15 Nomad-Friendly Towns That Aren’t in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a digital nomad favorite for good reason—but there’s a whole world outside Bali and Chiang Mai. If you’re craving strong Wi-Fi, inspiring landscapes, and a chill pace of life without the same-old destinations, this list is for you. These towns span continents and cultures, offering affordable living, great coffee, and the kind of vibes that make you want to stay a while. They’re perfect for creatives, solopreneurs, and anyone living life by laptop. Here are 15 nomad-friendly towns outside Southeast Asia that deserve a spot on your radar.

1. Medellín, Colombia

Once infamous, now iconic—Medellín has become a remote work hotspot. The weather is spring-like all year, Wi-Fi is fast, and the city is surprisingly affordable. You’ll find coworking spaces, great coffee shops, and neighborhoods like El Poblado that feel built for digital nomads. The metro system is clean and efficient, and the surrounding mountains give you views for days. Bonus: Colombia’s visa options are flexible. Medellín is a success story—and a stellar base.

2. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals, and it’s packed with nomad appeal. The cost of living is low, the food is amazing, and the locals are warm and generous. Georgia offers a 1-year visa for remote workers, and coworking spots are popping up fast. You can soak in sulfur baths by day and sip natural wine by night. It’s quirky, creative, and full of contrasts. Tbilisi is the kind of place that grabs you—and doesn’t let go.

3. Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca blends colorful colonial streets with rich culture and some of the best food in the world. It’s more affordable and less chaotic than Mexico City, but still packed with art, music, and mezcal. Many nomads settle in for the creative energy and walkable neighborhoods. Wi-Fi is solid in the city center, and there are plenty of cafés to work from. It’s also a great launchpad for weekend trips to mountains or beaches. Slow, soulful, and inspiring.

4. Valencia, Spain

Valencia offers sun, sea, and city life—all without the Madrid or Barcelona price tag. It’s bike-friendly, full of green space, and has a solid remote work community. The pace is slower, the rent is cheaper, and the beach is just a tram ride away. There’s a great mix of old-world charm and modern living. Coworking spaces and laptop-friendly cafés are easy to find. Plus, paella at the source? Yes, please.

5. Ericeira, Portugal

A surfing town turned remote worker haven, Ericeira is laid-back but full of life. It’s just 45 minutes from Lisbon but has its own vibe—cliffs, waves, and cobbled streets. Fast internet and coworking hubs cater to nomads, and the cost of living is still reasonable. You can hit the waves in the morning and work in a sea-view café by afternoon. The community is growing, and the energy is contagious. If you want surf + focus, this is the spot.

6. Bansko, Bulgaria

Yes, Bansko is a ski resort—but it’s also a digital nomad magnet in the off-season. Affordable rent, solid Wi-Fi, and an established coworking scene make it great for focused work sprints. The mountains offer hiking in summer and snow in winter, and the cost of living is shockingly low. You’ll find regular nomad events, retreats, and a strong community vibe. It’s a little random—and totally perfect for getting stuff done.

7. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana feels like a fairytale city that never got overrun. It’s walkable, peaceful, and packed with culture. The internet is fast, cafés are cozy, and the creative energy is strong. It’s more expensive than Eastern Europe, but still cheaper than Western capitals. You’re also close to mountains, lakes, and Croatia’s coast. It’s low-key ideal for introverts and writers.

8. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

This beach town on the Pacific coast is blowing up—but still holding onto its relaxed feel. It’s especially popular with surf-loving nomads who don’t need massive infrastructure. Wi-Fi has improved, cafés are adapting, and coworking is on the rise. Living costs are low, and the sunsets are next-level. You’ll find both party vibes and quiet corners, depending on your style. For barefoot productivity, it’s hard to beat.

9. Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius is compact, underrated, and very digital nomad-friendly. The city has strong internet, a growing startup scene, and charming old-town vibes. English is widely spoken, and costs are lower than much of the EU. Coworking spaces are modern and welcoming. Summers are gorgeous, and even winters have their cozy appeal. It’s a peaceful place to get work done—and stay inspired.

10. Essaouira, Morocco

This breezy coastal town offers affordable living, fresh seafood, and an artistic vibe that draws remote workers looking for something different. It’s not as hectic as Marrakech but still feels alive and soulful. The medina is walkable and full of energy, and the Atlantic breeze keeps things cool. Wi-Fi is decent in most cafés and riads. It’s great for focus, reflection, and writing with the sound of waves nearby.

11. Tulum, Mexico (on a budget)

Tulum’s become a hot spot, but with some clever planning, you can still enjoy it as a budget-friendly nomad base. Avoid beachfront prices by living inland, where hostels and Airbnbs are more affordable. There are coworking spaces, great cafés, and a strong wellness scene. It’s touristy, sure—but also tropical and inspiring. Balance is key here: work hard, swim harder.

12. Cusco, Peru

High in the Andes, Cusco is rich in culture, scenery, and surprises. It’s a historic city with a growing remote work scene and low cost of living. Internet is solid, food is hearty, and day trips to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley add adventure to your routine. You’ll find peace and stimulation in equal measure. If you like your creative work with altitude and alpacas, Cusco calls.

13. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest cities—and one of its most affordable hidden gems. Ancient ruins sit beside hipster cafés and tech startups. Rent is cheap, food is great, and the vibe is chilled-out. Coworking spaces offer reliable Wi-Fi and mountain views. It’s a great place to write, build, or just reset. Slow travel done right.

14. Split, Croatia

Split offers sun-soaked days, beautiful coasts, and enough infrastructure to support a mobile lifestyle. It’s more affordable than Dubrovnik and more scenic than most cities its size. Coworking and café culture are strong, and ferries to nearby islands keep things fresh. You can swim in the sea before breakfast and meet up with nomads by lunch. Split is ancient, modern, and working remotely–ready.

15. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is bold, gritty, and full of life. It’s not conventionally pretty, but it’s deeply real—and incredibly cheap. The internet is fast, the nightlife is wild, and the coffee culture is serious. Coworking spots are popping up fast, and the expat scene is growing. If you’re into raw energy and no-nonsense living, Belgrade delivers. It’s a base that punches above its weight.