If you're a digital nomad looking for a vibrant and affordable city to work and explore, Lisbon should be at the top of your list. This digital nomad guide to Lisbon will provide you with all the information you need to know about visa requirements, the best neighborhoods to live in, co-working spaces, internet connectivity, cost of living, and the top things to do and see in this beautiful city.
Whether you're an EU citizen or a non-EU citizen, Lisbon offers a welcoming environment for remote workers from all over the world.
Why Lisbon is a great city for digital nomads
Lisbon has become a popular destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, pleasant climate, and vibrant culture. The city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal place to live and work. With its stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Lisbon provides a rich and inspiring environment for digital nomads to thrive.
Visa requirements for digital nomads in Lisbon
EU citizens
If you're an EU citizen, you have the freedom to live and work in Lisbon without any visa requirements. You can stay in the city for as long as you like and enjoy all the benefits of being a local resident. This makes Lisbon an attractive destination for digital nomads from European countries.
Non-EU citizens
For non-EU citizens, the visa requirements for living and working in Lisbon can be more complex. However, Portugal offers a special visa program called the “D7 Visa” for independent workers, including digital nomads.
This visa allows you to live and work in Lisbon for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. To qualify for the D7 Visa, you need to demonstrate that you have a stable source of income and sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.
Portugal Digital Nomad Visa: Live Your Remote Work Dreams
Best neighborhoods for digital nomads in Lisbon
Baixa
Baixa is the heart of Lisbon and a great neighborhood for digital nomads. It offers a central location with easy access to co-working spaces, cafes, and public transportation. The area is known for its beautiful squares, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere.
Chiado
Chiado is a trendy neighborhood that combines traditional charm with modern amenities. It's home to many cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a popular spot for digital nomads. The neighborhood also offers stunning views of the city and is within walking distance of major attractions.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is known for its vibrant nightlife and bohemian atmosphere. It's a great neighborhood for digital nomads who enjoy a lively social scene and want to be close to bars, clubs, and live music venues. During the day, Bairro Alto offers a relaxed and creative environment for work.
Alfama
Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon and is famous for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and Fado music. It's a charming and picturesque area that provides a unique setting for digital nomads. Alfama offers a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to live and work.
Co-working spaces in Lisbon
Heden
Heden is a popular co-working space located in the heart of Lisbon. It offers a modern and comfortable working environment with high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a community of like-minded professionals. Heden also hosts regular events and workshops, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Second Home
Second Home is a unique co-working space in Lisbon that combines work and nature. It's located in a beautiful greenhouse surrounded by plants and natural light. The space offers flexible membership options, including hot desks and private offices, as well as a range of amenities such as a café, library, and event space.
Impact Hub Lisbon
Impact Hub Lisbon is a co-working space that focuses on social impact and sustainability. It provides a supportive community for digital nomads who are passionate about making a positive difference in the world. The space offers a variety of membership options, including access to events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
| Co-Working Space | Address |
|---|---|
| Second Home Lisboa | R. da Boavista 74, 1200-068 Lisboa, Portugal |
| Cowork Central & Studios | R. Castilho 57, 1250-068 Lisboa, Portugal |
| Avila Spaces | Av. da República 12, 1050-191 Lisboa, Portugal |
| LACS – Lisbon Art Center & Studios | R. da Junqueira 188, 1300-342 Lisboa, Portugal |
| Selina Secret Garden Lisboa | R. das Salgadeiras 5, 1200-047 Lisboa, Portugal |
Internet and connectivity in Lisbon
Internet service providers
Lisbon has a reliable and fast internet infrastructure, with several internet service providers to choose from. Some of the popular providers include MEO, NOS, and Vodafone. These providers offer various packages with different speeds and prices, allowing you to find the best option for your needs.
Cafes and public spaces with free Wi-Fi
If you prefer to work outside of your accommodation or co-working space, Lisbon offers many cafes and public spaces with free Wi-Fi. Some popular options include Fabrica Coffee Roasters, Copenhagen Coffee Lab, and LX Factory. These places provide a comfortable and inspiring environment for remote work, along with delicious coffee and snacks.
Cost of living in Lisbon for digital nomads
Accommodation
Lisbon offers a range of accommodation options for digital nomads, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury apartments. The cost of rent varies depending on the neighborhood and the type of accommodation you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around €800-€1200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in a central location.
Transportation
Lisbon has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro. A monthly pass for unlimited travel costs around €40, making it a cost-effective option for getting around the city. Lisbon is also a walkable city, with many attractions and amenities within walking distance.
Food and dining
Lisbon is known for its delicious and affordable food. You can enjoy a meal at a local restaurant for around €10-€15, and street food options are even cheaper. The city is also home to many markets where you can buy fresh produce and ingredients to cook your own meals. Overall, the cost of dining out in Lisbon is relatively low compared to other European cities.
Here's a breakdown of the typical monthly expenses for digital nomads living in Lisbon, Portugal, presented in a table:
| Expense | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared or studio apartment) | 500 – 1000 |
| Food (groceries and dining out) | 200 – 400 |
| Transportation (public transport) | 30 – 50 |
| Co-Working Space (monthly membership) | 100 – 200 |
| Internet (monthly) | Included in accommodation or around 30 |
| Entertainment and leisure | 100 – 200 |
| Miscellaneous (utilities, personal care, etc.) | 100 – 200 |
| Total | 1030 – 2080 EUR |
Things to do and see in Lisbon
Explore the historic neighborhoods
Lisbon is a city with a rich history and many historic neighborhoods to explore. Take a stroll through Alfama, the oldest neighborhood, and get lost in its narrow streets and charming squares. Visit the historic district of Belém and admire its iconic landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Don't forget to take a ride on the famous Tram 28, which will take you through some of the most picturesque parts of the city.
Visit the iconic landmarks
Lisbon is home to several iconic landmarks that are worth a visit. Climb to the top of the São Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city. Explore the beautiful Lisbon Cathedral, also known as Sé de Lisboa, which dates back to the 12th century. Don't miss the stunning views from the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, one of the highest points in Lisbon.
Enjoy the local cuisine
Lisbon is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of culinary delights to try. Indulge in traditional Portuguese dishes such as bacalhau (salted codfish), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and grilled sardines.
Visit the Mercado da Ribeira, a food market with a variety of stalls offering everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing ginjinha, a traditional cherry liqueur.
Here are some local dishes and places to eat in Lisbon:
Local Cuisine:
- Bacalhau à Brás: A classic Portuguese dish made with shredded salted cod, onions, potatoes, eggs, and parsley, all sautéed together in olive oil.
- Pasteis de Nata: Lisbon's famous custard tarts, featuring flaky pastry filled with creamy custard, sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar.
- Francesinha: A hearty sandwich originating from Porto but popular in Lisbon as well, made with layers of bread, cured meats, sausage, and covered with melted cheese and a spicy beer sauce.
- Caldo Verde: A comforting soup made with potatoes, collard greens, sliced chorizo, and olive oil, often served with crusty bread.
- Grilled Sardines: Fresh sardines grilled and seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, a staple dish during Lisbon's popular festivals, especially during the summer.
Where to Eat:
- Time Out Market Lisboa: A bustling food hall located in the Mercado da Ribeira, featuring a variety of food stalls offering traditional Portuguese dishes alongside international cuisines.
- Cervejaria Ramiro: A legendary seafood restaurant known for its fresh seafood platters, including clams, prawns, crab, and lobster, served in a lively atmosphere.
- A Cevicheria: A trendy spot specializing in Peruvian ceviche and seafood dishes, featuring innovative flavors and artistic presentations.
- Taberna da Rua das Flores: A cozy tavern offering traditional Portuguese tapas and petiscos (small plates), with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and regional wines.
- Casa do Alentejo: Located in a beautiful Moorish palace, Casa do Alentejo serves Alentejo-inspired cuisine, including dishes like migas (breadcrumbs with garlic and pork) and açorda (bread stew).
- O Prego da Peixaria: Known for its modern twist on traditional prego (steak sandwich), this restaurant offers creative variations featuring seafood, beef, and vegetarian options.
- Solar dos Presuntos: A family-run restaurant renowned for its hearty Portuguese dishes, featuring an extensive menu of seafood, meat, and game specialties.
Exploring the local cuisine of Lisbon is a delightful adventure, with a multitude of eateries, taverns, and markets offering authentic flavors and memorable dining experiences.
Day trips from Lisbon
Sintra
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a magical town known for its fairytale-like palaces and lush gardens. Explore the colorful Pena Palace, visit the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and take a walk through the beautiful Monserrate Park. Sintra is a perfect day trip destination for digital nomads looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature and history.
Cascais
Cascais is a charming coastal town located west of Lisbon. It offers beautiful beaches, a picturesque marina, and a lively town center. Spend a day relaxing on the beach, try your hand at water sports, or explore the narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants. Cascais is easily accessible from Lisbon by train, making it a popular destination for a day trip.
Obidos
Obidos is a medieval town located north of Lisbon. It's known for its well-preserved city walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and traditional white houses with colorful trims. Take a walk along the city walls, visit the medieval castle, and explore the charming shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. Obidos is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Portugal's rich history and culture.
Conclusion
Lisbon is a digital nomad's dream destination, offering a perfect blend of work and play. With its welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that more and more remote workers are choosing Lisbon as their base.
Whether you're exploring the historic neighborhoods, working from a cozy co-working space, or indulging in the local cuisine, Lisbon has something to offer for every digital nomad. So pack your bags, grab your laptop, and get ready to experience the magic of Lisbon as a digital nomad.
Originally posted 2023-08-04 07:35:31.
