As the digital nomad lifestyle continues to grow, popular destinations like Bali, Chiang Mai, and Lisbon have become well-trodden paths. When you take a look at this nomad-radar, you can see for yourself. But what about the lesser-known places and underrated digital nomad destinations that offer excellent infrastructure for remote work, affordable living, and vibrant cultures? In my travels, I’ve discovered some surprising gems that I think should definitely be on your radar!
So, if you’re a digital nomad looking to explore new spots in 2024, consider these 10 underrated destinations for 2024 that provide an ideal mix of work and play.
1. Medellín, Colombia
Though you might know I lived for 5.5 years in the Colombian city of Cali, I consider Medellín the top city for digital nomads. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín offers a mild climate, affordable living, and, above all, a thriving community of entrepreneurs and digital nomads. Located in the mountains, there’s so much to do in your free time. Plus, don’t miss out on learning more about Medellín’s history by taking a tour (I covered one in a previous blog!).
Highlights:
- Low cost of living.
- Great coworking spaces and reliable internet.
- Beautiful weather and green spaces.
2. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town has it all in my opinion—amazing surf, culture, fantastic nature, good food, and a fun, growing community. I was there back in 2014, before my digital nomad days, but I could already see its potential as a hub. Cape Town is a dream destination for digital nomads who love a mix of city life and outdoor adventures, with stunning scenery like Table Mountain and beautiful beaches.
Highlights:
- Affordable compared to Western cities.
- A growing tech and digital nomad scene.
- Outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.
3. George Town, Penang, Malaysia
Malaysia was one of the first countries I visited, way before digital nomadism was a thing. But George Town completely stole my heart! Now, I’ve heard from other nomads that it’s really grown in infrastructure. It offers colonial architecture, world-class street food, and a laid-back atmosphere—a perfect spot for working remotely.
Highlights:
- Low cost of living with incredible food.
- UNESCO World Heritage site with a vibrant cultural scene.
- Strong internet and several coworking spaces.
- Sorry, no photo here as I lost my camera on the last day of my trip 🙁
4. Bilbao, Spain
I live just an hour away from Bilbao, and I always notice how northern Spain remains underrated. If you love culture, surf, nature, and amazing food, Bilbao will surprise you! The city is a great mix of modernity and tradition, making it an ideal base for remote workers seeking both culture and adventure.
Highlights:
- Reliable internet and good infrastructure.
- More affordable than other Spanish cities.
- Great art and cultural experiences.
5. Pipa, Brazil
Pipa is the Brazilian dream: palm trees, dolphins along the shore, fantastic surf, coconuts, and a lively community. This eco-conscious beach town is perfect for digital nomads who want to escape the hustle of big cities and enjoy laid-back coastal living.
Highlights:
- Low cost of living.
- Gorgeous beaches and surf spots.
- Growing digital nomad community.
6. Cuenca, Ecuador
Though I lived in Quito for work reasons, Cuenca is the Ecuadorian city that truly stole my heart—a hidden gem in the Andes. With its colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living, Cuenca is a peaceful spot for digital nomads.
Highlights:
- Affordable living.
- Reliable internet and coworking spaces.
- Surrounded by beautiful mountains.
7. Galway, Ireland
How do I describe Galway? An amazing musician on every corner! This artsy town has a lively scene that’ll make it impossible to keep your feet still. With a welcoming local vibe and access to Ireland’s stunning landscapes, it’s perfect for nomads looking for cultural immersion.
Highlights:
- Cozy cafés and coworking spaces with fast internet.
- More affordable than Dublin.
- Festivals, arts, and easy access to nature.
8. Kotor, Montenegro
Ever heard of Kotor? No? You should! Nestled on the Adriatic coast, Kotor has medieval charm, affordable living, and stunning landscapes. The digital nomad community is still growing, but it already has an “everyone knows everyone” vibe that makes it feel like home.
Highlights:
- Stunning coastal views.
- Affordable living costs.
- Easy access to hiking and outdoor activities.
- If you´re around and into kitesurfing, check out my blog on kitesurfing in Montenegro
9. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City was probably the most surprising Latin American city I’ve ever been to! It’s a sprawling metropolis with a booming creative and tech scene, perfect for digital nomads. There are so many places to work from, and the neighborhoods are endlessly fascinating to explore.
Highlights:
- Affordable compared to other major cities.
- Great internet and plenty of coworking spaces.
- Rich in history, culture, and cuisine.
- Only in Mexico City on a lay-over, read my blog on what to do in 6 hours in Mexico City.
10. Tirana, Albania
Another surprising stop from our trip through the Balkans! Tirana is gaining popularity among digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. With its low cost of living and growing infrastructure for remote workers, Tirana offers a unique blend of history, culture, and easy access to beaches and mountains. Read more about Albania in my blog.
Highlights:
- Extremely affordable living.
- Growing expat and nomad community.
- Diverse landscape with nearby beaches and mountains.
Conclusion: These 10 underrated digital nomad destinations for 2024 provide a perfect balance of affordable living, rich culture, and excellent work environments. Whether you’re looking for a coastal retreat or a vibrant city, these hidden gems offer everything you need for a productive and inspiring remote work experience in 2024.
Where will your digital nomad journey take you next? Let us know in the comments!
Underrated digital nomad destinations 2024
