8 Welcoming Towns to Retire in Italy

Italy is known for harboring some of the world's finest delectable cuisine and weather, in addition to its rich history, stunning landscapes, and hospitality. Moreover, the country has an excellent healthcare system, the cost of living is relatively affordable, and residents can enjoy warm summers and mild winters thanks to Italy's geographical position in the Mediterranean. Combined, these factors have elevated Italy's status as one of the best countries in the world to retire in. A recent report from Global Citizens Solutions corroborated this, ranking Italy seventh overall for Americans seeking to live abroad. This article will uncover the eight best towns in Italy for retirement.

Lucca, Tuscany

Nicknamed the "City of Art," Lucca boasts stunning architecture with origins dating back hundreds of years. Here, you can explore fascinating historic sites like the Roman-era Piazza dell'Anfiteatro and the medieval Guinigi Tower. The former was constructed in the 1st century AD, while the latter, which provides breathtaking panoramic views, was built in the 14th century. Another key landmark is the Serchio River Park, a beautiful natural area amid the cityscape that offers access to the Serchio River, a popular spot for kayakers or those seeking brisk walks on paved trails. With excellent pedestrian-friendly streets, two hospitals, several medical clinics, and low crime rates, Lucca is a lovely place to consider for retirement. The rental prices in Lucca vary widely, from $400 to $7,500, depending on the size, location, and whether the property is furnished. For a single person looking to rent a one-bedroom apartment, the average cost is about $550.

Cefalù, Sicily

Cefalù's enchanting beauty attracts hundreds of thousands each year who flock to experience its spellbinding scenery. A prominent landmark to see in Cefalù is Cefalù Rock, the town's most famous mountain peak, which rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline, including ancient castle ruins at the top. Not to be missed, Plazhi I Ri beach is open year-round for swimming and sunbathing, with the added bonus of being just minutes on foot from top restaurants like Paradise Beach Restaurant and Ohana Restaurant, both serving mouthwatering seafood specialties. The charming coastal scenery, calming waters, and delicious cuisine make Cefalù a top destination to enjoy your golden years—similar to Lucca, where monthly rental costs vary, ranging from $330 to $900.

Orvieto, Umbria

This lesser-known town sits 1,066 feet above sea level, offering scenic views and a mild climate throughout the year. Due to its geographical location, residents of Oriveto have developed a strong sense of community, with many knowing each other—an important aspect for retirees. Notable landmarks include the Orvieto Cathedral, a prime example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, and the Pozzo di San Patrizio, an ancient well built several hundred years ago that extends nearly 175 feet deep. More interestingly, this town is home to a vast network of underground caves called the Orvieto Underground; constructed over 2,500 years ago to supply and store water, the network features more than 1,200 corridors, hidden passageways, cellars, and staircases. For those looking to buy a property, prices range from $80,000 to $2,400,000, while rental prices start at $650 and go higher.

Lecce, Puglia

Not to be confused with Lucca, Lecce is a charming southern town known as the "Florence of the South." Its mild weather, coastal location, and dramatic Baroque architecture make it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful and quiet retirement. To see the striking style of Baroque architecture that thrived during the 17th and 18th centuries, visit the Palace of the Celestines, a former monastery with exquisite decorations and carvings that stands as one of the city’s most important landmarks. Another key attraction in the area is the Roman Amphitheater of Lecce, an ancient ruin built in the 2nd century AD. At its height during the Roman Empire, the structure could hold 25,000 spectators in its elliptical design. Today, the building is used for a variety of cultural events while still showcasing the brilliance of Roman engineering. To make Lecce your new home, a typical one-bedroom apartment costs around $500.

Treviso, Veneto

Love the countryside? Treviso is calling your name! Several close-knit villages and communities surround Treviso. The peaceful rivers and canals, along with Treviso's proximity to the Dolomites, offer residents many chances to enjoy the crisp air and Italy's beautiful outdoors. For some light exercise to start your day, explore the Sile River Park, conveniently just outside town. The park's main features include lush wetlands, serene riverbanks, and unique plant species. While Sile River Park is charming on its own, the Dolomites, a mountain range about 2.5 hours away, are the region's true treasure; formed through millions of years of tectonic activity and home to several charming towns and villages, the Dolomites' breathtaking beauty is so impressive it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009. Covering 141,903 hectares and featuring 18 mountain peaks, the Dolomites are popular among skiers, mountain climbers, and paragliders. Among many notable parks, the Paneveggio-Pale di San Martino Natural Park stands out for its scenic lakes and streams. Unlike expensive, major cities like Venice, which is just a half-hour drive away, this charming town is relatively affordable and offers a strong sense of community and a peaceful environment.

Alba, Piedmont

Alba is closely linked to white truffles and is recognized as the "truffle capital of the world" for the delicious fungi used in classic Italian dishes like pasta and risotto. And that's not all—this city also gave birth to Ferrero, the parent company behind Ferrero Rocher, Kinder, and the world-famous Nutella. Although the factory itself is not open to the public, many anecdotes suggest that the rich chocolate aroma can be sensed miles away from the Ferrero factory. Besides its culinary reputation, Alba features a charming historic center with well-preserved buildings, scenic countryside views of the Langhe Hills, and low crime rates, making it an ideal place for quiet and peaceful retirement. According to the Economic Research Institute, the cost of living in Alba is seven percent below the national average, helping you stretch your budget for the finer things in life.

Bolzano, South Tyrol

Bolzano is a fascinating city for many reasons. First, it is seen as a crossroads between Northern and Southern Europe because three languages — Italian, German, and Ladin — are spoken there. Several picturesque villages sit on lush green mountains, offering locals plenty of space for scenic hikes in the famous Alpine mountains. The town also has modern hospitals and clinics, a warm, multilingual community, and Maretsch Castle, a medieval fortress built in the 13th century that looks like something from a fairytale. Estimated monthly costs are around $1,470 for one person.

Siena, Tuscany

If you ever dreamed of living in a medieval city, look no further than Siena. Human settlement began here around 900 to 400 BCE and expanded in the coming centuries, culminating from the 11th to 14th centuries when it established itself as a powerful town for trade and commerce. The city boasts impressive historic buildings that still stand, including the renowned Historic Centre of Siena, proudly listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Piazza del Campo, a symbolic public square, which is widely seen as one of the best medieval squares in Europe given its eloquent design and charming feel. And minutes away lies the Torre del Mangia, standing 356 feet over the landscape for incredible views of the ancient city. The rich culture, ancient structures, and nearby rolling hills make Siena a top candidate town for retirement. To live out your golden years in Siena, a single person can expect to fork out $1,600 for rent, while a family of four may pay around $3,600.

To summarize, Italy offers everything you need to make your retirement dreams come true. From historic towns to delightful weather and delicious cuisine, each town has its own unique charm. Whether it's the sense of community in Orvieto or the Baroque architecture of Lecce, retirees have a diverse range of options to consider and live out their best years.