Finding the best budget cities in Eastern Europe is key for digital nomads seeking affordability. Cities like Budapest and Krakow are already well-known, while emerging destinations such as Belgrade, Tirana, and Tbilisi are gaining popularity for their low living costs, vibrant culture, and strong digital infrastructure. This guide explores the top budget-friendly cities, highlighting affordable housing, cheap public transport, and co-working spaces that help remote workers thrive.
Budget-Friendly Living in Budapest, Hungary
Hungary’s capital remains one of the best budget cities in Eastern Europe for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Budapest costs between €500-€800 per month, while a public transport pass is available for around €30. The cost of dining is equally attractive, with local dishes such as goulash and chimney cake available for under €5.
The city’s co-working scene is well-developed, with spaces like Kaptar and Impact Hub offering affordable memberships. Combining grand architecture, historic charm, and a dynamic nightlife, Budapest is a favourite destination for nomads on a budget.
Krakow, Poland – The Historic Budget Haven
Krakow’s affordability, rich culture, and digital-friendly environment make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious nomads. The cost of a one-bedroom apartment is approximately €400-€700 per month, while public transport costs around €25 monthly.
Food prices in Krakow are particularly low, with a meal of pierogi or bigos available for €3-€5. The city also offers affordable co-working spaces such as Cluster Cowork and OffOffice, ensuring a productive work environment for remote workers.
Belgrade, Serbia – The Affordable Nomad Hub
Belgrade is becoming one of the best budget cities in Eastern Europe for remote workers. Renting a one-bedroom flat costs between €350-€600 per month, and public transport is highly affordable, with a monthly pass priced at just €15.
Serbia’s capital is known for its café culture, strong Wi-Fi, and welcoming atmosphere. The food scene is also a highlight, with traditional Serbian dishes like cevapi and burek available for under €5. Digital nomads can enjoy budget-friendly co-working spaces such as Smart Office and Impact Hub.
Tirana, Albania – Europe’s Cheapest Capital for Nomads
Tirana is quickly becoming one of the most attractive budget cities in Eastern Europe for digital nomads. Renting a one-bedroom apartment can cost as little as €250 per month, making it one of the cheapest European capitals.
Public transport is available for just €10 per month, and traditional Albanian meals such as Tavë Kosi are widely available for under €5. Co-working spaces like InnoSpace and Destil provide cost-effective working environments, making Tirana a fantastic choice for budget-conscious nomads.
Tbilisi, Georgia – Affordable and Visa-Friendly
Tbilisi has become a major hotspot for digital nomads, offering a budget-friendly lifestyle and a special one-year visa for remote workers. Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs between €300-€600 per month, and transport is highly affordable, with a monthly pass priced at just €10.
The food scene in Tbilisi is both delicious and budget-friendly, with Georgian dishes such as khachapuri and khinkali costing around €3-€5. Co-working spaces like Terminal and Impact Hub cater to the growing digital workforce, making it a highly attractive option for those looking to work remotely.
Baltic States – Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania
The Baltic region, including Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, is known for its affordability and excellent digital infrastructure. Estonia, in particular, has drawn attention with its e-Residency programme, allowing remote workers to easily set up businesses.
Renting a one-bedroom flat in Tallinn, Riga, or Vilnius costs between €500-€900 per month. Public transport is cost-effective, with monthly passes ranging from €20-€40. The Baltic states also offer a strong network of co-working spaces such as Workland in Estonia, TechHub Riga, and Vilnius Tech Park, all catering to the growing nomadic community.
Eastern Europe remains one of the best regions for digital nomads looking to thrive on a budget. Whether it’s the historic charm of Krakow, the café culture of Belgrade, or the emerging digital hubs in the Baltic states, there is no shortage of affordable options. Low rent, budget-friendly transport, and inexpensive local food make these cities excellent choices for remote workers.
For those seeking an affordable yet culturally rich experience, Eastern Europe is one of the best places to live and work remotely.
For digital nomads, finding an affordable yet vibrant place to live is essential. Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy stand out as top destinations, offering a mix of cultural richness, a pleasant climate, and a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of Europe. This guide explores some of the best cities for digital nomads, with practical tips on housing, dining, and entertainment to make living in these locations both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
Portugal: A Digital Nomad’s Paradise
Best Cities for Affordability & Culture
Porto – A picturesque city offering stunning architecture, riverside views, and a cost of living lower than Lisbon.
Braga – A quieter yet vibrant city with a growing digital nomad community and lower rental costs.
Madeira – Home to the famous Digital Nomad Village in Ponta do Sol, an excellent choice for remote workers seeking a unique island experience.
Cost-Saving Tips
Affordable Housing – Renting a one-bedroom flat in Porto costs between €700-€900 per month, with co-living spaces offering more budget-friendly options.
Budget Dining – Traditional Portuguese eateries (tascas) serve meals for as little as €5-€10, and fresh produce markets provide cost-effective groceries.
Low-Cost Entertainment – Free walking tours, public beaches, and cultural festivals offer great experiences without high costs.
House Sitting – Platforms like TrustedHousesitters provide opportunities for free accommodation in exchange for pet or home care.
Spain: Budget-Friendly Cities for Nomads
Top Locations for Digital Nomads
Valencia – More affordable than Barcelona and Madrid, Valencia boasts excellent co-working spaces and an active international community.
Seville – A city full of history and charm, where the cost of living remains relatively low compared to other Spanish cities.
Granada – Famous for its free tapas culture, allowing nomads to enjoy delicious food at little to no extra cost.
How to Live Affordably in Spain
Finding Accommodation – A one-bedroom apartment in Valencia ranges from €600-€900 per month, with shared housing offering more savings.
Eating on a Budget – Take advantage of the “menu del día” lunch specials, which offer a three-course meal for around €10.
Entertainment on a Budget – Many museums have free entry days, and the numerous city parks provide great spaces to relax and socialise without spending money.
House Sitting – An increasingly popular way to secure free accommodation, particularly in major Spanish cities.
Thessaloniki – A lively yet affordable city with great food, a youthful atmosphere, and a strong nomad presence.
Crete – Offers a mix of stunning landscapes, low-cost living, and a relaxed island lifestyle.
Athens (Certain Suburbs) – While central Athens can be expensive, areas like Pangrati and Koukaki offer more reasonable rental prices.
How to Save Money in Greece
Affordable Rentals – A one-bedroom flat in Thessaloniki costs between €400-€700 per month, making it one of the most budget-friendly European cities.
Cheap Dining – Greek tavernas serve generous portions for as little as €8, and local markets provide fresh and affordable produce.
Low-Cost Activities – Enjoy free beaches, historic ruins, and hiking trails without spending much.
House Sitting – A fantastic way to explore Greece while cutting accommodation costs.
Italy: Affordable Alternatives to Major Cities
Best Cities for Budget-Friendly Living
Bologna – A university city with a strong digital nomad scene, great food, and lower living costs than Milan or Rome.
Naples – One of Italy’s most affordable major cities, famous for its history, vibrant street life, and world-renowned pizza.
Palermo (Sicily) – A hidden gem offering low-cost housing, incredible food, and beautiful Mediterranean scenery.
Saving Money in Italy
Affordable Rent – In Bologna, a one-bedroom flat costs between €600-€900 per month, while Naples offers even cheaper options from €500-€800.
Inexpensive Food – Enjoy street food, such as Naples’ famous pizza, for as little as €5.
Budget-Friendly Transport – Italy’s regional trains provide a cost-effective way to explore the country.
House Sitting – Digital nomads can significantly reduce living costs by looking after homes and pets while travelling.
Portugal, Spain, Greece, and Italy provide incredible opportunities for digital nomads seeking an affordable yet enriching lifestyle. By choosing budget-friendly cities, leveraging local dining options, and utilising house sitting opportunities, nomads can experience the best of Europe without overspending. Whether you prefer the vibrant culture of Valencia, the scenic beauty of Porto, or the relaxed island vibes of Crete, these destinations cater to a range of preferences while remaining cost-effective.
There’s something truly magical about the Royal lifestyle, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll understand why I’m absolutely enchanted by it. My journey into this glamorous world began a few years ago, when I had the incredible opportunity to attend a Royal Garden Party.
I still remember the excitement, the preparation for the event, and the awe-inspiring feeling of being part of something so grand and traditional. It was not just an event; it was a memory etched in time.
Fast forward to 2025, and the allure of these Royal Garden Parties, now under the reign of King Charles, has grown even more. It’s like stepping into a page of history, yet each year brings its own contemporary twist, especially in terms of fashion. Let’s dive into what it takes to dress for such a prestigious event, blending the time-honoured traditions with the vibrant pulse of current fashion trends.
Dates for this year’s parties are:
There are usually two garden parties a year at Buckingham Palace in May or June, and one at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh in June or July. At time of publishing, 2025 dates are not yet available.
Bookmark this post as we will update here as soon as we know.
Fashion Forward: The 2025 Guide to Royal Garden Party Attire
When dressing for a Royal Garden Party, the aim is to strike a perfect balance between formality and the latest fashion. It’s about respecting the grandeur of the palace and its traditions while showcasing a bit of your own personality and style.
For Women:
The dress code: The classic formal day dress or sophisticated skirt and blouse combo remains the go-to choice. Modest hemlines and tasteful silhouettes are key to maintaining decorum at such an exclusive event.
2025 trends: Romantic influences are dominating this year, with flowing fabrics, puffed sleeves, and delicate lace details taking centre stage. Expect to see whimsical prints inspired by nature, such as butterflies, wildflowers, and birds, adding a playful yet elegant touch. Three-dimensional floral appliqués and soft pleating will be popular for dresses and skirts.
Colour and style: While bold florals and vibrant pastel shades like lavender, mint, and coral are trending, neutrals such as soft beige and champagne offer a timeless option. Monochrome outfits in shades like blush or dove grey are also gaining traction. Sleeveless and off-the-shoulder designs are still popular, but this season they feature more demure necklines and flowing capes or wraps for added sophistication. Of course, a chic hat or fascinator remains non-negotiable—look for designs incorporating feathers, bows, or minimalist geometric shapes to stand out.
For Men:
Dress code essentials: A sharp, well-fitted suit in light neutral tones such as stone, taupe, or dusty blue is ideal. For a classic yet modern twist, consider pairing your suit with a waistcoat in a complementary colour or pattern.
2025 trends: This year is about blending traditional British style with subtle contemporary updates. Striped or lightly patterned ties are back in vogue, as are textured fabrics like herringbone or linen blends. Accessories such as pocket squares in bold prints and tie pins with a vintage touch add an air of refined individuality.
Modern twists: If you prefer a more casual approach while maintaining formality, try pairing your blazer with tapered trousers in a different shade or texture. Stylish footwear choices like polished leather brogues or two-tone loafers are on trend. If you’re feeling daring, a patterned blazer (think checks or subtle florals) can add character to your look without straying too far from tradition.
Here’s how we addressedit:
Understanding the Day Dress Code at Buckingham Palace
While embracing 2025’s fashion trends, it’s essential to respect the specific “day dress code” required at Buckingham Palace for Royal Garden Parties.
For Women: Opt for elegant day dresses, preferably knee-length or longer, that align with the Palace’s decorum. Incorporate contemporary trends to add a modern flair.
For Men: The day dress code calls for a suit or a smart blazer and trousers. Traditional colours are a safe bet, but lighter shades or subtle patterns can offer a stylish, contemporary edge.
There is also a lot of great advice and discussion in the comments on this blog – take a look below.
Practical Tips for a Flawless Royal Garden Party Experience
Comfort Meets Style: Practical Considerations
Footwear: Choosing the right shoes is crucial. For ladies, the chunky heels of 2019 have given way to the chic and comfortable kitten heels in 2025, perfect for gracefully navigating the garden terrain. For gentlemen, stylish loafers or comfortable dress shoes are ideal.
Dressing for the weather: The English weather is nothing if not unpredictable. Lightweight, airy dresses are perfect for warmer days, while adding a stylish blazer or a light jacket can prepare you for a cooler turn in the weather. Men can opt for breathable fabrics in their suits to stay comfortable.
Colour and Trend Insights:
Bold and Bright: This year, it’s all about embracing vibrant colours. Gone are the days of sticking solely to navy, black, or grey. A boldly printed dress or a brightly coloured suit can make a fantastic fashion statement.
Shimmer and Shine: The ‘heavy metals’ trend is in, allowing you to incorporate shimmering elements into your attire, adding a touch of glamour and helping you stand out in the most sophisticated way.
The Art of Dressing for the Occasion:
Remember, the essence of Royal Garden Party attire is finding that sweet spot between formal and fashionable. It’s about dressing respectfully for the occasion while still injecting your unique style into your outfit. The key is to respect the tradition but also embrace the new – blending the old with the new is what 2025 is all about!
Image courtesy royal.com
Got any questions or need more tips on Royal events or fashion? I’m always here to share insights and advice.
Drop a comment, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your curiosity and engagement are what drive this community of royal fashion enthusiasts. Let’s explore this glamorous world together!
More information:
Keep an eye on the Royal website for updates on events in 2025.
Is there any other information you’d like to see covered about Royal events? Let us know and we’ll find out more. We’d love to hear from you – please do drop us a line in the comments.
We rarely post about shopping here, but once a year we celebrate – Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of!
Shopping + nomadic travel don’t always go hand in hand. Most of us aim to shed ‘stuff’ in favour of experiences. But AmazonPrime Day is around the corner on July 16 and 17, and there are a few awesome goodies we wanted to bring to your attention that may just make your travel life better.
Our Amazon Prime Day 2024 Travel Best Of Wish List
This year we plan to upgrade a few of our travel essentials including:
Portable power bank: to reliably keep our devices charged on the go. Something that’s perfect for long flights or days exploring off the grid.
Noise-cancelling headphones: we’re fans of Bose and Anker to block out distractions and find focus, especially when in a busy co-working café.
Travel backpack: finding a versatile, spacious, sturdy yet stylish backpack is sometimes harder than you’d think, but essential for all of us with wanderlust.
Kindle E-Reader: I had to give up a physical library long ago when moving to live and work abroad. Now my Kindle needs upgrading – 2024 may be the year!
Portable WiFi hotspot: it’s nice to never have to worry about spotty internet and online security regardless of where we roam.
Camera, lights, action, smile: you bet we are dazzled by compact cameras, bright portable lights and smooth sound! :)
Pro Amazon Prime Day Tip
If you’ve never shopped Prime Day before, you’re missing out! My top tip is to go browse Amazon now, before the Prime Day sale.
Add whatever it is you love to a wish list (here’s how to do that if you’re unsure). Then, as soon as Prime Day kicks off, go straight to your wish list to see what’s on sale and purchase if the price looks good!
What are your must-have travel essentials? Maybe they’re tech gadgets, sustainable products, or even items for your pets (which are also included on our wish list!)? Leave a comment and let us know what you’ll be looking out for on Amazon Prime Day this year.
Disclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
It was our first travel trip abroad, and the excitement was palpable for my brother and I. We had journeyed to North America from Australia – we were naïve (and very young) to say the least. Our itinerary of five major cities in six weeks had been inspired by our individual cultural and historical interests. Vancouver, British Columbia (BC) with its urban Canadian charm and wild, natural landscapes, was my pick. Why? Well, it was 1999 and I was in my 6th year of dedicated worship of The X-Files. This was ground zero for filming!
As a true fan who could name each of the 161 episodes to date, of course I had a list of obscure and far-flung filming destinations I insisted upon tracing. And while I did have access to the internet for my research, we certainly did not have Google Maps at our fingertips to get us around in the wintery outskirts of BC.
Still, off we went into the wilderness. Little did we know, this adventure would teach us more about the magic of serendipity than any guidebook ever could.
Armed with vague directions gleaned from an online forum, we set out on a chilly, dark winter afternoon, on a bus that I thought would take an hour, but it took two to reach our destination.
The sky was a steel grey, and the air crisp with the promise of snow. As the bus dropped us off on the edge of the forest, the real journey began. The path, initially clear and inviting, soon twisted into a maze of undergrowth and towering trees, shrouded in mist.
As daylight began to fade, the realisation hit us: we were lost in the woods. The trail markers had disappeared as quickly as the light, and every turn looked ominously similar. Panic was just about to set in when we stumbled upon a clearing. Our frustrations faded away, replaced by awe, as the trees parted to reveal a scene so serene it seemed otherworldly. We had reached a place called Buntzen Lake (pictured above), a frequent filming location for The X-Files but particularly well known for two episodes I loved, One Breath and Quagmire.
Before us lay a silent lake, its surface a perfect mirror reflecting the snow-capped mountains and the deepening twilight sky. It was a scene of untouched tranquillity, the kind of place that didn’t seem like it should exist so near to a bustling city. No signs of X-Files or human presence; just pure, majestic nature.
We spent what felt like hours there in the hush of the evening, the only sounds the soft rustling of the trees and our own breaths, visible in the cold air. It was a moment of unexpected magic, a gift from the universe at a time we felt most vulnerable. We found more than what we were looking for – an enchanting spot that was the complete opposite of anything we’d known in Queensland. To us, it felt like a secret kept from the rest of the world.
The experience was so profound that we ventured back the next day, this time in the full light of day. The magic of the lake was different under the sun’s rays, but equally captivating. We explored the surrounding area, finding quaint trails and scenic vistas, each step filled with the fresh exhilaration of discovery.
Returning home, the lesson was clear: sometimes, getting lost is not a misstep, but a path to the most spectacular finds. We had set out in search of a piece of television history and ended up with a personal landmark in our hearts, a reminder of the surprises waiting off the beaten path.
Now, I share this story to remind us all: embrace the unknown with open arms. Particularly if you’re feeling unsure right now – know that the path will become clear, and sometimes the best memories – travel or otherwise – are the ones you never planned for.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is on the horizon, so it seems timely to pay homage to the wonderful creative women in the world who continue to inspire through their work. Photographers, writers, bloggers, entrepreneurs, leaders and more: you absolutely inspire me.
To celebrate IWD, Tuesday 8 March, photos by female photographers have been released from the CEWE Photo Award, and some have been shared with us to showcase to you!
The CEWE Photo Award is one of the world’s largest photo competitions, and invites submissions in some of my favourite categories including travel, animals, architecture, landscapes and food.
Travel and culture category: three young children walk along a uniquely structured building in Myanmar, photographed by Laura Menesini
People category: A woman in traditional celebration festival attire admires her reflection in a mirror as the sun sets in Venice, by Mia Feres
The beautiful thing about this award is that an opportunity is open for all creatives at any level, from amateur to established professionals.
Entrants were asked to submit photos that celebrated the competition’s ‘Our World is Beautiful’ theme.
The images showcased here are some of the best from the wonderful creative women who submitted their work. It really makes me want to dust off my EOS and get back out there.
Animal category: a curious pup takes a closer look at a purple flower on its daily walk through the park in Austria, photographed by Corinna Kobliska
Food and cooking category: a selection of jam shortbread biscuits are ready to make the perfect afternoon snack, by Laura Amos in Heilbronn, Germany
Nature category: early morning dew graces a plant as the light of day shines through, by Viktoria Smid in Hungary
If you’re a creative woman like me, and an aspiring photographer, pop in your diary to keep an eye out for this year’s CEWE Photo Award opportunity. It will return for a fifth year in the UK’s springtime.
~~ Feature image at top- Hobby and leisure category: in Krakow, a young girl dances with a pony in this magical fairytale-esque shot by Laura Domagata
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
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