Belgium, a country often overlooked, stands as a gem for digital nomads. Its allure lies not just in the rich historical tapestry and architectural marvels, but also in its modern conveniences and high-quality life. As a digital nomad, the Belgian experience feels like holding the world in your palm, with its superb internet connectivity, multilingual community, and an impressive array of coworking spaces. Belgium, akin to a masterful symphony, blends the old-world charm with the rhythm of modern technology, making it an ideal haven for those who carry their office in their backpack.
Here are the 5 best cities for digital nomads in Belgium.
1. Brussels – The Heart of Europe
Cost of Living: $4004 for nomad and $2185 for expat
Brussels, often hailed as the heart of Europe, resonates with a vibrancy unmatched by many. As the de facto capital of the EU, it stands as a melting pot where cultures, languages, and ideas blend seamlessly, creating a rich tapestry of diversity. For digital nomads, this city offers a dynamic and stimulating lifestyle. The streets are lined with coworking spaces, each a hive of creativity and innovation, where one can work under the gaze of Gothic architecture or beside the modern bustle of the European Quarter.
The city’s heartbeat is its international flair, pulsating with a rhythm of inclusivity and global perspectives. It’s a place where every corner turns into a crossroads of ideas and opportunities, where networking happens as easily in a historic café as in a sleek office space. But Brussels isn’t just about work. It serves a cultural feast – from the legendary waffles and renowned Belgian beer to the countless museums, art galleries, and music venues. Here, every day is a new adventure, a chance to immerse oneself in a cultural mélange, making it an ideal backdrop for the nomadic lifestyle that thrives on change and exploration.
2. Antwerp – A Diamond in the Rough
Cost of Living: $4589 for nomad, $2404 for expat
Antwerp, a dazzling gem in Belgium’s crown, is renowned worldwide for its sparkling diamond district and cutting-edge fashion scene. This city, where the arts thrive alongside commerce, offers a canvas for creativity as vast and varied as the River Scheldt that flows through it. For digital nomads, Antwerp is a paradise where inspiration is found in every corner, from the bustling, eclectic cafés to the tranquil, green embrace of its parks.
As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll witness a city pulsating with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s as infectious as it is inspiring. The fusion of historical architecture and contemporary design mirrors the innovative mindset of its inhabitants. Here, digital nomads are not just visitors but become part of a vibrant community that’s constantly pushing boundaries.
Moreover, Antwerp’s affordable living costs are like a well-kept secret, making it a magnet for nomads seeking a balance between the artistic allure and practical aspects of life. The city offers a lifestyle where one can thrive professionally without breaking the bank, making it an ideal destination for those who want to weave work and wanderlust into a sustainable lifestyle. In Antwerp, the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and every day is an opportunity to explore new facets of life and work.
3. Leuven – The Scholar’s Paradise
Cost of Living: $5032 for nomad, $2152 for expat
Leuven, steeped in academic prestige, resonates with the legacy of centuries of scholarship. As the home of one of Europe’s oldest universities, the city is a bastion of intellectual rigour and vibrant innovation. Its streets echo with the footsteps of scholars past and present, creating a tapestry of history interwoven with modern thought. This fusion makes Leuven an exhilarating destination for digital nomads who seek both the tranquillity of history and the thrill of the new.
The city’s youthful energy is not just palpable but infectious, with students from around the globe infusing the ancient cobblestone streets with a lively spirit. This energy transforms the city into a sanctuary for the intellectually curious and digitally savvy. Here, historic libraries and cosy cafés serve as think tanks and social hubs, where ideas percolate and simmer over steaming cups of coffee.
Leuven’s unique charm lies in its ability to harmonize the old with the new. It offers a serene yet intellectually stimulating environment, ideal for work, study, and creative endeavours. The city invites digital nomads to immerse themselves in a milieu that celebrates knowledge, fosters innovation, and encourages the exchange of ideas across disciplines and cultures. In Leuven, every corner turned is an opportunity to learn something new, making it a haven for those who wish to grow both professionally and personally.
4. Ghent – Where History Meets Hip
Cost of Living: $4457 for Nomad, $2368 for expat
Ghent stands as a captivating blend of the past and present, a city where medieval charm is seamlessly intertwined with contemporary zest. It’s a sensory feast, where each cobbled street and winding canal tells a story, painting a vivid backdrop for the modern nomad. The city’s architectural splendour, with its towering belfries and grand cathedrals, coexists with cutting-edge design and urban art, creating a tapestry rich in history and innovation.
In Ghent, life is celebrated with an array of cultural festivals that light up the streets throughout the year, showcasing everything from music and film to food and art. The city’s art galleries are treasure troves of both classical masterpieces and avant-garde works, providing endless inspiration. As the sun sets, Ghent transforms into a vibrant playground, with its lively bars and clubs offering a pulsating nightlife.
The city’s coworking spaces are much more than mere places to work; they are melting pots of creativity and diversity. Here, digital nomads across the globe come together, forming a dynamic community where ideas are exchanged, collaborations are born, and new perspectives are gained. Ghent, with its perfect amalgamation of work and play, offers a dynamic environment for those who thrive on creativity and seek a balanced lifestyle. It’s a city where history is not just remembered but is a living part of the every day, making it an enriching and exhilarating place for digital nomads to call home, even if temporarily.
5. Bruges – A Postcard from the Past
Cost of Living: $4627 for nomad, $2911 for expat
Bruges, fondly referred to as the Venice of the North, is a dream woven into reality, a medieval fairy tale come to life. Its labyrinth of picturesque canals, framed by age-old buildings, creates a serene and almost mystical backdrop, perfect for the wandering digital nomad. This city, with its cobbled streets and whimsical architecture, transports you to another time, when the modern rush fades into a tranquil, timeless beauty.
In Bruges, the hustle of contemporary life gives way to a gentle, rhythmic pace. It’s a place where one can truly savour the subtle intricacies of life, from the gentle lapping of water against the canal banks to the soft chiming of church bells. The city’s charm lies in its ability to offer a peaceful retreat, a haven where digital nomads can pause, breathe, and find inspiration in the quiet grandeur around them.
Unlike the buzzing metropolises of Brussels or Antwerp, Bruges whispers its tales through its medieval squares and hidden gardens. It’s an ideal setting for those seeking to escape the relentless tempo of urban life and immerse themselves in their craft. The city’s inspiring surroundings act as a muse for creativity and reflection, making it a cherished destination for those who find beauty in the old world and seek a tranquil space to create and contemplate. Bruges, with its enchanting allure, stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of the past, offering a peaceful vacation for the soulful nomad.
Belgium, with its tapestry of cities, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for the digital nomad. Each city, with its unique flavour and charm, caters to different tastes and needs. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Brussels or the tranquil canals of Bruges,
