While much of Europe is still in the throes of winter, digital nomads are constantly scoping out Europe for their next home base.
There’s one loophole, however. Portugal’s paradisal Algarve region is one of the warmest in Europe, while much of the continent sees snow-blanketed streets transforming historic towns into wintry fairytale villages.
There’s certainly a level of enticement visiting Europe’s winter wonderlands, but a long-term stay is typically out of the question when there’s much sunnier destinations welcoming digital nomads.
That’s where the Algarve comes into play, especially these 3 beach towns seeing an influx of remote workers flocking to their golden shores.
Portugal’s top 3 beach towns for digital nomads:
Lagos: Work By Day, Let Loose By Night
Why not hang your hat in arguably the most beautiful townscape of the Algarve? Known for stunning golden beaches and lively nightlife scenes, nomads can find a cozy seaside cafe for workdays and let loose on weekends.
Praia dos Estudantes is largely seen as the prettiest beach and, lucky for you, the top-rated espresso bar, Coffee Break Lagos, with sweeping views of the Atlantic.
No matter the season, Lagos remains one of Europe’s sunniest destinations. Better yet, it’s super cheap!
Whether it’s simply grabbing a coffee, pigging out on local seafood dishes, or renting an apartment, you won’t see a major dent in your bank account.
According to HousingAnywhere, centrally-located apartments are as low as $723, walkable to numerous co-working offices like Lagos Coworkers and fascinating historical sites in the town center.
Tavira: Laid-Back Lifestyle & Multi-Cultural
Can’t make up your mind where to venture off to next? Why not take advantage of a travel loophole?
You see, in the States, “border towns” often have a bad wrap. In Europe, though, it’s the perfect place to double-dip in multiple cultures, and that’s the case for Tavira, set near the Portugal-Spain border.
The picturesque town surrounding the Gilao River, leading to winding canals, and the beautiful Ihla de Tavira as an easy-to-reach paradisal escape, Tavira is teaming with delights, both urban and natural, in this laid-back hideaway.
Reaching Spain is roughly a 40-minute drive, but Tavira is a worthwhile destination in its own right.
Not known for its nightlife scene like Lagos, nomads can expect an idyllic home away from home with postcard-perfect golden beaches and a timeless townscape.
There are numerous cafes to work from, along with top-rated co-working spaces like The Table: Coffee Cowork & Co.
According to Properstar, ocean-view apartments go for as low as $727.
Faro: Portugal’s Most Underrated City
As Lisbon has largely contributed to Portugal’s rise in popularity, followed by Porto’s newfound fame, the city of Faro sometimes gets lost in the mix.
As a recent visitor of Faro, I can tell you firsthand it’s a great place for digital nomads. For one, you’ll never go hungry and you can eke out extra wine in your booze budget with glasses as low as $2 are easy to find.
Old Town might seem touristy at first glance, but it’s equally blended with locals enjoying splendid weather at savory tapa bars and sidewalk cafes (make sure to order a cup of traditional galao!).
Faro has great beaches too. Praia da Ilha de Faro is by far the best, but don’t sleep on Faro’s hidden islands too for peaceful beach days away from the city buzz.
As the biggest city in the Algarve, Faro is well connected with transportation to neighboring beach towns like my favorite, Quarteira, and mega popular vacation spot, Albufeira – both of which are more expensive than the city of Faro.
Within the city limits, you’ll discover mesmerizing architecture of pastel colors and a vibrant marina lined with laid-back bars – many of which have speedy wifi to level up your “office”.
As far as rent goes, expect the same price range as Lagos and Tavira with more variety.
Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa (D8)
The Algarve stands in good company for enticing digital nomad destinations with Portugal’s very own Madeira, Lisbon, and even lesser-known Ericeira making great options too.
Portugal offers a digital nomad visa known as “D8”, serving non-EU remote workers, and there are some requirements nomads must meet:
Valid passport: must be valid for 6 months beyond the exit date of Portugal
Income: Monthly income of $3175
Proof of accommodation: must prove hotel booking or rental agreement
Health insurance: must obtain coverage forthe entire duration of stay in Portugal
The application fee is $186.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
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