Europe’s Hidden Gems: Destinations Welcoming Digital Nomads and Tourists

European Destinations Embrace Digital Nomads and Tourists Seeking Alternatives to Overtourism

As overtourism continues to plague popular European destinations, many travellers are now looking for alternatives where they can make a positive impact on local communities and economies. The resurgence of travel after the pandemic, fueled by affordable flights and the booming cruise industry, has led to overcrowding in iconic cities and destinations. As a result, some regions have introduced regulations like tourist taxes and selfie bans to curb the impact of high visitor numbers.

In addition, the rise of digital nomad visas has brought challenges such as gentrification and strain on local services, prompting some countries to reconsider or even eliminate their digital nomad incentives. For example, Portugal recently scrapped its non-habitual tax residency program, which offered a flat income tax rate for foreign workers.

While many destinations are grappling with overtourism, several regions in Europe have embraced tourists and digital nomads, offering incentives to attract remote workers and boost local economies. Here are a few destinations still open to visitors:

Extremadura, Spain: Offering €15,000 Grants for Digital Nomads Extremadura, one of Spain’s least visited regions, is trying to revitalize its economy by attracting remote workers. The regional government has introduced a grant program offering up to €15,000 to digital nomads willing to relocate to the area. The region, known for its natural beauty and historical sites, faces high unemployment and depopulation, and this initiative is aimed at bolstering its economy and population.

Spain’s Rural Villages Revitalized by Digital Nomads Many rural communities in Spain are struggling with depopulation as younger generations migrate to cities. To counter this, organizations like Rooral are helping small villages attract digital nomads. Villages such as Benarrabá in Andalucia are seeing positive results, with locals welcoming remote workers who help reinvigorate their towns.

Rural Spain Rebrands to Attract Tourists Spain’s rural villages are also trying to lure tourists away from overcrowded cities. “Los Pueblos Más Bonitos de España” promotes 116 of the country’s most charming towns, each offering unique cultural and architectural heritage. For example, Anento, once home to only 100 residents, now draws 45,000 visitors annually with its stunning Gothic church and natural spring. Similarly, Libros, a village of 114 people, has transformed itself into the literary capital of Spain, with plans to create a hotel-library and literary avenue.

Greenland Opens New Airport to Boost Year-Round Tourism Greenland is looking to increase its tourism numbers by opening a new airport in Nuuk. The airport, which started operations in December, connects the capital to various towns and international destinations. With plans for a second international landing strip in Ilulissat by 2026, Greenland is working to encourage year-round tourism, especially during the winter months when the country’s stunning natural phenomena like the aurora borealis attract visitors.

Romania’s Push to Attract More Tourists Romania, recently added to the Schengen Zone, is now easier to visit for travelers within the EU. With campaigns promoting festivals like the Electric Castle festival, Romania is seeking to increase its visibility and attract more visitors. The country’s vibrant culture, natural landscapes, and historical sites make it a great alternative for tourists looking to avoid overcrowded European destinations.

These destinations offer unique opportunities for travellers and digital nomads looking to escape the impact of overtourism and make a positive contribution to local communities.

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