Living in Lisbon as a Digital Nomad

A diverse group of people sit around a long wooden table in a café, each with a laptop. They appear to be engaged in discussions, collaborating on work. Coffee cups and a croissant are on the table, with natural light coming through large windows in the background.

Over the past few years, Lisbon has become one of the world’s top destinations for digital nomads looking to establish a base rather than simply pass through. While some people do visit for a few weeks or months, what sets Lisbon apart is the number of remote workers who choose to move here long-term. The Meetup group has more than 20,000 members and the Thursday night meetup regularly draws 100-300 attendees – evidence of a thriving community of people who’ve …

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Moving a Startup from San Francisco to Lisbon: An Interview with Bounce Founder Cody Candee

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Bounce is the largest network of luggage storage and locker providers worldwide. It’s popular with travelers or people going to events who want to leave their luggage on arrival or departure day, instead of dragging their bags around the city. In 2023, Bounce made the decision to base their HQ out of Lisbon, a move which Cody Candee was kind enough to discuss with Portugalist.  James: I’m curious why you chose Lisbon over cities like Berlin, Paris, London, or other …

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The Pros & Cons of Living in Lisbon

A charming street scene in Lisbon, Portugal, with a vintage yellow tram labeled "28" traveling along cobblestone tracks. The backdrop features colorful buildings, including a red one, trees with autumn foliage, parked vehicles, and a quaint urban atmosphere.

Lisbon

Thinking about making Portugal’s capital your new home? From stunning views to startup culture, ancient trams to artisanal coffee shops, Lisbon has a lot to offer. But is it right for you? I’ve spent years helping people relocate to Portugal, and Lisbon remains one of the most popular choices – especially for young professionals and digital nomads. But like any city, it’s got its quirks, charms, and challenges. Let’s dive into what makes Lisbon tick – and whether it might …

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Cost of Living in Lisbon: The Breakdown

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Living in Lisbon is no longer as cheap as it once was, particularly when it comes to rental costs. Although there are more expensive restaurants and coffee shops than there were a few years ago, most of the other living costs have risen in a much less dramatic fashion. It’s still possible to find a lunch menu for less than €10 if you look hard, a glass of wine for €1-2, a coffee for 50-60 cents, and to keep your …

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Which Areas of Lisbon Are Unsafe? 

Grafitti in the Alfama neighborhood

Moving to Lisbon? The good news is that you’re headed to one of Europe’s safest capitals, where violent crime is rare and most neighborhoods are perfectly fine for daily life. But like any major city, Lisbon has areas that require extra awareness, especially after dark. Let’s break down what you actually need to know as an expat planning to make Lisbon home. The Reality Check: How Safe is Lisbon Really? Portugal consistently ranks as one of the safest countries globally, …

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A Guide to Lisbon’s Best Neighbourhoods

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Lisbon is a city that captures the hearts of both visitors and residents alike. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call Lisbon their home or spend their holidays exploring its charming streets. However, with so many diverse neighbourhoods to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. Whether you’re looking for a lively area to stay during …

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Is Lisbon Noisy? Where Are the Noisiest & Quietest Neighbourhoods

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Lisbon, with its vibrant culture and picturesque landscapes, can sometimes be a noisy place, posing a challenge for light sleepers. It’s crucial to do your homework before settling on a rental space, whether it’s an apartment rental or an Airbnb, as adaptation to the city’s sound levels varies greatly among individuals. While some areas of Lisbon are tranquil, noise levels can fluctuate significantly even within quieter neighbourhoods, largely due to the unpredictability of neighbours. Unfortunately, it’s just one of the …

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15 Of the Best Places to Live Near Lisbon

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Lisbon, the ever-popular capital of Portugal, has long been a magnet for those seeking a blend of historic charm, vibrant culture, and a laid-back lifestyle. However, as the city centre burgeons with popularity, it’s becoming increasingly expensive and competitive to secure a home within its narrow, cobbled streets. For many, the allure of Lisbon isn’t confined to its central districts. In fact, the towns near Lisbon and neighbourhoods on the outskirts offer a fantastic alternative for those wishing to be …

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The Digital Nomad’s Guide to Costa da Caparica

Situated a stone’s throw from Portugal’s vibrant capital, Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is growing as a hotspot for digital nomads from across the globe. The allure of its expansive sandy beaches combined with a surfer’s paradise makes it a haven not just for relaxation, but for those seeking an invigorating blend of work and play. Beyond the waves, Costa da Caparica boasts a range of co-working spaces and coliving facilities tailored for the modern remote worker, all set against the …

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Lisbon VS Porto: Where Should Expats Choose to Live?

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If you’re looking to live in a large Portuguese city, there are really only two options, Lisbon and Porto. Both cities offer a unique blend of tradition and modernity but come with their own distinct characteristics. So which should you pick? Lisbon, the larger of the two, is the political, economic, and cultural centre of Portugal. Situated along the Tagus River, it offers a mix of historic neighbourhoods and new developments, providing a broad range of living options. The city …

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