Top 10 cities for your next workation: In just a few years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, the way we work has transformed. The office is no longer the default, and for many professionals, the workplace can be anywhere with a strong internet connection. That’s where the concept of a workation — part “work,” part “vacation” — comes in, letting you spend your mornings on video calls and your afternoons exploring a new city.
A workation isn’t just doing your job from different locations; it’s about combining productivity with the pleasures of travel. Thanks to high-speed Wi-Fi, well-equipped coworking spaces, and a growing digital infrastructure, more destinations are catering to this lifestyle than ever before.
Whether you’re a remote employee, freelancer, or entrepreneur, the city you choose can make a big difference. Finding a location that combines stunning landscape, a thriving culture, and distinctive local experiences with practical necessities like fast internet, reasonably priced lodging, and comfy work arrangements is the sweet spot.
International Workplace Group (IWG), the United Kingdom-based flexible workspace provider, has been tracking these trends. Its third annual Work From Anywhere Barometer ranks global cities on 12 factors, including broadband speed, climate, coworking spaces, digital nomad visas, and access to natural getaways like beaches and mountains.
This year, Mumbai made a noteworthy debut, scoring 73 out of 120 and landing in 36th place as an emerging workation destination. Known for its energetic business hubs and wide range of flexi-work spots, Mumbai also impressed for its cultural depth. The “Queen’s Necklace” at Marine Drive, its Art Deco architecture, and an unmatched food scene helped the city stand out. As IWG noted, Mumbai’s mix of “vibrant culture, music, and refined urban experiences” puts it in the same league as some of Asia’s major economic powerhouses.
Topping the 2025 list is Tokyo, with an impressive 91/120, praised for lightning-fast broadband, world-class transport, safety, and cultural richness. Rio de Janeiro came in second, followed by Budapest, Seoul, and Barcelona. Rome and Paris joined the rankings for the first time, taking the eighth and ninth spots.
Other Asian cities in the spotlight include Jakarta, Beijing, Singapore, Manila, and Hong Kong. IWG’s findings also reflect broader workplace priorities, 78 per cent of employees now say that a “work from anywhere” policy matters when considering a new role, while 87 per cent believe remote work can boost productivity, reduce burnout, and improve work-life balance.
Rank | Cities |
1. | Tokyo |
2. | Rio de Janeiro |
3. | Budapest |
4. | Seoul |
5. | Barcelona |
6. | Beijing |
7. | Lisbon |
8. | Rome |
9. | Paris |
10. | Valleta |
Source: International Workplace Group
Rank | Cities |
1. | Tokyo |
2. | Seoul |
3. | Beijing |
4 | Singapore |
5. | Jakarta |
6. | Manila |
7. | Mumbai |
8. | Hong Kong |
Source: International Workplace Group