Working remotely in Budapest is a great experience whether just for a few months or the whole year. But many remote workers rightly complain about the loneliness that comes with always working from home. This is where cafés, libraries, and even parks can be a great alternative to the often-expensive coworking spaces. Here’s why you should try working in public spaces and which ones are the best.
Cafés in Budapest for remote work
Cafés are great for just about everyone. With like-minded people sharing a space with you, helpful staff giving you delicious refreshments and tons of different places to choose from, working in cafés can be a great experience. Take Madal Café, for example. With a few branches around Budapest, it has practically become the default option among digital nomads and remote workers when they want a vibrant place to work. Not only do you get to focus in a much less lonely environment but, if you’re lucky, you might chance upon an interesting new project to join.
If you want a quieter café, look no further than the Csendes Etterem (literally meaning quiet in English). This place has good food and decent Wi-Fi and it turns into a bustling bar in the evening. You don’t even have to move from your chair to start making new friends. Lastly, there are cafés like Kelet or Massolit Books & Café which surround you with books and good coffee. If this doesn’t boost your productivity, nothing else will.
Public libraries in Budapest for remote work
Public libraries are a great place for any remote worker who wants to leave their home office behind but still wants very quiet surroundings. Unfortunately, unless you’re a student, most libraries in Budapest will cost you some money to get into. However, for a small fee, you can enjoy one of the most beautiful libraries in the city: Ervin Szabó Library. This historic library is open to anyone, be it students cramming for exams or remote workers finishing up their projects. With decent Wi-Fi, you can stay here for hours without a problem and you don’t even have to order anything.
Public parks for remote workers in Budapest
Working remotely in public parks might seem strange to a lot of people. There are no outlets nor is there any Wi-Fi most of the time. And it is true that one is limited by one’s mobile data and battery life when working outside. But the benefits are great. Working outside when it’s warm gives you tons of inspiration as well as a feeling of renewed energy.
Places like the City Park or the park on the Margarite Island provide both serenity and community with beautiful greenery all around. They are also easily accessible from the city centre. However, avoid Népliget. While undeniably beautiful, this park stretches over 100 hectares which makes it the largest park in Budapest. Before you’d find a good spot to work, the day would be long gone. However, if you live nearby and you know of a good, quiet spot, it can be one of the calmer parks.