Top Remote Work Destinations Around the World

Imagine swapping your grey office cubicle for a sunlit balcony in Lisbon or a breezy co-working café in Bali. These days, work doesn’t have to tie you to one location—and for a growing tribe of digital nomads, the world is one big (Wi-Fi connected) playground.

Whether you're freelancing, remote working full-time, or building your own online business, there's never been a better time to pack up your laptop and chase the kind of lifestyle that fits your vibe. From vibrant cities buzzing with entrepreneurial energy to laid-back beach towns where flip-flops are part of the uniform, the options are endless.

But not all destinations are created equal. A good remote work base needs more than palm trees and good coffee. Think reliable internet, affordable living costs, co-working culture, visa flexibility, and a solid community of like-minded nomads.

In this guide, we're rounding up eight of the top remote work destinations around the world—places that tick all the right boxes, whether you're a first-time remote worker or a seasoned digital drifter. We've got a mix of city life, beach escapes, and cultural gems across different continents, so there's something for every working style and time zone preference.

Ready to work smarter, not harder—and maybe even from a hammock? Let’s dive in.

Lisbon, Portugal

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Lisbon is the cool kid of Europe’s remote work scene—and for good reason. It blends old-world charm with a modern, creative energy. The city is full of pastel buildings, cobbled streets, and golden-hour viewpoints, but also buzzing with co-working spaces, tech startups, and a thriving international community. English is widely spoken, the food is delicious, and there’s something incredibly motivating about working with a view of the Atlantic.

Cost of Living

Lisbon isn’t Southeast Asia-cheap, but it’s still affordable by Western European standards. A digital nomad can expect to spend around €1,500–€2,200 per month, depending on lifestyle. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically starts from €900/month, but deals can be found in suburbs or through coliving options.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Lisbon’s internet is fast and reliable (average speeds of 90–120 Mbps), and the city is filled with laptop-friendly cafés and co-working spaces. Top picks include Outsite Lisbon, Avila Spaces, and Second Home—the latter inside a greenhouse-filled library.

Visa Options

Portugal offers a Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2022, allowing remote workers to stay for up to one year, renewable. You’ll need to prove a monthly income of around €3,280 and have employment or freelance contracts outside of Portugal. Alternatively, Schengen tourists can stay up to 90 days without a visa.

Weather & Seasonality

Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate with around 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers (June–August) are hot and dry, perfect for beach trips, but can get crowded. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal—pleasantly warm with fewer tourists. Winters are mild, though a bit rainier from November to February.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Selina Secret Garden – Stylish coliving with a rooftop pool and built-in coworking space.

• Outsite Lisbon – Popular with remote professionals, offering comfy rooms and great networking.

• Second Home Lisbon – A lush, plant-filled coworking oasis inside the Time Out Market.

• Hello, Kristof – Trendy café with strong coffee, strong Wi-Fi, and creative vibes.

Quick Tips

• Best time to go: March–June or September–October (sunny but fewer tourists).

• Join nomad meetups in LX Factory or Remote Lisbon groups on Meetup.

• Bring walking shoes—those hills are no joke.

Try before you buy: Check out our post on 48 hours in Lisbon.

Lisbon, Portugal.

Bali, Indonesia

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Bali has long been the poster child for the digital nomad lifestyle—and it still delivers. Whether you prefer beach vibes in Canggu or the jungle calm of Ubud, Bali combines beauty, culture, and a well-established nomad infrastructure. It’s a place where you can start your morning with yoga, spend the day working from a breezy coworking café, and end it with a sunset surf or smoothie bowl.

The island also offers a deep sense of community. With a massive remote worker presence, you’ll find everything from startup networking events to breathwork retreats. There’s an inspiring balance here between productivity and personal growth.

Cost of Living

Bali is famously budget-friendly. A comfortable digital nomad lifestyle in Canggu or Ubud typically costs around $1,000–$1,800 per month, depending on your accommodation and activities. Private villas or guesthouses can range from $400–$900/month, and you’ll eat well on just a few dollars a meal.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Bali’s internet has improved massively, especially in areas popular with remote workers. Most coworking spaces offer speeds upwards of 50–100 Mbps, and cafés in Canggu and Ubud are designed for the laptop crowd. Power outages can happen in more rural areas, so it’s wise to have a backup data plan.

Visa Options

Indonesia offers a Tourist Visa on arrival (valid for 30 days and extendable to 60), but many digital nomads opt for the B211A Business Visa or newer Second Home Visa (launched in 2023 for long-term remote workers and retirees). The rules do change often, so it’s best to work with a visa agent or stay updated via official channels.

Weather & Seasonality

Bali has two main seasons: dry (April to October) and wet (November to March). Most nomads prefer the dry season when the days are sunny, the roads are more scooter-friendly, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The wet season can still be beautiful—just be prepared for daily tropical downpours.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Dojo Bali (Canggu) – The OG of Bali coworking, with a great social vibe and 24/7 access.

• BWork (Canggu) – Sleek, modern, and packed with digital nomads.

• Outpost (Ubud & Canggu) – Flexible plans, strong community, and excellent locations.

• Tribal Bali – A café-coworking hybrid that attracts creatives and freelancers alike.

• Coliving options: Outpost Coliving, Roam Ubud, and Hub Bali.

Quick Tips

• Getting around is easiest by scooter—rent one with a helmet and international licence.

• Join Facebook groups like “Canggu Community” or “Ubud Digital Nomads” to connect with others.

• Always have a local SIM (like Telkomsel or XL) as a backup hotspot.

Bali, Indonesia.

Mexico City, Mexico

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Mexico City (CDMX) is a fast-rising favourite among digital nomads—and for good reason. It’s vibrant, energetic, and overflowing with culture, history, and yes—really, really good food. You’ll find colourful neighbourhoods, leafy parks, world-class museums, and a growing creative and tech scene.

The digital nomad community here is thriving, especially in areas like Roma Norte and Condesa, where you'll spot laptops out at every café. Add in the time zone alignment with the US, affordable living costs, and excellent flight connections, and CDMX becomes a smart and inspiring place to live and work remotely.

Cost of Living

Mexico City offers great value for money. A solid digital nomad lifestyle costs between $1,200–$2,000 per month, depending on your housing and lifestyle. Rent in popular neighbourhoods like Roma or Condesa ranges from $600–$1,200/month for a furnished one-bedroom or studio.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

CDMX has good internet infrastructure in the central areas, with average speeds around 40–100 Mbps. You’ll find plenty of coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafés with reliable Wi-Fi. Electricity and internet are generally stable, and mobile hotspots (using Telcel or AT&T) are great backups.

Visa Options

Visitors from most countries can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days visa-free, making it one of the most flexible destinations for remote work. There’s also a Temporary Resident Visa for those who want to stay longer, usually granted for up to one year and renewable. Proof of income is required.

Weather & Seasonality

Thanks to its high elevation, Mexico City has a mild, spring-like climate year-round. Expect warm days and cool evenings, with rainy afternoons during the wet season (June–September). The best months are typically October through May, when it's dry and sunny.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Homework – Sleek, modern coworking in Roma with fast Wi-Fi and coffee on tap.

• Selina Mexico City Downtown – Coliving with coworking, rooftop views, and regular events.

• Casa Co– Coworking in a beautifully restored house with community vibes.

• Centraal – A long-time local favourite with a creative and entrepreneurial crowd.

• For coliving: Outsite CDMX and Airbnb long-term rentals are popular choices.

Quick Tips

• Stick to neighbourhoods like Condesa, Roma, and Polanco for walkability and safety.

• Use Uber or Didi to get around—safe, easy, and affordable.

• Try to learn a bit of Spanish—it goes a long way here, even in digital nomad circles.

Mexico City, Mexico.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Chiang Mai has become a digital nomad hotspot for good reason—it’s affordable, welcoming, and full of opportunities for both work and play. Surrounded by lush mountains and rich culture, this charming city offers a laid-back atmosphere while providing all the amenities remote workers need. The city is home to a thriving community of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and creatives, with plenty of coworking spaces, coffee shops, and events to network and collaborate.

Whether you’re working on a project in the morning or exploring temples in the afternoon, Chiang Mai offers an excellent balance between productivity and leisure.

Cost of Living

Chiang Mai is one of the most affordable digital nomad destinations in the world. A comfortable lifestyle here can cost between $800–$1,500 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment or private house typically ranges from $250–$700/month. Food is incredibly cheap, with delicious street food available for just a couple of dollars.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Chiang Mai offers good, stable internet with speeds averaging 30–50 Mbps in most cafes and coworking spaces. Popular coworking spots include Punspace, The Work Loft, and MAYA. Internet is reliable overall, but rural areas can experience the occasional power or Wi-Fi outage, so it’s always good to have a backup option like a local SIM card.

Visa Options

The most common option is the Tourist Visa, which allows you to stay for 60 days and is extendable by another 30 days. For longer stays, there are options like the Education Visa (for those taking Thai language or other courses), or the Thai Elite Visa for long-term stays (1–5 years). Be sure to check with the Thai embassy for the latest visa rules, as they can change frequently.

Weather & Seasonality

Chiang Mai has a tropical climate with three main seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The cool season (November–February) is the most popular for nomads, with mild temperatures and less rain. The hot season (March–May) can be very hot, with temperatures reaching above 40°C (104°F). The rainy season (June–October) brings heavy downpours but cooler temps.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Punspace – One of the best-known coworking spaces with multiple locations in the city.

• MAYA – A stylish coworking space that also offers event spaces for workshops and meetups.

• The Work Loft – Ideal for those who like a quieter, more productive environment.

• The Hive Chiang Mai – A great option for both coworking and social events.

• For coliving, Outsite Chiang Mai and Chiang Mai Coliving are popular choices for longer stays.

Quick Tips

• Chiang Mai has a fantastic community of digital nomads—join local Facebook groups to meet up and share tips.

• Scooters are the best way to get around, but make sure you have an international driving permit.

• Don’t miss the night markets—great for local food and souvenirs.

Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Barcelona, Spain

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Barcelona offers the full package for remote workers: a Mediterranean climate, beach access, world-class architecture, a buzzing tech/startup scene, and a lively international vibe. It’s a city where you can wrap up your Zoom calls and be sipping vermouth by the sea 15 minutes later. English is widely spoken in digital circles, and the infrastructure for remote workers has steadily grown.

The lifestyle here leans social and outdoorsy, with parks, seaside promenades, and a vibrant café culture. If you like your workdays with a side of sunshine, art, and tapas—Barcelona delivers.

Cost of Living

Barcelona is more affordable than other major Western European hubs like Paris or London, but still on the higher end by Spanish standards. Expect to spend between €1,800–€2,500 per month as a digital nomad. Rent in central neighbourhoods like Gràcia, El Born or Eixample typically ranges from €900–€1,400/month.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

The city has solid internet, with speeds typically between 100–300 Mbps in most residential areas and co-working spaces. There’s a well-established co-working scene, and the café culture is strong, although some spots can frown on laptops during peak hours. Backup SIMs from providers like Orange or Vodafone are easy to set up and affordable.

Visa Options

Spain launched its Digital Nomad Visa in 2023, allowing non-EU remote workers to live and work from Spain for up to 12 months, extendable up to five years. You’ll need to demonstrate a steady income from clients or employers outside of Spain (around €2,300/month) and provide proof of health insurance and background checks. Schengen rules still allow 90-day stays visa-free for many nationalities.

Weather & Seasonality

Barcelona has a classic Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best months to stay are April–June and September–November, when the weather is warm but the crowds are lighter. July and August are high tourist season and can be humid and busy.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Aticco – A top-rated coworking brand with multiple stylish locations across the city.

• MOB (Makers of Barcelona) – A creative, community-driven space great for networking.

• Betahaus – A long-time favourite with modern facilities and a dynamic vibe.

• OneCoWork – Sleek, design-focused coworking with sea views at the Marina.

• For coliving, try Nine Coliving, Outsite Barcelona, or check Spotahome for mid-term rentals.

Quick Tips

• Barcelona is walkable, but bikes and e-scooters are popular ways to get around.

• Watch out for pickpocketing in tourist areas—stay aware, especially with tech gear.

• Learn a few words of Catalan if you want to earn bonus points with locals.

Barcelona, Spain.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Buenos Aires blends Latin flair with a European feel, making it one of South America's most unique capitals. It’s creative, cosmopolitan, and surprisingly affordable—especially for remote workers earning in stronger currencies. Known for its vibrant arts scene, buzzing nightlife, and café culture, BA is also home to a growing number of freelancers, developers, and entrepreneurs.

The time zone (similar to the US East Coast) makes it convenient for remote work, and the city’s passionate, expressive energy adds inspiration to the everyday.

Cost of Living

Thanks to Argentina’s currency fluctuations, the cost of living in Buenos Aires can be very attractive for foreigners. Digital nomads typically spend around $1,000–$1,800 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in neighbourhoods like Palermo or Recoleta ranges from $400–$900/month, and meals out are both affordable and generous.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Most parts of the city offer reliable internet, with average speeds of 30–80 Mbps. That said, speeds can vary depending on your accommodation, so it's worth checking before booking. Coworking spaces are growing steadily, and cafés are generally remote-worker friendly—especially in Palermo, Villa Crespo, and San Telmo.

Visa Options

Most visitors can stay in Argentina visa-free for 90 days, with the possibility of extending it once. There's no official digital nomad visa (yet), but in 2022, Argentina announced plans to launch one aimed at remote workers—so keep an eye on updates. For longer stays, some nomads do a “visa hop” to Uruguay or Chile.

Weather & Seasonality

Being in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are flipped. Spring (September–November) and autumn (March–May) are ideal for weather and city life. Summers (December–February) can be hot and humid, while winters are mild but grey.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• La Maquinita – A coworking network with cool, creative spaces across the city.

• AreaTres – Stylish coworking in Palermo Soho with regular community events.

• Urban Station – One of the first flexible office spaces in the city, with multiple branches.

• Selina Palermo – A popular coliving and coworking combo in the heart of the city’s trendiest neighbourhood.

• Also check Airbnb and Nomad Stays for longer rentals in safe, nomad-friendly areas.

Quick Tips

• Palermo is the go-to neighbourhood for nomads—safe, leafy, and full of coworking spots.

• Exchange money through blue rate methods or Western Union for better value.

• Learn a bit of Spanish (or Porteño slang)—locals love it when you try.

Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Tallinn, Estonia

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Small but mighty, Tallinn has quickly become a remote work favourite thanks to its digital-first mindset, clean design, and medieval-meets-modern charm. Estonia was one of the first countries to offer a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, and the entire nation runs on smart infrastructure—you can do almost everything online, from signing contracts to registering for services.

Tallinn is ideal for remote workers who want strong tech infrastructure, peaceful surroundings, and a base in northern Europe with easy travel links. The vibe is laid-back but efficient, and the city’s mix of cobblestone old town and sleek coworking hubs makes it both beautiful and functional.

Cost of Living

Compared to Western Europe, Tallinn offers decent value, though it’s not as cheap as Southern or Eastern Europe. Expect to spend between €1,400–€2,000 per month. Rent for a one-bedroom flat in central neighbourhoods ranges from €600–€1,000/month, and eating out is reasonable, though cooking at home will save more.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Tallinn boasts some of the fastest and most reliable internet in the world, with speeds often exceeding 100–300 Mbps. Cafés are laptop-friendly and coworking spaces are well-equipped, with a strong digital entrepreneur and startup scene to plug into. Estonia’s e-Residency programme also makes it easy to set up a business remotely.

Visa Options

Estonia launched one of the first official Digital Nomad Visas in 2020, allowing remote workers to stay for up to 12 months. You’ll need to show a monthly income of around €3,500 and proof that your work is location-independent. EU/EEA citizens can live and work in Estonia without a visa.

Weather & Seasonality

Estonia has a northern European climate with cold winters and mild, pleasant summers. The best time to stay is between May and September, when temperatures are warmer, days are long, and the city feels alive. Winter can be beautiful but very cold, with limited daylight.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• LIFT99 – A top coworking hub for tech founders and digital creatives.

• Spring Hub – Spacious, professional coworking with strong community links.

• Workland – Multiple coworking spaces across the city with modern amenities.

• Telliskivi Creative City – A cultural hotspot full of cafés, studios, and remote-friendly workspaces.

• For coliving: Try Bob W or long-stay Airbnb rentals in Kalamaja or Kristiine.

Quick Tips

• The Tallinn Card is great for public transport and museum access if you're exploring.

• The city is very walkable and well-connected by trams and buses.

• Bring layers—even in summer, evenings can get chilly.

Tallinn, Estonia.

Cape Town, South Africa

Why It’s Great for Digital Nomads

Cape Town combines stunning natural beauty with big-city perks. Imagine working from a seaside café in the morning, hiking Table Mountain in the afternoon, and sipping local wine by sunset. With its strong creative scene, friendly locals, and growing remote work infrastructure, Cape Town is a favourite for digital nomads seeking a balance of adventure, affordability, and lifestyle.

While the time zone is especially convenient for Europeans, the city is increasingly popular with remote workers from all over the world. There's a growing coworking scene and a solid community vibe, especially in areas like Gardens, Sea Point, and Observatory.

Cost of Living

Cape Town offers excellent value, especially for travellers earning in USD, GBP, or EUR. A comfortable digital nomad lifestyle costs between $1,200–$2,000 per month. One-bedroom apartments in central areas range from $500–$900/month, and food, transport, and activities are all budget-friendly.

Internet & Work Infrastructure

Internet in Cape Town is improving quickly. Coworking spaces and cafés typically offer speeds of 20–100 Mbps, and fibre is becoming more widely available in apartments. Load shedding (planned power cuts) is still a reality, so having a power bank or choosing accommodation with backup power is a smart move.

Coworking spaces are growing in popularity and many have invested in battery backups and generators to stay connected during outages.

Visa Options

South Africa currently allows 90-day tourist stays for many nationalities. While there’s no official digital nomad visa (yet), the government has announced plans to introduce one. For longer stays, some remote workers apply for volunteer or business visas, though requirements can be complex.

Weather & Seasonality

Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers (November to March) and cooler, wetter winters (June to August). The best time for digital nomads is October to April, when the city comes alive with festivals, markets, and outdoor events.

Coliving & Coworking Recommendations

• Workshop17 – Upscale coworking with multiple locations and great networking events.

• Ideas Cartel – Beautifully designed coworking and coliving spaces in the heart of the city.

• Cape Town Office – A laid-back, social space popular with creatives and tech professionals.

• CoworkingCPT – A smaller, community-oriented space with affordable rates.

• Coliving options: Try Neighbourgood, Cartel House, or Outsite Cape Town.

Quick Tips

• Load shedding is real—check the EskomSePush app to track power cuts.

• Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber for safe and affordable transport.

• Join “Cape Town Digital Nomads” groups on Facebook or Meetup to connect with others.

Discover Cape Town’s thriving food scene.

Cape Town, South Africa.

Honourable Mentions

Not every great digital nomad city made our final eight, but these spots are absolutely worth considering. Whether you're looking for hidden gems or cities that are rising fast in the remote work world, here are a few more destinations to keep on your radar:

• Medellín, Colombia – A perennial favourite in South America with great weather, affordable living, and a strong expat scene.

• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Energetic, fast-paced, and brimming with co-working spaces and entrepreneurial buzz.

• Valencia, Spain – A Mediterranean alternative to Barcelona with beach access, lower costs, and a relaxed pace of life.

• Tbilisi, Georgia – Incredibly welcoming, low cost of living, and offers a one-year visa-free stay for many nationalities.

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Modern, multicultural, and well-connected with great infrastructure for long-term stays.

• Prague, Czech Republic – Beautiful, central, and ideal for nomads wanting a historic yet modern European base.

• Budapest, Hungary – Great mix of affordability, culture, nightlife, and a growing coworking scene.

• Helsinki, Finland – For those craving cool Nordic design and smart city living (plus top-tier internet and safety).

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

How to Choose the Right Destination for You

Not every destination suits every remote worker. Here’s what to think about before deciding where to unpack your laptop:

• Time Zones: Choose a city that matches or overlaps with your employer or clients' work hours—unless you're okay working odd shifts.

• Internet Speed: Prioritise places with fast, stable Wi-Fi and good mobile data coverage—essential for Zoom calls and cloud work.

• Cost of Living: Make sure the local costs fit your budget. Some places are super affordable, others can eat through your savings fast.

• Visa Rules: Check how long you can stay legally and whether a digital nomad visa or long-term tourist visa is available.

• Lifestyle Match: Pick a place that aligns with your pace—beachy and laid-back, or buzzing with city life and culture.

• Safety & Comfort: Look into personal safety, healthcare quality, and how easy it is to get around on your own.

• Community: A good nomad scene makes a huge difference. Look for coworking spaces, meetups, and active expat groups.

Remote work has opened up the world in a way that few could’ve imagined a decade ago. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in Bali, tapping away in a Lisbon café, or exploring the streets of Mexico City between meetings, the digital nomad lifestyle is all about freedom—and finding the right balance between work, play, and personal growth.

The best destination isn’t just about Wi-Fi speeds or cost of living (though those matter!). It’s about where you feel energised, inspired, and connected—both to your work and the world around you.

So whether you’re planning your first remote adventure or looking to switch up your current base, use this guide as a launchpad. The perfect city is out there waiting—and it might just surprise you.

See you out there, laptop in hand. 🌍