With remote work becoming increasingly important, many cities around the world are looking to attract and welcome digital nomads. Albufeira has been standing out in this area and is among the Top 20 Digital Cities in 2025, according to a ranking by Flatio, a rental platform aimed at digital nomads.

The selection of cities took into account criteria such as cost of living, internet speed and quality of life, according to a report by Postal.

Flatio's study highlights Albufeira as a more affordable destination compared to Lisbon and Porto, estimating that monthly expenses for one person, including rent, range between €900 and €1,400, depending on lifestyle and type of accommodation. The city's historic centre is considered ideal for those who want to be close to restaurants, shops, coworking spaces and leisure areas.

The high-speed internet, the sea views and the wide range of activities for the community are also mentioned. Furthermore, the quality of life, boosted by the Mediterranean climate, the high number of hours of sunshine and the relaxing atmosphere, makes the city even more attractive. Among the positive points, the study also highlights the natural beauty and the possibility of carrying out outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, surfing and boat trips.

In the Top 20 Digital Cities 2025, Albufeira joins Lisbon, which leads the ranking, and Porto, occupying 7th position. The list also includes Warsaw (Poland), Prague (Czechia), Zagreb (Croatia), Budapest (Hungary), Berlin (Germany), Vienna (Austria), Barcelona (Spain), Brno (Czechia), Madeira (Portugal), Malaga (Spain), London (United Kingdom), Split (Croatia), Madrid (Spain), Paris (France), Bangkok (Thailand), Sofia (Bulgaria) and Valencia (Spain).

The Mayor, José Carlos Rolo, believes that “this distinction reinforces Albufeira’s status as a ‘nomad friendly’ city”.

For the mayor, this recognition contributes “to reducing seasonality and adds value to show that Albufeira is not just a sun and sea destination: it has an interior with stunning landscapes, ancient traditions and ideal conditions to welcome digital nomads”.

Since February 2023, when the “Albufeira Digital Nomads” project was created, more than 2,500 visitors have visited Sala Azul, a coworking space located at the INATEL Hotel.

The Blue Room aims to create a dynamic and inspiring environment for digital nomads and remote professionals, encouraging knowledge sharing, collaboration and mutual support. The space is open to all remote workers, including locals, Monday through Friday, between 9am and 8pm.