Discover sought-after destinations where wanderlust meets work from anywhere. We've curated the definitive list of the best cities for digital nomads across the globe.
If the work from home revolution has left you longing to trade your desk for a cafe patio drenched in sunshine, you’re not alone. Like the rest of us at Team Honeycombers (just gotta flex our awesome “work from anywhere” policy!), you’ve likely caught the travel bug and digital nomad dream. We totally get the allure of solo travelling with just your laptop in tow, wandering from cafes with free wifi in exotic locales as you build your online empire. But here’s the kicker – remote work doesn’t have to linger in the realm of daydreams; it’s a lifestyle that’s actually attainable. Here, we uncover the list of the best cities for digital nomads across the world, from bustling Asian megacities to charming European capitals. These nomad-approved urban oases let you blend work, play, and new cultural encounters while keeping your budget intact and your inbox churning.
Take your laptop to these 8 best cities for digital nomads
1. Dubai
You might envision Dubai as a city of luxury high-rises and glitzy five-star resorts. However, this metropolis also boasts plenty of digital nomad appeal. In fact, Dubai offers a diverse range of experiences, blending the world’s best offerings into its landscape, from the renowned Dubai Mall to unique attractions like its indoor ski slope and impressive aquarium. What’s more, recognising the trend of digital nomadism, Dubai now offers a virtual work residence visa, providing extended stays for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the UAE’s culture. With its safe environment, multiple cost-of-living options, and tax-free status, it’s fair to say Dubai provides not only a balance of work and exploration, but also feasibility for digital nomads.
If you’re planning to visit this vibrant city, check out our guide on the best things to do in Dubai.
Find out more about Dubai’s virtual work residence visa.
2. Kuala Lumpur
Pop Kuala Lumpur onto your digital nomad destination wishlist – this Asian melting pot marries convenience with a multicultural charm. And if you’re considering a longer stay, the new De Rantau Programme is a game-changer, allowing you to extend your visa from a brief three months to an entire year. Moreover, Malaysia’s speedy wifi, which ranks as the third fastest in Southeast Asia, ensures you’ll be well-connected for all your work needs. As you explore, the cityscape will enchant you with architectural gems like the towering Petronas Towers, while heritage sites and markets are steeped in a nostalgic charm that’s sure to inspire your creative endeavours. Navigating the city is a breeze too, thanks to efficient public transport and user-friendly apps like Grab and Socar, ensuring you’re never late for a meeting. The low cost of living, from food to housing and healthcare, not to mention the widespread use of English, makes adapting to life in KL a smooth transition. And honestly, who could say no to Malaysian cuisine?
Check out our guide to Kuala Lumpur if you want to learn more about this incredible city.
Find out more about Malaysia’s De Rantau Programme.
3. Budapest
Budapest boasts beautiful architecture, a deep history, and an undeniably high quality of living. And now, thanks to Hungary’s new digital nomad visa, you can soak up all that Budapest charm while working remotely for up to a year – not to mention the wifi here is brilliant. The city itself is a tale of two halves: Buda and Pest. Start off exploring the hustle and bustle of Pest, then nip across the river to the tranquillity of Buda – it’s the perfect combo of work and play. Plus, life here won’t break the bank either; Budapest offers budget-friendly living costs, top-rated healthcare, and a transport system that makes getting around a piece of cake. Take a plunge into the city’s cultural offerings too, from the storied Jewish Quarter to the landmarks bearing the imprints of WWII. And when you fancy a weekend away, remember you’re perfectly placed for little jaunts to the likes of Croatia and Austria – just a stone’s throw away and ever so tempting!
Find out more about Hungary’s White Card.
4. Bangkok
If you’re after non-stop sunshine and top-notch infrastructure without denting your wallet, look no further than Bangkok, a mecca for digital nomads. Draped in lightning-fast internet, this buzzing capital keeps you ultra-connected as you wander from ancient temples to buzzing markets to sleek malls. The off-peak months from May to August are ideal for nabbing chic yet affordable high-rise apartments with dreamy skyline views. But no matter when you drop by, you’re in for a treat with the local street food – trust us, Thai cuisine is beyond comparison! Zipping around is dead easy, too, thanks to river ferries and the smooth BTS system, making your urban explorations a piece of cake. Plus, with Bangkok’s bustling expat communities, you’re never far from a friendly face or a chance to network with fellow globe-trotting nomads. So, what are you waiting for? Time to get packing!
Dive deeper into all the irresistible adventures awaiting in BKK with our fun-filled guide to Bangkok.
Find out more about Thailand’s Non-Immigrant Visa.
5. Buenos Aires
Fancy a slice of Parisian flair without the hefty price tag? Buenos Aires is your answer – a city where old-world elegance meets Latin passion. For digital nomads, it’s a paradise; you can immerse yourself in tango, savour malbec, and dive into the cultural scene for a whole six months, courtesy of Argentina’s online nomad visa. As you weave through your workday, let the flourishing arts scene spark your imagination, with museums, theatres, and harmonious festivals all across town. And when it’s time to network or collaborate, join the local and expat professionals in any of the city’s hip coworking spaces – they’re just the ticket for making connections. Buenos Aires takes care of your life beyond work too, with world-class cuisine, enchanting architecture, and effervescent nightlife that keeps you dancing all night.
Find out more about Argentina’s Digital Nomad Visa.
6. Ho Chi Minh City
In the heart of Vietnam’s tech startup surge, Ho Chi Minh City is a magnet for digital nomads, offering a mix of tradition and modernity. Whizz around on a motorbike taxi and let Saigon’s dynamic atmosphere fuel your “work hard, play hard” ethos. And with scrumptious and budget-friendly street food at every turn, you’ll quickly understand the legendary status of local staples like banh mi sandwiches and pho noodle soups – they’re absolute must-tries. You’ll also find staying connected a breeze with the city’s rapid wifi – essential for those cafe-hopping days and market explorations. While you might stumble upon a language barrier, fear not – many of the younger locals are conversant in English. With plenty of housing bargains and a flexible 90-day visa system, you might just find yourself enjoying life like royalty in Ho Chi Minh City!
Find out more about Vietnam’s E-visa.
7. Lisbon
Digital nomads are bound to be smitten with Lisbon’s infectious charm and electric spirit. Blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine each year, this coastal capital is a remote worker’s paradise – just imagine typing away on a sun-drenched beach or casually patio-hopping through the pastel lanes of Bairro Alto. When you need a quick energy boost, simply pop into any cafe for a freshly baked pastel de nata before diving back into Lisbon’s uber-cool coworking scene, renowned for its artsy spaces that are brilliant for networking. And when the workday winds down, fully immerse yourself in the nightlife, with entertainment from world-class DJs spinning killer sets to the enticing smells of sizzling seafood in the air. Additionally, Portugal’s nomad-friendly visa options make the stylish city the ideal home away from home.
If we’ve convinced you Lisbon is a top nomad destination, check out our guide to all the things to do in Lisbon!
Find out more about Portugal’s Temporary Stay Visa.
8. Colombo
This emerging tropical paradise is quickly becoming the top choice for thrill-seeking digital nomads who crave untouched natural beauty. Whilst it’s less crowded than hotspots like Thailand and Indonesia, Colombo still delights remote workers with its lush jungles, pristine beaches, and exotic cuisine. Imagine starting your days by surfing the reefs, then casually settling into a beachside shack, draped in hammocks. Between your treks to mist-veiled temples, you can indulge in cheap local fare – think spicy dal and flaky roti. And for the true adventurers, there’s the possibility of extending your visa, allowing for months of roaming through Sri Lanka’s culture-rich landscapes. For nomads in search of wide-open spaces, affordable living, and the roads less travelled, the city of Colombo promises a remote work experience unlike any other.
Don’t forget to check out our off-the-beaten-path guide to uncover the real Sri Lanka while you’re at it!
Find out more about Sri Lanka’s visa extension policies.
