Digital nomads are independent, adventurous, brave, easygoing, hardworking, and have a good work ethic. They also enjoy traveling and seeing beautiful sites, trying new foods and engaging all their senses.
You need to calculate all your costs and expenses as a nomad. Then, choose a place where you can have fun and still do the hard work. Every digital nomad should visit the Balkans. It has many hidden gems. The Balkans offer a variety of affordable, captivating, mystic, and vibrant activities. Read on to learn more.
1. Swim in Split
Split, the former Roman capital, is an ideal seaside destination for those who love warm temperatures, a crystal-clear sea, beautiful beaches and a perfect breeze. There are so many places to work that it is difficult to choose just one. Almost every town along the coast is a digital nomad’s dream. Split stands out among the other cities along Croatia’s 5,800 km long coast due to its friendliness and comfortable work places. It also has nice beaches. While you’re in Split, take a stroll through the old city and stop by the nearby bistro for some work. The summer accommodation is expensive but wifi speeds are fast.
2. Enjoy a walk through the plains of Mokrin
Visit the rural and untamed part of Serbia to explore the Balkans. Mokrin House is a modern and urban place that’s perfect for digital nomads and entrepreneurs looking for an alternative environment for their stressful work. The international traveler can enjoy the local cuisine and meet new people while working uninterruptedly. Take a walk or a ride around the peaceful plains. Swim in Bio Swimming Pool or enjoy a movie. Serbia is a great place for digital nomads to take a break before moving on.
3. Go skiing in Bansko
To enjoy the wonderful Mediterranean sun in the south, and the majestic mountain ranges in the east, you cannot stay longer than 90 days. Most Balkan countries adhere to the Schengen Zone. You can only stay 90 days after arrival. Bansko is enough. Bansko is a great place for those who love skiing and hiking in the mountains. You can find high-quality service at very affordable prices. Winter prices are higher than average. The average daily price of a ski lift ticket is $30. However, the Internet (which is fast) and food are cheap. It is important to learn how to use a map or a compass in the mountains before you go. The outdoor ice skating rink is a great place for non-skiers to have a little fun, drink hot chocolate and work at the Bavarian style cafes.
4. Pamper your spirit in Timisoara
Timisoara is a city where people gather to socialize. You can relax in the lush parkland along Bega River, or you can go biking, kayaking, and riding a bicycle. The food is a delicious blend of local and international cuisine at affordable prices. The rent can be as high as 300 euros per week, and utilities will cost you around 80 euro. However, this Balkan town has the best internet connection for the lowest prices. This connection can reach 1GB per second at just 10 Euros per month. It is perfect for digital nomads that need to upload/download large audio and video files.
5. Belgrade is a great place to visit
At first, the capital of Serbia may seem dull, but it is full of surprises. In addition to historical churches, St Sava Temple and Kalemegdan Fortress, Belgrade offers digital nomads a low cost of living, as well as a fantastic nightlife. Belgrade is a great city for working, with reliable internet and friendly people. But it’s the nightlife that really makes this city a destination. Try out the local food while enjoying the great folk music in the old bohemian area Skadarlia. You will see people having fun, dancing and just letting loose wherever you are. Follow the locals for lively clubs.
6. Budapest is the place to chill out
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is an ideal place for digital nomads. It is close to famous European cities such as Krakow and Vienna. There are many great bars and pubs in Pest, including Ruin Pubs. Also, the tech and coworking communities are growing by the day. Sziget is a summer festival where you can chill by the river and listen to renowned musicians while dancing the night away. You can get a cheaper price in Budapest than Prague, and there is free WiFi even at some beautiful parks.
7. Bitola is a place to compose yourself
Macedonia offers a cheap way to save money, enjoy delicious food, and get to a hostel. The food is healthy and homemade. Also, the internet is incredibly fast. Politics is the reason for its low cost, but it is also a very beautiful country. The cost of living in the country is reasonable, so you could save enough to travel around the world (almost) within a year. Bitola was designed to be explored by foot. So no transport costs. You can stroll around Sirok Street (Wide Street), and see the Clock Tower from the 17th Century, as well as other Ottoman and Slavic ruins.
8. Zagreb is the place to be if you want to groove
The capital city of Croatia is a shining example for all ex-Yugoslavian nations. The city is vibrant and full of activity at every turn. You can also find peaceful coworking areas (as well as great coffee) at some of the city’s top-notch spaces, such as Impact Hub. Do not forget to take a look at this fascinating city from the Zagreb Observation Deck. The people are friendly, open-minded and speak excellent English. It is an attractive capital but it’s expensive in comparison to other Balkan towns. At the height of season, you can expect to pay as much as $490 a month for a nice apartment. The average monthly cost of living is $1787. If you are on a tight budget, consider Zagreb Hostels. There is free wifi in public areas, but it’s weak.
9. Thessaloniki is a place to awaken the senses
Greece is expensive, but Thessaloniki in the north of the country offers a luxurious lifestyle while saving money. Thessaloniki’s alleyways are layered with history so that you can experience the wonders of different cultures. Thessaloniki is a great place to work because almost every location has modern digital amenities. The best part is definitely the sea. Do your morning work, then jump in the sea.
10. Enhance your creative abilities in Sophia
Sophia is a digital nomad town located on the west coast of Bulgaria, near the Vitosha Mountain. It is less than 50 km from the border with Serbia. You can work here and still live in Sofia, but you’ll need to live like the locals. Rent an apartment, get roommates or share utilities. Otherwise, you will not be able to make ends meet. This is a wonderful place to learn and explore on foot.