As the digital nomad community continues to grow around the world, more and more travelers are flocking to the same mainstream destinations.
As a result, European cities like Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon or Paris become overpriced and ruined by huge crowds, especially in summer.
The good news is that Europe also has emerging destinations for digital nomads with budget-friendly options, fewer visitors and plenty of outdoor activities.
Think outside the box and join us to see our five recommended, cheapest European summer hotspots for digital nomads and remote workers.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Come to Bansko this summer if you want to meet friendly, creative and enterprising people with whom you can both have a drink and develop a new start-up!
With mountains, hiking trails and cycle routes, the largest annual digital nomad conferenceBansko has pretty much become the favorite outdoor hotspot for travelers to this Balkan country.
Do you feel tired after a long, productive day? Visit some of the city’s relaxing thermal baths!
We especially love summers in Bankso for its affordability and range of cultural events, including film and jazz festivals.
Last but not least: rental prices start from €230!
Sarande, Albania
Albania is slowly making a name for itself among the favorite destinations for digital nomads and remote workers in Europe due to its Caribbean beaches and affordable cost of living.
Competitive prices, fresh fruits and vegetables, beautiful beaches and friendly locals draw visitors to this city, which has beautiful weather all year round, not just in summer.
We’re not going to lie to you; Albania’s infrastructure for remote workers is still in the works, so you may not find all the locations you normally have in established digital nomad hubs.
But that’s the idea: help the country find its way to success while enjoying the natural environment without too many tourists ruining your Instagram photos.
Another benefit of visiting Sarande is the easy access to other digital nomad hotspots such as Montenegro, Greece and Italy.
North Macedonia
Grab your Starbucks coffee and laptop and head to Skopje. This landlocked hidden gem may not be the main hub of digital nomads in the summer, but it has been named Time Out’s best city for location-independent workers.
Travel experts at Norton Finance Company have found that the lifestyle in North Macedonia is fantastic thanks to the affordable apartments, flights, food, fitness and internet costs, not to mention the cutting-edge nightlife.
For a more immersive experience, visit in summer 2024 shore of the lake city of Ohrid, where you can enjoy the beaches and breathtaking views.
The country also has suitable coworking spaces where you can stay productive while enjoying your vacation.
Belgrade, Serbia
This city is not only a hub for digital nomads but also a perfect escape for budget travelers. According to some Reddit commenters, you can still find great apartments in Belgrade for as little as €380.
When you’re done with work, visit the bohemian neighborhood of Zemun for boho-style cafes and bars full of young, friendly people.
Sunny days are ideal for visiting the historic Danube and Sava rivers. If you have some free time after all this, head to the Great War Island Nature Reserve; You will have no regrets.
Budva, Montenegro
One of the reasons we absolutely love Budva is its safety for solo female and male travelers.
Fancy a beer in a local pub after a productive day at work? No problem; get dressed and walk to the nearest nightclub.
For a quick cool down, you can also go to the beach in the afternoon. This city is so digital nomad friendly that it’s perfect for popping in and enjoying the cool water before heading back to work in your coworking or your €700+ central apartment.
Spend your weekend hiking Budva’s beautiful trails, surrounded by gorges and glacial mountain lakes. You don’t have to go too far. It’s actually a short taxi or bus ride to the trailheads.
