10 Best New Cities for Digital Nomads

In a world where good Wi-Fi is one of the most important checkpoints for travellers, the traditional digital nomad hotspots—think Bali, Chiang Mai, and Medellín—are evolving. These classics obviously still attract their fair share of remote workers, but several new cities are emerging as the go-to hubs for fresh perspectives on the digital nomad lifestyle. Here are ten new cities where digital nomads have been setting up shop.

1. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is an Eastern European city that is rising in popularity at a rapid pace. Not surprisingly so – it combines low living costs with great wine and an active expat community, as well as an overall good relationship between foreigners and locals. The city’s diverse architecture, café culture, and stunning mountainous backdrop make it an awesome destination for creative minds. Plus, Georgia has a visa-free policy for many nationalities, making everything so much easier! 

2. Da Nang, Vietnam

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are still digital nomad favourites, but Da Nang is catching up fast. Its beautiful beaches, laid-back vibe, and fast-growing tech scene provide a balanced mix of nature and modernity. The city’s newly opened co-working spaces and affordable accommodations make it an easy choice for remote workers. 

To learn more, make sure to check out our complete guide on Da Nang as a digital nomad destination.

3. Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia’s “e-residency” program has put Tallinn on the map as one of the most forward-thinking cities for digital nomads. It’s quite impressive how its mediaeval charm coexists with state-of-the-art tech infrastructure. It’s also one of the least crowded European capitals, making it ideal for focused work. 

While Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city is one of the most digitally advanced in Europe.

4. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Forget about Sofia—Plovdiv is the up-and-coming Bulgarian destination for digital nomads. It’s known as one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and has a fantastic art scene. Rent is a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe, and the city’s art festivals and cobblestone streets give it a unique flair!

5. Yerevan, Armenia

A fascinating mix of Soviet and Persian influences, with a rising digital nomad scene. The city’s affordable cost of living, coupled with Armenia’s history and warm local hospitality (as well as the new startup ecosystem!), makes it a lovely destination. 

6. Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia’s coastline gets all the attention, but the inland capital of Zagreb is an underrated gem for remote workers. It has a strong public infrastructure, a great café culture and strategic location, making it easy for you to explore the rest of Europe while based there.

Zagreb is home to the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships!

7. Belgrade, Serbia

Once considered a well-kept secret, Belgrade is now a dynamic, emerging city for digital nomads. It has a brilliant nightlife, affordable rents, and a good café scene. Its thriving tech industry and strong emphasis on arts and culture make it a cool place to work and enjoy life as a remote worker.

Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its fortress dates back to the 1st century AD!

8. Tirana, Albania

Tirana is Albania’s colourful, chaotic, and surprisingly affordable capital. The sunny weather and proximity to stunning nature—think Albanian Riviera—make it ideal for those looking for both calm and adventure.

9. Valletta, Malta

This Mediterranean micro-city is an often-overlooked haven for nomads (plus, most people speak at least some English!). It is, however, a bit pricier than some Eastern European alternatives (but there’s great tax incentives for foreign professionals). 

10. Penang, Malaysia

Its Malaysian counterparts Kuala Lumpur and Georgetown have been on the radar for a while, whereas Penang is only recently emerging. Known for its delicious street food and a burgeoning tech startup scene, Penang is a melting pot of culture & innovation. It’s more laid-back than KL, plus it’s a food lover’s paradise. Penang is sometimes called the “Silicon Valley of the East” due to its role as a tech manufacturing hub.

Whether you’re looking for a mediaeval city full of history or a coastal option with a modern twist, these ten cities are new and exciting alternatives as digital nomad hubs. They may not yet have the same reputation as some of the traditional favourites, but that’s exactly what makes them so special—discover them now, before everyone else does!

Starting from Skratch? Here are some links to help you get started:

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Margarita Pshenichnaya
October 11, 2024
posted in
TRAVEL TIPS

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