Where to retire in Italy?

Italy is attracting huge numbers of immigrants who want to move to Italy to work and live la Dolce Vita (the good life). There are also increasing numbers of older people who are choosing to buy a property in Italy. The cost of real estate per square metre in Italy is almost half what it is in the UK.

Italy is popular with retirees from the UK, the US, and throughout the European Union. Italy has a beautiful climate, friendly people, less rigid visa requirements than other EU countries, and affordable housing in comparison to many other countries. Italy also has a great healthcare system, making it even more attractive for retirees.

There are many differences between the many regions of Italy. With so many attractions, it can be a little daunting to decide where to retire in Italy.

To help you make this decision, we’ve compiled a short list of some of the best places to retire in Italy.

From rugged mountains to impossibly beautiful coastal areas, from quiet villages to modern towns and breathtaking medieval cities, Italy has something for everyone.

Deciding where to retire in Italy isn’t a quick or simple task. You may be focused on the best places to retire in Italy on a budget. You might want to find the best place in Italy to retire and live in luxury. Or you might want to know ‘where is the safest place to retire in Italy‘? Having a good overview of some of the most popular regions to retire to will help you make the right choice.

Home to the iconic and historical cities of Florence and Pisa, Tuscany is well known for its rolling hills, olives, and wonderful Chianti wine. Tuscany has most of what many retirees are looking for in Italy: culture, wine, food, breath-taking scenery, and some gorgeous beaches.

However, Tuscany also has some of the most expensive properties in Italy. The average price per square metre for real estate is around £2,100.2 If you want something affordable, it’s best to concentrate on the smaller towns away from the main cities.

An island at the very end of Italy, Sicily is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean climate means it is hot in the summer, warm in spring and autumn and mild in the winter. Sicily has a slow, relaxed pace of life, many fantastic restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Property prices are also cheaper in Sicily than in other parts of Italy. The average price per square metre for real estate is around £1,180.

Another great choice for anyone who wants an amazing Italian experience without a high price tag is the region of Puglia. Famous for its food and wine, for many people Puglia is the epitome of authentic Italy.

Situated in the south in the heel of Italy, Puglia has a low cost of living, a gorgeous coastline, and many cultural attractions. It’s estimated that a family of four would have monthly expenses of about £2,300. The average price per square metre for real estate is around £1,400.

For an authentic Italian retirement, head for the region of Lazio. Why? Lazio has fantastic countryside where retirees can enjoy all the richness and rewards of Italian rural life. There are many quiet villages and mid-sized towns to choose from.

The weather is mild all year round and the local delicacies are fantastic. If you prefer a lively style of living, then there’s another reason why this region is worth considering: Lazio is home to the magnificent Italian capital city Rome. Of course, the cost of property and the average cost of living is expensive, but it’s a price many retirees are willing to pay. The average price per square metre for real estate is approximately £1,760. The cost of living in Lazia is 1.24 times more expensive than in other parts of Italy.

With its capital the fashion epicentre Milan, Lombardy is a perfect destination for anyone interested in design, art, and architecture. Lombardy also has areas of exquisite natural beauty such as the famous Lake Como.

While the weather isn’t as sunny as in the south of Italy, Lombardy does have a high standard of healthcare and excellent transport links to the rest of the country. If you like a little luxury and aren’t a sun worshipper, Lombardy could be the place for you. Property prices vary but are much more affordable in smaller towns than in Milan. The average real estate price per square metre is approximately £3,250. The cost of living in Lombardy is 1.35 times more expensive than in other parts of Italy.

Once you have decided where to retire in Italy, you’ll need to start planning. Consider exactly what you want to take with you. Will you be moving furniture and bulky items? How much clothing will you take? Make sure you speak to more than one moving company to compare costs.

You’ll also need to make sure you have applied for your visa beforehand. You must first apply for a long-stay visa at the embassy in your country of residence. On arrival in Italy, you must make an appointment at the local police station to apply for your residence visa.

Retiring to Italy means you’ll have to carefully consider where you want to live, what your budget is, and if you can satisfy the visa requirements. An iad Overseas property consultant can provide you with specialist advice and expert guidance on the entire process.