When picking a country for a "workation," there are a few important things to consider.
First, think about the climate. Do you want to escape the autumn chill, or embrace the golden season?
Next, consider the cost of living, internet speed, and the availability of coworking spaces – these are your essential work tools.
It’s also good to check visa requirements, safety, and healthcare quality. For those planning a longer stay, think about social opportunities and how well locals speak English.
We’ve compiled a list of countries for an autumn workation that balance all these factors and are budget-friendly!
Sunny beaches, rich history, delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the locals—Turkey has it all. You can work with a view of the Mediterranean Sea, explore ancient ruins on weekends, and enjoy a tasty kebab after a productive day.
Turkey’s infrastructure is well-developed, with modern roads and transport systems. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Istanbul ranges from $100 to $800 per month, while in resort cities like Bodrum or Antalya, prices are between $200 and $400. Utility bills usually cost around $65-70 a month. Many cities also offer coworking spaces, making it easy for freelancers to work comfortably.
Autumn in Turkey is mild and pleasant. In September and October, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C in most regions. The southern coast, near the Mediterranean, is usually warmer, while inland areas can be a bit cooler.
Turkey has good internet infrastructure, with high-speed connections in cities and tourist areas. Many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, though in remote or rural areas, internet access might be limited.
Whether you prefer quiet evenings in cozy teahouses or lively beach parties, Turkey has something for everyone. The food is delicious and affordable, with fresh produce at local markets and hearty meals at street cafes. Fancy restaurants with Bosphorus views or hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia can be pricier, but the experience is well worth it.
Crime in Turkey is considered moderate. In big cities like Istanbul, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can happen, but overall, the country is safe for tourists.
Greece is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists and digital nomads alike.
Freelancers can find various housing options, from hotels to apartments. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Athens costs between $300 and $800 per month, while on islands like Crete or Mykonos, prices range from $400 to $1,000. Utility bills usually cost between $100 and $150 per month. There are also coworking spaces available in larger cities.
Autumn in Greece is mild and sunny. In September and October, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, dropping to around 15°C in November. On southern islands, the weather remains warm, making it an ideal time for visitors.
Internet coverage in Greece varies, with better service in major cities. On islands, the connection can be less reliable. Average speeds range from 15-30 Mbps, but there are many coworking spaces and Wi-Fi cafes in tourist areas, making it easy to work remotely.
Greek cuisine is a treat! Fresh seafood, traditional tavern dishes like grilled octopus and tzatziki, and delicious desserts like yogurt with honey are all affordable and flavorful. Meals in a tavern cost about $5-10, while seafood is around $10-20. Cocktails on rooftop bars are about $7-12.
During the day, visit ancient ruins, sunbathe on beaches, or enjoy water sports. In the evenings, you can experience traditional Greek dancing, enjoy cocktails with a view, or watch a movie at an outdoor cinema.
Greece is considered a low-crime country, making it a safe place for tourists and freelancers alike.
Bulgaria is a country of contrasts, located in Southeast Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. It’s famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, especially its mountains and the Black Sea coast.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Sofia will cost between $250 and $600 per month, while in resort towns like Varna or Burgas, prices are between $200 and $500. Utilities are usually around $100-150 monthly.
Bulgaria has a well-developed infrastructure, including good public transport and roads that connect major cities.
Autumn in Bulgaria is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. On the coast, the weather stays warm longer, making it a great time for visiting beaches.
Bulgaria has decent internet coverage in cities, but in more remote mountainous areas, the connection might be weaker. Most hotels, guesthouses, and many restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
In Bulgaria, you can enjoy a filling meal for around €20 for two people, including drinks and alcohol. You can even find a bottle of wine at a bar for just €3. Portions are usually generous, and local specialties include fried cheese, fresh fish (served in the morning), and seafood dishes.
Autumn is also packed with activities, from wine tours in regions like Sandanski and Melnik to hiking in the Rila and Pirin mountains, where the fall colors are beautiful. There are also festivals celebrating wine, traditional food, and folklore, and you can visit thermal resorts, like the one in Banya.
Bulgaria has a relatively low crime rate. In big cities, petty crimes like pickpocketing can happen, but overall, the country is safe for tourists. Bulgarians are generally kind and friendly, always ready to help or give advice.
Tip: Always double-check your receipts and confirm prices in advance. Sometimes, you might run into situations where locals charge tourists extra, especially in souvenir shops or small restaurants.
Taxi warning: Be careful with taxi drivers who may overcharge. It's a good idea to agree on a price in advance because sometimes they might present you with a bill that’s 2-3 times higher than expected.
In Romania's capital, Bucharest, renting a one-bedroom apartment costs between $300 and $700 per month. In smaller cities like Cluj-Napoca or Iasi, rent is more affordable, around $250 to $500.
Autumn in Romania is mild, but if you're in the mountains, it can get a bit chilly.
Romania might not be the richest EU country, but it has the fastest internet in the European Union! Whether you're in a city or a small town, you'll have fast and reliable internet to work from.
Romanian food is a delicious mix of traditional flavors and cultural influences. Some must-try dishes include mamaliga (corn porridge), sarmale (cabbage rolls with meat and rice), and mititei (grilled sausages). You can enjoy a meal in a local restaurant for $5-10, and a more upscale dining experience costs up to $20.
For fun, Romania has a lot to offer. You can explore the beautiful Carpathian Mountains, visit ancient castles like Dracula’s Castle in Bran, or relax at the Black Sea resorts.
Romania has an average crime rate. While petty crimes like pickpocketing may happen in big cities, it's generally a safe place to visit.
Georgia, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is famous for its history, culture, wine, and stunning natural beauty, from the Caucasus Mountains to the Black Sea coast.
In the capital, Tbilisi, a one-bedroom apartment will cost you between $200 and $500 a month. In cities like Batumi or Kutaisi, prices are even lower, around $150 to $400. Georgia also has 3 major airports, and traveling between cities is easy, thanks to a well-developed transport system, including trains.
Autumn in Georgia is warm, with temperatures staying above 20°C (68°F) until mid-October. September is perfect for beach days, and the weather is often better than in the summer.
In Georgia, both internet and mobile services are widely available. You can either buy a local SIM card, use a tourist SIM, or activate international roaming on your phone. Each option has its perks depending on how long you're staying.
Georgia is a paradise for food lovers. Their famous dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), khinkali (dumplings), and shashlik (grilled meat) are packed with flavor. Don’t miss trying lobio (bean stew), pkhali (veggie dishes), and churchkhela (a sweet made from nuts and grape juice). Meals at local spots range from $5 to $10, while fancy restaurants can cost $20 or more.
When it comes to fun, Georgia has everything: beautiful beaches in Batumi, ski resorts in Gudauri, ancient fortresses, mountain hikes, and world-famous wine tours.
Georgia used to rank as one of the safest countries in the world, and even in 2024, it’s still considered a very safe and friendly country for visitors. Plus, Georgians have a warm spot for Ukrainians and are especially welcoming right now.
For more detailed planning, check out our article “10 Most Useful Websites for Remote Work and Travel” (Website) to help you find the perfect spot for your autumn freelance adventure.
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