Why Should You Consider Relocating To The Balkans As A Digital Nomad

Oh, the Balkans. A region that is often forgotten or overlooked due to its geographical location, stormy history or cultural differences. A region of friendly locals, amazing cuisine, majestic mountains and gorgeous nature. And to top it all off, it’s super affordable.

Lately, more and more remote workers are relocating to the Balkan region for short or long periods. Why is that? Why are people choosing the Balkans over, let’s say, South-East Asia?

Let’s find out!

Why the Balkans?

1. The Balkans Are Budget-Friendly

The Balkan countries are definitely one of the most affordable European destinations. You can get much more for your budget in this region than in other Western countries. There are several touristic destinations that tend to get more pricey once the tourist season hits, but generally, you’ll be surprised by how much you can get for your money there.

2. Amazing Cuisine

We promise you – you won’t get disappointed with food when you’re in the Balkans. No matter where you go, you can find delicious local dishes that will make you fall in love with the region even more. Not a great place for vegetarians though! However, this situation is slowly (but surely) changing. Especially in the bigger cities, you shouldn’t have any problems with finding things to eat, no matter what your diet looks like.

3. Friendly Locals Who Speak English

If there is one place where it’s super easy to make new local friends, it’s definitely the Balkans! Just talk to your waiter or someone working in a local supermarket, and soon you’ll meet all their family and friends who will give you all the recommendations for anything you need. The people in the Balkans are really warm and welcoming and they will do everything to make their guests feel good. Plus, their level of English is generally excellent because they’ve all been learning it since they were kids.

4. Beautiful Mountains & Nature

The Balkans are like a hidden gem when it comes to the gorgeous mountains, great hiking routes and green valleys. It might not be as known as Switzerland, France or Italy, but whoever is an outdoor lover will never be bored in this region.

5. Well-connected To Other Countries

The Balkans are well-connected to other countries. Whether you want to explore more of Central Europe or go more Eastern, it will be fairly easy to find cheap flights or good bus/train connections.

Best places for digital nomads and remote workers in the Balkan

Belgrade, Serbia

The Serbian capital would probably win if there would be a contest about the best Balkan digital nomad destination. Belgrade has the characteristic of a world metropolis while it’s still one of the most affordable capital cities. The startup scene is booming and there are plenty of coworking spaces you can use.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is one of the most picturesque places you will ever visit. It resembles a fjord and it’s protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place gets quite busy during summer, but even then you can easily find quiet places to relax if this is what you long for.

Skopje, Macedonia

Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia. It is also known as the “city of statues”. It’s a lively capital that offers everything one might need to enjoy the remote work life – lots of cafés, affordable restaurants, nightlife, parks, nature escapes as well as coworking spaces and a booming expat community.

Split, Croatia

Split might not be as affordable as other Balkan places (especially not during summer), but it’s a great destination for everyone who enjoys the Mediterranean lifestyle. That means relaxing on the beach, eating fresh seafood, drinking a good glass of wine and getting lost in the narrow streets of the old town.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia is a place for outdoor lovers! Ljubljana is situated in a valley, super close to the mountains as well as the seaside, which is only an hour drive away. Ljubljana is definitely the priciest of all Balkan destinations, but it’s a great place for everyone who enjoys a bit more organized, Central European way of living.

Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo is where all the cultures meet, it’s a place with such a historic significance one can spend days just going around and learning about everything that happened in Bosnia’s capital. It’s a place where the locals know how to enjoy life, drink a cup of coffee and eat really, really delicious food.

Tirana, Albania

Tirana is definitely one of Balkan’s most hidden gems. It’s not a popular tourist destination, however, it offers some of Europe’s most unique natural wonders. Tirana is surrounded by mountains and has a Mediterranean climate, with lots of sun during the year. Due to its affordable way of living, Tirana (as well as the whole of Albania) is attracting more and more remote workers.

There you go, here are just a few reasons why you should consider the Balkans as your next remote work destination. The Balkans are super diverse too, so we’re sure everyone will find a place for themselves there.

The majority of the Native Teams crew comes from this region, so we call ourselves masters of the Balkans. In case you have any questions about any of our countries, make sure to reach out to us either here or send us an email at info@nativeteams.com.