Dubrovnik is our New Fav European Destination for Digital Nomads
While Portugal and Spain have been forerunners for years as the leading European destinations for digital nomads, at Adventurely we’re convinced that there’s a clear new winner that deserves all eyes for digital nomads and remote workers - it’s Croatia, and more specifically, the breathtaking city of Dubrovnik, that we’re crowning our new fav European destination for digital nomads in 2023!
To be fair, Croatia’s digital nomad scene has been steadily rising for years, most notably in the city Split, which has a thriving tech/startup community, several coworking spaces, and an appealing nightlife scene. Our team first explored Split’s digital nomad scene back in 2018 and we were wowed by Split’s beautiful architecture and gorgeous seaside views. We passed briefly through Dubrovnik back then for a short tour but didn’t necessarily see it’s promise yet as a potential digital nomad hub. Five years later today, we are convinced that Dubrovnik is now poised to becoming a forerunner in the European nomad space.
Digital nomadism has grown up quite a bit since pre-pandemic days, and it’s no longer a niche lifestyle that’s considered dominated by twenty something year-olds in hostels. In fact, research continuously shows that most digital nomads today are actually in or approaching mid to senior life, with 47% of digital nomads age 30-39; and 39% of digital nomads are ages 40-70. While the mas adoption of remote work during the pandemic certainly caused the number of digital nomads to grow to r35 Million digital nomads around the world, much of the reason why digital nomadism has grown is also because many people in mid life no longer desire to wait for their elder years post retirement to experience travel and a better qualify of life - they’ve instead decided to combine work with travel while they’re still younger to experience the life that they want before they enter their senior years.
Our team headed to Dubrovnik this past April to experience digital nomading there as a part of the Dubrovnik Digital Nomad Ambassadors program created by Saltwater Nomads for the Dubrovnik Tourism Board with support from the Digital Nomads Association of Croatia & the Dubrovnik Long Stay initiative. Overall, we were completely wowed by Dubrovnik, and can’t wait to return.
Before we dive into the 10 reasons why we’ve crowned Dubrovnik our new fav European destination for digital nomads, we do acknowledge that Dubrovnik is not for everyone. Dubrovnik is not a city for digital nomads who base their travels on so-called “geoarbitrage” as the city can be considered expensive for some, particularly during the summer high season. Dubrovnik is a picture-perfect haven of serenity, stunning natural beauty, and the quiet life for digital nomads that are ideally 35+. If you’re a digital nomad who loves the vibe of places like Cascais Portugal, Barbados, San Miguel de Allende Mexico or even Oaxaca Mexico, then Dubrovnik could be a great spot for you. If you’re a nomad that’s into a party vibe and needs to be as cost effective as possible, Dubrovnik might not be the best choice.
Either way- if you’re curious to learn more about working remotely in Dubrovnik Croatia, keep reading! Below are 10 reasons why we’ve crowned Dubrovnik our new favorite European Destination for digital nomads in 2023.
10 Reasons Why Dubrovnik is Our New Fav European Destination for Digital Nomads
Dubrovnik is unreasonably beautiful.
Dubrovnik's allure beams from its remarkable Old Town, imposing fortified walls, and the stunning turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. The city's signature red-tiled roofs, intricate architecture, and winding cobblestone streets create a unique aesthetic that is simply breathtaking. Dubrovnik's awe-inspiring views from atop the city walls and the beautiful island-dotted coastline further add to its undeniable beauty. Dubrovnik's natural and cultural splendor make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
2. The Wifi in Dubrovnik is Fast & Reliable throughout the Entire City for Remote Work- In Fact, Its Been the Best Wifi We’ve Experienced Overall in Europe.
To our pleasant surprise, the wifi in Dubrovnik was strong, fast and reliable throughout the city, both in and outside of the old town. We were shocked to discover the wifi was also exceptionally strong on the nearby island of Lokrum.
3. Dubrovnik’s Restaurant Scene Features Amazingly Fresh Local Seafood, Delicious Risottos, Handmade Pastas, and Some of the Best Olive Oil & Wine in the World
It will be hard to enjoy olive oil in other countries once you get a sample of Croatia’s exceptional olive oil. The freshest and healthiest of local oil, fish, vegetable and fruit ingredients are found in local groceries and restaurants all throughout Dubrovnik. There’s also incredible Croatian wine to be had. Two of our favorite restaurants we sampled in the old town were Dvino Wine Bar & Trattoria Carmen.
4. You’ll be Mesmerized By the Stunning Architecture of Dubrovnik’s Old Town
Dubrovnik's architecture in the old town is renowned for its unique blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The city's most iconic feature, the Dubrovnik Walls, dates back to the 13th century and is a prime example of medieval fortification. The walls were reinforced in the 15th and 16th centuries to protect against Ottoman invasion. The impressive architecture and engineering of the walls have allowed them to withstand numerous sieges and earthquakes. Today, visitors can stroll along the walls and take in stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
5. You Can Easily Explore the Top Sights of the City with the Dubronik Pass
As described on the Dubrovnikpass.com website, “Dubrovnik Pass is a key that opens the door of the most important sights of towns of Dubrovnik and Cavtat and provides the pass holder with a number of discounts and significant money-saving, offering a variety of benefits as well as numerous surprises.” It provides you access to walk the famous Dubrovnik Walls; many of the top other historical sights and museums; and also provides access to the local bus. You can purchase the Dubrovnik Pass for 1, 3 or 7 day durations on the main website dubrovnikpass.com, and Dubrovnik Long Stay has info about a month long “Digital Nomad Dubrovnik Pass” which is in the works as well.
6. The Serenity of Dubrovnik Will Soothe You If Work Has You Stressed Out
As a digital nomad, Dubrovnik's serene atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop to manage the stresses of work. With its tranquil beaches, scenic walking trails, and breathtaking views, the city provides ample opportunities to unwind and relax. Take a stroll along the ancient city walls or enjoy a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. Dubrovnik's slow pace of life and laid-back vibe make it an ideal destination for digital nomads seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating destination.
7. Dubrovnik’s Cafe Culture is Top Notch
Dubrovnik's cafe and coffee culture is a quintessential part of the city's social fabric. There's no shortage of cozy places to sip a cappuccino or enjoy a glass of local wine. The cafe scene is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists mingling over a cup of coffee or a sweet treat. Whether you prefer a traditional espresso or a trendy latte, Dubrovnik's cafe culture offers a unique and authentic way to experience the city's lively social scene
8. Dubrovnik Beaches are Sublime
Dubrovnik's beaches are simply sublime, offering crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand, and stunning coastal views. With a variety of beaches to choose from, there's something for everyone, from secluded coves to lively stretches of sand. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, or try your hand at water sports, Dubrovnik's beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and rejuvenating day by the sea.
9. You Can Easily Get to Other Parts of Croatia to Digital Nomad in From Dubrovnik - Split and Postira Village on the Island of Brac are Two Standout Locations to Consider
Postira Village on the Island of Brac Croatia
Dubrovnik is an ideal base for digital nomads in Croatia, thanks to its proximity to other popular nomad destinations. Split, with its large digital nomad community, is just a short distance away. Meanwhile, Postira Village on the Croatian Island of Brac is growing efforts to welcome digital nomads, making it an exciting destination for remote workers. Dubrovnik's excellent transportation links and central location make it the perfect hub for exploring Croatia's vibrant and growing nomad community.
10. Dubrovnik is Openly Welcoming Digital Nomads, with Dubrovniklongstay.com
Dubrovniklongstay.com is a website launched with support from the Dubrovnik Tourist Board and Grad Dubrovnik to attract long-stay digital nomads to Dubrovnik. The site features long-stay accommodation leads, info on settling in, and also info on the development on the Dubrovnik Digital Nomad Card. The site also shares news and tips about Dubrovnik, and interviews about digital nomads who have visited the city, such as our Founder.
Interested in learning more about Digital Nomad life in Dubrovnik?
Check out our Youtube Video on Being a Digital Nomad in Dubrovnik to get the full scoop!
About us: Adventurely is a travel club for digital nomads & remote workers blending work, adventure & play. Join us for an exciting remote work adventure in inspiring destinations around the world.