Workcations, where travellers combine work and leisure at their destinations to prolong holidays, have exploded in popularity since hybrid working became the de facto working model for many. Thanks to the proliferation of hybrid working and cloud technology, employees can now work from wherever they feel most productive. More than four in five (84%) hybrid workers have, or would consider, extending a holiday to work remotely from their chosen destination.

New research* from International Workplace Group, the world’s largest operator of flexible and hybrid workspace, has revealed the rising popularity of workcations among office workers, with three quarters (74%) of workers viewing a ‘work from anywhere policy’ as a significant factor when considering a new job. The same number (75%) said that the freedom of being able to work from anywhere boosts their job satisfaction.

With over 4,000 flexible office locations in more than 120 countries, International Workplace Group’s network includes 30 leading ‘workcation’ cities that have been marked against 10 key criteria to create the second annual Work from Anywhere Barometer. Each location was awarded a mark out of 10 on climate, culture, accommodation, transport, food & drink, happiness, broadband speed, sustainability and the availability of flexible workspaces.

Budapest is Buda-best - (75/100)

Securing high marks for transport and accommodation prices, broadband speeds, and availability of flexible workspaces, Budapest stands out as the top destination for hybrid workers in 2024. Situated in the heart of Central Europe and set against the stunning backdrop of the Danube River, the Hungarian capital is famed for its classical architecture, attracting some 12 million international tourists per year. The city boasts over 200 museums and galleries, vibrant neighbourhoods, and ample green spaces, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads seeking a balance of work and leisure.

Barcelona bumped from top spot - (73.5/100)

The top destination in 2023, Barcelona remains a favoured spot for hybrid workers, offering a lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and nearly year-round sunshine. The city has become a popular hub for those seeking a diverse work environment which combines sun, sea, and sand with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Spain’s wide-ranging digital nomad visa, along with Barcelona's excellent transportation infrastructure and relatively affordable cost of living, ensures it remains a prime workcation destination.

Rio rising - (73.5/100)

Rounding off the top three ‘workcation’ cities for 2024 is Rio de Janeiro in joint second, which rose from sixth place in last year’s barometer thanks to impressive scores on accommodation, food, transport costs, and affordable yet strong broadband speed. Home to the world-famous carnival, Rio is filled with nightclubs, restaurants, and extensive green spaces. Hybrid workers will benefit from a thriving digital nomad community, bolstered by local government investments to make the city more attractive for remote workers, including citywide 5G coverage and a new digital nomad visa. Rio offers big-city amenities alongside world-famous beaches, hiking, and other outdoor attractions, making the city a memorable workcation destination for any hybrid worker.

New contenders for 2024

International Workplace Group’s Work from Anywhere Barometer also welcomes several newcomers to this year’s list of best working destinations for digital nomads to have on their radar. These include:

•    Austin, Texas, also famed as the "live music capital of the world," boasts an impressive cultural offering and dynamic tech scene that make the city an ideal destination for remote workers.

•    Despite its small size, Podgorica, Montenegro boasts a burgeoning start-up community and a growing number of co-working spaces, making it an increasingly popular choice for workers seeking tranquillity and affordability nestled between the mountains and Adriatic Sea.  

•    Marrakesh, Morocco has captivated travellers for centuries with its vibrant souks, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Now, it's also gaining attention as a desirable workcation destination thanks to a growing infrastructure to support remote work, offering an enticing blend of tradition and modernity to hybrid workers looking to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience.

•    Finally, Valletta, the Maltese capital and UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its historic architecture, picturesque harbours, and Mediterranean charm. Valletta's accessible size and sunny climate make it an ideal spot for remote workers.

The ongoing shift in work culture has not only transformed professional attitudes but also broadened the horizons of workers when choosing travel destinations, with 80% stating that the availability of these policies has prompted them to consider destinations they previously wouldn't have.

International Workplace Group Founder and CEO Mark Dixon said:

“For an increasing number of workers, the days of long daily commutes are over, now that hybrid working offers the opportunity to work wherever we will be the most productive. And thanks to cloud technology, that can be anywhere in the world, provided there’s a high-quality internet connection available.

So, it’s no wonder that more and more individuals are embracing the idea of combining work with travel, whether it’s for a few days tacked on to the end of a vacation, or a few months as a digital nomad.

This trend is set to accelerate further, and we will continue to see more and more companies embracing WFA policies to improve employees’ work-life balance and increase their attractiveness as an employer.”

With brands including Regus, Spaces and HQ, International Workplace Group offers access to an unrivalled global network and opportunity to work from anywhere all over the world, with a strong presence in the most sought-after destinations, from Barcelona to Brussels, and from Sofia to Singapore. Through their wide network of flexible workspaces, International Workplace Group supports the growing trend of remote work and workcations, enabling individuals to seize exciting opportunities and embrace a more flexible and fulfilling work lifestyle.

IWG