The best places to live in Italy for every lifestyle

Retirement is your time to embrace relaxation, adventure and the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Finding the perfect destination is key, whether you picture yourself savoring coastal sunsets or exploring centuries-old European villages. Our guide to the 10 best places to retire in Europe provides everything you need to make an informed choice for your Using a comprehensive scoring system based on seven crucial factors, we’ve ranked the top European countries for retirement. Check out the full methodology at the end of the post to see how we developed these rankings. 1. Valencia, Spain Valencia effortlessly blends Mediterranean charm with a city atmosphere, making it a top choice for retirees. The city offers golden beaches, a rich history, cultural festivals like Las Fallas and affordable living. Its first-class healthcare system provides peace of mind, with both public and private options ensuring top-notch care.  Valencia’s expat community is welcoming and diverse, featuring residents from across Europe and the Americas. With a range of housing options — from historic apartments to modern villas — and attractive visa programs like the Golden Visa, settling in is simple. Whether you’re savoring authentic paella or exploring tranquil retreats like Xàtiva and Albufera, Valencia is considered one of the best cities to retire in Europe and a perfect location for those looking for a 2. Paris, France For many, France is considered one of the best European countries to retire in. France’s healthcare system ranks among the world’s best, providing comprehensive public and private options for retirees. While the cost of living can be higher in Paris, it’s generally more affordable than in many major U.S. cities, like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. With visa pathways like the VLS-TS Long-Stay Visa and tax benefits available to U.S. retirees, France makes it easy to enjoy a fulfilling and serene 3. The Hague, Netherlands The Hague offers retirees an ideal mix of culture and a high quality of life, making it a prime choice when While the cost of living is above the national average, the Netherlands’ universal healthcare system and safe environment ensure peace of mind. The Hague also provides a wealth of 4. Brussels, Belgium  You can't mention Belgium without talking about its world-famous sweets, from decadent chocolate and pralines to crispy, golden waffles. Brussels combines these culinary delights with a cosmopolitan flair, making it one of the best places in Europe to retire. The city is known for its international community, progressive atmosphere and rich cultural scene, with highlights such as world-class museums, art galleries and a thriving culinary culture. Retirees enjoy easy access to green spaces, excellent public transportation and Brussels' prime location in the heart of Europe.  While winters can be long and overcast, the city offers a welcoming, diverse environment perfect for exploring or relaxing. Affordable housing and a high-quality healthcare system further enhance its appeal, though non-EU retirees should plan for a more complex residency process.  5. Helsinki, Finland When it comes to quality of life, Helsinki is one of the best countries to retire in Europe. About 70% of the population speaks English, which simplifies communication, and all permanent residents have access to a top-tier, publicly funded healthcare system. The cost of living is lower than the U.S. average, with affordable housing, utilities and public transportation, though higher costs for gas and winter utilities may arise.  Despite its benefits, Finland's harsh winters and proximity to Russia may be challenging for some retirees. However, Helsinki's affordability and standard of living make it a compelling choice for retirement. 6. Zagreb, Croatia Zagreb provides retirees with an affordable cost of living, excellent public healthcare and wonderful natural beauty. The country is known for its low crime rates, warm summers and mild winters, making it a safe and welcoming destination. Coastal cities like Split and Dubrovnik offer a Mediterranean lifestyle, while the Istria region is renowned for its wine and olive oil production.  Retirees should prepare for bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining a visa, potential healthcare wait times and occasional earthquakes. With no taxes on foreign retirement income and a relaxed lifestyle, Croatia remains an attractive option for those ready to navigate its complexities. 7.  London, United Kingdom London’s urban lifestyle makes it an appealing choice for retirees, offering world-class cultural experiences, high-quality healthcare and excellent public transportation links that are free for pensioners. The city’s walkability and active transport options keep retirees physically engaged, while the abundance of museums, galleries and theaters foster intellectual and social stimulation. There are tons of Depending on  8. Sicily, Italy Sicily offers a warm Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it an attractive destination for retirees looking to While the public healthcare system is accessible and affordable, many expats opt for private healthcare for more comprehensive coverage. However, navigating Italy’s language barrier can be a challenge, especially for those not fluent in Italian.  9. Lagos, Portugal Lagos, located in the Algarve region of Portugal, is a peaceful town known for its beaches, dramatic cliffs and storied history. The Mediterranean climate is one of its many draws, offering warm summers and mild winters that enhance the relaxed lifestyle. An increasing expat community provides an excellent setting for retirees looking to enjoy a social and active lifestyle. The strong potential for kinship abroad makes Lagos one of the best places for expats to retire. The D7 visa option allows retirees to live in Portugal, provided they meet specific requirements, including proof of income and health insurance. Lagos is affordable, and its thriving tourism and outdoor activities, such as surfing, boating and hiking, provide a rich cultural experience for anyone choosing to retire there. Retirees should be mindful of the 10% tax on foreign income for those holding the D7 visa and the need to secure private health insurance for full coverage. 10. Crete, Greece Spending your golden years on an island in the Aegean Sea sets up Crete, Greece as one of the best places for Americans to retire in Europe. Crete is an island off the coast of Greece and an enticing destination for retirees. It offers many outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming and sailing. Its Mediterranean climate features warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it ideal year-round. Plus, Crete is just a short boat ride from Santorini, one of the best The cost of living in Crete is also significantly lower than in the U.S., especially for housing and dining, giving retirees access to an affordable lifestyle. Crete’s excellent healthcare system combines both public and private options, ensuring that expats can receive quality medical care. With historical sites and the famous Minoan civilization, Crete offers a lively atmosphere for those looking for an active lifestyle. Enjoy Europe Easier with Pacaso Whether you're an Our methodology To establish the rankings of the top 10 retirement destinations, we created a thorough evaluation system grounded in five essential factors that matter most to retirees. We carefully chose these factors to align with the key concerns of those looking for affordable, fulfilling and comfortable retirement options. We calculated the rankings by applying these factors, each given a specific weight as outlined below: Cost of Living (25%) Affordability is paramount when choosing a retirement destination, which is why the cost of living holds the highest weight in our methodology. To evaluate affordability, we took into account average monthly expenses such as housing, groceries, utilities and transportation. For accuracy, we pulled data from the Health Care (20%) Given its critical importance, health care was assigned the second-highest weight. We assessed each country's health care system based on Numbeo’s health care index, which evaluates the quality of healthcare services by considering factors like medical staff, infrastructure, treatment costs and access to care.  Safety (20%) Retirees prioritize safety in their decision-making process. For this factor, we turned to the The GPI offers insights into each country's peace level by examining factors like crime rates, terrorism, political stability and military expenditure. Using this index, we assessed the relative safety of each nation.  Average Home Price (15%) Home affordability plays a central role in determining a country's appeal to retirees. To measure housing costs, we analyzed the average percentage of income spent on home prices in each country, leveraging data from Numbeo.  Social Security Tax (10%) Taxation has a big impact on retirees' finances. We examined tax policies such as social security exemptions and local sales taxes, evaluating the impact these taxes would have on retirees. For consistency, we calculated the average tax rates across countries and factored them into the overall ranking.  Climate (5%) A favorable climate can greatly affect the lifestyle and well-being of retirees. We utilized a climate index that ranks cities worldwide by their weather and temperature patterns, considering annual averages and conditions that would be most desirable for long-term living.  Retirement Visa (5%) The ease of acquiring a retirement visa can influence a retiree’s decision. We tracked countries that offer retirement visas and those that do not, recording results in a binary fashion for each destination. The countries that streamline the visa application process were given higher marks. 

Whether you dream of escaping to a tranquil beach or a charming European village, We’ve scoped out 12 of the best countries around the world to buy a vacation home, each offering unforgettable experiences.  1. Portugal Portugal is an increasingly popular vacation home destination, offering a mix of interesting history, culture and natural beauty. You can choose charming coastal towns or vibrant cities. Due to the higher volume of resort-like amenities, many popular vacation home locations in Portugal are near coastal spots like Lagos and Vilamoura. For an extra unique and authentic living experience, consider looking in smaller villages where you can further immerse yourself into local culture. For something more, look in smaller villages, where you’ll find a modest lifestyle with still-stunning scenery.  2. Mexico With its pristine beaches, ancient ruins and lively cities, Mexico offers a wide range of experiences for anyone looking for a vacation home. Mexico offers excellent local cuisine and plenty of history and culture, plus easy access to and from the United States. Another huge draw of Mexico is the affordability — many houses start under $ 3. Thailand For a 4. Italy For a taste of a Mediterranean lifestyle, Italy has so much to offer. Locals take life at a more leisurely pace, especially in smaller villages and places like Sicily. Enjoy local cuisine, rich culture and the temperate climate of picturesque towns. While Italy can be more expensive than some other European countries, some regions haver a lower cost of living, including the villages of Sicily and other western towns. Places like Rome, Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast will come with a higher price tag.  5. Greece Greece offers an enticing blend of picturesque islands, stunning landscapes and cultural roots. Crete, Greece’s largest island, is popular for its beautiful ancient ruins and tranquility. Perhaps even more popular is the Cyclades Islands, home to Santorini and Mykonos — a good option for luxury homes. For more affordable real estate, consider the Ionian Islands, home to spots like Corfu and Kefalonia. These less crowded areas offer just as much beauty and a slightly quieter pace of life.  6. Dominican Republic If you hope to find a vacation home in a tropical paradise, consider the Dominican Republic. Home to lush rainforests and beautiful beaches, the Dominican Republic has a very affordable cost of living and a diverse range of experiences to indulge in. From vibrant colonial cities to stunning national parks, there’s much to discover here for adventure-seeking home buyers.  7. Croatia If you’re considering to a vacation home in the Mediterranean, don’t overlook Croatia. With a beautiful coastline, crystal-clear waters and rugged landscape, the natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a vacation home. There are many different regions, from the popular Dalmatian Coast to the more peaceful villages of the Istrian Peninsula. Croatia also offers a wealth of history, and you’ll find a vibrant cultural scene among its ancient Roman ruins and medieval towns.    8. Monaco Monaco is a small principality on the French Riviera with a world-class reputation for a more glamorous lifestyle. Its high-end boutiques, glamorous casinos and beautiful beaches tend to attract a wealthy and famous clientele. It’s also a popular destination for business owners, celebrities and investors who are drawn to its prestige and exclusivity.  9. Costa Rica The small Central American country of Costa Rica is known for its affordability, natural tropical beauty and commitment to sustainability. You’ll find equal parts relaxation and adventure as you explore the country’s diverse ecosystems. There's something for everyone, from rainforests and beaches to national parks like Manuel Antonio, Corcovado and Arenal Volcano.  10. France 11. Spain 12. United Kingdom Home to ancient castles, stunning countryside and bustling cities, the United Kingdom has much to explore. From the rugged mountainous region of Scotland to the coastal scene of Wales to the diversity of London, the U.K. offers a diverse range of options for vacation home buyers.  Methodology To determine the best places to buy a vacation home, we analyzed both luxury and average home prices across various global destinations. The average luxury home costs for each location were sourced from This data provides a balanced view of both high-end and general real estate markets, helping buyers make informed decisions based on their budget and investment goals. What to consider when buying a vacation home abroad Find your perfect vacation home with Pacaso Choosing the best place for a vacation home is a personal journey that requires careful consideration of your budget, lifestyle and preferences.

Vacation homes for sale: how culinary culture shapes luxury real estate For high-net-worth buyers, the search for vacation homes for sale is no longer just about beautiful views or exclusive amenities. Today, the world’s most celebrated food destinations — Napa, Sonoma, Paris, Miami, and Charleston — are shaping the next wave of luxury real estate. These cities and regions are not only culinary capitals but also vibrant communities where food, wine, and culture create a lifestyle that is as enriching as it is indulgent. The intersection of fine dining, local events, and a thriving food scene is increasingly influencing where discerning buyers choose to invest in their second homes. Why culinary destinations are the best places for a vacation home Culinary destinations offer more than just exceptional meals — they provide a lifestyle that revolves around discovery, connection, and celebration. Living in a food-centric region means having access to world-class restaurants, seasonal festivals, and immersive experiences that turn every visit into a special occasion. For many, the ability to step out of their home and into a Michelin-starred restaurant or a bustling farmers market is a key factor in their decision to purchase a second home. These destinations also tend to attract a like-minded community, fostering a sense of belonging among those who value quality, creativity, and authenticity. Here are some of the lifestyle benefits that make culinary destinations the best places for a vacation home: Napa Valley: Where wine and food culture drive real estate Napa Valley’s reputation as a global epicenter for food and wine is a powerful draw for those seeking vacation homes for sale. Sonoma: Relaxed luxury and farm-to-table living Sonoma offers a more laid-back yet equally sophisticated alternative to Napa, with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and artisanal experiences. The region’s food scene is defined by its commitment to local ingredients, from Paris: The heart of global gastronomy Paris is synonymous with culinary artistry, from its Miami: A melting pot of flavors and vibrant living Miami’s culinary scene is as dynamic as its skyline, blending Latin American, Caribbean, and global influences. The city’s Charleston: Southern hospitality meets culinary innovation Charleston’s food scene is a blend of tradition and innovation, with celebrated chefs reimagining Southern classics and a community that celebrates local ingredients. The city’s historic charm, vibrant markets, and waterfront dining make it one of the best places for a vacation home. Charleston’s luxury homes are designed for entertaining, with spacious kitchens and elegant dining areas that reflect the city’s love of hospitality. Pacaso’s co-ownership model allows buyers to enjoy Charleston’s culinary lifestyle with ease, making every visit feel like a celebration. Eugenia on Kiawah Island offers a spacious kitchen and multiple dining spaces, ideal for hosting gatherings after a day spent exploring Charleston’s renowned restaurants or How Pacaso makes the culinary lifestyle accessible Pacaso redefines second home ownership in the world’s top culinary destinations. Through co-ownership, buyers can enjoy a beautifully furnished, professionally managed home in Napa, Sonoma, Paris, Miami, or Charleston — without the hassle of full-time ownership. This model allows you to immerse yourself in the food-centric lifestyle you love, with the flexibility to enjoy your home when it suits you best. Explore our curated Experience the best places for a vacation home with Pacaso Whether you dream of wine country weekends, Parisian markets, Miami’s vibrant food festivals, or Charleston’s blend of history and hospitality, Pacaso offers vacation homes for sale in the world’s most sought-after culinary destinations. Ready to explore your options? Discover our listings in To learn more about how co-ownership can help you achieve your ideal lifestyle, explore our guide to the

Finding the best places to buy a vacation home comes down to matching the location to your lifestyle, hobbies and climate preferences. Consider how you want to spend your free time, who will be traveling with you, and where you can see yourself returning year after year. To help you narrow down the choices, we've organized the top vacation home destinations into four groups: beach destinations, desert and sun destinations, mountain destinations, and international destinations. We've also added California-specific highlights and a full comparison table so you can easily evaluate every market at a glance. Beach destinations consistently rank among the most sought-after markets for second home buyers. Warm weather, outdoor lifestyle and strong rental demand make these locations perennial favorites. Miami is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Florida because of its unique blend of coastal luxury and urban energy. South Florida has warm weather year-round, headline-making dining and art, and convenient access to Latin America and Europe. The vacation home market here has maintained strong momentum at the top end, reflecting consistent demand from domestic and international buyers. Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina for buyers who want a mix of active outdoor living and relaxed coastal charm. The area offers warm weather year-round and easy access to world-class golf, nature trails and wide sandy beaches. It's also one of the best East Coast beach towns for buyers seeking solid long-term market growth. Charleston consistently tops lists of the best places to live and visit, and it's equally strong as a second home market. The city's subtropical climate, cobblestone streets and proximity to beaches like Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island give it year-round appeal. It's a great option for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in South Carolina beyond the well-known resort islands. Desert markets offer a distinctive combination of over 300 days of sunshine, world-class golf, and a luxury lifestyle that appeals to buyers escaping cold or grey climates. Scottsdale is a premier destination for those looking at the best places to buy a vacation home in Arizona. Its desert landscape, strict zoning that preserves natural trails and a history of market resilience make it one of the most reliable luxury second home markets in the country.  Mountain towns offer four-season appeal, with skiing in winter and hiking and festivals in summer, and tend to attract buyers who want nature access paired with fine dining and luxury amenities. Aspen balances powder days with gallery nights, a rare combination that keeps real estate demand consistently high. Aspen is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want both winter skiing and a vibrant summer season.  Vail is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Colorado for buyers who want a walkable mountain town with a pedestrian street system and resort-level amenities. When the snow melts, the town becomes a standout summer destination with whitewater rafting, farmers markets and outdoor concerts. Jackson Hole sits in one of the most dramatic natural settings in North America, flanked by Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The combination of world-class skiing, zero state income tax, and a tight inventory of luxury homes gives it consistently strong market fundamentals.  Steamboat Springs offers a more laid-back mountain lifestyle than some of Colorado's higher-profile resorts, while still delivering world-class skiing and year-round outdoor activities. Canoeing on Pearl Lake, soaking in geothermal springs, and access to Routt National Forest make it one of the most well-rounded mountain markets for second home buyers. California offers an extraordinary range of second home markets, from beach cities and wine country to desert retreats and mountain ski towns. Several markets have consistently demonstrated strong buyer demand and home value appreciation. San Diego consistently ranks as one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California because of its remarkably consistent climate and deep lifestyle appeal. The vacation rental market here is strong due to the city's massive draw for domestic and international travelers.  Palm Springs is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers drawn to its striking desert scenery, more than 300 days of sunshine and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Cathedral City, just six miles away, is also worth considering for buyers seeking a more affordable entry into the Coachella Valley lifestyle. Truckee and Lake Tahoe to the north provide an entirely different California second home experience, with mountain lodges and year-round outdoor recreation.  Lake Tahoe is consistently one of the most desirable second home markets in California. Truckee, just north of the lake, has an allure of its own: an Old West aesthetic paired with epic ski resorts and proximity to Donner Lake. The area saw an extraordinary demand surge from Bay Area buyers in recent years. For a deeper look at this destination, explore Pacaso's Napa Valley offers a lifestyle centered on culinary excellence, natural beauty, and a quieter pace. The rolling vineyard scenery, Michelin-starred restaurants, and concentration of luxury estates make it one of the best places to buy a vacation home in California for buyers who prioritize food, wine and relaxation over resort activities. For globally mobile buyers, the best places to buy a vacation home internationally are places that deliver culture, connectivity, and everyday ease, along with strong property markets. Here are the top international destinations in Pacaso's portfolio, plus additional global markets worth considering. Paris rewards second home owners with a walkable city, world-class arts and food, and seamless rail and air connections across Europe. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers assembling a global portfolio. London is one of the most globally connected cities in the world, making it an exceptional base for international second home buyers. The diversity of its neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Kensington to the energy of Shoreditch, means buyers can find a setting that matches almost any lifestyle. Tuscany is the quintessential Italian second home destination. Rolling hills, ancient walled towns, Michelin-starred restaurants, and proximity to Florence and Siena create a lifestyle that is hard to replicate anywhere else. It is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Europe for buyers who want cultural richness paired with natural beauty. Los Cabos is widely considered one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Mexico. Located at the southern tip of Baja California, it combines desert canyons, turquoise water, world-class golf, and a growing luxury real estate market. From mornings on the water to evenings watching the sunset from a private terrace, the lifestyle here is easy to settle into.  Beyond Pacaso's portfolio, several other global markets consistently attract second home buyers: Use this table to quickly compare the top vacation home destinations across climate, price range, who each destination is best for, and Pacaso availability. Price range key: $$ = under $700K median · $$$ = $700K–$1.4M · $$$$ = $1.4M+ No matter which destination appeals to you, four key factors should shape your decision. How long does it take to get to your vacation home? A destination within driving distance encourages more frequent use. If you're flying, direct flights from your home airport significantly improve the ownership experience. Markets like Miami, San Diego, and Palm Springs all have major international airports nearby. For international destinations like Paris and London, consider the availability of nonstop transatlantic routes. Do you want a winter escape, a summer retreat or year-round access? Beach destinations like Miami and San Diego deliver year-round appeal, while mountain markets like Aspen and Vail are especially strong in winter and summer. Desert markets like Scottsdale and Palm Springs are best in winter and spring, with intense summers. European destinations like Paris and Tuscany offer a rich spring and autumn experience. Think about how you want to spend your time at your second home. If skiing and mountain scenery are priorities, Aspen, Vail or Jackson Hole are the right fit. If beaches and outdoor water activities are your focus, Miami, San Diego or Hilton Head deliver. For food, wine and cultural experiences, Napa, Tuscany or Paris offer something few other destinations can match. Review the Consider how often you realistically plan to use the home. If you expect to be there four to twelve weeks a year, whole ownership means paying for 52 weeks of upkeep for a fraction of the use. If you're evaluating the best places to buy a vacation home in the world, there are additional factors to keep in mind: Pacaso is a smarter way to own a luxury vacation home in the destinations that matter most to you. Pacaso allows buyers to purchase a share (1/8 to 1/2) of a fully managed luxury home through a Pacaso takes care of everything: With homes across destinations mentioned above, including beach markets in Florida and South Carolina, desert retreats in Arizona and California, mountain towns in Colorado and Wyoming, California wine country, and urban destinations in Europe and Mexico, Pacaso makes it possible to own in the place that fits your lifestyle. Explore

Experience city living with Pacaso homes Imagine waking up in a city where world-class culture, art, and entertainment are just outside your door. Pacaso homes in top destinations like What defines the lifestyle in global cities Pacaso homes in each city are chosen to deliver this active, fulfilling lifestyle, where you can experience the best of the city and return to refined comfort. This is the essence of luxury urban living, combining convenience, culture, and sophistication. Paris living with timeless elegance Paris is the definition of urban charm, blending centuries of artistry with modern style. From the historic streets of London’s sophistication London is a city of refinement and opportunity, where tradition meets modern luxury. Pacaso homes in this city offer coveted addresses close to parks, boutiques, theaters, and acclaimed restaurants. Buyers can enjoy open living spaces, elegant finishes, and privacy, all with the ease of Pacaso’s co-ownership and management model. This is a lifestyle designed for those who want to make the most of every stay in London. One standout example is Miami’s energy and resort comfort Miami is known for its lively culture, bold flavors, and sunny days. Whether you seek days by the pool, evenings at San Diego’s blend of nature and urban excitement San Diego is where the energy of the city meets the beauty of the Pacific. Pacaso homes here combine water views, spacious interiors, and easy access to both vibrant neighborhoods and the shoreline. Owners can spend their days enjoying local galleries, What to look for in your next urban home With Pacaso, each of these features is standard. Browse our Make your move with Pacaso homes Explore the advantages of city living and co-ownership in

Effortless living in Southern California If living in Southern California is your goal, a week based in Newport Beach puts you within easy reach of Orange County’s art, surf and shopping, plus San Diego’s culture and coastline. The region’s sunny, mild weather makes outdoor time a given, and the 85 mile drive from Newport Beach to San Diego keeps day trips simple. Set your home base, then build in Duffy cruises, gallery hopping and oceanfront dinners with room to spare for spontaneous detours, all among the things to do in Southern California. Your coastal home base in Newport Beach Newport Beach blends an easy harbor lifestyle with upscale shopping and dining. Spend a morning along the Balboa Peninsula, take a spin on a From your home base at Orange County days art, surf, and shopping Explore Laguna Beach’s gallery row and Down the coast to San Diego culture and coastline Plan a La Jolla morning by the coves and an afternoon in San Diego highlights to build into your plan: How living in Southern California feels effortless Pacaso co ownership aligns with how you use a second home here, and supports living in Southern California part time. Own a true real estate interest in a high end home in a prime neighborhood, then simply arrive to a well prepared space on your dedicated stays. That means more time on the water and at dinner, and less time coordinating upkeep. Why a Pacaso base works for this itinerary: Make this coast your second home rhythm Ready to shape your version of living in Southern California. Explore Pacaso homes across