How to become a digital nomad in Italy
Pleasant Mediterranean climate, world-renowned cuisine, and famously hospitable people have made Italy one of the most visited countries in the world. Digital nomads are happy to discover Italy for similar reasons — they get to explore the birthplace of Western culture, bathe in the friendly rays of the Tuscanian sun, and indulge in wine tasting in between work sessions.
Why Italy
Italy has everything most digital nomads look for: favourable climate, great food, and relatively affordable living costs. Offering its residents beautiful beaches and all the convenience of living in a European country, Italy allows you to work in a picturesque setting while indulging in a cup of a strong brew and home-made gelato.
That being said, wifi speeds in public areas and Internet coverage are not the best and it is generally recommended to travel with your own wifi modem.
Best cities to work from
Rome, Italy's capital, is a natural gateway to explore the country. The city of the Roman Empire, Rome is home to ancient ruins, beautiful old fountains, impressive statues, monuments, and medieval churches. It is Italy's political and diplomatic hub, and much of the city's centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rome is the perfect spot for pairing your working sessions with learning about Italy's rich past and the makings of the Roman Empire.
Known as world's fashion and design capital, Milan is the perfect representation of 'new Italy'. The city is famous for its many historical sights standing alongside modern business centres and boutique hotels. Though not as poetic or picturesque as Florence or Venice, Milan offers a productive setting for those working remotely, with a great selection of coworking facilities.
Visiting Venice is at the top of the list for many world travellers. Having kept most of its architecture intact since the Middle Ages, Venice feels like a living museum, and working with the view of gondolas passing under your windows is truly one of the most unique experiences one can encounter.
If you want to skip the city life, head straight over to one of the country's many picturesque villages. Manarola, Sovana, Cetara, San Leo, Verduno and others are perfect little hideaways framed with clear water, stunning gardens and hearty home-made food.
The internet and coworking spaces
Italy isn't known for Europe's best internet coverage. The average download speed across the country is just about 9.2 Mbps and wifi speeds are reportedly on the slow side. However, finding a picturesque spot to work from is one of the best reasons to work in Italy. You will have a generous selection of coworking offices at your disposal as well as many of Italy's famous coffee shops.
Coworking spaces in Rome
CORTE, Piazza Dante, 3
Impact Hub Roma, Viale dello Scalo S. Lorenzo, 67
Coworking spaces in Milan
Coworking Login, Via Privata Stefanardo da Vimercate, 28
Coworking Lab - Milan, Via Privata Galla Placidia, 12
Leisure in Italy
As one of the world's most popular tourist destinations, Italy will not allow you to be bored. From exploring the country's many historical sights (the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Saint Mark's Basilica, the Pantheon and more) to relaxing on sunny beaches or by the lake and indulging in the best of local cuisine, you will always find yourself being entertained.
What to know before arriving
Italy is a member state of the Schengen Zone. If you are a resident of a country that is also a member state of the Schengen Zone, you can travel to Italy with just your National Identity Card. However, if you do not come from one of the visa-exempt countries, you will need to apply for a visa in advance at one of Italy's diplomatic missions.
Useful links
