Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon is a mesmerising and inviting place that is becoming popular by the day! With the increase of remote workers all over the world, the digital nomad lifestyle is becoming much more common. Places like Lisbon allow people a variety of options and it also encourages them to take daring steps.
When you put Lisbon in comparison to other European cities, you’ll come to realize that this pleasant city has so much more to offer.
If this place has intrigued you too then go over this ultimate guide and learn what it’s like to live there as a digital nomad.
Where is Lisbon located?
Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, located in the western part of the country. It is situated on the northern shore of the Tagus River. Lisbon is also the largest city in Portugal It sits on the western coast of western Europe and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.
Fact: Did you know that Lisbon is Portugal’s commercial, political, and tourist center of the city?
Why Choose Lisbon as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
This city is becoming famous at a fast rate but it still has some flaws. Let’s delve into Lisbon’s pros and cons to see if this vibrant city is a good option for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Low cost of living | Bureaucracy and red tape |
| Warm weather | Slow legal proceedings |
| Friendly people | Central heating problems |
| Lively and buzzing environment | Scary drivers |
| Growing digital nomad community | |
| Interesting nightlife |
While you are looking at these advantages, make sure to consider the political problems. Lisbon has a beurocracy form of government. This essentially means that the state officials are in charge of making important decisions rather than elected members. This can be a problem because normal legal procedures such as driver’s license attainment can get delayed. Other than that, it’s a popular digital nomad destination for a reason! You’ll have the experience of a lifetime here.
How to Get to Lisbon?
You can get to Lisbon in multiple ways.
By air
Traveling via airplane is one of the easiest ways, especially if you are traveling from abroad. You can get direct flights or connecting flights to land at The Aeroporto de Portela (LIS), also known as the Lisbon airport. It is fairly near to the city center so you won’t face much problem getting to your desired location.
Here are some of the best airlines you can use.
| From U.S. | American AirlinesTap Portugal United Airlines |
| From Canada | Tap Portugal Air CanadaAir Transat |
| From Australia | EmiratesBritish Airways |
| From the U.K | EasyjetRyanairBritish Airways |
By car
You can also get to Lisbon by car. However, this option is only viable if you are in the Iberian peninsula. Since Lisbon has great highways, car travel is a great option.
By train
For those of you who are already in Portugal, traveling by train is a great option. You can travel between cities and you can even get a train from Spain. While this form of transport is slow, it is highly recommended for the sake of experience.
Transportation and How to Get Around Lisbon?
When it comes to transportation in Lisbon, there are plenty of options.
On foot
One of the best ways to get around this city is on foot! You get to explore the beautiful architecture and admire Lisbon’s beauty. While it’s quite hilly, you won’t feel it at all.
Metro
Much like any other place, the metro is also affordable in Lisbon. Not only is it convenient and accessible but comfortable as well. You can reach your desired location quickly and save money as well.
Tram network
You can also access the city’s tram network to get around. The tickets are surprisingly budget-friendly and this mode of transport is convenient as well. Tram networks are also good because you can see all the beautiful sights while traveling and they can take you to any hilltop that you want.
Buses
Usually, Buses are a commonly used way of transport but Lisbon’s network is quite slow. There are 2 bus lines in the city. While you can travel via them, make sure to remember that they are not the most reliable.
Ubers
Luckily, Ubers are easily and widely available in Lisbon. You can simply download the app and get rides to your preferred location at your preferred time. Since Uber is a reputable name, it’s certainly safer than some other forms of public transportation.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Lisbon?
Lisbon has some of the best neighborhoods and you have plenty of options to choose from. Here are the most recommended ones.
Alfama
The lively and bustling neighborhood of Alfama is also the oldest one in the city. If you are looking for a place that has history and culture attached to it then Alfama is a great place for you. It is a homely neighborhood where you’ll see laundry hung up outside and street vendors serving amazing fish. You’ll also come to appreciate the colorful row of houses and the friendly local community. Alfama is famous for hosting the Feira da Ladra flea market so make sure to visit that during your time here.
Bairro Alto
Bairo Alto is a hilly neighborhood that happens to be one of the best places to live in Lisbon. The abundance of bohemian bars and eateries will keep you occupied while the lively atmosphere will keep you entertained. It is one of the most trendy parts of the city and it directly overlooks the famous Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Additionally, Bairro Alto houses plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Cais do Sodre
If you wish to live in a central location then Cais do Sodre might be a good option for you. You’ll be located at a short distance from major amenities and popular tourist cities. This centrally located neighborhood will allow you to live near the port and the famous Pink Street. Cais do Sodre is near co-working spaces which makes it a perfect place for digital nomads.
Internet Connectivity in Lisbon
The good news for remote workers is that Lisbon has a great wifi connection. In fact, the government has highly invested in the internet infrastructure to enable reliable and high-speed internet all over the region. Broadband and fibre internet’s average speed is 109.99 Mbps while mobile networks have an average speed of 35.68 Mbps. Lisbon also has good download speed which means your work won’t be interrupted!
You can get local SIM cards at your nearest convenience store or an airport when you arrive. Furthermore, most cafes and coworking spaces offer fast wifi for free.
E sim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| Unlimited | 5 days | 21$ (19.35€) |
| Unlimited | 7 days | 29$ (26.72€) |
| Unlimited | 10 days | 37$ (34€) |
| Unlimited | 15 days | 51$ (47€) |
| Unlimited | 20 days | 62$ (57.13€) |
| Unlimited | 30 days | 75$ (69.11€) |
Airalo
| Data allowance | Validity | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.15€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ (6.45€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ (8.75€) |
| 5GB | 30 days | 10.00$ (9.21€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 17.00$ (15.66€) |
5 Best Places to Work from in Lisbon
Lucky for remote workers and digital nomads, there are a bunch of good places for working in Lisbon.
Dear breakfast
Dear Breakfast is one of the best places for digital nomads. From fast internet and comfortable seating to amazing food and a good working environment, this coffee shop has everything a remote worker requires. They also have an abundance of power plugs which ensures a seamless flow of work.
Fabrica coffee roasters
This coffee house is also a great option for digital nomads. They have multiple branches throughout the city which means you can choose according to your convenience. Fabrica coffee roasters offer indoor and outdoor seating and they also have delicious coffee.
Copenhagen coffee lab
If you are someone who likes to enjoy good food, specifically baked goods during a work day then this is the best place for you. Copenhagen Coffee Lab offers a good working environment and mouth-watering treats simultaneously. They also have multiple branches in Lisbon.
Avila spaces
If you prefer working out of a coworking space rather than a cafe then consider going to Avila spaces. This place won the “best co-work space in Lisbon” in 2018 and the title is worth it. Avila Spaces has a contemporary and minimal interior that creates a productive environment for workers. They offer private rooms, meeting rooms, co-working business lounges, and so much more. You can choose from a variety of memberships and enjoy a stimulating working environment.
Unicorn
Another good option is the Unicorn. They have 2 locations in the city and both are well-equipped. This co-working space offers free coffee, water, and fruits throughout the workday to keep you energized. One of the best parts about Unicorn is its community manager. The additional help can make a huge difference and lessen your burden.
Cost of Living in Lisbon
One of the things that make Lisbon popular among digital nomads is its affordable cost of living. Lisbon is around 49.4% less expensive than New York and a lot cheaper than some other European capitals. Here is a rough breakdown for you.
| Meal at a restaurant | 12.69$ (11.69€) |
| Coffee | 2.00$ (1.84€) |
| Beer | 2.64$ (2.43€) |
| one-bedroom apartment (in the city center) | 1254.55$ (1155.57€) |
| Fitness club | 40.34$ (37.16€) |
| Internet | 35.86$ (33.03€) |
| Basic utilities (per month) | 130.92$ (120.59€) |
As you can see, the cost of day-to-day expenses is highly budget-friendly. However, please note that these prices are mere estimations. Your cost of living will be defined by your lifestyle and spending patterns.
Currency fluctuations may also affect the costs.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Lisbon
Lisbon’s local culture is a mesmerizing mix of vibrancy and charm. The rich culture is depicted in all forms, most evident in art, literature, religion, and sports. The Portuguese culture is dynamic and Lisbon, its capital city, represents it perfectly. The Roman Catholic religion is most common in the region but there is a lot of diversity. The city has high regard for folklore and superstitions, which makes it a mythical place.
Being a hilly area overall, Lisbon has an interesting geography. The city is home to breathtaking mountains and sandy beaches. There are plenty of parks in the city that give you a chance to spend time in nature and observe wildlife. Other than that, you get to witness the stunning views of landscapes from ocean-side cliffs.
As for food, it is safe to say that Lisbon is a foodie city. There is an abundance of cafes and restaurants in the city that offer delicious food and memorable delicacies. In addition to that, the food from street vendors is simply unforgettable. Most food providers still follow the traditional recipes which makes the cuisine here rich and flavorful.
Best Time to Visit Lisbon
Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate which means that the city is warm all year long. This attracts several people and makes it one of the most desired tourist destinations. The good news is that Lisbon is nearly not as cold as other European cities. The warm days slowly blend into cooler ones but they are totally tolerable.
Furthermore, the winter brings forward the mild rainy season, which again is not a big deal. Brutal cold won’t be one of your problems during your time in the city. Just note that January is the city’s coldest month while August is the warmest. Depending on your personal preferences, you can decide the best time to visit.
However, if you are a digital nomad who is seeking to gain an original experience without tourist crowds then avoid going in the summer months. The prices are higher during this time and the city is hidden behind large crowds. Visiting in spring or autumn would be much more beneficial.
12 Best Things to Do in Lisbon
Here are the 12 best things to do during your stay in Lisbon.
1. Enjoy the view from Portas do Sol
As mentioned above, the city of Lisbon is mostly a hilly area. One of the advantages of this geography is that you get to enjoy stunning views from hilltops. Make sure to visit Portas do Sol and marvel at the view from there. This hill overlooks the Tejo River (Tagus River) and offers a beautiful sunset view. You can expect a lively atmosphere on weekends as you’ll find DJs, drinking, and a lot of dancing.
2. Visit the time-out market
One of the most popular places and tourist attractions, the time-out market is a foodie’s dream. This place hosts around 40 food stalls and offers some of the best food in all of Lisbon. You can taste the original Portuguese food that is tested and approved by the stall’s team of critics.
3. Visit the Parque Florestal de Monsanto
The Parque Florestal de Monsanto is a beautiful park in Lisbon, perfect for various outdoor activities. It is huge and spacious enough that you won’t have to deal with big crowds. You can come here to indulge in running, exercise, or sports. It is also the perfect place for picnics on a pleasant day. Some people come here just for the sake of walking among nature and enjoying the refreshing air.
4. Take a cooking class
If you get addicted to the delicious food in Lisbon, make sure to take a traditional cooking class. You can sign up and learn to cook authentic Portuguese dishes. That is something that will surely stay with you even after you have left the city.
5. Visit the Pink Street
When in Lisbon, make sure to visit the iconic pink street that is a famous tourist attraction in the city. Located in Cais do Sodre, this street is home to numerous cafes and restaurants, it’s specifically popular because of its “pinkness” i.e. the pink pavements and theme of the street. You’ll also see colorful umbrellas hanging around the entire street.
6. Visit the LX factory
If you want to immerse yourself in Lisbon’s culture then make sure to visit the LX factory. It is a cultural hub that hosts multiple things including exhibitions, shops, cafes, markets, and concerts. You are guaranteed to have an entertaining and fun-filled day here.
7. Bairro alto
Whether you decide to reside in Bairro Alto or not, make sure to visit here to enjoy the bustling nightlife. This neighborhood comes alive during nighttime and offers a spectacular time. While you can enjoy the food and local street artists during the day, the lively atmosphere at night will raise your standards.
8. Take a food tour
Lisbon has a foodie culture and the best way to experience the best of it is by joining a food tour. You can meet other people, interact with Portuguese people, and enjoy amazing food all at the same time. While it is possible to explore the best food on your own, a professional guide will make it so much more interesting and easier.
9. Visit the museum of contemporary art
If you want to spend a day surrounded by art and culture then consider visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art (previously known as the Berardo Collection Museum). This museum features beautiful and stunning artwork by famous artists and allows you to marvel at contemporary art.
10. Visit the Fierra da Ladra
Fierra da Ladra is a popular destination in Lisbon that dates back to the 13th century. This market takes place every Tuesday and Sunday, inviting tourists and locals from all over the city. You can find almost everything including but not limited to antiques, art, and clothing. Make sure to come early if you want to avoid huge crowds.
11. Visit the Belem Tower
The Belem Tower is a monument in Lisbon, famous for its historical value. Built in the 16th century, this tower is a symbol of colonial power in early Europe. Make sure to visit it to understand and appreciate Lisbon’s history.
12. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the beautiful city of Lisbon, take advantage of your convenient location and visit other nearby cities. Portugal is a stunning country that has a lot to offer so consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can. You can go to Sintra, Cascais, or one of the wineries located on the outskirts.
Is Lisbon safe?
Yes, the Portuguese capital, Lisbon is a safe place overall. The city has a low crime rate but it is not immune to petty crimes and pickpocketing. The locals are very kind and friendly so you’ll rarely face hostility. However, the city’s relaxed drug policy raises some concerns. Beware of people approaching you on the streets and offering substances.
Other than that, you are recommended to stay vigilant and careful at all times. As a foreigner, make sure to take the necessary precautions and avoid trouble. Look out for tourist scams and stay on your guard!
Visa Requirements in Lisbon
Portugal started offering a digital nomad visa in 2022 which makes it easy for freelancers, remote workers, and nomads to settle here. Since the country is a part of the Schengen area, EU citizens can enter without a visa. They can also live, work, and settle here without any legal procedures or formalities.
As for non-EU citizens, they can easily obtain the Portugal digital nomad visa if they fulfill a certain set of eligibility requirements.
US and Canadians are allowed to stay in the country for 90 days without a visa but if they plan to stay longer, working visas or a digital nomad visa will need to be acquired.
Conclusion
Lisbon is a land of perfect weather and amazing people. If these two things aren’t quiet enough to push you over the edge then you’ll be happy to learn that this city is a digital nomad hotspot!
Lisbon, Portugal offers everything a remote worker dreams about; low cost of living, the scope of activities, tons of cafes, coworking spaces, and most importantly that vibrant culture.
Reading this guide, did you like the idea of living in Lisbon as a digital nomad? If your answer is yes, we wish you good luck on your adventure. If you have any further queries, feel free to ask.
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