Remote workers from all over the world have been flocking to Portugal this year, for good reason. The country offers warm weather all year round, tasty cuisine, and a relatively low cost of living (between $1,000 – $1,500 / month). Portugal ranks in the top 20 countries with the fastest wifi, making it a perfect destination for working online. Residents of the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia can stay without a visa for up to 90 days within 6 months. And they offer a renewable Temporary Stay Visa for digital workers which lasts up to one year. With all of this good news, the only question left to ask is “Where do you want to stay?”
Lisbon
The digital nomad hotspot of 2021, Lisbon seems to be on the top of everyone’s list this year, and it’s no wonder why. The big city is jam-packed with culture, scenery, and some of the best nightlife in Portugal. The ultra-high-speed internet around the city makes it easy to work remotely, and the nomadic community is very welcoming. To stay connected, search for the expat group on Facebook to join one of the weekly meetups.
Best Coworking Spaces: Heden, Outsite, & WorkHub
Porto
The second-largest city in Portugal – Porto – has a small but steadily growing nomad community. The small city is located on the stunning Ribeira riverside and is lined with baroque churches. Although the Northern winters can be chilly, they are a great excuse to warm up with a glass of the famous port wine which is named after the city.
Best Coworking Spaces: OPO Lab & Porto i/o
Braga
If you want to escape the distractions of Lisbon’s nightlife but still want the comforts of city life, Braga is the place to be. North of Porto, the city is full of historic castles and cathedrals. It is a quiet city and a great home base for adventurers. You can easily take a day trip to the beach, Peneda-Gerês National Park, or slip across the border into Spain.
Best Coworking Spaces: Regus & Factory Braga
Madeira
Madeira Island gained a lot of attention this year for its “Digital nomad village”, the tiny town of Ponta do Sol. The village claims to foster deeper connections between its close-knit community of expats. The breath-taking village faces out onto the blue sea, and if that wasn’t enough they offer a free co-working space with workshops and fitness classes. The only drawback appears to be the fierce competition to find a spot in the community, so if you’re interested better sign up now to join the island-wide Slack community.
Best Coworking Space: Centro Cultural John dos Passos
Aveiro
If you’re looking for something truly unique, the sleepy city of Aveiro is a sight worth seeing. Known as “the Portuguese Venice”, it is located on the Ria de Aveiro lagoon and the city’s canals are filled with Colorful Moliceiro boats similar to Venetian gondolas. This city is the perfect place for artists, photographers, and influencers with its quirky art-nouveau houses and glittering canals.
Best Coworking space: Fusion Cowork
Peniche
Peniche is a surfers paradise, this secluded spot is well known for having some of the best waves in all of Europe. Although the digital nomad community here is small, remote workers can come together in the coliving space Surfers Lodge Peniche. Even if you don’t know how to surf, the laid-back vibe of this surf town is a great reason to stay. And you might just learn a thing or two!
Best Coworking Space: Largo Space
Lagos
One of the newest popular locations for digital nomads, Lagos boasts an incredible 300 days of sunshine every year. Although it is one of the more expensive spots in the Algarve region, the beauty of the city and beach make it worth the price tag. You can take a break from working in a cozy cafe to walk down to the beach or spend a day enjoying the watersports and exploring the cliffs and coves.
Best Coworking Space: Mar d’Estorias
Faro
Capital of the Algarve, Faro is best known for its historic sites and wild nightlife. During the day this hidden gem may seem quiet, but at night the city comes alive. This is a great place to stay if you want a taste of authentic Portuguese life and culture. Mix and mingle with the locals on Praia de Faro – the local beach – and you are sure to make some new friends.
Best Coworking Space: Alandra Square
Ponta Delgada
On the largest island of the Azores, São Miguel, the city of Ponta Delgada is an urban oasis amid the rugged Portuguese nature. Surrounded by volcanoes, beaches, and hot springs, the city is a great place for nature lovers who want to get away from the mainland. Although the island is full of interesting scenic spots, Ponta Delgada is the most popular with digital nomads due to the accessibility of wifi and co-working spaces.
Best Coworking Space: One Solmar & UnOffice
