Alicante has quietly become a rising star amongst digital nomad destinations, offering the perfect blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture, and modern amenities. But, like anywhere, life here as a remote worker has its perks and pitfalls. Whether you’re drawn to year-round sunshine or the city’s laid-back charm and international vibe, it’s worth exploring both the benefits and challenges before making Alicante your next home base.
This article delves into the experiences of digital nomads in Alicante who have chosen to call the city home, helping you weigh the pros and cons of this beautiful coastal city for your remote working lifestyle.
Rewards of Being a Digital Nomad in Alicante
Climate and Geography
One of Alicante’s biggest draws is its Mediterranean climate, characterised by mild winters and long hot summers. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Europe’s sunniest city is a dream for those who thrive in warm weather. The long, sunny days almost beg you to hit the beach for a quick break (because who can resist the Mediterranean when it’s a stone’s throw away?), adding an extra layer to the elusive “work-life balance” that digital nomads in Alicante dream of. Postiguet Beach or Playa de San Juan are prime spots to stretch out and relax.
Photographer Karolina Inka Pałys (Inka), a Polish digital nomad living in the nearby town of Orihuela, emphasises the region’s natural beauty: “You can admire the historic architecture of the old town, and then two minutes later, you’re in a large park surrounded by nature, with a view of the sea. For a photographer like me, the reliable weather and constant presence of natural beauty provide the perfect backdrop for most of my outdoor projects.”
Alicante city is compact and easy to navigate, whether you’re cycling through the historic streets or using the ever-growing network of cycle lanes. All of the digital nomads in Alicante that we talked to agreed: “Alicante is the perfect size – not too big, not too small.” This balance makes it easy to get around and enjoy the city’s amenities without feeling overwhelmed. For digital nomads in Alicante, the simple pleasure of stepping outside to bask in the Mediterranean sun while enjoying lunch in a picturesque plaza is nothing short of a game-changer.
Cost of Living
Despite recent increases in rent and general living expenses, Alicante remains more affordable than well known hotspots like Barcelona or Lisbon. Renting a centrally located apartment in places like Barrio Santa Cruz (the old town) or the Mercado district (home of the famous central market and known for it’s independent shops and nightlife) is far cheaper than in other Mediterranean cities. Groceries, dining out, gym membership and transportation are also reasonably priced, allowing digital nomads in Alicante to enjoy the local lifestyle without breaking the bank, leaving plenty of room for tapas and sangria.
Senior IT Recruiter Kseniya Parfenyuk, a Belarusian digital nomad who has settled in the heart of Alicante city, appreciates the affordability: “For me, it’s been easy to manage living costs here. I can enjoy a central location, great food, and good healthcare, all while staying within my budget.”
Finding Accommodation
When it comes to finding a place to live, it’s important to plan ahead, especially if you’re looking for long-term accommodation. Prices can spike during the summer tourist season, so it’s advisable to secure housing well in advance. A popular option is to use websites like Idealista and Fotocasa, both of which offer extensive listings for rentals throughout the Alicante region. You can filter your search by area, price, and property type to find something that suits your needs.
Before arriving, it’s a good idea to join online groups and do your research to get a sense of average rental prices and what it’s like in different areas of the city. This can help you set realistic expectations and possibly line up a few viewings before you even get to the city. Researching beforehand not only gives you a clearer idea of what and where you can afford but also helps avoid overpaying, especially in peak tourist months.
For those seeking a more flexible arrangement, platforms like Airbnb usually offer discounts for long-term stays, which can be a convenient option while you explore the city and look for a permanent place. Additionally, some digital nomads in Alicante have recommend co-living spaces in Alicante, which provide furnished apartments and shared living spaces, offering both accommodation and a ready-made community of like-minded individuals.
Work Environment
The growing network of co-working spaces offers digital nomads in Alicante modern facilities with high-speed internet and a chance to connect with like-minded professionals. Popular co-working spots like ULab, Terretup, and the Santander Work Café in La Rambla are becoming more affordable as competition increases, ensuring you’re never too far from a productive environment.
If co-working spaces aren’t your style, Alicante’s café culture is strong, with hotspots like Sip and Wonder, Madness Coffee, and Pynchon Book Shop Café offering fantastic coffee and reliable Wi-Fi.
Community and Networking
Alicante boasts a vibrant international community, and newly arrived digital nomads in Alicante can easily find people to connect with. One very popular way that people make connections and find out about social events is through apps like the NomadWay app, created by French national, JB, a digital nomad himself and his Spanish partner Maria. With over 800 active users in Alicante and Valencia, the app allows digital nomads in Alicante and the wider area to book a wide range of social activities, from networking events to casual meetups, theatre trips, picnics, volleyball matches, dinners, and concerts. It’s a great way to meet people, plan your week, and ensure you make the most of your time in Alicante.
JB explains his and Maria’s inspiration for creating the app: “After starting my nomadic life, I met many remote workers at co-working spaces across Spain. While existing platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp helped, they weren’t tailored to the needs of the community. NomadWay was conceived to provide a better way to connect, and today it’s helping hundreds of digital nomads in Alicante interact with each other. Consequently, people are making stronger connections and friendships.”
In addition to the NomadWay app, other digital nomad groups on apps like Meetup and Facebook, such as Digital Nomads in Alicante, are helpful for finding local events and networking.
Kseniya highlighted to us the ease of building a support network in Alicante: “The community here is very open and international, and connecting with people through online chats and local meetups made settling in a breeze.”
Cultural Richness
Alicante’s rich history adds another layer of appeal for digital nomads in Alicante and visitors alike. From the panoramic views at Santa Bárbara Castle, a fortress perched high above the city, to the vibrant annual festivals, the city offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in its heritage and culture.
One of the most famous local festivals is Las Hogueras de San Juan, a fiery celebration that takes place in June, marking the arrival of summer. Huge, elaborate effigies are constructed and then spectacularly burned in the streets, accompanied by parades, music, and fireworks. It’s an unmissable week-long event if you’re in Alicante at that time of year.
For those interested in music and the arts, the ADDA (Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante) is a must-visit. The ADDA is one of the city’s premier cultural venues, hosting a range of performances from classical concerts to contemporary music and dance shows. It’s a striking modern building that has become a hub for Alicante’s thriving artistic scene.
In addition to the ADDA, Alicante is home to the MUBAG (Museo de Bellas Artes Gravina), which showcases an extensive collection of fine art, and the MACA (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante), where you can explore contemporary art from Spanish and international artists. For a more alternative cultural experience, the Cigarreras arts and cultural centre offers exhibitions, performances, and workshops, making it a creative hub for locals and nomads alike.
Alicante also boasts a vibrant theatre scene, with the Teatro Principal de Alicante offering a mix of dramatic performances, musicals, and cultural events. For theatre in the local language of Valenciano, there’s Teatro Arniches. For movie lovers, several cinemas in the city, like Cines Yelmo and Kinepolis Plaza Mar 2, regularly screen films in their original language (VOSE), allowing you to catch the latest international releases without dubbing.
Shopping in Alicante is a breeze, with multiple shopping centres such as Plaza Mar 2, Gran Vía Shopping Centre, and the Puerta de Alicante mall offering everything from high-street brands to luxury boutiques. For a more traditional experience, the city’s famous Mercado Central provides an authentic taste of local life, with stalls brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and regional delicacies as well as an increasing amount of tapas bars. Shopping in Maisonnave, Alicante’s premier shopping district, is another fantastic option, where you’ll find flagship stores like El Corte Inglés alongside an array of popular high-street brands, perfect for a leisurely retail therapy session.
When it comes to nightlife, Alicante offers something for everyone. From trendy rooftop bars in the barrios to internationally recognised restaurants in “el Centro”, vibrant nightclubs and bars in the old town, or just enjoying a locally made ice cream while people-watching along the Explanada de España, the city’s nightlife scene is lively and diverse. Whether you prefer a relaxed evening with friends or dancing until dawn, there are plenty of options to suit digital nomads in Alicante looking to unwind after a productive workday. And on the weekends it’s almost obligatory to try the famous “Tardeo” at least once!!!
Ease of Travel
The very nature of being a digital nomad is the love for travel, and Alicante offers the perfect base from which to explore. Alicante’s excellent transportation links make it incredibly easy to explore Alicante, the rest of Spain and the whole of Europe. The local tram service is not only efficient but also very affordable, providing a hassle-free way to get around the city and nearby coastal towns. Additionally, you can catch a high-speed train from Alicante and be in Madrid in just two and a half hours, sometimes for just a few euros if you book in advance.
For international travel, Alicante Airport is only 20 minutes away by bus, offering convenient access to the rest of Europe and beyond. This makes Alicante an ideal home base for the digital nomads in Alicante who love to travel frequently and seamlessly combine work with exploration.
Challenges of Being a Digital Nomad in Alicante
Summer Heat
Sure, the summer heat might feel like a hairdryer on full blast, but adjusting your schedule can help you avoid the worst of it. With temperatures often exceeding 30°C, many digital nomads in Alicante embrace the local siesta culture, taking a break during the hottest hours of the day and returning to work in the cooler evenings or just starting earlier in the morning.
Language Barriers
While Alicante has a large international community, language barriers can still sometimes be a challenge. However, with a bit of patience and some basic Spanish skills, digital nomads in Alicante can ease these hurdles. Part time language courses at a language school such as DIGMA, Estudio Sampere or Proyecto Español are excellent for those looking to immerse themselves further. Or, alternatively, look online for a one to one tutor; Maria from the Nomadway project also teaches Spanish and has said she would be happy to respond to any enquiries (hello@nomadway.app)
Bureaucracy
Spain’s bureaucracy can be notoriously slow and paperwork-heavy, which can be a challenge for digital nomads in Alicante. Whether it’s applying for visas, opening bank accounts, or registering as a resident, patience is essential. Kseniya advises: “Connecting with other nomads who’ve gone through the process and using local help, can make things much smoother.” Kseniya also mentions the occasional frustration of navigating local banks. “In my home country, everything was fully online, but here I sometimes have to visit the bank in person.”
Integration into Local Life
Integrating into local life in Alicante takes some effort, but for those willing to engage, the rewards are well worth it. Inka, who lives just outside Alicante, shares: “By attending local events, exploring cultural experiences, and interacting with locals, I’ve built deeper connections and really feel part of a community.”
Parking Challenges
While there’s a fair amount of parking in Alicante, it can often be full, especially during large events or in peak tourist seasons. Inka, who frequently travels into the city from Orihuela to attend cultural events, notes that parking can be tricky at times. If you are not in the city and can’t use the tram from where you’re living, a helpful tip is to park slightly out of the city centre near a tram stop and then use the tram to reach the heart of town, avoiding the stress of searching for parking spots. Alicante’s public transportation is convenient and affordable, making it a practical alternative when parking becomes an issue.
Seasonal Crowds and Tourism
Alicante is a popular tourist destination, and this can sometimes be a double-edged sword. While the influx of visitors adds to the lively atmosphere, it also means that certain times of the year, especially during the summer months and major festivals it can feel overcrowded. Prices for accommodation and services tend to rise during these peak seasons, and the beaches, restaurants, and tourist hotspots can become quite busy.
For digital nomads who prefer a quieter work environment or less crowded surroundings, this can be a challenge. One strategy is to plan outings and leisure activities during off-peak hours and maybe avoid the busiest parts of the city during high season. Try visiting other parks such as El Palmeral (which is always calm) or Parc de Tossal which has great views over the city and it’s never too busy. Alternatively, exploring the options of nearby areas such as Cabos de las huertas or San Vicente del Raspeig as potential bases can provide a more tranquil experience without sacrificing proximity to Alicante.
Conclusion: Is Alicante Right for You?
Alicante offers an appealing mix of sunny weather, affordability, and a strong sense of community. In fact, Alicante was voted the second-best city in the world to live (Forbes), highlighting its growing appeal for international residents and remote workers. For digital nomads in Alicante like Kseniya, Inka, JB and Maria, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. But is Alicante truly the right destination for every digital nomad?
The answer depends on your personal priorities and working style. If you’re someone who thrives in a warm, relaxed atmosphere, where Mediterranean sunshine fuels your productivity and coastal living enhances your work-life balance, then Alicante certainly checks many boxes. For many, it’s this harmonious blend that makes Alicante stand out as an ideal destination for both work and life.
Summary of feedback from Kseniya
- Chose Alicante after seeing it featured in a ranking of the best cities for remote workers.
- Large Russian-speaking community made it easy to find essential information through online chats, making the transition smoother.
- Reliable internet connectivity suitable for remote work.
- Lower cost of living compared to other European cities, making it an affordable choice for digital nomads.
- Sunny Mediterranean climate enhances overall quality of life.
- High standard of medical services, especially significant for Kseniya, who experienced significant health improvements after receiving local treatment for a chronic condition that hadn’t been resolved in her home country.
- Enjoyed 10 active and energetic months since moving to Alicante, feeling healthier and more energised.
- Occasional language barriers, especially when dealing with local services.
- Slower bureaucracy compared to what Kseniya was used to in her home country.
- The need to visit banks in person, as opposed to fully online banking experiences she had before.
Summary of feedback from Inka
- Alicante and the surrounding area are stunning, with beautiful historic architecture and natural beauty easily accessible.
- As a photographer, the reliable weather and natural beauty make Alicante the perfect backdrop for outdoor projects.
- Lives in the nearby town of Orihuela, which is quieter and more peaceful but still within easy reach of Alicante for cultural activities and socialising and has a great Dog Beach
- Enjoys the variety of experiences Alicante offers, including museums, concert halls, exhibitions, and cultural events.
- Appreciates the relaxed Spanish lifestyle, especially the emphasis on savouring meals, socialising, and taking time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like sunny walks and coffee breaks.
- Parking in the city centre can be tricky, especially during busy times or large events.
Special Thanks
A special thanks to Kseniya, Inka, JB and Maria for contributing their personal experiences as digital nomads in Alicante.
For enquiries or to connect with JB and Maria , you can go via the NomadWay app, through email at hello@nomadway.app, or follow NomadWay on Instagram @nomadwayapp.
Follow Karolina Inka Pałys (Inka)
