Many nomads make it work by leaving the country and re-entering, though this requires careful planning.

• Why Ho Chi Minh City?
  A bustling city with a growing tech scene, Ho Chi Minh City is perfect for nomads who thrive in fast-paced environments. Coworking spaces like Dreamplex and Circo offer reliable internet and a professional atmosphere.
• Cost of Living: Around $1,000/month for rent, food, and coworking.
• The Scene: Vietnam, particularly cities like Ho Chi Minh City, has become increasingly popular among digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, and modern amenities. Ho Chi Minh City offers a dynamic environment with numerous coworking spaces and a growing community of remote workers.

What to know before you go: While technically working remotely on a Tourist Visa isn’t officially sanctioned, enforcement tends to focus on local employment rather than remote work for foreign companies. Keep an eye on potential policy changes.

9. Utrecht, Netherlands: A Quiet, Scenic Alternative

For those who prefer a peaceful, picturesque base, Utrecht offers a charming and relaxed environment. While the Netherlands doesn’t have a dedicated nomad visa, non-EU travelers can stay for up to 90 days on a Schengen Visa.

• Why Utrecht?
  Close to Amsterdam yet quieter, Utrecht provides a high quality of life with excellent infrastructure. Its coworking spaces, like Seats2Meet, cater to freelancers and remote workers looking for a collaborative atmosphere.
• Cost of Living: $2,500+/month, reflecting the Netherlands’ higher costs.
• The Scene: Utrecht appeals to those seeking a balance of tranquility and accessibility, with its canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural events. Utrecht’s growing popularity among digital nomads has led to an increase in community events and networking opportunities, fostering a supportive environment for remote workers.

What to know before you go: If you’re planning to stay longer than 90 days, you’ll need a residency permit or another visa that matches your situation.

Explore with Purpose

Choosing the right destination as a digital nomad is about finding the place that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and work requirements. Whether you’re drawn to bustling cities, peaceful retreats, or adventurous escapes, there’s a world of opportunities waiting for you.

Trends show that digital nomadism is here to stay, with millions embracing remote work as a chance to explore new horizons. The key is to stay informed about visa requirements and make ethical, legal choices that support both your lifestyle and the local communities you’ll be joining.

So, where will your next office be?

Looking for More Travel Tips?

Check out these guides for more insights to save money and make the most of your trips year-round:

• The Best Time to Book Flights for Every Season
• The Sweet Spot for Booking Flights

Smart planning today means stress-free travel tomorrow. Happy travels!

Feature Image Credit: Pexels / Yan Krukau.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.