The old fishing village of Boccadasse, Genoa, Italy at dawn.
getty
The Best Digital Nomad Destinations in the World
Amidst the rising trend of digital nomadism, which now encompasses over 35 million remote workers globally, a recent analysis by Dojo, the UK-based payment provider, offers valuable insights. The report scrutinizes 237 cities globally to pinpoint the ideal locales for digital nomads. Key criteria include digital nomad visas, internet speed, cost of living, internet freedom, and overall livability.
Dojo’s comprehensive Digital Nomad study not only identifies the best cities but also outlines those that might not be ideal. Whether you seek the charm of a bustling metropolis or the serenity of a coastal town, this guide offers a diverse range of 20 destinations perfect for remote work in 2025.
Methodology: The Key Factors
Charlie Ashworth, Senior Insights Manager at Dojo, emphasizes the critical factors influencing a digital nomad’s choice of city. Visa options top the list, with ease of application and duration of stay being paramount.
“We anticipate more countries loosening visa restrictions in the coming years to attract remote workers,” Ashworth says. “New Zealand’s recent relaxation, allowing up to nine months of work and residence for foreign employers, is a strong indicator of this trend.”
While Italy leads in the rankings, England and France are at the bottom, indicating room for improvement in these locations.
Top Digital Nomad City: Genoa, Italy
Genoa, Italy’s Liguria capital, emerges as the top destination. This historically significant port city, known for its maritime heritage, medieval town, and cultural landmarks, offers Italy’s new digital nomad visa at just $124 annually, valid for 12 months.
Genoa boasts the fastest internet speed, a security score of 27, and a quality-of-life rating of 154.78, with a monthly cost of living averaging $800.
Downtown Genoa
getty
2. Bari, Italy
Bari, the capital of Puglia, stands out for its seaside charm and historical significance. As a major Mediterranean cruise port and university city, Bari has reliable internet speed, a security score of 27, and a quality-of-life rating of 159.2, with a monthly cost of living around $650.
High Angle View over Skyline of Valencia, Spain on Spring Day.
getty
3. Valencia, Spain
Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city and a Mediterranean coastal gem, ranks third. Celebrated for its vibrant culture, nightlife, and innovative architecture, Valencia is an excellent blend of work and lifestyle.
The city’s digital nomad visa at $725 annually provides a reliable internet speed, security score of 24, and quality-of-life rating of 191.1, with a monthly cost of living of $585.
Old Quebec City view Canada
getty
4. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City, known for its European-style architecture and rich history, secures the fourth spot. Despite having the lowest listed internet speed among the top four at 35.2 Mbps, Quebec excels in internet freedom and offers a good quality of life at a low monthly cost of living of $725.
The country’s free digital nomad visa, valid for six months, makes Quebec a budget-friendly option for those seeking a culturally vibrant city.
View of Militello in Val di Catania with Mount Etna in the background – Sicily, Southern Italy
getty
5. Catania, Italy
Located on Sicily’s eastern coast near Mount Etna, Catania is a dynamic city with ancient Roman ruins, Baroque architecture, and bustling markets. It offers reliable internet speed, a security score of 27, and quality-of-life rating of 141.82, with a monthly cost of living of $650.
Florence city view of the Duomo
getty
6. Florence, Italy
Florence, the heart of the Tuscany region, captivates with its museums, palaces, and world-renowned artistic treasures. Offering reliable internet speed, a security score of 27, and a quality-of-life rating of 155.6, Florence’s monthly cost of living is about $785.
Skyline view of Palermo
getty
7. Palermo, Italy
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a cultural melting pot with rich Norman, Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque influences. Palermo offers a vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and excellent weather. The city provides reliable internet speed, a security score of 27, and quality-of-life rating of 142.97, with a monthly cost of living of $660.
Colorful houses of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in Spain
getty
8. Las Palmas, Spain
Las Palmas, part of the Canary Islands, offers a unique blend of sun, sea, and historical legacy. Its mild temperatures throughout the year create a pleasant environment. The city provides reliable internet speed, a security score of 24, and quality-of-life rating of 188.06, at a monthly cost of living of $600.
View of Colosseum in Rome
getty
9. Rome, Italy
Rome, the third most visited city in Europe and the 14th most visited globally, draws tourists with its iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican. The city offers reliable internet speed, a security score of 27, and a quality-of-life rating of 140.52, with a monthly cost of living around $720.
Seville, Spain cityscape towards Plaza de Espana.
getty
10. Sevilla, Spain
Sevilla, the capital of Andalusia, is renowned for its flamenco dancing, wine, and tapas culture. With reliable internet speed, a security score of 24, and a quality-of-life rating of 182.82, Sevilla’s monthly cost of living stands at $590.
The remaining top cities, notably Turin, Ottawa, Zaragoza, Madrid, Bilbao, Montreal, Bologna, Murcia, Oshawa, and Hamilton, are all listed for their excellent quality of life and work conditions.
As digital nomadism continues to grow, these top cities provide a glimpse into a diverse array of locations that cater to remote work. From the bustling streets of a city like Valencia to the historic charm of Florence or Palermo, there’s a perfect destination for every lifestyle.