Greece for Digital Nomads: The 2022 Guide
/Greece is a beautiful country with rich history, culture, and incredible cuisine.
With more than twenty well-known islands to explore, each with its distinct charm and personality, along with some incredible cities like Athens and Thessaloniki...
...Greece has long become one of the most popular destinations for tourists.
And not only!
Friendly visa regulations, high quality of life, and affordable cost of living have also turned Greece into a highly desired destination... for digital nomads.
So if you're looking to start your digital nomad journey with Greece as your first stop – you've come to the right place!
This guide will give you plenty of information about working remotely in Greece.
Working Remotely in Greece
When you're working remotely in Greece, you can enjoy some of the best living standards anywhere.
Your money will go much further here than in many other cities with a desirable climate and plenty of beaches.
It might not be as cheap as nearby countries like Bulgaria or Serbia.
Still, its thriving tourism industry, EU membership, and generally high quality of life make it far more livable.
That's why a large number of foreigners move to Greece every year.
While housing may be a bit expensive in well-populated areas like Athens or Thessaloniki... the cost falls outside these cities.
Plus, if you're looking for a place where it's easy to find English speakers, Greece is your place.
Where to Work Remotely in Greece
There are a lot of places to consider when deciding where to work remotely in Greece.
The mainland is much larger than the islands—you could spend months exploring it!
But most people come here for the beaches, so if you don't want to miss out on those, you'll want to start with an island or two.
Is the Internet Fast Enough in Greece?
According to Speedtest Global Index, Greece has a good internet speed.
Here are the median speeds in March 2022:
Mobile Download 59.42
Fixed Broadband Download 36.21
While it isn't the fastest, this is enough to work remotely.
And with growing investment in fiber infrastructure... you'll be able to find spots with fast internet access in Greece.
What is the Weather Like in Greece?
In general, the weather in Greece is Mediterranean, with very hot summers.
But the heat of summer is cooled by sea breezes from off the coast, making it bearable for digital nomads to work during their stay.
Winters are mild, with some rain and snow at higher altitudes.
In fact, snowfall rarely occurs in the lowlands. Winter temperatures usually stay above freezing but can be as cold as -5C (23F) at night.
Greece's climate depends on which region your working holiday takes you to.
Summer days are cool in mountainous regions, while nights can be chilly. But in the wintertime, they can get quite cold!
Getting a SIM Card and Mobile Plan in Greece
What are the options for getting a mobile plan in Greece?
There are three major carriers in Greece: Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind.
Various prepaid plans have consecutive or renewable monthly top-ups of data or voice time.
You can easily find SIM cards at convenience stores and gas stations.
When you buy a SIM card from one of these providers, you'll need to register your official documentation (your passport).
What does a SIM card cost in Greece?
The price of SIM cards varies depending on what provider and deal you choose.
They generally range between €3-€5 but have been on sale for as little as €1 during promotional periods.
What is the quality of service for mobile providers in Greece?
The quality of service across all Greek cellular networks is quite good.
3G and 4G networks well cover the significant population centers.
Wind aims to exceed 60% 5G coverage by the end of 2023, while Vodafone expects to cover 40% of the Greek population by March 2022.
The services tend to be weaker or unavailable outside urban areas, though.
But this may change over time as carrier investment increases in the coming years.
What's it Like Living in Greece as a Digital Nomad?
Living in Greece is like a dream come true.
The country's incredible way of life, rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and amazing people create the perfect conditions for digital nomads.
Greece is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, making it easy for foreigners to settle in.
In many rural areas and smaller urban centers such as Ioannina, locals often invite foreigners to their homes for coffee or a meal or out with their families on weekends and holidays.
And in addition to this warm sense of hospitality from the community at large, you'll also find that the coworking spaces are highly sociable.
It's also worth noting that English speakers will feel right at home in most cities around Greece.
How is the Food & Drink Scene in Greece?
Greece is a top destination for digital nomads when it comes to food and drink.
Ouzo, Feta cheese, hummus, olives… the list of delicious food and drink options in Greece is almost endless.
Greeks are also big wine drinkers.
This is hardly surprising considering how many great wines are available from all over Greece.
As you would expect from a nation that loves its food and drink so much, there's no shortage of restaurants and bars in Greece.
That said, the dining scene has been affected by the pandemic closures... so make sure to check ahead if you have something specific in mind.
Another appealing aspect of Greek cuisine is that most dishes are made with fresh local ingredients, which means they are very healthy and tasty!
If you have diabetes or gluten intolerance, you will find plenty of options available to accommodate your dietary needs!
How is the Nightlife Scene as a Digital Nomad?
Nightlife in Greece is lively and fun.
Greek culture is focused on getting together with friends and family, which means the nightlife scene has something for everyone.
Many cozy bars with couches, candlelit restaurants, and late-night wine bars.
If you're looking to dance all night, plenty of nightclubs keep the party going until dawn.
In conclusion:
Greece has much to offer digital nomads: gorgeous beaches, rich culture and history, great food and wine, friendly people, a Mediterranean climate, good infrastructure—including reliable internet coverage—and more.
If you are thinking of becoming a digital nomad.. consider visiting or spending time working remotely in Greece.
It's a wonderful place to get away from it all, relax, recharge your batteries, and explore this beautiful country.
And if you choose Athens as your location... do get in touch with our team!
We'll be happy to provide you with quality housing in the best locations... and at the most affordable prices.