Kraków has been ranked the best city in Europe for remote work, according to a new report from analytics platform PlayersTime, with the southern Polish city topping a list of 35 of the continent’s most visited destinations.
The report, which evaluated cities specifically through the lens of digital nomads, awarded Kraków 161 out of a possible 175 points, placing it first overall. Analysts credited the win to a combination of safety, quality of life, infrastructure and cost of living — factors increasingly prioritized by professionals who can work from anywhere.
What Set Kraków Apart
The report highlighted several specific metrics behind Kraków’s top ranking. The city scored 75.08 out of 100 for safety, while its internet infrastructure delivered speeds exceeding 250 megabits per second at a cost of just 0.06 euros per Mbps.
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Cost of living also worked in Kraków’s favor. The report estimated that monthly expenses needed for a comfortable remote-work lifestyle in Kraków come to about 1,423 euros, a figure well below many long-established Western European remote-work hubs. Researchers also pointed to the city’s modern coworking spaces, reliable internet connections, developed public transportation and strong academic and technology sectors as key contributors to its appeal.
More Than Just Numbers
Analysts noted that Kraków’s appeal extends beyond spreadsheets and statistics. The city has long drawn visitors and residents alike with its atmosphere, cultural offerings and overall quality of daily life.
For remote workers, the report suggested that fast internet and low housing costs are no longer the only considerations — surroundings that support a healthy work-life balance matter just as much. Kraków offers extensive green spaces, a strong food scene, laptop-friendly cafes and an urban energy that draws people from around the world. The city blends historic character with modern convenience, giving residents the feel of life in a large, active metropolis without the price tag typically associated with Europe’s most expensive capitals.
Warsaw Takes Second Place
Poland’s capital, Warsaw, placed second in the ranking, distinguished primarily by its low cost of living, estimated at roughly 1,265 euros per month. The strong showing of two Polish cities in the same list signals that Poland is becoming increasingly visible on the map of remote-work-friendly European destinations.
Analysts said the results suggest Central and Eastern Europe is shedding its reputation as merely a cheaper alternative to Western Europe. Instead, the region is emerging as a legitimate choice for specialists and freelancers who can work from any location.
A Sign of Broader Momentum
The ranking illustrates how Kraków has managed to combine everyday comfort with a modern approach to work. The city was described in the report as safe, well-connected and increasingly equipped to meet the needs of professionals operating in a digital-first world.
Report authors framed Kraków’s win as more than a local achievement, calling it a positive signal for Poland as a whole. The recognition, they said, demonstrates that Polish cities can attract not only tourists but also people seeking a place to live, grow professionally and work day-to-day in a modern, welcoming environment.
The full report was published by PlayersTime and is based on an analysis of 35 of Europe’s most-visited cities, evaluating each on criteria including safety, internet quality, cost of living and infrastructure.
