Craving a morning meeting with a view of the Alps or want to explore the beauty of Bavaria once you’ve logged off? Well, it’s an exciting time for nomadic work as it’s become a big trend in recent years. With the help of the latest technology and a trusty Wi-Fi connection, a digital nomad lifestyle is possible almost anywhere.
So, we’re here to give you some useful tips on looking for finding the optimal place to work and visiting the best places to visit in Europe. Learn more about the possibilities of nomad work to inspire your next adventure with P&O.
Tips for Nomad Work
Being able to work from anywhere in the world is life-changing – you get to design your lifestyle on your terms whilst feeling inspired and refreshed by new atmospheres and cultures.
But before you set off to find your new work environment, here are some top tips for working as a nomad:
- Do your research on the destination beforehand
- Explore suitable accommodation options
- Join and connect with locals
- Find an area with accessible co-working spaces
- Plan your time wisely
- Explore transportation and accessibility options
- Research leisure activities for downtime
Top Destinations That Are Great for Nomadic Working
Thanks to the latest technology and Wi-Fi connectivity, most nomadic work can be done from pretty much anywhere. Remember that your ideal destination will differ based on your preferences and the nature of your work.
Europe is full of digital nomad-friendly countries with some of the best cities in Europe to visit. You’ll be sure to find a destination that offers a great working environment and plenty to do in your free time!
Scotland
Scotland is one of the best places to live in Europe for English speakers. Edinburgh and Glasgow are two of Scotland’s most accommodating cities for a digital nomad lifestyle. If you’re doing outdoors nomadic work you’ll be impressed and inspired by the vast glens and picturesque landscapes, not to mention the region’s rich history.
- Accommodation: From shared houses to one-bedroom apartments, there are plenty of accommodation options in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
- Internet Speed: The average internet speed in Scotland is 43.6Mbps – ideal for most people’s work needs. Edinburgh’s Hyperoptic internet provider is the fastest in the region, with an average speed of 146 Mbps.
- Transport Links: Whilst many things in Glasgow and Edinburgh usually are at walkable distance, the region also offers a range of public transport options – from single bus tickets costing just £1.80 to a subway ticket of around £1.55.
- Weather: Scottish weather isn’t every nomad’s cup of tea. So, it may not be for you if you’re after clear sunny skies and warmer temperatures. But if you’re seeking cooler weather and spontaneous spells of rain, then Scotland is your best bet!
- Social Life: Scotland is full of great day-to-night social spots. From making friends at a local Sunday brunch club to grabbing a pint at one of the best pubs in town, it comes as no surprise that Glasgow has been voted the friendliest city in the world.
- Digital Nomad Facilities and Community: Edinburgh and Glasgow are Scotland’s most popular digital nomad destinations. With an array of digital nomad coworking spaces such as Tribe Porty in Edinburgh to Glasgow Collective, you’ll find fixed desk spaces, private office space, studios and communal areas to work in.
Overall Score: 8/10
Switzerland
Digital nomads in Switzerland tend to seek the suburbs, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This makes Switzerland’s southern city of Lugano perfect for nomads travelling through Europe by car or driving through Switzerland and looking for a refreshing atmosphere with breathtaking views.
- Accommodation: Lugano is full of unique regional hotels if your nomadic work will just be a short stay. Alternatively, several Airbnb apartments are available with stunning mountainous views.
- Internet Speed: The average internet speed in Lugano is 29 Mpbs.
- Transport links: While you can get around by walking or biking for short distances, Lugano offers public transportation for long-distance travel. Its public transport network includes buses, trains, bicycles, and Uber to help you get around the city.
- Weather: It’s generally quite warm in summer in Lugano, with temperatures getting up to 30 degrees and as low as 4 degrees in winter. If you stick around until November, you may even catch the occasional snowfall to top off your mountainous nomadic experience.
- Social Life: Lugano is an extremely safe place for digital nomads to work, especially on their own. It’s heaven for those who love outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. Unlike a big city, this location is best for those who seek a solo adventure in a new environment.
- Digital nomad facilities and community: Various places in Lugano offer coworking environments, including several Regus workspace rentals across the region.
Overall score: 7/10
Poland
Poland is one of the best countries for digital nomads on a budget. With enough to keep you busy when you’re not working but with a serene atmosphere to help you focus on your work, Krakow in Poland is the perfect location for a digital nomad in Europe.
- Accommodation: Krakow has a range of affordable accommodation options for nomads on a budget, from Airbnb to shared flats, be sure to find suitable accommodation for a low price.
- Internet Speed: The internet speed in Krakow is generally quite fast, with an average of 40 Mbps.
- Transport links: Krakow is a small city which makes most places a walkable distance. Otherwise, the region has an excellent public transport system with buses and trams with a minimum fare of £1.20.
- Weather: The weather in Krakow is mild and comfortable, with an average of 22 Celsius in the summer months. However, it can get quite chilly in the winter, down to -4 degrees!
- Social Life: Life in Krakow is cheerful and safe, with a rich history and places to visit, from castles and museums to the best restaurants and bars; you’ll have plenty to do when you’re not working.
- Digital nomad facilities and community: Coworking spaces for a digital nomad in Poland include libraries and cafes with free Wi-Fi and designated coworking spaces like Yolk.
Overall score: 7/10
Portugal
The Portuguese capital, Lisbon, is a popular choice for the digital nomad lifestyle, thanks to its affordable and versatile working and living conditions.
- Accommodation: Most Portugal digital nomads opt for rental apartments or co-living options as these are among the most affordable in the city. And if you wish to travel with pets, Lisbon is one of the most pet-friendly locations in Europe.
- Internet Speed: The average internet speed in Lisbon is good at around 20.8 Mbps
- Transport links: though walking can be fun in Lisbon, its paths are pretty hilly for long distances. The capital offers an excellent public tram service to get you around the city with ease, with a single ticket costing just £1 each way.
- Weather: Enjoy warm weather throughout most of the year in Lisbon, from highs of about 30 degrees in summer to the lowest of 12 degrees in wintertime.
- Social Life: Meetups are common in Lisbon; almost all co-working and co-living spaces arrange regular meetups, so you can be sure to have a blast with good company.
- Digital nomad facilities and community: Lisbon is well known for its broad offering of coworking spaces, including comfy spaces such as Cowork Central, Outsite and Second Home.
Overall Score: 8/10
Hungary
Vibrant Hungary is our next pick for the best cities for digital nomads; with its rich culture, happening nightlife and ease of living, Budapest, the capital, is undoubtedly an excellent nomadic stop!
- Accommodation: Budapest has a range of affordable short-term and long-term accommodation options, from stunning hotels to cosy rental apartments across the city
- Internet Speed: The average speed of internet in Budapest is around 38 Mbps
- Transport links: While exploring the city on foot is a great experience, all Budapest Card holders can travel for free within the city limits on more than 200 buses, 32 trams, 15 trolleys and 4 metro lines, on the HÉV Suburban Railway and with boats.
- Weather: Budapest is warm most of the year with an average of 25-27 degrees; the winter, however, can get a little chilly, especially at night!
- Social Life: Budapest has so much to offer when it comes to social life, from relaxing in its thermal spas to exploring the stunning architecture, meeting friendly locals and enjoying the city once you’ve logged off!
- Digital nomad facilities and community: With a wide range of spacious and stylish co-working spaces such as Impact Hub, Kubik, and Urban Lobby, it’s safe to say Budapest offers the best places for digital nomads to work.
Overall Score: 9/10
