People who work remotely from different parts of the world are choosing Lisbon because of its warm weather, beautiful streets, and affordable living costs compared to other big European cities.
Why Lisbon?
Lisbon is a lively city with a mix of old and new. It has historic buildings, modern shops, and a friendly atmosphere. The city is known for its hills, so be ready for lots of walking! It is also close to beaches, making it a great place to relax after work.
Finding a Place to Stay
There are many options for accommodation in Lisbon. Some people prefer hotels or apartment-hotels, which offer safety and extra services like a gym, pool, and co-working spaces. Others rent apartments or stay in co-living spaces where they can meet other digital nomads.
However, housing prices in Lisbon have gone up because more foreigners are moving there. Some locals are struggling to afford homes in their own city. If you want to be mindful of this, choosing an apartment-hotel instead of Airbnb can be a better option.
Cost of Living
Living in Lisbon is cheaper than in cities like London, Paris, or Amsterdam. You can expect to spend around €1,500–€2,000 per month if you rent an apartment, pay for utilities, buy groceries, and eat out sometimes.
Here’s an idea of basic monthly expenses:
- Rent: €922–€1,334 (depending on the area)
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): Around €134
- Groceries: €200–€340
- Public transport pass: €40
- Entertainment (movies, dining out): €50
- Sports and leisure: €40
Eating out is quite affordable. You can get an espresso for €1, a pastry for €2, and a full meal with a drink for under €15.
Working in Lisbon
Lisbon is great for remote work because of its fast internet and many co-working spaces. If you prefer to work from cafés, there are lots of great spots with WiFi where you can sit with your laptop. Some favorites include:
- Fabrica Coffee Roasters – A good spot with both indoor and outdoor seating.
- Dear Breakfast – A bright, comfortable place with good food and coffee.
- Copenhagen Coffee Lab – A popular café with great baked goods and drinks.
For those who like a dedicated workspace, Lisbon has many co-working offices, such as:
- Heden – Offers flexible workspaces in multiple locations.
- Outside Cowork Café – A cozy spot with free coffee.
- Avila Spaces – Has private offices and meeting rooms.
There are also networking events and social groups where digital nomads can meet new people.
Getting Around
Lisbon has good public transportation. A metro, tram, and bus ride costs €1.80 per trip, and a monthly travel pass is €40. The famous yellow trams help people get up the steep hills, but walking is still the best way to explore the city. Taxis, Uber, and Bolt rides are also available and cheaper than in many other European cities.
Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
Lisbon has many great neighborhoods, each with a different feel. According to the travel blog Adventourely:
- Baixa – Central and busy, great for those who like city life.
- Alfama – The oldest part of Lisbon with narrow streets and lots of charm.
- Príncipe Real – Stylish and upscale, with boutiques and cafés.
- Belém – A quieter area with famous landmarks.
- Parque das Nações – A modern neighborhood with wide streets and fewer tourists.
- Cascais – A beachside town near Lisbon, great for those who love the ocean.
Digital Nomad Visa
If you’re from the EU, you don’t need a visa to live and work in Lisbon. But if you’re from outside the EU, you may need a Digital Nomad Visa. To qualify, you must earn at least €3,280 per month. This visa lets you stay for one year, or you can apply for a Residency Visa, which lasts up to five years.
Fun Things to Do in Lisbon
Lisbon is full of interesting places to explore. Some must-visit spots include:
- Bairro Alto – A lively area with bars and street music.
- Time Out Market – A food hall with many delicious Portuguese dishes.
- LX Factory – A trendy area with art, shops, and restaurants.
- Sintra – A beautiful town with castles and palaces, just a short trip from Lisbon.
- Cascais – A beach town with great views and seafood.
For adventure lovers, Lisbon offers surfing, paragliding, hot air balloon rides, and sailing trips.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is one of the best cities in Europe for digital nomads. It offers good weather, a lower cost of living, reliable internet, and many places to work. Plus, with its friendly community and rich culture, it’s easy to meet people and feel at home.
Whether you stay for a few months or make it your long-term base, Lisbon has something for everyone.