Lisbon has its sights set on becoming the Silicon Valley on the Tagus River, with tech giants like Google establishing a presence, creating ample opportunities for developers. However, what truly makes it an excellent choice for digital nomads and remote workers?
Why should digital nomads choose Lisbon?
Lisbon offers a perfect blend of work and leisure, making it appealing to digital nomads. The Portuguese capital is bursting with affordable places to eat, drink, and unwind.
What many nomads cherish about Lisbon is the robust community of freelancers. The Lisbon Digital Nomads Facebook group, with nearly 19,000 members, organizes weekly meetups for networking, socializing, and enjoying a refreshing cerveja or a glass of ginjinha (cherry liqueur). Several co-working spaces also provide co-living accommodations and host regular gatherings.
Moreover, the lifestyle here is unmatched. Despite its tech ambitions, Lisbon remains one of Europe’s most livable cities, characterized by its historic cobblestone streets and stunning Pombaline architecture. Fine relaxed drinking laws ensure that vibrant backstreets spring to life after dark, while cafes with fast Wi-Fi serve delightful bica (espresso) to the city’s fast-paced residents during the day.
Best co-working spaces
Looking for a conducive work environment? Heden, nestled in a bustling square in Graça, is renowned for its creative atmosphere, sharing space with artists’ studios and venues for talks and events. While some co-working spaces may resemble showrooms, Workhub Lisboa stands out with its breathtaking location in a historic wine warehouse in the up-and-coming area of Poco do Bispo, providing fast internet and a casual lounge for relaxation.
Internet speeds
Access to Wi-Fi is ubiquitous in Lisbon, especially in cafes, with download speeds often exceeding 25 Mbps. Furthermore, mobile 4G coverage is comprehensive throughout the city, and the advent of 5G is anticipated, thanks to significant initiatives from local providers.
Living arrangements
While hotels and guesthouses abound, most digital nomads prefer renting apartments or rooms, often linked to co-living spaces attached to co-working environments. Accommodation is frequently found through personal networks developed during digital nomad meetups or via social media groups, offering a more connected experience. Public transport such as trams and buses facilitates getting around, and delicious meals await at local tascas—family-owned diners serving economical pratos do dia (daily specials) that vary throughout the week based on available ingredients.
Networking
Opportunities for networking in Lisbon include groups such as Digital Nomads PT and the vibrant Lisbon Digital Nomads community, providing platforms for professionals to connect and collaborate.
Things to do when you’re not working
Join in the nightlife and festivities at street parties in Cais do Sodré or Bairro Alto, where events like the Feast of St Anthony (Sardine Festival) on June 12 attract lively crowds.
For relaxation, indulge in surfing or sunbathing at nearby beaches such as Costa de Caparica, Nazaré, or Peniche. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the sights of Parque Florestal de Monsanto, a serene forest on the city’s outskirts featuring hiking trails and picturesque lookouts.
Pros and cons
As with any destination, Lisbon has its share of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown:
Lisbon is great for:
- Sense of community
- Tech opportunities
- Affordable, delicious food
- Warm climate
- High quality of life
Lisbon is not so great for:
- Quiet nights
- Lower crowd densities
- Accommodation costs
- Variety in leisure options
- Inexpensive flights to other destinations
Practicalities
Climate: The optimal seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer (June–August) can be particularly crowded, while many nomads consider relocating during winter’s chill.
Getting there: Lisbon Portela Airport serves as the city’s main air travel hub.
Getting around: Efficient trains and buses connect Lisbon to various European cities.
Living costs: Monthly expenses start at approximately €1000.
LGBT-friendly: Yes, Lisbon welcomes diversity.
Pre-departure reading
This extract is from the Digital Nomad Handbook by Lonely Planet, a valuable resource for nomadic professionals.
