Tokyo has claimed the title of the world’s best city for a ‘Workcation’ in 2025, according to the third annual Work from Anywhere Barometer by International Workplace Group (IWG). Surpassing previous winners, such as Budapest and contenders like Rio de Janeiro, Tokyo scored an impressive 91 out of 120 across a variety of factors tailored to hybrid and remote workers.

The Japanese capital ranked particularly high in areas such as broadband speed, public transport efficiency, safety, and cultural offerings. The city's digital nomad visa, introduced in April 2024, was a game-changer, allowing remote professionals to stay for up to 12 months at a competitive cost. Its geographical proximity to national parks, mountains, and coastlines also made it a desirable destination for those looking for a balance between vibrant urban living and natural retreats.

Flexible working redefines travel trends

The rise of the hybrid working model continues to blur the lines between business and leisure travel. According to IWG’s research, 60% of hybrid workers are now more likely to extend vacations for remote work than they were the previous year. Notably, 86% of these professionals identified the availability of flexible workspaces as a key factor when selecting travel destinations.

IWG’s Founder and CEO, Mark Dixon, highlighted the irreversible nature of this shift and said: “Thanks to hybrid working and cloud technology, employees now have the freedom to work wherever and whenever suits them best — whether that’s a local flexible workspace or a co-working centre on the other side of the world.”

Singapore: Asia’s urban oasis for digital nomads

Ranking 15th globally and fourth among Asian cities, Singapore earned its place as a regional leader in flexible working destinations. Scoring 82 out of 120, the city-state was praised for its reliable 5G infrastructure, cultural diversity, sustainability initiatives, and unique integration of nature within the urban landscape.

Often referred to as the ‘City in Nature’, Singapore offers green sanctuaries in the form of rooftop gardens, sprawling nature reserves, and carefully preserved heritage parks — all easily accessible thanks to seamless public transportation. The city also hosts major global events, such as the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix and international music acts, enhancing its appeal as both a leisure and business destination.

Singapore’s culinary excellence and cultural vibrancy were also considered as key strengths. From hawker stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, the food scene caters to every taste. The city’s forward-thinking urban planning and consistent ranking as Asia’s happiest country further support its growing popularity among professionals.

Seoul emerges as Asia’s rising star

Seoul made a strong debut in the global top 10, ranking fourth with a score of 87.5. The South Korean capital stood out for its ultra-fast internet, efficient transportation, and a recently updated digital nomad visa programme. These features have made it increasingly attractive for remote workers who value both convenience and culture.

Beyond infrastructure, Seoul offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. With landmarks, such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, bustling street markets, and a world-renowned K-pop scene, the city creates a dynamic atmosphere where work and recreation can coexist. The availability of flexible office spaces and a supportive digital nomad community contribute to its growing status as a workcation hub.

Diverse global rankings highlight new entrants

The 2025 Barometer ranked 40 cities globally, evaluating them across 12 key metrics including climate, accommodation, broadband speed, transport, workspace availability, and newly added categories like digital nomad visas and proximity to natural attractions.

Top 10 global rankings for 2025 include: Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, Budapest, Seoul, Barcelona, Beijing, Lisbon, Rome, Paris, and Valletta. Notably, Rome, Paris, and Valletta entered the top 10 for the first time. Rome gained attention following Italy’s launch of a national digital nomad visa in January 2025. Paris impressed with its culture, co-working diversity, and transport network, despite high living costs. Valletta, Malta’s capital, appealed with its Mediterranean charm and compact accessibility.

This year’s ranking also incorporated 10 new cities — Tokyo, Seoul, Rome, Cairo, Mexico City, Cape Town, Prague, Melbourne, Orlando, and Reykjavik — many of which scored well in proximity to nature and affordability of digital nomad visas. According to IWG, about 75% of hybrid workers consider access to nature an essential factor in selecting a destination.

The growing emphasis on well-being, flexibility, and natural surroundings is redefining how employees choose where to work remotely. At least 78% of employees surveyed said a “work from anywhere” policy is now a key factor in evaluating new job opportunities. Further, 87% believe such policies boost their productivity.

Hybrid workers also reported tangible benefits in terms of health and satisfaction, about 85% experienced reduced burnout, while 87% noted an improved work-life balance. IWG’s research confirms a growing sentiment among workers: being able to work from anywhere isn’t just a perk — it’s an expectation.

Productivity gains for employers

IWG’s report revealed that companies adopting flexible workspaces as part of a hybrid strategy could see productivity rise by as much as 11% over the next five years.

Mark Dixon emphasised the value of this shift for both employers and employees: “This trend is here to stay... It not only improves work-life balance and reduces burnout but also delivers significant productivity gains. Businesses empowering employees to use local workspaces could boost productivity by 11%, making it a clear win-win in the global battle for talent.”

The report also showed that flexible working reduces voluntary employee turnover by up to 20%, with workers being three times more likely to remain in jobs offering various remote options.

The top-performing Asian cities included Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, and Singapore, followed by Jakarta, Manila, Mumbai, and Hong Kong. The data reflect a regional momentum in embracing digital nomadism and remote working models. From improved broadband to streamlined visa processes, these cities are adapting quickly to global expectations for flexibility and mobility.

Singapore, for example, has integrated cutting-edge technology with sustainable urban development, creating an ideal environment for digital professionals. Meanwhile, Seoul and Tokyo have invested heavily in infrastructure and policy to cater to international remote workers.

The future of work is borderless

The 2025 Barometer underscores a transformative era in global work culture. As hybrid models become the norm, professionals are no longer confined to offices or fixed locations. Cities that can successfully blend connectivity, culture, comfort, and access to nature are becoming magnets for the modern workforce.

Whether it’s sipping coffee in a Tokyo coworking space, attending a virtual meeting from a rooftop garden in Singapore, or drafting reports from a historic piazza in Rome, the future of work is increasingly mobile, diverse, and personal.

As Mark Dixon succinctly put it, “For many, the days of long daily commutes are over. There is more freedom to work in new locations.”