As the digital nomad community continues to grow around the world, more and more travelers are flocking to the same mainstream destinations.
Consequently, European cities like Barcelona, Rome, Lisbon or Paris are getting too pricey and ruined by massive crowds, especially in summer.
The good news is that Europe also boasts emerging digital-nomad destinations with budget-friendly options, fewer visitors and lots of outdoor activities to take in.
Think outside the box and come with us to check out our five recommended, cheapest European summer hotspots for digital nomads and remote workers.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Come to Bansko this summer if you want to meet friendly, creative and entrepreneurial people with whom you can both go out for drinks or develop a new start-up!
With mountains, hiking trails and cycling routes, the biggest annual digital nomad conference, Bansko has pretty much become the favorite outdoor hotspot for travelers to this Balkan country.
Feeling tired after a long, productive day? Pay a visit to some of the city’s relaxing thermal baths!
We mostly love summers in Bankso due to its affordability and its array of cultural events, including cinema and jazz festivals.
Last but not least, rents start from as little as €230!
Sarande, Albania
Albania is slowly making a name for itself among the preferred destinations for digital nomads and remote workers in Europe due to its Caribbean-like beaches and affordable cost of living.
Its competitive prices, fresh fruits and veggies, stunning shorelines and friendly locals are drawing visitors to this city, which boasts great weather all year round, not only in the summer.
We are not going to lie to you; Albania’s infrastructure for remote workers is still in the works so you may not find all the venues you normally have in well-established digital nomad hubs.
But that’s the idea: help the country create its way to success while enjoying its natural surroundings without too many tourists ruining your Instagram pics.
Another advantage of visiting Sarande is its easy access to other digital nomad hotspots, such as Montenegro, Greece and Italy.
North Macedonia
Grab your Starbucks coffee and laptop and head for Skopje. This landlocked hidden gem may not be on top of digital nomads’ minds in summer but it has been named Time Out’s best city for location-independent workers.
Travel experts at Norton Finance Company determined North Macedonia lifestyle is fantastic due to its affordable apartments, flights, food, gym and internet costs, not to mention its cutting-edge nightlife.
For a more immersive experience in summer 2024, visit the lakeside city of Ohrid, where you can take in the beaches and the stunning views.
The country also boasts suitable coworking spaces for you to keep being productive while enjoying your holidays.
Belgrade, Serbia
This city is not only a hub for digital nomads but also a perfect escape for budget travelers. In Belgrade, you can still find great apartments for as little as €380, according to some Reddit commenters.
Once you’re done with work, pay a visit to the bohemian neighborhood of Zemun for boho style cafes and bars full of young, friendly people.
Sunny days are great to visit the historical Danube and Sava rivers. If, after all of this, you have some spare time, go to the Great War Island nature reserve; you won’t regret it.
Budva, Montenegro
One of the reasons we absolutely love Budva is its safety for solo female and male travelers.
Feeling like a beer at a local bar after a productive day of work? No problem; dress up and walk to your nearest nightclub.
You can also go to the beach for a quick cool-off during the afternoon. This city is so digital-nomad friendly that is perfect for jumping in to enjoy the cool waters before going back to work at your coworking or your €700+ central apartment.
Spend your weekends hiking through Budva’s beautiful trails, surrounded by canyons and glacial mountain lakes. You don’t have to go too far away. It’s actually a short taxi or bus drive to the trailheads.