Have you ever wished you could finish that Zoom meeting by the beach, or write a report from a sunny café surrounded by art and history? More and more of us are doing just that.
The workcation—combining remote work with vacation—is one of the biggest trends among Gen Z and young professionals today.
But not every city makes a great workcation destination. We need good Wi-Fi, a welcoming environment, inspiring surroundings, affordable living, and of course, things to do when we close our laptops. Today, let's take a look at 7 cities around the world that are perfect “urban oases” for your next workcation adventure. Pack your laptop and let's explore!
<h3>1. Lisbon, Portugal: Sunshine & Startups</h3>
Lisbon is quickly becoming Europe's remote work capital. The city offers affordable living compared to other Western capitals, and it's full of cozy coworking spaces and seaside cafés.
<b>Why Lisbon?</b>
- Great weather, fast internet, affordable housing
- Average monthly rent: $1,200 for a one-bedroom in the city center
- Coworking space cost: Around $150/month
- Attractions: Belém Tower ($7.50), Jerónimos Monastery ($12), Tram 28 ride ($4)
- Best time to visit: April to October
<b>Tips:</b>
Public transport is easy to use, and many locals speak English. Lisbon is also a gateway to stunning day trips like Sintra and Cascais.
<h3>2. Ubud, Bali: The Soulful Workation Escape</h3>
Ubud is Bali’s cultural and wellness epicenter, perfect for digital nomads seeking inspiration amid lush jungles. It blends serene mindfulness retreats with reliable coworking spaces, offering the ultimate work-life balance.
<b>Why Ubud?</b>
- Exotic jungle scenery, wellness lifestyle, affordable luxury
- Average monthly rent: $600-$1,200 for a private villa
- Coworking space cost: Around $100-$150/month
- Attractions: Tegallalang Rice Terrares (Free/$2), Sacred Monkey Forest ($5), Tibumana Waterfall ($2 donation)
- Best time to visit: May to September
<b>Tips:</b>
Rent a scooter ($50/month) to explore. Visit coworking spaces like Outpost or Hubud. Try sunrise hikes at Campuhan Ridge.
<h3>3. Barcelona, Spain: Art & Energy</h3>
Barcelona offers a perfect blend of beach, history, and vibrant urban life. The city is also one of Europe's top tech hubs.
<b>Why Barcelona?</b>
- Creative vibe, Mediterranean lifestyle, dynamic city life
- Average monthly rent: $1,300 for a one-bedroom in the city
- Coworking space cost: Around $180/month
- Attractions: Sagrada Família ($30), Park Güell ($12), Picasso Museum ($14)
- Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
<b>Tips:</b>
Tapas culture means dinner starts late—plan your workday accordingly! Use a Hola BCN! transport card for unlimited metro and bus travel.
<h3>4. Chiang Mai, Thailand: Affordable Comfort</h3>
If you want an affordable yet comfortable city surrounded by nature and culture, Chiang Mai is a top choice.
<b>Why Chiang Mai?</b>
- Low living costs, strong nomad community, relaxed vibe
- Average monthly rent: $400–$700 for an apartment
- Coworking space cost: Around $80/month
- Attractions: Doi Inthanon National Park ($10–$20), Elephant Nature Park ($75), night markets (free to enter)
- Best time to visit: November to February
<b>Tips:</b>
Many cafés have fast Wi-Fi and welcome remote workers. Chiang Mai is also great for weekend trips to nearby mountains and waterfalls.
<h3>5. Tallinn, Estonia: Digital Pioneer</h3>
Tallinn is one of the world's most digitally advanced cities, making it a remote worker's paradise. Plus, its fairy-tale old town inspires creativity.
<b>Why Tallinn?</b>
- e-Residency program, excellent digital services, charming medieval vibe
- Average monthly rent: $800–$1,000
- Coworking space cost: Around $130/month
- Attractions: Old Town walking tour ($10), Tallinn TV Tower ($16), Kadriorg Palace ($9)
- Best time to visit: May to September
<b>Tips:</b>
Estonia's e-Residency makes it easy to set up a business or freelance work remotely. The city is very walkable and English is widely spoken.
<h3>6. Buenos Aires, Argentina: Culture & Coffee</h3>
Buenos Aires offers a unique mix of European architecture, Latin passion, and one of the world's best coffee cultures.
<b>Why Buenos Aires?</b>
- Vibrant culture, affordable lifestyle, café work scene
- Average monthly rent: $500–$800
- Coworking space cost: Around $90/month
- Attractions: Teatro Colón ($10–25), La Boca neighborhood (free), MALBA Museum ($5)
- Best time to visit: March to May, September to November
<b>Tips:</b>
Public transport is cheap and reliable. Many traditional cafés are laptop-friendly. Be sure to experience a tango show!
<h3>7. Vancouver, Canada: Nature & Networking</h3>
If you want to balance remote work with outdoor adventures, Vancouver is ideal. The city is a hub for tech professionals and nature lovers alike.
<b>Why Vancouver?</b>
- Stunning landscapes, clean air, strong tech scene
- Average monthly rent: $2,000+ (Vancouver is pricey, but worth it for short workcations)
- Coworking space cost: Around $250/month
- Attractions: Capilano Suspension Bridge ($56), Stanley Park (free), Grouse Mountain Skyride ($53)
- Best time to visit: June to September
<b>Tips:</b>
Consider staying in nearby suburbs like North Vancouver for lower rents. Weekends are perfect for hiking, biking, or kayaking.
Workcations aren't just a trend—they're a new way of life for many of us. They offer the freedom to explore new places while staying productive. Whether you crave tropical beaches, vibrant cities, or quiet forests, there's a workcation-friendly city out there waiting for you.
So, Lykkers—where would you set up your next remote office? Have you already tried a workcation? Share your experiences or dream destinations with us. Who knows—we might meet in one of these cities soon!