Unlock Italy’s Paradise: Top 15 Places to Retire & Buy Property.

Italy is a dream destination for many, offering a perfect combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, delightful cuisine, and a pleasant climate. Retiring in Italy and buying property can be the realization of a lifelong dream, providing an idyllic lifestyle and a comfortable pace of life. With its diverse regions, Italy has something for everyone, from bustling cities to sleepy hilltop villages. Here are the top 15 ideal places to retire and buy property in Italy, ranked by their natural beauty, things to do, and affordability.
1. Tuscany.
Tuscany, famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque towns, is a popular destination for retirees. The region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine. You can visit the historic cities of Florence and Siena, which feature stunning architecture, art, and history around every corner. Alternatively, explore the charming villages like San Gimignano and Montepulciano. The cost of living in Tuscany is moderate, and there is a wide range of property options, from affordable apartments in the countryside to luxury villas with stunning views of the vineyards and olive groves.
2. Umbria.
Umbria, known as the "Green Heart of Italy," is a beautiful region characterized by lush forests, ancient hilltop towns, and a rich artistic heritage. You can enjoy the serene landscapes of Lake Trasimeno, or visit the famous Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi. The local Umbrian cuisine features truffle-infused dishes and hearty pastas that are satisfying yet rustic. Property prices in Umbria are reasonably affordable, and the cost of living is generally lower than in neighboring Tuscany, making it an appealing retirement destination for those seeking tranquility in a stunning natural setting.
3. Liguria.
Liguria, also known as the Italian Riviera, boasts a stunning coastline, colorful cliffside villages, and a mild Mediterranean climate. Well-known towns like Portofino and Cinque Terre are popular tourist destinations, while lesser-known villages like Camogli and Nervi offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Ligurian cuisine is known for its delicious seafood, and the world-famous pesto sauce originated in this region. Property prices can be high in the popular coastal areas of Liguria but are typically more affordable in smaller towns within the region.
4. Puglia.
Puglia, located in the southern "heel" of Italy, offers a unique blend of crystal-clear beaches, ancient towns, and beautiful countryside. You can explore the picturesque villages of Alberobello and Cisternino, with their characteristic trulli houses, or relax on the pristine beaches of Polignano a Mare. Puglian cuisine is famous for its olive oil, fresh seafood, and traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta. Property prices and the cost of living in Puglia are relatively low, making it an appealing and affordable retirement destination.
5. Sicily.
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a diverse region with stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and a rich cultural history. You can visit the well-preserved Greek temples at Agrigento, explore the bustling city of Palermo with its vibrant markets and architecture, or sample the region's famous cannoli and arancini. Property prices in Sicily are generally affordable, but can vary depending on the location. The island offers a desirable lifestyle at a lower cost than most other parts of Italy.
6. Sardinia.
Sardinia, a large island in the Mediterranean, offers pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages. The Costa Smeralda is known for its luxury resorts, while quieter areas like Alghero and Cagliari offer a more laid-back lifestyle. Sardinian cuisine features fresh seafood, roast meats, and the unique pane carasau bread. Property prices can be high in popular coastal areas but are typically more affordable in lesser-known towns and villages within the region.
7. Lake Como.
Lake Como is a beautiful destination in northern Italy, known for its stunning lakeside villas and dramatic mountain scenery. Charming towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio offer a relaxed atmosphere and activities ranging from boating to hiking. Local cuisine around Lake Como features freshwater fish, polenta, and delicious cheeses. While property prices can be high due to the desirability of the area, the cost of living in most towns on Lake Como is moderate.
8. Le Marche.
Le Marche, located in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, historic towns, and a relaxed lifestyle. You can visit the Renaissance city of Urbino or explore the stunning Conero Riviera. Local Marche cuisine features truffles, olive all'ascolana, and porchetta. Property prices and the cost of living in Le Marche are relatively low, making it an appealing and affordable retirement destination.
9. Abruzzo.
Abruzzo, located in southern Italy, offers a diverse landscape that includes the Apennine Mountains, beaches along the Adriatic, and historic towns. You can visit the ancient town of Sulmona or explore the beautiful Gran Sasso National Park. Local Abruzzese cuisine includes hearty pastas, roasted meats, and the famous arrosticini skewers. Property prices and the cost of living in Abruzzo are low, making it an attractive option for retirees.
10. Piedmont.
Piedmont, located in the northwest of Italy, is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic cities, and world-class wine production. Explore the Barolo wine region, or visit the elegant city of Turin.Local cuisine features rich dishes like risotto and the famous white truffles of Alba. Property prices and the cost of living are moderate, making Piedmont a good option for those seeking a balance of beauty and affordability.
11. Lazio.
Lazio, home to the eternal city of Rome, offers a mix of ancient history, beautiful countryside, and stunning beaches. In addition to exploring the architectural and cultural masterpieces of Rome, you can visit charming towns like Tivoli and Ostia Antica. Local Roman cuisine includes traditional dishes like pasta carbonara, cacio e pepe, and abbacchio. While property prices in Rome itself can be high, surrounding areas of Lazio offer more affordable options with close proximity to the city.
12. Veneto.
Veneto, home to the romantic city of Venice, offers a diverse landscape including mountains, vineyards, and a beautiful coastline along the Adriatic. In addition to Venice, you can visit the historic city of Verona, Lake Garda, or sample local wines from the Valpolicella region. Venetian cuisine features seafood dishes, risottos, and the famous tiramisu dessert. Although popular tourist areas can be pricey, lesser-known towns in Veneto offer affordable retirement living in a stunning natural setting.
13. Emilia-Romagna.
Emilia-Romagna, located in northern Italy, is known for its rich gastronomic heritage, historic cities like Bologna and Parma, and production of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and cured meats like prosciutto. You can sample local cuisine like lasagna, tortellini, and mortadella. Property prices and living costs in Emilia-Romagna are moderate, making it an appealing option for food-loving retirees who want to be immersed in Italy's culinary capital.
14. Calabria.
Calabria, located in the southern "toe" of Italy, offers a mix of stunning beaches, mountain landscapes, and ancient towns. You can visit the picturesque cliffside town of Tropea or explore the rugged Sila National Park. Calabrian cuisine features spicy flavors, fresh seafood, and the famous 'nduja sausage. Property prices and the cost of living in Calabria are generally low, making it an affordable option for retirees seeking an authentic southern Italian lifestyle.
15. Trentino-Alto Adige.
Trentino-Alto Adige, located in the north of Italy, is a beautiful mountainous region known for its ski resorts, hiking trails, and picturesque towns. You can visit the charming cities of Bolzano and Merano, or explore the stunning Dolomites mountain range. Local cuisine includes hearty dishes like speck, polenta, and dumplings. Property prices and the cost of living in Trentino-Alto Adige are moderate, making it a good option for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate stunning alpine vistas.
What are the things to consider when buying a property in Italy?

Location is key. Italy offers a variety of beautiful landscapes, from the mountains to the sea and everything in between. Choose a location that suits your lifestyle needs and desires. If you want a quiet retirement, a small town or village may be ideal. For those who prefer more activity, a city may be a better option. Consider accessibility to amenities as well as views and natural surroundings.
Research the different types of properties available. Italy offers everything from large luxury estates to small apartments in historic buildings. Learn about the advantages and legalities of each property type before deciding what is right for you. Apartments will have fewer maintenance requirements but less privacy, while detached villas provide more space and independence but higher costs and responsibilities.
Make sure to understand all costs involved. In addition to the list price of a property, there are notary and registration fees to consider, as well as ongoing municipal taxes. Foreign buyers will be subject to an additional ownership tax. Calculate all costs to determine what fits your budget. It is also important to work with a qualified English-speaking Italian lawyer during the purchasing process.
Check the bureaucratic requirements for foreigners. Buyers from outside Italy will need to obtain a tax code and codice fiscale in order to complete their purchase. You will also need to determine if the specific property permits foreign ownership - not all properties do, especially if located near country borders or in historic city centers. It is best to let a lawyer handle all legal requirements and documentation.
Plan for renovations and budget accordingly. Many Italian properties are historic, dating back hundreds of years. While charming, older buildings often require extensive renovations to plumbing, wiring, and infrastructure. Get estimates on likely renovation costs and allow plenty of buffer room in your budget, as renovations frequently uncover unexpected issues.
Make sure there's an option to rent out or re-sell. If ever wanting to rent or re-sell your Italian property, choose a location and building type that will have good market options. More popular tourist destinations will have higher rental potential, as will well-preserved historic properties. Be aware of any restrictions on short-term rentals or the ability for foreigners to purchase before investing.
Think long-term. Make sure to understand Italian inheritance law and taxes before investing in an Italian property, especially if planning to own long-term or pass down to future generations. These types of long-term considerations are important to understand to secure your investment and wealth for the future.
With proper research and legal guidance, purchasing a property in Italy can be a very rewarding experience. But go in with realistic expectations about responsibilities, costs, and bureaucratic complexities to avoid headaches and hassles along the way. When in doubt, rely on local professionals to help navigate the nuances of the Italian real estate market.
Final Thoughts.
In conclusion, Italy offers an abundance of beautiful and diverse regions where one can retire and buy property. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the pristine beaches of Sardinia, there is a perfect retirement destination for everyone. The combination of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine makes Italy an ideal choice for those seeking a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.

00:00 Introduction
00:42 Tuscany
01:25 Umbria
02:06 Liguria
02:44 Puglia
03:23 Sicily
03:59 Sardinia
04:33 Como Lake
05:07 Marche
05:40 Abruzzo
06:13 Piedmont
06:43 Lazio
07:20 Veneto
07:57 Emilia-Romagna
08:30 Calabria
09:05 Trentino-Alto Adige
09:49 Things to know when buying a property in Italy
13:07 Final Thoughts

Unlock Italy’s Paradise: Top 15 Places to Retire and Buy Property

Italy is a dream destination for many, offering a perfect combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, delightful cuisine, and a pleasant climate.

Retiring in Italy and buying property can be the realization of a lifelong dream, providing an idyllic lifestyle and a comfortable pace of life.

With its diverse regions, Italy has something for everyone, from bustling cities to sleepy hilltop villages.

Here are the top 15 ideal places to retire and buy property in Italy, ranked by their natural beauty, things to do, and affordability.