14 Underrated Cities Every Digital Nomad Should Consider in 2025

As remote work becomes the new norm, digital nomads are no longer limited to the same well-trodden hotspots like Bali, Chiang Mai, or Lisbon. In 2025, a new wave of adventurous remote workers is looking for affordable, inspiring, and unique cities that offer all the essentials—fast internet, coworking spaces, and a great quality of life—without the crowds and skyrocketing costs. The world is full of hidden gems that blend culture, adventure, and connectivity, providing a fresh perspective for those craving something different. Whether it’s a colorful seaside town in Chile, a buzzing cultural hub in West Africa, or a medieval city in Eastern Europe, these offbeat destinations offer digital nomads a chance to work, explore, and live more authentically. If you’re ready to escape the usual nomad trail and find your next remote work paradise, these 14 cities might just be the perfect home base for your next adventure.

1. Kotor, Montenegro

A medieval gem on the Adriatic coast, Kotor is an enchanting town that offers digital nomads breathtaking scenery, a relaxed pace of life, and an emerging expat community. Tucked between towering mountains and a serene bay, this UNESCO-listed town provides a unique mix of natural beauty and historical charm. The well-preserved Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and charming squares, offering countless cozy cafes and quiet corners ideal for remote work. Montenegro is quickly gaining traction as a remote work hub, thanks to its affordable cost of living, reliable Wi-Fi, and visa-friendly policies. The country offers a one-year digital nomad visa, making it easy for remote workers to establish a base here. Kotor's close proximity to beautiful coastal towns like Perast and Budva, as well as stunning hiking trails in Lovćen National Park, makes it an ideal location for digital nomads who enjoy an active lifestyle. Whether working from a historic stone balcony overlooking the Bay of Kotor or networking with fellow nomads in a boutique coworking space, this town provides an inspiring environment for those looking to balance work and exploration.

2. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Often overshadowed by Sofia, Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, blending rich history with a modern entrepreneurial spirit. Built on seven hills, the city features an eclectic mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman-era architecture, and vibrant street art, creating an inspiring backdrop for digital nomads seeking both culture and convenience. Plovdiv is an excellent choice for remote workers due to its fast internet, budget-friendly living, and an expanding coworking scene. The city has multiple coworking spaces, such as Cat and Mouse Coworking and Biz Labs, where nomads can find a productive atmosphere and connect with like-minded professionals. The artistic district of Kapana, with its bohemian vibe, craft beer bars, and trendy coffee shops, offers a perfect setting for work and leisure. Unlike Sofia, Plovdiv maintains a more relaxed and intimate feel, allowing nomads to integrate into the community easily. The city's cultural festivals, including the Plovdiv International Fair and the Opera Open Festival, provide year-round entertainment and networking opportunities. Additionally, its location in central Bulgaria makes it easy to explore nearby mountain retreats, wineries, and even the Black Sea coast.

3. Kigali, Rwanda

With a stable economy, eco-friendly initiatives, and one of Africa’s safest urban environments, Kigali is an underrated haven for remote workers. This modern, clean, and well-planned city is setting the standard for urban development in Africa, with sustainable initiatives and a thriving tech industry making it increasingly attractive to digital nomads. High-speed internet, a growing startup ecosystem, and Rwanda’s forward-thinking digital policies make Kigali an excellent base for nomads exploring East Africa. The government actively supports innovation and entrepreneurship, leading to the rise of tech hubs like the Kigali Innovation City and coworking spaces such as Westerwelle Startup Haus and The Office. With affordable living costs and an abundance of green spaces, Kigali offers a quality of life that many digital nomads seek. Beyond work, Kigali is a gateway to Rwanda’s breathtaking natural wonders, such as Volcanoes National Park, home to the famous mountain gorillas, and Lake Kivu, perfect for weekend getaways. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with local markets, contemporary art galleries, and coffee culture, provides a unique and immersive experience for nomads seeking an offbeat destination with modern conveniences.

4. Tbilisi, Georgia

Georgia has become a rising star among digital nomads, thanks to its visa-free policy for many nationalities, fast internet, and low cost of living. Tbilisi, the capital, is a fascinating blend of old and new, where Soviet-era architecture meets futuristic skyscrapers, and historic bathhouses sit alongside trendy cafes and coworking spaces. Tbilisi’s digital nomad community continues to grow, supported by the country’s innovative visa program, which allows remote workers to stay for up to a year. The city boasts affordable rent, high-quality coworking spaces like Terminal and Impact Hub, and a warm, welcoming culture. Many nomads are drawn to its relaxed pace of life, where long coffee breaks in charming cafes and evening strolls through the historic district are the norm. Georgia is also known for its world-class wine, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Nomads based in Tbilisi can easily take weekend trips to the Caucasus Mountains, the wine region of Kakheti, or the Black Sea coast, making it an ideal hub for work and adventure.

5. Santa Marta, Colombia

While Medellín has long been a favorite for digital nomads, Santa Marta offers a less touristy, beachside alternative with an affordable lifestyle and stunning surroundings. Located on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, Santa Marta provides the perfect balance of work and play, with a growing expat community and an emerging remote work scene. Santa Marta’s reliable internet, affordable rent, and coworking spaces like La Casa Redonda and Ikaro make it a practical base for digital nomads. The city is small enough to feel personal yet large enough to offer all necessary amenities. It also serves as the gateway to some of Colombia's most breathtaking landscapes, including Tayrona National Park, the Lost City trek, and the serene beaches of Palomino. Unlike the larger cities, Santa Marta allows digital nomads to enjoy a relaxed pace of life while still having access to the amenities of a growing work-friendly environment. The city's colonial charm, fresh seafood, and laid-back Caribbean vibe make it an attractive destination for those seeking a tropical yet affordable place to work remotely.

6. Da Lat, Vietnam

Unlike the humid heat of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat offers a cool, temperate climate, making it an attractive alternative for digital nomads. This mountain town, often referred to as the "City of Eternal Spring," provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam’s major cities. With a low cost of living, scenic landscapes, and a growing number of coworking spaces, Da Lat is an ideal spot for remote workers looking to escape the usual Vietnamese hotspots. The city's French colonial architecture, lush green landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere create a peaceful yet inspiring environment. Nomads can work from local coffee farms, explore the breathtaking waterfalls nearby, or take weekend trips to the surrounding countryside. Da Lat is also an emerging food and coffee hub, with countless cafes serving some of the best Vietnamese coffee. The relaxed lifestyle, combined with reliable internet and an increasing number of coworking spaces, makes it an excellent destination for remote workers looking to experience Vietnam in a unique way.

7. Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca is a cultural and culinary gem that has been growing in popularity among digital nomads. Known for its deep indigenous roots, vibrant arts scene, and world-famous food, this city offers a unique working environment filled with creativity and inspiration. One of Oaxaca’s biggest draws is its affordability—rent is significantly cheaper than in major Mexican cities like Mexico City or Guadalajara, and daily expenses such as meals, transportation, and coworking memberships are budget-friendly. Speaking of coworking, digital nomads will find a handful of reliable options, such as Convivio and Impact Hub, offering high-speed Wi-Fi and a community of like-minded professionals. Many cafés also cater to remote workers, ensuring you can set up your laptop in a comfortable and lively setting. For those who like a balance between work and leisure, Oaxaca has no shortage of festivals, from the world-famous Guelaguetza to Day of the Dead celebrations. Weekend trips to the stunning Hierve el Agua rock formations or the ancient ruins of Monte Albán offer a refreshing escape. If you’re looking for a destination where culture, food, and affordability intersect, Oaxaca is a fantastic choice.

8. Bansko, Bulgaria

Once a quiet ski resort town, Bansko has transformed into one of Europe’s fastest-growing digital nomad hubs, offering an incredibly affordable cost of living, a strong coworking community, and access to breathtaking nature. Unlike major European cities, where prices can be a concern, Bansko is extremely budget-friendly—monthly rent for an apartment can be as low as $300, while restaurant meals cost just a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe. Coworking Bansko, the city’s premier remote work hub, has played a huge role in fostering a welcoming nomad community, hosting regular networking events, skill-sharing sessions, and even an annual Digital Nomad Festival that attracts remote workers from around the world. For those who love outdoor adventure, Bansko is a dream location. The town is surrounded by the Pirin Mountains, offering world-class skiing in the winter and hiking, biking, and hot springs in the warmer months. The mix of an active lifestyle and strong community vibes makes Bansko a unique and well-rounded destination for remote workers. If you’re looking for a lesser-known, budget-friendly digital nomad hotspot in Europe, Bansko is a solid contender.

9. Lagos, Portugal

While Lisbon and Porto have become well-known among digital nomads, Lagos, in the Algarve region, offers a slower-paced and more affordable alternative without sacrificing the perks of a modern work environment. What makes Lagos special is its stunning coastline—golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters provide an inspiring backdrop for remote workers. When it comes to work-friendly spots, coworking spaces like Lagos Digital Nomads and The Algarve Cowork offer excellent facilities, strong Wi-Fi, and a growing international community of freelancers and entrepreneurs. Portugal has made remote work easier with its digital nomad visa, allowing long-term stays for those who qualify. In addition, Portugal's affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe, combined with Lagos’ relaxing beach lifestyle, makes this town a compelling choice. For nomads who want a mix of work, surf, and sunshine, Lagos is an unbeatable destination.

10. Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a visually stunning colonial town surrounded by volcanoes, offering an affordable and culturally rich environment for digital nomads. Known for its colorful streets, historic ruins, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect escape for those looking for a relaxed yet stimulating work setting. Despite its old-world charm, Antigua offers modern amenities, including coworking spaces like Impact Hub and Selina, where remote workers can enjoy fast internet, comfortable workspaces, and networking events. Reliable Wi-Fi is found in most cafes, making it easy to switch up work locations. Antigua’s proximity to nature and adventure activities is a major draw. Digital nomads can hike the famous Acatenango Volcano, take weekend trips to Lake Atitlán, or explore Mayan ruins at Tikal. The cost of living is relatively low, with affordable housing options and delicious street food like pupusas and tamales available at budget-friendly prices. For nomads who want a unique cultural experience combined with modern conveniences, Antigua is an excellent choice.

11. Tarifa, Spain

Tarifa, located at the southern tip of Spain, is an adventurous digital nomad’s paradise. It is best known as Europe’s kitesurfing capital, attracting those who love water sports, the outdoors, and a laid-back beach lifestyle. The town offers strong Wi-Fi, coworking spaces like La Cocotera, and a vibrant international community. Its relatively small size allows for easy networking, and many nomads find it easy to build connections with fellow remote workers and locals alike. Cafés with ocean views double as great workspaces, allowing you to stay productive while soaking in the coastal scenery. Tarifa’s location makes it ideal for travelers—it’s just a short ferry ride to Morocco, opening the door to weekend trips to Tangier or Chefchaouen. With its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor activities, and affordable living costs compared to larger Spanish cities, Tarifa is an underrated gem for digital nomads looking for an adventurous yet productive environment.

12. Valparaíso, Chile

A city of vibrant colors, steep hills, and an unmistakable bohemian spirit, Valparaíso is a fantastic destination for digital nomads seeking an inspiring and affordable coastal setting. Located just 90 minutes from Santiago, Valparaíso offers a more laid-back alternative to Chile’s bustling capital while still providing all the modern amenities remote workers need to thrive. One of Valparaíso’s biggest draws is its artistic and creative energy. The city is famous for its street art, lively music scene, and thriving community of artists, writers, and musicians. Walking through its steep, winding streets, you'll encounter breathtaking murals, quirky cafés, and boutique shops filled with handmade crafts. This artistic environment provides a uniquely stimulating atmosphere for digital nomads looking for inspiration while working on creative projects. Despite being one of Chile’s major port cities, Valparaíso remains incredibly affordable compared to Santiago. Rent is significantly cheaper, and daily expenses such as food and transportation are budget-friendly. A meal at a local eatery might only cost a few dollars, and you can find long-term accommodations at half the price of Santiago while still enjoying ocean views. When it comes to workspaces, Valparaíso has a growing number of coworking spaces, such as La Comarka and IF Valparaíso 3IE, which cater specifically to freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. Many of the city’s cafés also offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi, making it easy to set up your laptop and get work done while sipping on Chilean coffee.

13. Dakar, Senegal

For digital nomads looking to experience West Africa’s vibrant culture, stunning coastal scenery, and a rapidly growing tech ecosystem, Dakar is an emerging hotspot worth considering. As the capital of Senegal, Dakar offers a unique mix of modern city life, traditional African culture, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle, making it one of the most exciting yet underrated destinations for remote work. One of Dakar’s standout features is its fast-developing tech scene. Senegal has been making strides in innovation, with a growing number of startups, tech hubs, and coworking spaces emerging in recent years. Spaces like Jokkolabs and Impact Dakar provide a professional setting for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and creatives looking for networking opportunities and reliable work environments. Internet infrastructure is improving, with many coworking spaces and cafés offering fast and stable Wi-Fi, although mobile data plans can sometimes be a better backup option. Beyond work, Dakar offers a rich cultural experience that sets it apart from more conventional digital nomad destinations. The city is home to incredible music, art, and cuisine, with live performances of Mbalax (a fusion of traditional Senegalese music and jazz, soul, and rock influences) happening almost nightly. The city’s art scene is also thriving, with galleries like Galerie Cécile Fakhoury and Village des Arts showcasing contemporary African talent.

14. Brasov, Romania

Tucked away in the heart of Transylvania, Brașov is an enchanting medieval city surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. With fast internet, low living costs, and a thriving expat community, Brașov is quickly becoming one of Eastern Europe’s best-kept secrets for digital nomads. One of the biggest perks of living in Brașov is its affordability. Romania is known for its low cost of living, and Brașov is no exception—monthly rent for a comfortable apartment can be less than $500, and daily expenses such as food, public transportation, and entertainment are very budget-friendly. Compared to Western Europe, you’ll get a much higher quality of life for a fraction of the price. Internet speed is another major advantage of working remotely from Brașov. Romania consistently ranks among the countries with the fastest internet in the world, making it an excellent choice for remote workers who rely on high-speed connectivity. Coworking spaces like Hub Onezero and Makerspace Brasov offer professional environments with reliable Wi-Fi, while many cafés and restaurants also cater to digital nomads.

Where Will Your Next Digital Nomad Adventure Take You?

The beauty of being a digital nomad in 2025 is having the freedom to choose where you work and live—and with the world more connected than ever, the possibilities are endless. These 14 offbeat cities offer everything a remote worker needs, from thriving coworking communities and affordable living to breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the creative energy of Valparaíso, the buzzing tech scene in Dakar, or the fairytale charm of Brașov, each of these destinations offers something unique that will make your remote work journey more exciting and fulfilling. So, where will you go next? Will you embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle of Lagos, dive into the culinary wonders of Oaxaca, or get lost in the medieval streets of Brasov? Wherever your laptop takes you, the world is full of incredible places waiting to be discovered. It’s time to pack your bags and find your next digital nomad paradise!