For digital nomads, WiFi isn't a luxury—it's oxygen.
You can tolerate a smaller apartment, a less trendy neighborhood, even mediocre coffee. But unreliable internet? That's a dealbreaker. One dropped video call with an important client, one failed upload before a deadline, and suddenly that beach town paradise becomes a professional nightmare.
We've tested internet speeds, reliability, and coworking infrastructure across dozens of cities. Here are the ten that deliver.
The Speed Champions
1. Tokyo, Japan — 180 Mbps average
The gold standard for internet infrastructure. Japan's fiber networks are legendary, and coworking spaces routinely offer 500+ Mbps connections. Even convenience stores have reliable WiFi.
2. Seoul, South Korea — 170 Mbps average
South Korea has been investing in internet infrastructure for decades, and it shows. 5G coverage is extensive, and you'll struggle to find a building without fiber access.
3. Singapore — 165 Mbps average
The city-state takes connectivity seriously. Government initiatives ensure widespread fiber coverage, and coworking spaces compete on speed.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands — 150 Mbps average
The Dutch have embraced digital infrastructure like few other nations. Even budget apartments typically offer 100+ Mbps connections.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark — 130 Mbps average
Scandinavian efficiency extends to internet. Reliable, fast, and available essentially everywhere.
The Reliable Performers
6. Berlin, Germany — 120 Mbps average
Germany's bureaucracy can frustrate, but the internet delivers. Major coworking spaces offer enterprise-grade connections.
7. Barcelona, Spain — 115 Mbps average
Spain has invested heavily in fiber infrastructure. Barcelona's tech scene demands fast connections, and the city delivers.
8. Tallinn, Estonia — 110 Mbps average
The world's most digital nation offers exceptional internet. E-residency wasn't built on slow WiFi.
9. Prague, Czech Republic — 100 Mbps average
Central Europe's tech hub offers consistent speeds at reasonable prices.
10. Lisbon, Portugal — 95 Mbps average
Portugal's nomad-friendly policies include internet infrastructure. Most coworking spaces offer 200+ Mbps.
Beyond Speed: What Really Matters
Raw speed numbers only tell part of the story. Here's what experienced nomads actually care about:
Consistency Over Speed
A reliable 50 Mbps beats an unreliable 200 Mbps every time. Look for cities with stable infrastructure, not just peak speeds.
Upload Matters
Most speed tests focus on download. But if you're on video calls or uploading files, upload speed is equally critical. Fiber connections typically offer symmetric speeds.
Backup Options
Smart nomads always have a Plan B. Mobile data, nearby cafés, coworking spaces—know your alternatives before you need them.
Power Stability
Internet means nothing if the power's out. Research local power grid reliability, especially in developing countries.
Pro Tips for Reliable Connectivity
2. **Ask about peak hours** — Some spaces slow down when crowded
3. **Invest in a good mobile plan** — Local SIM cards with data are essential backup
4. **Consider a portable hotspot** — Devices like Skyroam work across borders
5. **Choose accommodations with ethernet** — WiFi is convenient, but wired connections are more reliable
The Verdict
For nomads whose work demands bulletproof internet—video editors, developers, anyone with regular video calls—Northeast Asia and Northern Europe are your safest bets.
But infrastructure is improving everywhere. Cities that struggled five years ago now offer reliable connections. The global shift to remote work has made fast internet a competitive advantage for destinations, and they're investing accordingly.
Just always, always have a backup plan.
