When you think of European cities that are great for digital nomads, Budapest might not be the first place that comes to mind. However, after spending two months living there, I found it to be one of the top spots for remote workers.
Hungary, once part of the communist bloc, has a turbulent history. But Budapest has transformed in ways that left me pleasantly surprised. The remnants of communist times have been turned into famous ruin bars, giving the city a unique charm and energy that erases its once gloomy atmosphere.
Both an ex-member of the Habsburg Empire and the communist USSR, Budapest is a city of contrasts. The Habsburg Empire left behind luxurious buildings with beautiful architecture, making you feel like royalty. At the same time, there are old, shabby buildings that have turned into bustling ruin bars.
As the capital of Hungary, Budapest offers modern amenities, stunning architecture, and an affordable cost of living. The city’s parks, thermal baths, and the picturesque Danube River make it a haven for digital nomads and expats. It’s also a safe city, with crime being rare and pickpockets being the only common issue in crowded places.
Finding a place to stay is relatively easy as Budapest becomes more popular among digital nomads. Many landlords will require a six-month lease, so if you’re planning a shorter stay, consider using Airbnb or checking out Facebook Groups where expats and landlords frequently post listings. Just be cautious, as some landlords might overcharge foreigners and not include utilities in the contract.
For digital nomads, WiFi is a significant concern. Luckily, Budapest boasts excellent internet speeds, often ranked among the top 10 in the world. Whether you’re at a cafe, co-working space, or your apartment, you’ll find reliable WiFi all around the city.
Budapest has several great co-working spaces that cater to various needs. KAPTAR and IMPACT Hub are among the most popular, offering different membership plans and hosting social events for digital nomads.
Living in Budapest is quite affordable. You can rent a one-room apartment for about 120,000 HUF a month (around $380 USD), including utilities. Eating out might cost you $10-12.50 USD per meal, but cooking at home is far cheaper, with weekly groceries amounting to about $22-32 USD.
Public transportation is both convenient and economical, with a single-ride ticket costing 350 HUF ($1 USD). The city is walkable and bike-friendly, so you might not even need to use public transport often.
For internet and calls, sim cards from providers like Vodafone, Telenor, and T-Mobile are inexpensive. A 5 GB sim card from Vodafone costs around 2950 HUF ($10 USD), and with widespread WiFi access, it’s more than adequate for most digital nomads.
Budapest’s climate is continental, with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are perfect for visiting attractions without the summer crowds.
The Hungarian Parliament and St. Stephen’s Basilica are two must-see landmarks, both standing 96 meters high and showcasing remarkable architecture. Don’t miss the ruin bars like Szimpla Kert, which are perfect for socializing with other expats.
To unwind, head to Szechenyi Thermal Bath, the largest medicinal bath in Europe, or explore the Fisherman’s Bastion for its breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities.
While Budapest has many advantages for digital nomads, like affordable living and modern amenities, it’s essential to consider the 90-day visa-free stay within the Schengen Area. If planning to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit.
In conclusion, Budapest offers a mix of historical charm, modern conveniences, and affordability that make it an attractive destination for digital nomads. Just be warned—you might never want to leave!
