As remote work gains popularity, more and more people around the world are rightly looking to make the most of this flexibility by traveling more or even moving to a new place. As reported by WFH Research, 12.7% of Americans employed in full-time roles worked remotely as of 2023 – a statistic that is expected to increase to 22% by 2025, according to Upwork. Also in Italy, remote working increased and now the total number of agile workers reaches almost 3.6 million.
Here are the top 10 cities for digital nomads
Research indicates that the favorite destinations for digital nomads are mainly large cities, preferably surrounded by nature, with a vibrant cultural life, where the cost of living is low and obtaining a visa is easy.
Image by Antonel courtesy of Adobe Stock.
Image by anjali04 on Adobe Stock.
Image by structuresxx on Adobe Stock.
Image by CravenA on Adobe Stock.
Image by FiledIMAGE on Adobe Stock.
Image by Julio Ricco on Adobe Stock.
Image by Southtownboy Studio on Adobe Stock.
Image by jovannig on Adobe Stock.
Image by Nanci on Adobe Stock.
Image by Miguel Diaz Ojeda on Adobe Stock.
View Article details
- Lucia Brandoli
- 22 May 2024
With that in mind, digital nomad publication Freaking Nomads created an index of the best cities for digital nomads according to some relevant criteria, such as broadband and mobile speed, cost of living, rent, and other expenses, proximity to co-working spaces and accessibility to remote working visas. Only three European cities made it into the top ten, two of which are in the Canary Islands. Browse the gallery to find out which ones they are.
Coming out on top was Hoi An, Vietnam. A hidden gem on this country’s coast, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient city is home to well-preserved old buildings, colorful lanterns, and winding streets that create a magical atmosphere.
In second place was Delhi, India’s capital. Delhi is a dynamic melting pot of cultures that offers something for everyone – from its vast historical heritage to its characteristic markets, featuring crafts and foods from across the subcontinent. Delhi may not be the most beautiful city on the list, but it has one overwhelming advantage: it is very, very cheap. Unfortunately, it is also very, very polluted.
Ranking third was Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city. Known for its instantly recognizable skyline, Kuala Lumpur offers a friendly atmosphere that features traditional monuments and an impressive shopping scene.
Da Nang, Vietnam, followed in fourth. The city is popular for its dazzling coastlines and striking landscape beauty, with landmarks such as the Marble Mountains providing breathtaking views.
Completing the top five is Mumbai, the financial center of India and its most populous city, beloved for its expansive beaches, lively street markets, and delicious cuisine.
In sixth place is Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, famous for its culture, vibrant neighborhoods with a classic Latin American flavor, and – once again – its exquisite cuisine.
Seventh on the list is Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, a place with a dynamic atmosphere that uniquely blends modernity and tradition, home to magnificent temples, delicious street food, and vibrant street life.
In eighth place is Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, Spain. The cultural center of Tenerife boasts a mild climate due to its latitude and relaxed atmosphere. Santa Cruz is particularly known for its carnival, featuring colorful parades, music, dancing, and costumes.
Ninth on the list is Bucharest, the capital of Romania. An artistic hub that has much to offer, with elaborate and diverse architecture and a lively cultural scene, from cinema to art to literature.
Rounding out the top ten is Las Palmas, on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain. Las Palmas boasts beautiful beaches, lovely weather, and cultural attractions, such as the historic district of Vegueta.