Remote work is no longer a trend; it’s a lifestyle. As more professionals choose the freedom to work from anywhere, Europe continues to attract remote workers with its mix of culture, affordability, and high-quality infrastructure. But with so many cities to choose from, which ones are truly remote work friendly?
In this post, we explore the best places to live in Europe as a remote worker in 2025, comparing cost of living, internet speed, and overall lifestyle.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon remains one of the most popular destinations for remote workers. The city offers a unique combination of sunny weather, stunning architecture, and a vibrant digital nomad community. While prices have risen in recent years, Lisbon is still relatively affordable compared to major Western cities.
Cost of Living: Around 1,700 EUR/month for a single person
Internet Speed: Average 120 Mbps
Why it works: The Portuguese government offers a Digital Nomad Visa, and English is widely spoken. Co-working spaces are plentiful, and the food and coffee culture is top-notch.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is often overshadowed by Barcelona and Madrid, but it’s one of Spain’s most livable cities for remote workers. It boasts a high quality of life, affordable rent, and beautiful beaches.
Cost of Living: About 1,500 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Around 100 Mbps
Why it works: The new Digital Nomad Visa in Spain makes relocation easier. Plus, the city is walkable and has a relaxed vibe.
Tallinn, Estonia
If you’re tech-savvy and value digital infrastructure, Tallinn is hard to beat. Estonia was one of the first countries to launch a Digital Nomad Visa and their e-residency program is world-renowned.
Cost of Living: Roughly 1,300 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Extremely fast, averaging 200 Mbps
Why it works: A well-connected, digitally advanced city with a modern public transport system. English is widely spoken among the younger population.
Porto, Portugal
A quieter alternative to Lisbon, Porto offers scenic riverside views, great wine, and a slower pace of life. It’s ideal for remote workers who want the benefits of Portugal without the big-city pressure.
Cost of Living: Around 1,400 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Approx. 100 Mbps
Why it works: Cheaper housing than Lisbon and a cozy, welcoming environment.
Zagreb, Croatia
Croatia introduced a digital nomad visa in 2021 and has been growing in popularity among remote workers. Zagreb offers a mix of Central European and Mediterranean charm.
Cost of Living: About 1,200 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Around 75 Mbps
Why it works: Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and a growing tech scene.
Athens, Greece
Athens is steeped in history, but it’s also becoming a modern hub for creatives and remote professionals. The Greek government launched a Digital Nomad Visa, making it easier to stay long-term.
Cost of Living: About 1,300 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Around 90 Mbps
Why it works: Rich culture, delicious food, and low living costs. There’s also a large community of expats.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is an Eastern European gem that offers a high standard of living at a relatively low cost. The city is known for its architecture, thermal baths, and efficient metro system.
Cost of Living: Around 1,300 EUR/month
Internet Speed: Approx. 100 Mbps
Why it works: Great nightlife, solid public infrastructure, and easy access to other parts of Europe.
Key Considerations When Choosing a City
When selecting the best city for remote work, you’ll want to consider more than just internet speed and rental costs. Here are a few essential factors to keep in mind:
Time zone alignment with your company or clients
Local taxes and freelance-friendly regulations
Visa and healthcare access
Community of fellow remote workers or expats
Finding the Right Home Base for Your Work-Life Balance
Choosing the right city to work remotely from can transform your lifestyle and productivity. Whether you prioritize warm weather, low costs, fast internet, or access to cultural experiences, Europe has a destination that fits the bill.
Before making a move, do your due diligence: explore Facebook groups, check Airbnb prices, or even spend a week in the city to get a feel for the lifestyle. You can also find mid- to long-term accommodation options on platforms like Flatio or Nomad List which tailor listings specifically to remote workers.
Europe continues to lead the way for remote work in 2025. Whether you’re settling in for a few months or considering a longer stay, these cities offer the perfect balance of affordability, infrastructure, and lifestyle. Happy remote working!