When choosing a base as a digital nomad, it's crucial to weigh various factors. Even a brief stay requires careful consideration to ensure it suits your needs and budget - running out of money is a scenario best avoided. While Paris, Copenhagen, and Barcelona are popular in Europe, exploring alternative major cities can offer an equally enriching yet more affordable digital nomad experience on the continent.
A team from Norton Finance assessed 184 countries and their capitals to find the most affordable places for digital nomads, considering rent, utilities, food, and internet expenses. Among the least expensive European cities for digital nomads, as reported by Travel Off Path, were three major cities in countries recently ranked as economical for travel in Europe. Now, let’s explore these cities.
Warsaw, Poland
Take a stroll through Warsaw’s old town for half an hour and you’ll easily see its charm. With its colorful cobbled streets, red-roofed buildings, historic castles, street cafés, and an impressive cathedral, it’s no surprise this area is a UNESCO world heritage site.
It's remarkable that almost the entire city was destroyed in World War II but was rebuilt to recapture its former charm through extensive reconstruction. Aside from its charming center, Warsaw has numerous museums such as the Rising Museum, Museum of the History of Polish Jews, Fryderyk Chopin Museum, Royal Lazienki Museum, and Museum of King Jan III’s Palace.
If you prefer fresh air to a museum, visit the scenic boulevards along the Vistula River in central Warsaw. It's a great spot for a peaceful couple of hours any time of year.
- Exchange rate: $1 = 4.3 PLN
- A low-cost restaurant meal: $9
- Monthly public transport pass: $24
- Average cost of a beer estimate: $3.50
Find perfect apartments for rent in Warsaw
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is often overlooked but holds charm with rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. Strolling through the city, you'll discover architectural gems like its Arch of Triumph and Calea Victoriei, earning it the nickname 'Little Paris'.
Besides its French-inspired aesthetic, Bucharest has rich Roman history, exemplified by its own Roman Athenaeum.
A must-do in Bucharest is experiencing its renowned café culture, with coffee shops and tea houses plentifully adorned in extravagant styles on nearly every corner.
- Exchange rate: $1 = 47 Romanian Lei
- A meal at a budget restaurant: $11
- Monthly public transport pass: $26
- Cost of a beer: $2.60
Budapest, Hungary
In 1873, two cities divided by the river Danube merged to form the Budapest we know today – combining Buda and Pest. Each year, Budapest attracts over 7 million visitors. Many opt for a Danube cruise to enjoy views of its famous sights, such as the stunning Budapest Parliament Building.
In this major European city, you can relax at the Szechenyi Thermal Bath, enjoy cultural experiences at the Budapest Opera House, and stroll across the iconic Chain Bridge to admire the skyline.
While in Budapest, don't miss trying its national dish, Gulyas (goulash). This hearty stew typically includes beef, onions, tomatoes, and paprika seasoning – perfect for warming up in winter!
- Exchange rate: $1 = 365 Hungarian Forints
- Cost of a meal with drink at a budget restaurant: $10
- Monthly public transport pass: $28
- Average price of a beer: $2.20
Find perfect apartments for rent in Budapest
Note: All prices mentioned are estimates derived from various sources and current exchange rates at the time of writing in 2024. Prices are subject to change over time.
Flatio: Deposit-free rentals around the world
At Flatio, we provide digital nomads with rental accommodations in over 300 destinations worldwide. We offer visa-friendly lease agreements, flexible, and reasonably priced stays starting from 5 days, and a variety of remote work-friendly options including rooms, flats, houses, and villas.
Our rentals include utilities and Wi-Fi, with no deposit required for stays under 180 days unless required by local laws.
Our balanced lease agreements are available in multiple languages, and we ensure a hassle-free experience with an attractive cancellation policy, online lease signing, StayProtection services for emergencies, a Move-in Guarantee with 24/7 support, 100% money protection, daily customer support, no hidden fees, and a secure payment system that even accepts Bitcoin.
