Introduction
Portugal has become one of the world’s hottest destinations for digital nomads, thanks to its Digital Nomad Visa, mild climate, and vibrant communities. Within Portugal, Lisbon vs Porto are the two main cities that attract remote workers.
But which city offers the better coworking experience in 2025? Lisbon, the bustling capital, has a dense coworking ecosystem and global connections, while Porto, the northern cultural hub, offers affordability, charm, and a growing creative scene.
This guide compares the best coworking spaces in Lisbon vs Porto, covering prices, communities, and unique atmospheres to help you choose your ideal base.
Why Portugal Appeals to Digital Nomads
- Digital Nomad Visa: Valid for up to 1 year, renewable (income requirement ~€3,280/month).
- Cost of living: Lisbon ~€1,400–€2,000/month; Porto ~€1,000–€1,600/month.
- Internet speed: 120–300 Mbps in coworking spaces.
- Lifestyle: Sunny climate, beaches, surf spots, cultural heritage.
- Community: Thousands of digital nomads, strong expat networks.
Coworking in Lisbon
1. Second Home Lisboa
- Location: Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market).
- Highlights: Green, plant-filled interiors, eco-friendly design.
- Price: €250–€350/month.
- Community: Creatives, entrepreneurs, freelancers.
Why it’s great: Iconic coworking space in the heart of Lisbon.
2. Heden Lisbon
- Locations: Multiple (Chiado, Graça, Rossio).
- Highlights: Stylish design, art-focused environment.
- Price: €200–€300/month.
- Community: Creative professionals, designers, startups.
Why it’s great: Blend of art and productivity.
3. Avila Spaces
- Location: Near Saldanha.
- Highlights: Award-winning coworking hub.
- Price: €220–€320/month.
- Community: Corporate professionals, consultants.
Why it’s great: Perfect for business-oriented nomads.
4. Impact Hub Lisbon
- Location: Central Lisbon.
- Highlights: Part of global Impact Hub network.
- Price: €180–€250/month.
- Community: Social entrepreneurs, international startups.
Why it’s great: Ideal for mission-driven projects.
Lisbon Summary
- Average monthly coworking cost: €200–€320
- Strengths: Large variety, global community, events, networking.
- Best for: Nomads who want international exposure and big-city energy.
Coworking in Porto
1. Porto i/o
- Locations: Downtown, Riverside, Santa Catarina, Seaside.
- Highlights: Popular coworking chain with multiple styles.
- Price: €120–€200/month.
- Community: Mix of freelancers, startups, expats.
Why it’s great: Affordable, flexible, and community-driven.
2. Selina Porto
- Location: Near Aliados Avenue.
- Highlights: Coworking + coliving + hostel hybrid.
- Price: €150–€220/month (coworking pass).
- Community: Traveling nomads, creatives.
Why it’s great: Perfect for short-term nomads.
3. CRU Cowork
- Location: Cedofeita district.
- Highlights: Coworking + concept store.
- Price: €120–€180/month.
- Community: Artists, creative professionals.
Why it’s great: Best for designers and creatives.
4. Synergy Porto
- Location: Boavista district.
- Highlights: Focused on startups and small businesses.
- Price: €140–€200/month.
- Community: Entrepreneurs, SMEs, consultants.
Why it’s great: Strong business support ecosystem.
Porto Summary
- Average monthly coworking cost: €120–€200
- Strengths: Cheaper than Lisbon, strong creative vibe, cozy community.
- Best for: Nomads who want affordability and authenticity.
Lisbon vs Porto: Head-to-Head
| Factor | Lisbon | Porto |
| Cost of Living | €1,400–€2,000/month | €1,000–€1,600/month |
| Coworking Costs | €200–€320/month | €120–€200/month |
| Community Size | Large, international | Smaller, creative |
| Atmosphere | Big-city, dynamic | Relaxed, authentic |
| Best For | Networking, startups, global nomads | Affordable living, creatives, first-time nomads |
FAQs
Q1: Which city is better for networking?
Lisbon — larger international nomad community and events.
Q2: Which is cheaper for coworking?
Porto — about 30–40% less expensive.
Q3: Can I move between both cities easily?
Yes — 3-hour train ride or 1-hour flight connects Lisbon and Porto.
Q4: Which city has better internet?
Both offer fast, reliable Wi-Fi (Lisbon slightly more consistent).
Q5: Which is better for long-term living?
Lisbon for career growth + networking, Porto for affordability + lifestyle.
Conclusion
Both Lisbon and Porto are excellent choices for digital nomads in 2025:
- Choose Lisbon if you want big-city energy, international networking, and lots of coworking options.
- Choose Porto if you prefer a smaller, affordable, and creative environment with a slower pace of life.
For many nomads, the best option is to try both — Lisbon for its global scene, Porto for its charm and affordability.
