Digital Nomads in Spain

Spain has become a premier destination for digital nomads, offering a blend of vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and a welcoming environment for remote workers. Finding suitable accommodation is crucial for a productive and enjoyable stay. This guide explores various accommodation options in Spain, including rental platforms, coliving spaces, and short-term housing solutions, to help you make an informed decision.

1. Rental Platforms

For digital nomads planning to stay in Spain for an extended period, renting an apartment provides flexibility and a sense of home. Several platforms cater to different needs:

• Idealista: One of Spain's largest real estate websites, Idealista offers a wide range of rental properties across the country. The platform allows you to filter searches based on location, price, and property type, making it easier to find accommodations that suit your preferences.

• Fotocasa: Similar to Idealista, Fotocasa provides extensive listings of apartments and houses for rent. It's user-friendly and offers detailed information about each property, including photos, descriptions, and contact details for landlords or agents.

• Spotahome: Tailored for medium to long-term stays, Spotahome offers verified listings with virtual tours, providing peace of mind when booking from abroad. The platform focuses on major cities and ensures that properties meet specific standards before listing.

• Airbnb: While traditionally known for short-term stays, Airbnb hosts in Spain often offer discounts for longer bookings, making it a viable option for digital nomads seeking flexibility. The platform's extensive range of properties, from private rooms to entire apartments, caters to various budgets and preferences.

2. Coliving Spaces

Coliving spaces are increasingly popular among digital nomads in Spain, combining accommodation with coworking facilities and fostering a sense of community. These spaces are designed to meet the needs of remote workers, offering amenities like high-speed internet, communal areas, and networking opportunities.

• Outsite: Located in Barcelona, Outsite offers a blend of private rooms and shared spaces, catering specifically to digital nomads. The community-focused environment encourages collaboration and social interaction among residents.

• Sun and Co.: Situated in Jávea on the Costa Blanca, Sun and Co. is a coliving and coworking space that attracts a diverse group of remote workers. The facility offers private and shared rooms, communal kitchens, and organized events to foster community engagement.

• Repeople: Based in the Canary Islands, Repeople provides coliving spaces in locations like Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Known for their strong digital nomad communities, these islands offer a unique blend of work and leisure opportunities.

• The Surf Office: With locations in Las Palmas and Barcelona, The Surf Office combines coliving with a focus on outdoor activities, appealing to those who enjoy an active lifestyle alongside their work commitments.

3. Short-Term Housing Options

For those seeking flexibility or planning shorter stays, short-term housing options are ideal. These accommodations range from serviced apartments to hostels and hotels that cater to digital nomads.

• Serviced Apartments: Companies like Apartool and Friendly Rentals offer fully furnished apartments with amenities such as cleaning services and utilities included. These are suitable for stays ranging from a few weeks to several months, providing a comfortable and hassle-free living experience.

• Hostels: Modern hostels in Spain often provide private rooms and coworking spaces, making them budget-friendly options for digital nomads. Chains like Generator Hostels in Barcelona and Madrid offer such facilities, combining affordability with the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and remote workers.

• Hotels with Long-Stay Discounts: Some hotels offer discounted rates for extended stays. Platforms like Booking.com and Expedia allow you to filter searches for long-term stays, helping you find deals that suit your budget and preferences.

4. Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation

When selecting accommodation in Spain as a digital nomad, consider the following factors to ensure a comfortable and productive stay:

• Internet Connectivity: Reliable high-speed internet is essential for remote work. Ensure that the accommodation provides stable and fast Wi-Fi. Reading reviews and contacting hosts or property managers can help verify this.

• Location: Proximity to coworking spaces, public transport, and amenities like supermarkets and restaurants can significantly impact your daily life. Consider the neighborhood's safety, noise levels, and overall vibe to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle.

• Community: If networking and social interaction are important to you, coliving spaces or accommodations near digital nomad hubs can provide valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.

• Budget: Spain offers a range of accommodation options to fit different budgets. While cities like Barcelona and Madrid tend to be more expensive, smaller cities and towns offer more affordable options without sacrificing quality of life.

• Flexibility: Depending on your plans, you may prefer accommodations with flexible lease terms or cancellation policies. Short-term rentals and coliving spaces often offer more flexibility compared to traditional leases.

5. Tips for Securing Accommodation

• Book in Advance: Popular cities and coliving spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance ensures you have a place that meets your needs.

• Read Reviews: Reviews from previous tenants can provide insights into the property's condition, the responsiveness of the host or landlord, and the overall experience.

• Verify Amenities: Ensure that the accommodation offers all necessary amenities, such as a comfortable workspace, kitchen facilities, and laundry services.

• Understand the Terms: Be clear about the rental terms, including deposit requirements, cancellation policies, and any additional fees.

• Consider Local Regulations: Some cities in Spain have regulations regarding short-term rentals. Ensure that your accommodation complies with local laws to avoid potential issues.

By carefully considering these factors and exploring the various accommodation options available, digital nomads can find a comfortable and conducive environment to live and work in Spain. Whether you prefer the independence of a private apartment, the community of a coliving space, or the flexibility of short-term housing, Spain offers something for every lifestyle and preference. Here’s how to make the most of your digital nomad experience while finding the perfect accommodation.

6. Popular Neighbourhoods for Digital Nomads

Depending on the city you choose, certain neighbourhoods are particularly appealing to digital nomads due to their atmosphere, amenities, and proximity to coworking spaces or cultural hubs.

• Barcelona:

  • El Born: Known for its artistic vibe, trendy cafés, and boutique shops, El Born is popular among young professionals and creatives.
  • Poblenou: Dubbed the innovation district, Poblenou offers a mix of modern coworking spaces and laid-back beach access, making it a favourite for digital nomads.

• Madrid:

  • Malasaña: Famous for its lively cultural scene, Malasaña offers vibrant cafés, coworking spaces, and a buzzing social life.
  • Chamberí: A quieter yet centrally located neighbourhood, Chamberí provides a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to coworking options.

• Valencia:

  • Ruzafa: This trendy district is the heart of Valencia’s digital nomad community, with plenty of coworking spaces, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Ciutat Vella: The historic old town offers charming streets, easy access to cultural attractions, and a variety of rental options.

• Malaga:

  • Soho: Known as Malaga’s art district, Soho boasts galleries, street art, and a growing number of coworking hubs.
  • El Palo: For those seeking a more local vibe near the beach, El Palo offers affordable options with a laid-back lifestyle.

• Canary Islands:

  • Las Palmas (Gran Canaria): The city’s Triana and Vegueta districts are known for their digital nomad-friendly environments, with a mix of coworking spaces, coliving hubs, and beachside living.
  • Santa Cruz (Tenerife): The island’s capital is ideal for those seeking a mix of urban life and easy access to stunning natural attractions.

7. Community and Networking Opportunities in Accommodation

Your choice of accommodation can also enhance your social and professional connections while in Spain. Many coliving spaces and short-term rental providers organise events or networking opportunities tailored to digital nomads. These include:

• Workshops and skill-sharing sessions: Opportunities to learn from fellow professionals or share your expertise.
• Cultural experiences: Group activities such as tapas nights, wine tastings, or city tours help you immerse yourself in Spanish culture.
• Outdoor adventures: Activities like hiking, surfing, or cycling can be arranged in collaboration with local guides, especially in areas like the Canary Islands or the Costa del Sol.

Living in such an environment can greatly enhance your experience as a digital nomad, fostering friendships and even potential collaborations.

8. Sustainable and Ethical Accommodation Options

As sustainability becomes a key concern for travellers, many digital nomads are opting for eco-friendly accommodation. Spain is home to several properties and coliving spaces that focus on sustainable practices:

• Properties built with energy-efficient materials or renewable energy sources.
• Spaces promoting minimal waste and encouraging eco-conscious habits among residents.
• Community initiatives, such as urban gardens or clean-up activities, that let you give back to the local environment.

Choosing sustainable accommodation not only aligns with ethical values but also supports local communities and their eco-conscious efforts.

9. Tips for Staying Productive While Living in Spain

Once you’ve secured the perfect accommodation, it’s important to create a routine that balances work and leisure:

• Set up a dedicated workspace: Ensure your accommodation has an area where you can work without distractions.
• Stay connected: Confirm that your internet connection meets your needs, particularly if your work involves video calls or large data transfers.
• Embrace local rhythms: Adapt to Spain’s unique schedule, including the midday siesta, to blend work and cultural experiences seamlessly.
• Join local communities: Networking with other digital nomads and locals can provide invaluable tips and enhance your stay.

Spain offers a diverse range of accommodation options for digital nomads, whether you prefer the independence of renting your own apartment, the vibrant community of a coliving space, or the flexibility of short-term housing. By considering your priorities—be it location, budget, or connectivity—you can find a home away from home that enhances your productivity and enjoyment of this incredible country.

From the modern coworking hubs of Barcelona to the sunny retreats in the Canary Islands, Spain provides an unbeatable combination of work-friendly infrastructure and cultural richness. Wherever you choose to stay, the right accommodation will make your experience as a digital nomad in Spain truly unforgettable.