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Digital nomads sure are a lucky bunch, aren’t they?

Who wouldn’t be jealous of being able to spin a globe, point to a destination, and be able to pack up and move there, all while still earning a paycheck?

To no surprise, Italy, with its storybook romance from city to city and town to town, is a hotspot for this flexible lifestyle.

But one city was just reported as being a huge draw right now — and it’s likely one you wouldn’t guess.

Touted as one of the best alternatives to Milan, this timeless crimson dreamscape is actually the perfect place to call home long-term, thanks to its affordability, culture, and off-radar appeal that keeps it from feeling overly curated or clogged with touristy eyesores.

Milan May Be Chic, But Bologna Feels More Like The Real Italy

If there’s one undeniable enticement to Milan, it’s the fact that it’s often the cheapest gateway into Italy.

That said, Milan is a rare place where even locals will opt for Starbucks instead of that cozy little cafe hidden in a back alley.

The rest of Italy? That’s a hard sell…

Cities like Bologna feel way more authentic without glaring Gucci billboards and tour groups clogging every square.

With less pizzazz and more plazas and pizza — that’s the most Z’s I’ve typed in one sentence — Bologna has become a new hub for remote workers seeking tangible culture and a stronger sense of place instead of feeling like another face in the crowd.

Bologna isn’t flashy, nor is it expensive — a common complaint amongst tourists. But what else can you expect, being so ritzy and close to Lake Como?

Nomads are falling in love with this blushing heartthrob, but it’s not just authenticity where you actually feel like you’re in the Italy you’ve always dreamed of.

Here are 5 key reasons nomads are flocking here (and staying!):

• Thriving expat and creative community
• Dependable high-speed Wi-Fi
• More affordable cost of living ($1000 – $1400 rent for 1 bedroom apartment)
• Cafes are everywhere
• Strong connectivity across Europe

Day Trips & Weekend Getaways Galore

Okay, we lied…

There are actually 6 reasons, but this one is worth a whole paragraph.

Reason number sei is how easily accessible it is to other Italian stunners, such as Florence, Venice, and yes, even Milan if you’re the shop ’til you drop type or miss a taste of back home like aforementioned Starbucks.

You don’t need a Geography major to convince you Bologna has a deed to prime real estate.

Nomads can visit all 6 of these destinations in under 2 hours by train for a quick in-and-out day trip or weekend getaway:

• Florence
• Milan
• Venice
• Verona
• Modena
• Parma

That’s not to say you’ll get tired of being here, but hey, you’re in Italy after all…

With a name like Bologna, you know food has to be incredible — and it is. That won’t be the reason to enjoy a nice little trip.

By leaving the city limits, you’re simply taking advantage of being so close to some of Italy’s top destinations, and who in their right mind wouldn’t want to do that?

Obtaining Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa

Now that you’re sold on Bologna as your next base for daily cappuccinos, unparalleled cuisine, and portico-lined strolls, now we have to cover the boring part to dot your I’s and cross your T’s, otherwise you’re just going to Aly.

I’ll see myself out after that one…

Italy was late to join the digital nomad visa party, but they do indeed offer an official visa for remote workers.

Here are the main requirements:

• Minimum yearly income: you must make roughly $30,000 per year
• Proof of remote position: you’ll need to show you work remotely as either a freelancer or an employee of a non-Italian company, typically with at least 6 months on the job
• Health insurance: required, with minimum coverage of about $32,000
• Criminal record: a clean record is required
• Application process: all documents must be submitted through the Italian consulate or embassy in your current country of residence
• Validity: the visa is generally issued for 1 year initially and can be renewed annually

Sam Sears

Sam, our Senior Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 44 countries and written over 1500 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.