Working remotely during the summer or spending time away from home has become an increasingly popular option for professionals. Urban mobility and the growing availability of flexible workspaces are among the key factors influencing the choice of destination.
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The latest Work from Anywhere barometer from the International Workplace Group (IWG) examines which cities offer the best conditions for combining remote work and travel in 2026. One Spanish city has secured a place on the podium of this global ranking.
What is a "workcation" and how was the ranking compiled?
A "workcation" combines remote work with a holiday or short break. Professionals work remotely for part of their stay while using their free time to explore a destination or relax.
The International Workplace Group's (IWG) Work from Anywhere 2026 study evaluates which cities are best suited to this way of working. To compile the ranking, the company assessed several criteria:
- Climate and weather conditions.
- Speed and reliability of the internet connection.
- Accommodation availability and affordability.
- International connectivity and air travel accessibility.
- Transport infrastructure and ease of getting around the city.
- Availability of flexible workspaces, such as offices, coworking spaces and meeting rooms.
- Food and dining options.
- Cultural and leisure offerings.
- Overall attractiveness of the destination.
Barcelona, the world's third-best city for a "workcation" according to IWG
Barcelona ranks third globally in IWG's 2026 workcation index. The concept refers to combining remote work with holidays, short breaks or extended stays in another city.
The Catalan capital stands out for its international connectivity, extensive transport network, accommodation options and wide availability of flexible workspaces. Its cultural attractions, gastronomy and leisure opportunities also allow visitors to make the most of their free time without lengthy journeys across the city.
Living in Barcelona: what it offers to remote workers
Barcelona provides a wide range of amenities that appeal to remote workers, including excellent air connections to European and international destinations, an efficient public transport system, a vast selection of cafés and restaurants, year-round cultural activities and easy access to beaches, parks and outdoor spaces.
The best city in the world for remote work in 2026
Bangkok tops IWG's ranking of the best cities for a workcation in 2026. Thailand's capital takes first place thanks to its combination of affordability, connectivity, urban services and appeal as an international destination.
In second place is Tokyo. The Japanese capital stands out for its world-class infrastructure, transport network and status as a major economic and technological centre. Barcelona completes the podium and is the only Spanish city featured in the top three.
The 10 best cities in the world for remote work
IWG's 2026 Work from Anywhere index brings together destinations in Asia, Europe and the Americas. These are the ten best cities in the world for remote work and travel in 2026:
- Bangkok: The Thai capital tops the ranking for its connectivity, urban offerings, and cost-to-service ratio.
- Tokyo: The Japanese city ranks second thanks to its technological infrastructure, transportation and international projection.
- Barcelona: The Spanish city ranks on the podium for its connectivity, quality of life, cultural offerings and network of flexible spaces.
- Porto
- Vancouver
- Budapest
- Naples
- Medellín
- Lisbon
- Seoul
