Following the pandemic, remote work has become more common. Working from home or another location can give professionals a valuable dose of flexibility.
Europe presents a plethora of options for those looking to combine work and travel. So much so that some countries, like Croatia, launched digital nomad visas.
Digital nomad visas in EU countries allow many professionals to work remotely for short or extended periods.
This article explores the top European cities for remote work. I rate them based on factors crucial for a seamless remote working experience.
Cost of Living:
One of the primary considerations for remote workers is the cost of living, particularly the expenses related to housing.
Cities like Lisbon and Kraków may offer affordable living without compromising on quality.
In Lisbon, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €800 per month. Meanwhile, in Kraków, the cost drops to about €500. These cities are attractive for budget-conscious remote workers.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, the most expensive cities to live in the EU include Zurich, Dublin, and Copenhagen.
But, the cost of living is linked to your income and how much you need to cover your essential expenses. So, the affordability of a city varies according to a person’s income.
Connectivity: A Hub for Travel Enthusiasts
Being well-connected to other parts of Europe is a significant advantage. Cities like Berlin and Paris boast extensive transportation networks. They feature high-speed trains and budget airlines, linking them to many European destinations.
Connectivity allows remote workers to explore the continent easily during their downtime.
The EU has made it possible for citizens to travel freely between countries. You can even cross the Belgian-Dutch border on a bicycle!
The Eurail Pass can let you travel through the entire continent.
Food: Where to eat the best
Access to fresh, locally-grown food is another perk of European cities. Renowned for their food, Barcelona and Florence have some of the best culinary scenes. Both cities offer a variety of fresh, locally sourced foods.
Furthermore, many EU cities have more options for people with food intolerances. It’s a lot easier to find gluten-free pasta now than it was five years ago.
Vegan restaurants are also popular, and it’s easy enough to find them. At non-vegan restaurants, you will find alternatives too.
Unlike the U.S., markets are available and most are within walking distance. You can buy fresh produce and cook your meals at home too.
Culture: Immersive and Accessible
Cultural accessibility is a major draw for remote workers. Vienna and Amsterdam are cultural hotspots, with museums, theaters, and historical sites. Amsterdam alone has over 75 museums, the city itself is a museum. Everywhere you look, there is a house or a canal you’ll want to photograph with your phone.
Most European cities offer a blend of historical and modern cultural experiences. You can choose between seeing a local band play at a pub or going to a big concert.
Several cities support film, music, and art festivals. Not a single weekend will go by when there isn’t something going on. The EU also emphasizes on the importance of making the arts accessible to everyone. And, in recent years, organizers have paid special attention to sustainability.
People: Embracing Diversity
The openness of the local population is crucial for a fulfilling experience. Cities like Copenhagen and Dublin have a reputation for having friendly and welcoming locals. This openness helps remote workers integrate into the community and build a social network.
Working Conditions and Laws: Navigating the Legal Landscape
Understanding the working conditions and laws is key to having a positive remote experience.
For instance, in Spain, freelancers face higher taxes, which might be a deterrent. Estonia offers a digital nomad visa, making it an attractive destination for remote workers.
It’s important to research each country’s specific laws and regulations about remote work.
Quality of Life: Balancing Work and Play
The quality of life, including public transport, is a key factor. Zurich and Stockholm are both cities with high quality-of-life indices. They provide excellent public transport, good healthcare, and a balance between work and leisure.
Finding Your Community
The mentality of the local people can influence your experience. In cities like Prague and Budapest, a blend of modern and traditional ways of thinking creates a diverse community for remote workers.
Cities such as Amsterdam and Berlin have progressive and open-minded populations. These cities embrace different lifestyles. They are an ideal environment that is accepting of diverse work and life philosophies. Their openness creates a vibrant start-up culture that encourages entrepreneurship.
Ease of Settling In: Bureaucracy
The ease of setting up life in a new city varies. In the Netherlands, for example, you must register in a Dutch city to work.
You must know these bureaucratic requirements beforehand before packing up your bags.
While remote work sounds appealing, it doesn’t come without its hurdles. Depending on your nationality, getting a work permit might be a complex process. If you are a non-EU citizen, you might have to navigate a maze of paperwork.
Registration requirements are often time-consuming. At times, you might need to open a local bank account or hire local healthcare.
Make sure you follow local tax laws. You might be exempt, that all depends on your contract. You must understand the conditions of your remote contract before you begin to travel.
Finally, understanding the conditions of your remote contracts is crucial. Some countries have specific regulations for remote workers, which impact your work arrangement and rights.
Conclusion
Europe offers a diverse range of cities that cater to the needs of remote workers. From affordable Lisbon and Kraków to the cultural richness of Vienna and Amsterdam, there’s a European city for every remote worker.
By considering factors such as cost of living, connectivity, food and culture, local people and mentality, ease of settling in and remote contract conditions, you will find the city that is right for you.