Florence, Tuscany
Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is a top choice for its rich cultural heritage, charming lifestyle, and easygoing pace. Famous as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is home to world-class art, stunning architecture, and vibrant culinary traditions. The city has a well-developed public transport system, making it easy to navigate, and offers high-quality healthcare, excellent education, and countless cultural activities.
While Florence has a bustling tourist scene, locals enjoy a slower pace of life in the neighborhoods away from the tourist hubs. Many people find that the city’s size—small enough to be walkable yet large enough for city amenities—offers an ideal balance.
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
Bologna, known as “La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa” (The Learned, The Fat, The Red), is a city of education, cuisine, and rich political history. It’s home to Europe’s oldest university, the University of Bologna, and offers a vibrant, youthful atmosphere. Bologna boasts a high standard of healthcare, a well-connected public transport system, and is known for its food culture, with some of the best Italian cuisine found in the Emilia-Romagna region.
Life in Bologna is affordable compared to major Italian cities like Rome or Milan, and it offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modernity. Many neighborhoods are filled with parks, markets, and beautiful piazzas, giving residents a close-knit community vibe.
Turin, Piedmont
Turin, located in northern Italy, is a hidden gem known for its elegance, green spaces, and sophisticated lifestyle. The city is surrounded by the Italian Alps, offering incredible mountain views and easy access to hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities. Turin also has a rich industrial heritage and is home to a thriving job market, particularly in the automotive and technology sectors.
The city is well-connected by public transportation and has high-quality healthcare and education facilities. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living compared to Milan, along with an abundance of parks, museums, and cultural events, making Turin a peaceful yet dynamic place to live.
Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia
Trieste is a port city nestled between the Adriatic Sea and Slovenia, blending Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian influences. Known for its beautiful coastal setting and laid-back ambiance, Trieste is a multicultural haven with a unique identity. It has excellent public transport, strong healthcare services, and a relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats and retirees.
The city’s rich coffee culture, stunning architecture, and intellectual history—once frequented by James Joyce and other writers—add to its charm. Trieste’s position near Slovenia and Croatia also makes it an excellent base for traveling throughout Europe.
Lucca, Tuscany
For those seeking a quieter, slower pace, Lucca offers a picturesque, small-town feel with the benefits of a vibrant community. Known for its Renaissance-era city walls, Lucca is located near the coast, giving residents easy access to beautiful beaches and the Tuscan countryside. The town has a strong sense of community, great schools, and healthcare facilities, making it ideal for families and retirees alike.
Lucca is known for its festivals, such as the Lucca Summer Festival, and its charming historic center with narrow cobbled streets, cafes, and boutique shops. It’s also close enough to Florence and Pisa, providing a small-town atmosphere with access to larger cities.
Verona, Veneto
Verona, famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is a city that offers romance, history, and a high quality of life. Located in the Veneto region, Verona is less crowded and more affordable than Venice but offers similar beauty and historic charm. The city boasts an array of well-preserved Roman monuments, beautiful piazzas, and a vibrant arts scene.
Residents enjoy excellent healthcare services, quality education, and a well-developed public transport system. The surrounding region is known for its wine and stunning vineyards, making Verona a perfect place for wine enthusiasts. With a balanced mix of culture, amenities, and natural beauty, Verona is a peaceful place to call home.
Siena, Tuscany
Siena is a medieval gem in Tuscany, known for its stunning architecture, annual Palio horse race, and welcoming community. The city is ideal for those who want to experience traditional Italian culture and a slower pace of life. Siena has excellent healthcare, and the education system is well-regarded, making it suitable for families and retirees alike.
Siena’s central location allows for easy exploration of the Tuscan countryside, renowned for its vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages. With a rich history, vibrant festivals, and close-knit community, Siena provides a unique and fulfilling living experience for those looking for authenticity and tranquility.
Lecce, Puglia
In the southern region of Puglia, Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South” due to its beautiful Baroque architecture. Lecce offers a warm Mediterranean climate, affordable cost of living, and high quality of life. The city is famous for its relaxed lifestyle, excellent cuisine, and friendly locals. Puglia as a whole is becoming increasingly popular, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches, and traditional olive groves.
Residents of Lecce enjoy a slower pace, where life revolves around family, community, and outdoor living. The city also has a growing expat community, and the locals are known for their welcoming nature. Lecce offers a unique experience, blending Southern Italian traditions with a laid-back, coastal lifestyle.
