The Changing Culture of Working from Cafés in Europe

In many European cities, cafés have long been the go-to spots for freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads. The comforting hum of background chatter, the aroma of fresh coffee, and the cozy atmosphere made them an appealing choice for those seeking inspiration outside their home or office.

But recently, more and more cafés are introducing restrictions on laptop use. Some limit the number of tables available for working, while others don’t allow laptops at all during certain hours. For café owners, this makes sense: tables filled with remote workers for hours often mean fewer customers coming and going. They want to encourage a livelier, more social environment instead of quiet workstations lined with glowing screens.

Personally, I understand both sides. While I appreciate the charm of cafés, I’ve found that I’m much more focused and productive when working from home or in smaller, more intimate places. Confidentiality is also a big part of character of my job—handling sensitive work or taking calls in a busy public space never feels right. At home, I can create the atmosphere I need, minimize distractions, and protect the privacy of my work.

Perhaps this shift will encourage us to rethink how and where we work. Cafés can return to being social and communal spaces, while those of us who work remotely can explore alternatives that better fit our needs—whether that’s a quiet home office, or a co-working space.

What about you? Do you enjoy working from cafés, or do you find yourself more productive and comfortable elsewhere? I’d love to hear your perspective.