The Lowdown
It’s no coincidence that Lisbon has quickly become one of the top destinations for digital nomads, and it’s also getting attention in international travel blogs and publications. In the last decade, the city has transformed into one of the safest capital cities in Europe. It boasts a unique blend of history and the modern tech industry, while also providing over 290 days of sunshine every year.
Where to Stay
Outsite (click for $50 off your first stay) is located in Afalma, one of the coolest and most historical areas of Lisbon. The location features an excellent workspace and several rooms with balconies. Accommodations are either private or shared- the longer you stay, the better your rate.
Airbnbs are also plentiful in the area, and reasonably priced. Digital nomads will want to be in the Alcântara or Alfama neighborhoods. Alcântara has many restaurants, cafes, workspaces (including Cowork Lisboa at LX Factory. LX Factory is an old factory that has been converted into co-working space, restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and art displays. Simply put, it’s a digital nomad’s dream. The factory also has a hostel if you’re travelling on a budget or looking for a great place to spend the night in between travels.
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Where to Work
Outsite Lisbon offers excellent and comfortable workspace, but Cowork Lisboa is a more serious workspace. It’s located on the fourth floor of the LX Factory, which also happens to contain art galleries, shops, restaurants, and many creatives. Highly recommended.
If you’re looking for a change of pace, Copenhagen Coffee Lab is a great place to get some work done while mingling with other digital nomads. There are endless cafes and restaurants in Alcântara and Alfama which can easily double as a nomad’s office for a few hours.
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Where to Eat
Lisbon’s food is fantastic, and there’s something for everyone. Even if you want American Barbecue. Seafood options are endless, and so are options for fresh pastry (pastel de nata) and gelato.
If you’re working from LX Factory, there are over 50 restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops on-site which makes grabbing a bite quick and convenient. Just outside the gates of the Factory, head to the waterfront for restaurants like 5 Oceanos (seafood), Capricciosa (Italian), and some of the best and most generously served gelato in town, Doca do Santo.
Credit: @Yasmine Gholam
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Where to Play
If you talk to any of the locals, they’ll probably recommend a day trip into the Sintra area. Sintra is a beautiful village nestled into the hills outside Lisbon, and contains castles, palaces, and a pastry shop with origins in the 18th century.
If you’re more into hiking, the West Coast of Portugal is a gem. There are many hikes and scenic drives from Lisbon all the way to Algarve. cabo espichel has some incredible views, and if that wasn’t enough, you can also check out some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world.
Right in town, Alfama has some of the most amazing views in all of Lisbon. Here are a few of those picture perfect locations. You can also grab an Uber bike (JUMP) using the standard Uber app to help you get around a little faster, or just to cruise the waterfront.
If you’re into sports, catching a football game is definitely an experience not to be missed. There are two football teams in Lisbon, Sporting CP and Benfica.
Finally, Portugal is the surf capital of Europe. There are many places to surf in the area, but Peniche and Nazaré are some of the most popular- they are located an hour or two drive from Lisbon (respectively), but there are several other locations available closer to the city. If you’re new to the area, stop by Lisbon Crooks at LX Factory and they can set you up with information or tours.
Credit: @AnywhereHQ
Credit: @Unlimited Portugal
What You’ll Need
Uber is definitely a must-have for visiting Lisbon. Although there are streetcars, buses, ferries, trains, and car-rentals, Uber remains the easiest and one of the most inexpensive ways to get around. You can also rent bikes around town with the Uber app.
If you’re happy just chilling at the house and nearby beaches for a few days, an Uber from SAN to Outsite is around $40 USD.
How to Get There
Fly into Lisbon Portela Airport, and grab an Uber to your accommodations.
Ready to Go?
1. Check Outsite’s availability (click here for $50 off your first stay)
2. Check Skyscanner for the best prices on flights and car rentals.
3. Pick up Lonely Planet’s book, Pocket Lisbon
4. If you’ve got extra time, add on a trip to Porto
5. If you’re travelling from outside the US, grab some travel insurance below:
6. Pack your bags!