As the digital nomad lifestyle continues to gain popularity, European islands have become a hotspot for remote workers seeking a perfect blend of work and leisure. Offering picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultures, and excellent infrastructure, these islands cater to the needs of digital nomads with their modern amenities and tight-knit communities. In this article, we present a list of the nine best European islands for digital nomads, along with key information on costs, infrastructure, visa requirements, co-working spaces, taxes, side activities, and thriving digital nomad communities.
Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
Amidst the vast expanse of the Atlantic lies Madeira, the "Pearl of the Atlantic." This subtropical haven welcomes digital nomads with a serene embrace, as verdant hills and enchanting levadas weave a harmonious symphony. Life here flows at an unhurried pace, inviting remote workers to embrace its affordability and inviting co-working spaces. Emerging from the shadows of its jagged cliffs, the digital nomad community hosts gatherings that celebrate the essence of this tranquil island, blending nature's magnificence with the art of creation.
Cost of Living: Affordable
Life There: Serene island life, subtropical climate
Infrastructure: Reliable internet, though speeds can vary
Digital Nomad Community: Growing community with regular meetups and events
Visa Requirements: EU citizens can stay without a visa for up to 90 days; others may require a Schengen visa
Co-Workings: Co-working spaces available in Funchal and other major towns
Taxes: Portugal's favorable NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) tax regime for eligible expats
Side Activities: Hiking, exploring natural wonders, and local wine tasting
Digital Nomad Community: Madeira Digital Nomads
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands (Spain) 🇪🇸
Amidst the wild beauty of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria emerges as a kaleidoscope of landscapes and experiences. From its bustling coastal towns to its rugged mountains, the island invites digital nomads with a comfortable cost of living and reliable infrastructure. A myriad of co-working spaces dot the island, fostering a melting pot of creativity and collaboration. Within the heart of this land, a well-established digital nomad community thrives, its bonds forged amidst the shared desire for exploration and growth.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Diverse landscapes, pleasant climate
Infrastructure: Excellent internet connectivity
Digital Nomad Community: Well-established community with regular events
Visa Requirements: EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days without a visa; others may require a Schengen visa
Co-Workings: Numerous co-working spaces across the island
Taxes: Spain's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Hiking, surfing, and vibrant nightlife
Digital Nomad Community: Las Palmas Digital Nomads
Malta 🇲🇹
Steeped in millennia of history and Mediterranean charm, Malta enchants digital nomads with its labyrinthine streets and ancient wonders. The island's alluring mix of affordability and modernity makes it an ideal sanctuary for remote work. Amidst its meandering alleyways, co-working spaces beckon, nurturing the creative spirit amidst echoes of a glorious past. The digital nomad community, while compact, resonates with camaraderie and a shared passion for exploration.
Cost of Living: Moderate to high
Life There: Rich history and vibrant culture
Infrastructure: Good internet connectivity
Digital Nomad Community: Active community with regular meetups
Visa Requirements: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens
Co-Workings: Plenty of co-working spaces, especially in Valletta and Sliema
Taxes: Attractive tax incentives for freelancers and entrepreneurs through the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA)
Side Activities: Historical sites, watersports, and lively nightlife
Digital Nomad Community: Malta Digital Nomads, NomadGao
Ibiza, Spain 🇪🇸
Within the rhythm of the Balearic Sea, Ibiza comes alive with a vibrant aura that draws seekers of adventure and creative inspiration. Though known for its exuberant nightlife, the island offers a unique blend of work and play. Among its sandy shores and ancient citadels, digital nomads find moments of serenity, while co-working spaces and entrepreneurial hubs foster innovation amidst the Mediterranean breeze. The digital nomad community, though blossoming, creates an atmosphere where inspiration takes flight.
Cost of Living: High, especially during the peak season
Life There: Lively and energetic, known for its party scene
Infrastructure: Good internet, but may experience occasional outages
Digital Nomad Community: Small but growing community
Visa Requirements: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens
Co-Workings: Limited co-working options, but cafes offer work-friendly spaces
Taxes: Spain's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Beach parties, yoga retreats, and local markets
Digital Nomad Community: Ibiza Digital Nomads
Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain) 🇪🇸
Nestled amidst the majestic Canary archipelago, Tenerife boasts a bewitching tapestry of landscapes. Its soaring volcanoes and golden beaches are embraced by the balmy embrace of the Atlantic Ocean. Here, digital nomads immerse themselves in a world of moderate living costs, complimented by a warm and laid-back ambiance. Within its quaint towns and bustling cities, co-working spaces foster innovation, while the ever-thriving digital nomad community ensures one never feels alone on this paradise isle. As the sun sets over its enchanting vistas, Tenerife becomes a haven for creative spirits.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Laid-back island life, warm climate
Infrastructure: Excellent internet connectivity
Digital Nomad Community: Thriving and diverse community
Visa Requirements: EU citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa; others may need a Schengen visa
Co-Workings: Numerous co-working spaces in cities like Santa Cruz and Playa de Las Americas
Taxes: Spain's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Stunning beaches, hiking, water sports, and local fiestas
Digital Nomad Community: Tenerife Digital Nomads
Crete, Greece 🇬🇷
Steeped in myths and legends, Crete emerges as a cradle of history and untamed beauty. This vast island boasts diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to sun-kissed beaches. Affordability varies across its regions, offering remote workers a myriad of options. Co-working spaces can be found in its larger towns, welcoming nomads seeking to channel their creativity amidst ancient wonders. The digital nomad community is on the rise, drawn together by Crete's captivating blend of history and nature.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Serene island life, subtropical climate
Infrastructure: Reliable internet, though speeds can vary
Digital Nomad Community: Growing community with regular meetups and events
Visa Requirements: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens
Co-Workings: Plenty of co-working spaces, especially in major towns
Taxes: Favorable tax rates for freelancers and entrepreneurs through the Malta Digital Innovation Authority (MDIA)
Side Activities: Hiking, exploring natural wonders, and local wine tasting
Digital Nomad Community: Crete Digital Nomads
Sardinia, Italy 🇮🇹
Floating in the azure embrace of the Mediterranean, Sardinia reveals an enchanting blend of white sand beaches, emerald waters, and rugged mountains. As the second-largest island in the Mediterranean, Sardinia offers diverse experiences for digital nomads seeking a harmonious work-life balance. While some coastal areas can be pricey during the peak season, inland regions and smaller towns present affordable living options.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Laid-back island life, warm climate
Infrastructure: Excellent internet connectivity
Visa Requirements: EU citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa; others may need a Schengen visa
Co-Workings: Numerous co-working spaces in cities like Cagliari and Alghero
Taxes: Italy's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Pristine beaches, hiking, water sports, and local festivals
Digital Nomad Community: Sardinia Digital Nomads, Nomads Sardinia, Digital Nomads Sardinia
Sicily, Italy 🇮🇹
Nestled in the southern Mediterranean Sea, Sicily stands as a captivating crossroad of cultures, with a unique blend of Greek, Roman, and Arabic influences woven into its fabric. The island's diverse landscapes range from majestic mountains to sun-kissed coastlines, presenting an array of experiences for digital nomads to indulge in. Sicily's cost of living is relatively affordable, particularly in smaller towns, making it an enticing option for remote workers.
While co-working spaces are less prevalent compared to larger cities, cafes with a rustic charm and reliable internet connectivity offer delightful workspaces for digital nomads to create amidst the island's historical ambiance. The Sicilian way of life revolves around enjoying moments of leisure and savoring culinary delights, providing a harmonious work-life balance for those who embrace its rhythm.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Serene island life, warm climate
Infrastructure: Reliable internet, though speeds can vary
Visa Requirements: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens
Co-Workings: Several co-working spaces in cities like Palermo and Catania
Taxes: Italy's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and indulging in local cuisine
Digital Nomad Community: Sicily Digital Nomads, Nomads Sicily, Digital Nomads Sicily
Menorca, Spain 🇪🇸
In the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea lies Menorca, a serene and unspoiled gem among the Balearic Islands. With its gentle hills, idyllic coves, and azure waters, the island offers an enchanting respite for digital nomads seeking tranquility and inspiration. Menorca's moderate living costs make it an attractive destination for remote work, allowing nomads to immerse themselves in its natural splendor without breaking the bank.
Side activities on Menorca abound, with hiking trails meandering through the island's unspoiled beauty, and water sports such as paddleboarding and snorkeling allowing for adventurous breaks from work. History enthusiasts will be captivated by ancient archaeological sites like the Naveta d'Es Tudons and Torre d'en Galmés, which tell stories of Menorca's past civilizations.
Cost of Living: Moderate
Life There: Tranquil island life, warm climate
Infrastructure: Reliable internet, though rural areas may have limited coverage
Visa Requirements: EU citizens can stay up to 90 days without a visa; others may need a Schengen visa
Co-Workings: Limited co-working spaces, but cafes offer work-friendly environments
Taxes: Spain's tax regulations apply
Side Activities: Exploring idyllic coves, hiking, and experiencing local festivities
Digital Nomad Community: Menorca Digital Nomads, Nomads Menorca, Digital Nomads Menorca