If you are a remote worker and you are going to Portugal – or just thinking about it, you should discover it! With beautiful landscapes, good value, one of the safest countries in the world, with a good public health insurance and telecommunication system, and of course, good wine, Portugal has a lot to offer and here you can find suggestions for some of the best destinations for all different profiles of remote workers.
Lisbon Area
First things first, right? Once again Lisbon – was chosen as one of the 25 best destinations in the world from Trip Advisor 2019 Traveler’s choice and the capital of Portugal is a match when It comes to find a good spot for a remote worker: there is a place for all personalities in Lisboa.
Alfama is the best option for the ones who want to be in the hotspot of the city but with some local options and historical atmosphere. The neighbourhood works for the ones who either want a calm place to work in a coffee (or tea) shop or museum and for the ones who want to hear Fado music and have some fun during the night. In most everyday places such as markets and restaurants, you can go by walking-distance and there are options for all tastes and prices. One important characteristic of the area is also the fact that is the most expensive part of the city to rent an apartment, but you can still find some good prices in the low season.
In contrast, if you like to be in a modern area, with new and fancy buildings, you should go to Oriente – Parque das Nações. With good entertainment (Casino and a concert arena) places, a mix of food options, a big shopping centre, gym, and excellent infrastructure, you do not need to go out from this region if you do not want to. You can find buildings of big companies and feel the work environment in their everyday life. You can also make friends and do business in coffee shops, for example. In your free time, you can visit some places such as the Lisbon Oceanarium or just go to the gardens around the river to see the Vasco da Gama Bridge and work with a sunset view.
However, if you want to have beach options in Lisbon, you should choose the Cascais-Estoril region. This is another hotspot during the summer days. The region has amazing cultural programs, gardens, one casino, NOVA University, theatres and, of course, beaches. You can take your computer to the Historical Center of Cascais and take a coffee or go to one of the beaches to have a surf lesson during your break. You check some of our accommodations for this region.
Another beach option near Lisbon is Costa da Caparica. The amazing beaches on the Arrabida region or even a bit more far as Gálapos will take your breath away!
And if what you really want is to be more connected with nature, Sintra is the best region in Lisbon for you. With a huge national park, the region also mixes the natural environment with historical spots, such as Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, Cabo da Roca, churches, museums and cultural centres that can be a very good alternative. Feel free to work inside the park with the Wi-fi connection from your phone or inside of the castle restaurant.
Douro River coast
The Douro River coast is a must for remote workers looking for some a cultural, historical and alternative cities. Porto‘s historic downtown is a UNESCO patrimony, with the Lello Library (Harry Potter’s inspiration and one of the oldest libraries in the world) and a list of good museums. The region is also known for the quality of the wine, if you cross the river to the area of Vila Nova de Gaia, you can find a lot of really nice wineries to go wine tasting. Gastronomy is also a must: the traditional francesinha dish is a full meal and you can find since the most traditional dish with the local sauce and French fries or vegetarian options. A very good option for wintertime but of course, you’re welcome to try it all year round.
Another great option in the North Region, Guimarães is great for digital nomads that want to be in a really remote place. If you want to escape from tourists and have contact with local people and the historical downtown (also UNESCO heritage site) with a strong connection with the foundation of Portugal: this is your place! Picking smaller towns can also help with your budget, as they are sometimes 20-25% less pricey than the big cities for renting a whole house! Good place for workers that bring family and kids. Make sure to check some of our accommodation options for this region.
Going down to the centre of Portugal the University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe. You can work inside the amazing buildings of the university with a great view of the city around you. Other options can include São Miguel church, university museums, Santa Cruz Coffee and university libraries. You can find a lot of pubs and bars for university students which can be a very good (and cheap!) option for a good night out.
Another university city that is full of life and fun is Aveiro. With a young and sustainable vibe, the region also offers a very beautiful coast called CostaNova do Prado, great for wind or kitesurf sports. Known as the Portuguese Venice, you can also go on a boat ride across the historical centre.
surfing is your thing, then a trip to the small village of Nazaré is definitely worth it, as the region is known for the giant waves. small village.
Another village that attracts even Portuguese travellers is Vila de Óbidos. Known for its labyrinth streets, the region is populated with white houses with flowers that create a beautiful architectural neighbourhood and the walls that remind Game of Thrones sceneries.
More to the south of Portugal, Lagos is another option for the ones who love beaches such as Praia da Rocha, Três irmãos and Praia da Marinha. The entire region of the Algarve is a hotspot during the summer days and with a big number of beaches, you can choose Castelejo, for example, to escape from the crowds. This is a must during the summer even if you choose other cities to work remotely.
It is hard to speak about Portugal without mentioning the islands. Working remotely on these hidden treasures can be immersion and inspiration for some -sometimes necessary- periods. The first suggestion is the Berlengas Islands because it is the easiest one to reach. You can even stay in Peniche and go on a day trip to the Berlengas. It is recommended during summer times since you can visit São João Baptista fort and a National Park, another UNESCO heritage site, to re-energize. Also, go to the beaches on the coast like Baleal beach and walk around the charming Peniche neighbourhood.
Madeira island is the best option for beautiful nature spots, great for those who like hiking. Go to the very top of Pico Ruivo, see the Passadiços do Paiva, have an amazing view of the river and take a bath on the pools made by the nature itself in Porto Muniz. We promise you’ll never get tired of exploring the beautiful views the island has to offer.
And to finish off: the islands of Azores. Ponta Delgada is a hotspot on the region and it is where all the events and cultural activities happen. The Vista do Rei and Ponta do Sossego viewpoints are one of the most famous views in the region for the lake, ocean and mountains on the island. The Sete Cidades and Furnas Hotsprings offer you the experience of a lifetime.
As you can see, Portugal is a very good option for all tribes of remote workers, what about yours? Write in the comments which one you like the most and why!