7 Under-the-radar cities in Europe perfect for Digital Nomads

When we think about the best cities for digital nomads in Europe, the usual suspects come to mind – Lisbon, Barcelona, and Málaga. And with good reason! These places offer gorgeous weather, buzzing co-working spaces, and a thriving international community. But for those who want to stray off the beaten path, or who are looking for more budget-friendly and adventurous alternatives, Europe is teeming with hidden gems that are just as inviting for remote workers. From the mountains of the Balkans to the Black Sea coast and beyond, here are seven under-the-radar cities that are ideal for digital nomads looking for something a little different.

7 cities perfect for Digital Nomads

Tirana, Albania

Famous statue and flag in Tirana

Albania is fast becoming a digital nomad hotspot, and its capital, Tirana, has a magnetic charm that’s hard to ignore. The country’s digital nomad visa is one of the most accessible in Europe, with a low income requirement of just €1,000 per month and a stay of up to one year.

Tirana offers a lively café culture, plenty of co-working spaces, and a strong Wi-Fi network – all at a fraction of the cost of more well-known cities. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre for as little as €300, and a meal out at a local restaurant might only set you back €5-7. For downtime, Tirana is perfectly placed for exploring Albania’s stunning beaches, such as those along the Albanian Riviera, or its dramatic mountains.

Podgorica, Montenegro

River Moraca

Montenegro’s capital might not have the glamour of its coastal towns like Kotor or Budva, but Podgorica is steadily gaining traction with digital nomads. The government is working on a digital nomad visa that promises generous terms, including tax exemptions and long stays of up to four years.

With monthly costs averaging around €600 (excluding rent), Podgorica is great for budget-conscious nomads. The city is compact and easy to navigate, with cosy cafés and local restaurants where you can set up your laptop. The real perk? Montenegro’s breathtaking landscapes – mountains, beaches, and lakes – are all within a short drive.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn port

Estonia is already famous for being one of the most digitally advanced countries in the world, so it’s no surprise that Tallinn offers an excellent base for remote workers. The Digital Nomad Visa is a major draw (you can live there for up to one year with proof of a minimum monthly income of €3,504 gross), but the city itself has plenty to offer, from its enchanting medieval Old Town to its cutting-edge start-up scene.

While it’s pricier than other cities on this list, Tallinn delivers great value. Co-working spaces are plentiful, the Wi-Fi is lightning-fast, and the city has a creative energy that’s hard to resist. Plus, with Estonia’s progressive e-governance, you can handle most bureaucracy online – a massive plus for nomads.

Bilbao, Spain

The Guggenheim in Bilbao

Bilbao is an underrated Spanish gem. While many nomads flock to Barcelona or Madrid, Bilbao offers a quieter, more affordable alternative. Spain’s recent Digital Nomad Visa makes it even more attractive (allows stays for up to 3 years and requires a minimum monthly income of €2,334). The city is renowned for its world-class food scene, particularly its pintxos bars, as well as the striking Guggenheim Museum.

It’s smaller and less hectic than Spain’s larger cities, but Bilbao is still dynamic, with a growing creative and tech scene.  Average monthly costs of around €765 per month (excluding rent) and rent foere a 1-bed in the city centre is around €925 per month. What sets it apart is its access to nature – the Basque Country’s rugged coastline and lush hills are just a short train ride away, perfect for recharging between work calls.

Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia’s capital is sometimes overshadowed by its Adriatic coastline, but Zagreb has plenty to offer digital nomads. With a thriving café culture, charming streets, and affordable living (average living costs of around €750 + rent for 1-bed apartment at around €700 per month), it’s a great place to balance work and leisure. The city’s Digital Nomad Visa is straightforward to apply for, with a stay of up to one year (with a minimum monthly income of €2,300 + health insurance).

Zagreb has a youthful energy, thanks to its universities, and it’s full of co-working spaces, cultural events, and parks. If you’re keen on weekend trips, you can hop on a train or bus to Croatia’s coastal towns or the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)

Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, is perfect for digital nomads who crave an island lifestyle. Funchal, its capital, has become a hotspot for remote workers, especially since the launch of the island’s “Digital Nomad Village.” With mild weather year-round, stunning landscapes, and co-working spaces in idyllic settings, Funchal is an absolute dream.

The cost of living is very reasonable for Portugal (average living costs of €630 per month + rent of around €700 per month for a 1-bed), and its D7 Visa makes it easier for nomads to stay long-term. On your days off, you can explore Madeira’s famous levada walks, volcanic pools, or take a dolphin-spotting boat trip.

Tbilisi, Georgia

For digital nomads looking for an affordable and adventurous base, Tbilisi is unbeatable. Georgia’s “Remotely from Georgia” program allows nomads to stay for up to a year, with minimal red tape (you need to prove you have a minimum monthly income of $2,000). The city is rich in history and culture, with dramatic mountains on its doorstep.

Living costs are incredibly low, with average living costs of around €600 and rent of a 1-bed around €425 per month. And delicious meals costing as little as €7! The city’s café scene is booming, and co-working spaces like Fabrika – a trendy multi-use space in a converted Soviet sewing factory – are buzzing with creative energy. Tbilisi’s warm hospitality and relaxed pace of life make it easy to feel at home.

Travel essentials for Digital Nomads in Europe

Getting around these cities is generally straightforward. Most have reliable public transport systems, and taxis or ride-sharing apps are affordable. English is widely spoken in cities like Tallinn and Tbilisi, while in Tirana or Podgorica, you might need to pick up a few local phrases – but that’s part of the adventure!

For visas, it’s worth researching the specific requirements for each country as the devil is in the detail and also, things can change. Digital nomad visas vary in length, income requirements, and application processes, so plan ahead. Internet quality is excellent in most of these locations, but it’s always good to check with your accommodation about Wi-Fi speeds before you book long-term stays.

Where will you land?

These seven cities offer a fresh take on remote working in Europe, with all the charm of more famous destinations but without the high costs or over-tourism. Whether you’re after affordability, adventure, or something a little offbeat, these under-the-radar gems are perfect for starting your next chapter as a digital nomad. Happy exploring!