Portugal as a Digital Nomad… If I Were You
We often need to get away. And when we go away, we can stay longer if we bring our work along with us. For those wanting to work on tech while abroad, perhaps there isn’t a better place than Portugal.
Sunny, ocean-facing, pastel-colored, walkable cities, among most affordable in Europe, with well-connected cities, and set up for the nomad lifestyle. In our overheating world, a huge plus of Portugal is its fresh air. It’s the San Francisco of Europe. In the month I was there, the temperature ranged between 58 to 73 degrees F (15 to 23 degrees C). Midway through June, even had to buy a coat to be comfortable walking around Portugal at night! Pack your warm clothes.
Even though this page compiles tech from around the Pacific Ocean, enough Korean, Japanese, and U.S. West Coast technologists are coming to Portugal for a multi-week getaway. Just having done this in summer 2024, wanted to share a simple list to help you navigate Portugal as a digital nomad for the first time. I wish I had this before my month in Portugal.
The good thing is — you have it now. Enjoy!
Getting around Portugal & Finding Gyms
Omio App: With a great user experience (UX) interface, it compiles all transport options: train, bus, and flights. Booking is easy. Just show your electronic ticket’s QR code to board the train or bus. Website.
TrainAway App: Helpful app to find open gyms throughout Portugal. The FitnessHut’s many branches are easily accessed by paying 10 euros on the app via ApplePay. Voila. See its website and find it on the app stores.
Staying Throughout Portugal:
Outsite: This co-living brand offers stylish, affordable lodging in Porto, Lisbon, Ericeira, Sagres, and Madeira. All sites include built-in co-working spaces (like mini WeWorks) and kitchens, ideal for digital nomads. Most affordable rooms have shared bathrooms while one can pay for one’s own private bathroom. A few days before your stay, Outsite invites you to a whatsapp group that dishes out dinner, yoga, event, ecosports, and other community options. You won’t feel alone in a new city. Since each site has a community manager, it’s comforting to those who want to rely on a local contact. Use this referral code for $50 off: https://outsite.co/c/1b5V6hTcv
Now, a look at four compelling places to visit in Portugal: Sagres, Ericeira, Porto, and Lisbon.
Sagres Highlights:
DINE/DRINK:
Sagres Surf and Coffee: One of the best places to work remotely with a view. Instagram site (including google map link).
Mandala Sagres: Mixes paint and wine. What else might someone need? Also offers yoga classes. Website.
FAVO Bistro bar: A place to go for DJ sets and live music. Also pop-pup handicrafts markets On IG: @Favobistrobar
Laundry Lounge: Inarguably the world’s most chill spot to wash one’s clothes while enjoying a coffee and/or lunch. Also offers rooftop yoga most days at 6pm. Website.
A Sagres: One of the gems in Sagres’ above-average restaurant scene. Website.
WELLNESS & SPORT:
Santo Antonio Spa: To recharge and get away from the hustle of life, locals highly recommend this spa and wellness resort. Website
Salema EcoCamp: Surfing and nature. For more rustic accommodations. RV and camper friendly. Website and Instagram: @salemaecocamp.
Benagil Cave Catamaran trip: Sailing to a beautiful cave made possible through this outfitter. Website
Kayak trips: Among the highest-regarded operators were this one. Bom Dia boat trips.
Amado beach: Just north of Sagres, this beach is prized as it is sheltered from the wind. Google maps.
GETAWAYS TO CLUBS
Vale do Lobo Beach Club: Often mentioned club. Charges 20–35 euros depending on the event. Website
Bar Duna Beach. Offers party nights with views of Lagos harbor. Google maps.
Ericeira Highlights:
Close enough to Lisbon (40 minutes by a 30 euro Uber ride) yet rural enough to relax, Ericeira is an up and coming seaside resort. The views are nothing less than stunning. Its white walls and cobblestone streets give it the feeling of a Greek town.
DINE/DRINK:
Balagan: Right on the Praia do Sul (the “southern beach”), this Israeli cuisine restaurant has such a fresh, ocean vibe. Website.
Mar das Latas: Towering over the village’s main beach, this place dishes up a beautiful ambiance for its restaurant and a fun/lively atmosphere at the attached wine-bar next door. Website.
STAY:
While Ericeira has an Outsite (which only allows month-long stays), the Selina co-living resort downtown is the most pulsating nightlife hub in town, especially for its Monday night pool parties.
Porto Highlights
Porto captivates digital nomads with its charming blend of historic architecture and exquisite dining set against the stunning backdrop of the Douro River. With its affordable cost of living, internet connectivity, and a thriving community of remote workers, Porto gives an ideal environment for worcations. The city’s rich culinary scene, renowned wine from the Douro valley, and nearby scenic landscapes offers inspiration.
Adega São Nicolau: A highly recommended traditional Portuguese cuisine restaurant. Google maps.
Bulha: This downtown diner is where the Outsite crews go for the best cod in town! Google maps.
Musa: Offering the city’s best craft beer on tap at an overlook above the river. Google maps.
Lisbon Highlights:
Sea-facing, picturesque, charming, loaded with cute bars and restaurants. Lisbon has what a digital nomad would crave. Much ink has spilled about Lisbon, like this blog from Outside.
DINE/DRINK:
The Cais do Sodre street, right in front of the Outsite location, must rank among the world’s best brunch streets. I counted at least 8 brunch spots bustling on a weekend morning.
Comoba: A healthy eater’s dream. Espect quinoa and hummus-filled bowls and tasty pastries. Filled with digital nomads and those seeking to live a better life in Portugal. Website.
Neighbourhood: An Aussie-owned specialty cafe shop with a creative brunch menu. Fills up quickly on weekends and offers outdoor tables. Website.
COWORKING SPACES
Second Home: A vibrant coworking space located in the iconic Mercado da Ribeira, offering a unique environment filled with lush greenery and mid-century modern furniture. It’s ideal for creative professionals seeking a community-focused workspace.
Outsite Coworking Cafe: In the heart of downtown Lisbon, this modern space is located right beneath Outsite Cais do Sodre. Has all one needs for focused, inspired work. Website.
Heden Santa Apolónia: Walk into a chic and tranquil workspace near the Tagus River, blending modern design with historic architecture. It provides a range of amenities including event spaces, meeting rooms, and a rooftop terrace.
Lx Factory: A dynamic coworking hub in a renovated industrial complex, brimming with creative businesses, cafes, and shops. Its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic environment make it perfect for digital nomads looking for inspiration and networking opportunities.
Liberdade 229: A stylish coworking space situated on the prestigious Avenida da Liberdade, offering flexible desks and private offices. Its central location and professional setting cater to both freelancers and established businesses. Website for Liberdade 229
Cowork Central: Cowork Central is conveniently located by the Cais do Sodré train station, providing a professional environment with stunning river views. It offers a variety of workspaces, including hot desks, dedicated desks, and private offices. Website for Cowork Central
Hope this was helpful. Support independent journalism and use this Outsite referral code for your Portugal lodging.
Comments and more digital nomad tips welcomed in the comments below!
-Brandon
