1. Cinque Terre, Italy
This string of five ancient seaside villages clinging to the Italian Riviera is pure magic. Comprising Monterosso, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore, it's the perfect place to disconnect from work and reconnect with stunning natural beauty. It’s an ideal destination for a multi-day trip to fully absorb the unique character of each town.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
The train is your best friend here. It's the fastest and most scenic way to hop between the five towns, as the lines run through the mountainsides. Buy a pass at a major station like La Spezia for ultimate flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Journeys between towns take only a few minutes, making it incredibly efficient.
2. Santorini, Greece
Yes, it's iconic, but for good reason. Santorini delivers on its promise of whitewashed clifftop villages, brilliant blue waters, and sunsets that will dominate your camera roll. It's a place to indulge, relax, and soak in some of the most famous views in the world.
Must-Do Activities:
Beyond the delicious local food and exploring the towns, take a boat trip on the Aegean Sea to gain a new perspective of the caldera. The main event is watching the sunset in Oia, where the entire village seems to glow in hues of gold and orange. For an unforgettable stay, consider a cliffside suite like those at Elite Luxury Suites for breathtaking views right from your balcony.
3. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain
Fuerteventura is far more than just another beach destination. For the nomad looking to escape the crowds of Tenerife or Gran Canaria, this island offers a rugged, diverse landscape waiting to be explored. It's a fantastic spot for an active and adventurous break.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
Rent a car and head north and inland to discover the island's true character. Explore the otherworldly Corralejo Dunes, find your own quiet spot on the expansive Sotavento Beach, and take a day trip by boat to the pristine, uninhabited Lobos Island.
4. The Cotswolds, England
When you need a break from city life, the Cotswolds offers the quintessential English countryside experience. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, its rolling hills and honey-colored stone villages feel like stepping into a storybook. It's the perfect place for a luxurious and restorative weekend.
Must-Do Activities:
The best way to see the Cotswolds is by car. This gives you the freedom to meander through quaint villages at your leisure. Don't miss Bibury, often called the most beautiful village in England, the impossibly charming Castle Combe, and the tranquil twin villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter. Being just a two-hour drive from London makes it an easy escape from the metropolis.
5. Paris, France
Every nomad should experience Paris, but the key is to approach it like a local, not a tourist. While ticking off the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa is a rite of passage, the real soul of the city lies in its neighborhoods, markets, and hidden corners.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
Venture beyond the central arrondissements. Explore the city's vibrant food markets, find a unique bistro with a view for dinner (book ahead!), and allow yourself to simply get lost in the charming streets. For a stylish and well-located base, consider Hôtel Parister near the Grevin Museum.
6. The Basque Country, Spain
Situated on Spain's northern coast, the Basque Country is a region with a fiercely independent identity, a world-renowned culinary scene, and a stunning mix of urban culture and wild nature. It’s an explorer’s delight.
Must-Do Activities:
Base yourself in San Sebastian or Bilbao. In the evenings, do as the locals do and go on a 'pintxos crawl' – hopping from bar to bar sampling Basque-style tapas with a glass of local wine. Don't miss the architectural marvel of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the rugged beauty of the Bay of Biscay. For a change of pace, the famous Rioja wine region is only a two-hour drive away.
7. Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain
Forget the superclub stereotype for a moment. While Ibiza certainly knows how to party, the island offers a much deeper, more restorative experience for those who seek it. The north is a haven of wellness, yoga retreats, and pristine natural landscapes.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
Balance your trip. Explore the history of Ibiza Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), browse the famous Hippie Market, but also dedicate time to the island's tranquil side. Take a boat to the neighboring island of Formentera for some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, and don't miss the sunset over the mystical Es Vedra rock formation.
8. Bergamo, Italy
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, Bergamo is a true hidden gem in northern Italy. This beautiful historic city offers an authentic Italian experience without the overwhelming crowds of Florence or Venice. Its fortified old town, La Citta Alta, is a perfectly preserved medieval wonder.
Must-Do Activities:
Wander the cobblestone streets of La Citta Alta, admire the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, and enjoy an aperitivo in the Piazza Vecchia. For an unforgettable meal, seek out La Fiaschetteria for traditional and delicious pasta. Its proximity to Milan, Lake Como, and Lake Garda makes it a strategic and rewarding stop on any Northern Italy tour.
9. Sintra, Portugal
Just a 30-minute train ride from the digital nomad hub of Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale landscape of mystical palaces, grand estates, and lush, green mountains. It’s an easy and essential day trip that feels a world away from the capital.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
The secret to enjoying Sintra is to beat the crowds. Go early, especially if visiting on a weekend. Arriving before the midday rush allows you to experience the magic of Pena Palace, the mysterious Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira, and the ancient Moorish Castle in relative peace.
10. Faroe Islands
For the nomad seeking a true escape into wild, untamed nature, the Faroe Islands are a dream destination. Located in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Scotland, this small, self-governing archipelago offers dramatic landscapes and a refreshing lack of mass tourism.
Must-Do Activities:
Explore the tiny, charming capital of Tórshavn, go horseback riding through the mountains, and witness the incredible optical illusion of Sørvágsvatn Lake, which appears to hang suspended above the ocean. The Gásadalur waterfall, which cascades directly into the sea, is another must-see. For a taste of tradition, book a table at Barbara's, the country's oldest restaurant. A 90-minute flight from Edinburgh makes it surprisingly accessible.
11. Alesund, Norway
Perched on the wild west coast of Norway, Alesund is a stunning Art Nouveau town that serves as the perfect gateway to the majestic fjords. After being rebuilt following a fire in 1904, the entire town center has a unique and cohesive architectural style.
Nomad Pro-Tip:
Alesund is your starting point for one of the world's great road trips. Rent a car and use the efficient local ferry system to navigate the waterways and explore the breathtaking beauty of the nearby Geirangerfjord and Hjørundfjord. Hike to the viewpoint atop the town's mountain for panoramic views and be sure to indulge in the incredibly fresh local seafood.
