Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Spain
As a digital nomad, the allure of sunny climes and rich cultural experiences often draws us to Spain. With its diverse offerings, Spain is an ideal destination for those seeking a dynamic and engaging lifestyle. In this article, we'll explore seven captivating cities and towns that cater to the needs of digital nomads, each boasting a unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm.
Barcelona
Known for its vibrant energy and distinctive architecture, Barcelona offers digital nomads a rich tapestry of experiences. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a thriving arts scene. A must-visit attraction is the Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí's breathtaking basilica. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €700-€1,000 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €30-€40. Nomad Tip: Don't miss the spectacular light show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuic, held on select nights throughout the year.
Where to Stay & Eat: Eixample and Gracia are popular areas with a good selection of furnished rentals. Try La Xampanyeria for delicious and affordable tapas or El Quim de la Boqueria for fresh seafood.
Valencia
Valencia's harmonious blend of modern architecture and historic sites makes it an enticing destination for digital nomads. The City of Arts and Sciences is a must-visit, featuring futuristic structures and thought-provoking exhibitions. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €500-€800 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €25-€35. Nomad Tip: Attend the annual Fallas Festival, a week-long celebration filled with parades, fireworks, and elaborate papier-mâché figures.
Where to Stay & Eat: Ruzafa and Carmen are great neighborhoods for digital nomads, with a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and eateries. Try Horchateria La Seu for their signature horchata or Casa Montana for delicious seafood paella.
Granada
Granada's picturesque setting, with the majestic Alhambra palace nestled atop a hill, makes it an irresistible destination for digital nomads. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a rich cultural heritage. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €400-€700 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €20-€30. Nomad Tip: Visit the Alhambra Palace and the Generalife gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for breathtaking views and intricate Moorish architecture.
Where to Stay & Eat: Realejo and Albaicín are popular areas with a rich cultural heritage and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and coworking spaces. Try La Cueva de Chinos for authentic Spanish tapas or El Aceituno for delicious Andalusian dishes.
Málaga
Málaga's sunny climate, bustling nightlife, and proximity to the beach make it an attractive destination for digital nomads. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a rich cultural heritage, including the Picasso Museum. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €500-€800 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €30-€40. Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the stunning Alhambra palace in Granada, just a few hours away by train.
Where to Stay & Eat: Soho and El Palo are popular areas for digital nomads, offering a variety of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants. Try El Pimpi for Andalusian dishes or La Cigale for Mediterranean and international cuisine.
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela's historic charm and lively cultural scene make it a captivating destination for digital nomads. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a rich cultural heritage, including the stunning Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €600-€900 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €30-€40. Nomad Tip: Take a stroll through the historic Old Town and explore the beautiful Plaza del Obradoiro.
Where to Stay & Eat: Casco Vello and Praza de Quintana are popular areas for digital nomads, offering a variety of cafes, coworking spaces, and restaurants. Try Casa Marcelo for modern Galician cuisine or A Tafona for traditional Galician dishes.
Tarragona
Tarragona's stunning Mediterranean coastline, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene make it an enticing destination for digital nomads. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a rich cultural heritage, including the Roman Amphitheater. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a central neighborhood costs around €400-€700 per month, while groceries for one person for a week range from €25-€35. Nomad Tip: Visit the Roman Amphitheater and wander through the historic streets of the Old Town.
Where to Stay & Eat: El Mar and El Raval are popular areas for digital nomads, offering a variety of cafes, coworking spaces, and restaurants. Try La Fonda de la Plata for delicious seafood dishes or El Café de la Lonja for a coffee and a croissant.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Spain Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Spain on our Spain forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Spain by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Spain.
Digital Nomads in Spain offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Spain.