The popularity of working from home has created a new era in which the freedom to travel during working time has reached a never-before-seen strength. However, those of us who are most excited about an individual journey always question: What are the best solo travel destinations for digital nomads? What are the places I can go to work and meet new people all while doing my job?
Firstly, let me say that you’ve hit the jackpot because I have found the best places to travel solo as a digital nomad. The sites have not only good hands-free Wi-Fi and coworking spaces, but they’ll also provide you with unique experiences such that you will be the first one to tell new people about life on the road.
Let us explore a few top destinations for solo digital nomads that will stimulate your desire to travel and be more productive.
Best Solo Travel Destinations for Digital Nomads
1. Bali, Indonesia: Best destination for a digital nomad
Bali is not merely a spot to visit but is rather a way of life. Even though you have undoubtedly heard many of the rumors that Bali is sometimes called the “ham of digital nomads,” believe me when I say that the experience here is as amazing as they say.
Now, just picture it: your desktop back at a lively café with green rice fields in sight or on the terrace of a beach coworking space where the sound of the waves is the only noise you would hear during this session related to work. It is the type of environment where only by simply being there do you get the feeling of elevation.
Why Bali Will Steal Your Heart:
- Coworking Spaces Galore: There are many amazing coworking spaces here, like Dojo Bali and Outpost. I can see that some of them have really nice communities, where you might meet other remote workers or just grab a coffee.
- Affordability: Bali is very affordable for solo travelers. You can rent a nice villa for the month or have lunch for just a few dollars, and your money will go farther than you expect.
- The Best of Both Worlds: Work hard during the day, and then relax and go surfing in Canggu or hike to a waterfall in Ubud. Bali gives the best places to work and travel solo the best mix of work and fun.
Best Areas: You can check outSeminyak for hip cafes and nightlife; Canggu for surfing and coworking; and Ubud for a tranquil natural atmosphere.
Also read: 21+ Easy Travel Safety Tips for Solo Travelers in the USA
2. Lisbon, Portugal: Digital nomads destination who love nature
If you like a bit of everything: history, good food, beautiful views, and good Wi-Fi, Lisbon should be on your list. I was there some years ago, and I soon fell in love with it as one of my favorite solo travel destinations for remote workers. Sunny weather, bright streets, and an active community made it almost impossible to feel lonely there.
Why Lisbon Feels Like Home (Even When You’re Solo):
- Great Coworking Spaces and Cafes: Lisbon has so many great places where you can sit with your laptop and just work. The most popular coworking places with an awesome atmosphere and good opportunities to interact with solo digital nomads are the Second Home and Cowork Central. And the best feature is that no matter when you come to the city, you will always discover cozy cafes where you might work.
- Budget-Friendly European City: It ranks among the lowest in any Western European country. I can eat good food as cheaply here as anybody can in Paris or London, and hotels aren’t priced too high either.
- The Vibe: The mix of historic charm and modern culture in Lisbon is something else. Wander through the Alfama district, visit beautiful viewpoints, or just relax by the Tagus River and take in the view. You’ll never run out of things to do or explore.
Best Areas: Bairro Alto for nightlife, Baixa for central convenience, and Alfama for charm and history.
3. Mexico City, Mexico: Place for digital nomads who love adventure
When I think of Mexico City, I think of energy. It’s a place that buzzes with excitement, from the streets that are filled with tacos to the art museums and lively plazas. What makes this destination great for solo digital nomads is how easy it becomes to balance work with exploration. In addition, it is very reasonably priced.
Why Mexico City is a Solo Traveler’s Dream:
- Low-cost Living: The amount of money you get here will surprise you if you have ever visited a big city in the US or Europe. Transportation will not cost you much, lodging is reasonably priced, and the food is excellent.
- Productivity-Friendly: Some cafes provide a place for remote workers to work with fast internet and an atmosphere, in addition to the city’s abundance of coworking spaces, such as WeWork and Coffice.
- Never-ending Exploration: Even if you spend months in Mexico City, there is always something new to learn. There are vibrant markets, historical landmarks like Teotihuacan, art museums, and mouthwatering street cuisine. This is the place to go if you want to work hard and then relax while experiencing a different culture.
Best Areas: Roma for hip vibes, Condesa for a laid-back local feel, and Polanco for something more upscale.
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand: Destinations for digital nomads who love culture
Chiang Mai has been a popular destination among digital nomads for several years. Now, I can see why. Working in this place surrounded by temples and mountains is attractive in my view. It was some sort of quiet escape from the city noise, in my opinion.
Why Chiang Mai Is the Best Place for a Solo Getaway:
- Super Affordable: It’s incredibly affordable to live here—think affordable meals, cheap transportation, and inexpensive housing. As a result, it is a fantastic choice if you wish to stay within your budget while experiencing more of the local way of life.
- Coworking and community spaces: Punspace and CAMP are two fantastic coworking spaces in Chiang Mai. What I loved about Chiang Mai, however, was the feeling of community. I met a lot of solo travelers and digital nomads who were always ready to chat or collaborate.
- Calm Workplace: It is not just the coworking space but, generally, this place in Chiang Mai gives a workplace environment where one can work in peace. You could work here, go and visit a temple, then hit up some of the local markets.
Best Areas: Nimman for modern living, Old City for a mix of work and history, and Santitham for a local feel.
Also read: Life-Changing Solo Trip Ideas to Make Your Vacation Memorable
5. Barcelona, Spain: Best location for digital nomads in Europe
From architecture to the rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant energies, Barcelona has it all. I fell for the city entirely when I visited it, and it is no wonder that it is such a popular destination for digital nomads. Whether you feel like working by the sea or visiting a museum, Barcelona offers endless opportunities for exploration.
Why Barcelona Will Keep You Coming Back:
- Plenty of Places to Work: From killer espresso in café bars to top-of-the-line coworking spaces like Aticco and OneCoWork, there are endless spots to work from. You can even work outside on sunny days because of the Mediterranean climate.
- Affordable (for Europe): Not the cheapest on this list, Barcelona still offers great value, especially when you compare it to other major European cities. If you know where to look, you will find low-cost markets, tasty tapas, and reasonably priced lodging.
- A City That is Never Boring: Barcelona has a lot to offer, including stunning parks, amazing cuisine, an unrivaled nightlife scene, and well-known landmarks like La Sagrada Família. If you are working or exploring, you will never be bored.
Best Areas: El Born for a creative vibe, Gràcia for local charm, and Eixample for modern amenities.
6. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: For digital nomads who love nightlife
Here one can find the hustle of everyday living—modern life in general mingled up with the traditional Vietnamese one—the lively, dynamic city—Ho Chi Minh City. Being one of the cheapest countries for a vacation, but full of flavor and flavor-filled food, it must be the place to get over there.
Why Ho Chi Minh City Works for Solo Nomads:
- Super Affordable: Vietnam is incredibly affordable. Your money stretches incredibly far, and you will be able to live pretty well while working remotely.
- Coworking and Wi-Fi: Coworking spaces are growing in number, including Dreamplex and The Hive. And while the internet connection may drop sometimes, the reliability is good overall. Also, coffee shops here are great for getting work done; excellent coffee keeps you going.
- A City Full of Life: Ho Chi Minh City is always moving. Street markets, buzzing scooters, and amazing food stalls await around every corner when stepping outside of your workspace.
Best Areas: District 1 for central convenience, District 3 for a more local feel.
Final Thoughts
Everything depends on how you search; there are many options. It may be the exciting culture of Mexico City, the ancient charm of Lisbon, or the tranquil and stunning scenery of Chiang Mai. The best cities for solo digital nomads are somewhere out there waiting for you, no matter what you desire. Every new place presents opportunities for the solo digital nomad who sees the world as their office to improve both personally and professionally.
Where are you going next, then? A plane ride away from adventure and productivity!
FAQs
What is a digital nomad, and how can I become one?
A digital nomad works remotely while traveling, using technology to stay connected. To become one: secure a remote job or freelance role, build relevant skills, plan finances, choose destinations with good Wi-Fi and affordability, stay organized, and join digital nomad communities for support.
What is the best way to choose my next destination?
Consider your priorities, such as budget, work-life balance, cultural experiences, or community engagement. Research and align your choice with your lifestyle and preferences.
How can I meet other digital nomads while traveling solo?
Join coworking spaces, attend meetups, or explore social groups in cities like Chiang Mai and Barcelona, which have active digital nomad communities.
Which are the most budget-friendly destinations for solo digital nomads?
Bali, Chiang Mai, and Ho Chi Minh City are highly affordable, offering low-cost living, cheap food, and budget-friendly accommodations.
