Top 5 Regions in Italy to Retire and Find Your Perfect Retirement Destination
Jun 17, 2025
Top 5 Regions in Italy to Retire | Mitos Relocation
For many expats, Italy is where they want to spend their lives after retirement. Residing in the heart of Europe, Italy has always been the tourists’ favorite destination for vacationing or spending their honeymoon. However, due to its rich culture, beautiful scenery, affordable living costs, and delicious food, it has also garnered a special place in the hearts of retirees. Some regions are particularly beloved by retirees, as they offer good facilities and an excellent work-life balance.
Italy will welcome you with open arms and offer you the peace and tranquility you seek. Let's delve into the details on where in Italy you may find your new home after years of hard work.
Why Retire in Italy?
Italy is one of the most appealing places for expat retirement in Europe. The country boasts an incredible combination of history, art, architecture, and an enviable Mediterranean climate.
One of the most beloved aspects of Italian retirement destinations is the opportunity to live close to nature and history. Whether you dream of coastal views or quaint hilltop villages, Italy has a region that suits every retiree's desires. Furthermore, Italy is renowned for its high-quality healthcare system, which is a key consideration for those seeking to settle abroad.
But, aside from healthcare, it’s Italy’s ability to blend the old with the new that makes it such a desirable place for a second chapter in life. Italy offers a peaceful lifestyle after retirement, and with Mitos Relocation’s Italy services, the process becomes stress-free and seamless.
What Factors Make a Region Ideal for Retirement?
When deciding to retire in Italy, there are several factors to consider. Let’s explore more below.
Cost of Living
The overall cost of living, encompassing housing, utilities, and daily expenses, is a crucial factor. Italy’s cost of living varies dramatically from north to south, cities and villages. It’s key to create a proper budget before making a decision of where to move.
Climate and Lifestyle
Also, these factors are key when deciding where to live, as they impact outdoor activities, recreational opportunities, and the overall social life. It’s useful to understand how the climate changes across seasons.
Community and Connections
Creating a local community can help maintain social well-being and support networks. Understanding the local culture and exploring the presence of other expats is usually a good option. We also recommend choosing a location in Italy that is accessible for family visits and has good transportation links.
Healthcare Access
For contingency planning, it is key to consider access to healthcare facilities. Look for regions with good-quality healthcare facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics.
Local Amenities
Good local amenities can offer opportunities for socializing, cultural events, and fun activities, which can make life more enjoyable. Consider the availability of dining, shopping, and entertainment in the area.
Financial Considerations
The region's tax system should be considered, as it can impact financial security. Areas with favorable tax policies, like Italy’s 7% tax for retirees, might be more attractive to retirees seeking financial stability.
What Are The Best Regions In Italy To Retire?
Each region of Italy offers something different, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your personal preferences. The five areas we’ll explore below highlight the diversity of Italy’s retirement destinations, each offering its unique combination of lifestyle, affordability, and charm.
Tuscany
Tuscany is one of the most sought-after regions for retiring in Italy, offering an exceptional mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and relaxed living. From the Renaissance splendor of Florence to the rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, the region captivates retirees looking for a slower pace without sacrificing quality of life. Whether you dream of strolling through medieval towns like Lucca or enjoying countryside views from a rustic farmhouse, Tuscany delivers a balanced lifestyle with excellent healthcare, strong infrastructure, and a warm international community.
Cost of Living: Moderate; more affordable in smaller towns like Lucca or Arezzo than in Florence.
Climate & Lifestyle: Mild climate with long summers, vineyard landscapes, and a slow-paced way of life.
Community & Connections: Active expat presence in Florence and Lucca; high-speed train links to Rome, Milan, and Venice; Florence and Pisa both have international airports.
Healthcare: High-quality hospitals and clinics, particularly in Florence and Pisa.
Local Amenities: Art museums, outdoor markets, wineries, train access, and rich cultural heritage.
Tax Benefits: Not available for retirees.
Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in Italy, a hidden gem for retirees seeking affordable living and a slower pace of life. With its combination of affordable living costs and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise that many expats have settled in this island paradise. From the vibrant capital of Palermo to the quieter coastal towns of Cefalù and Taormina, Sicily offers a range of options for retirees.
Cost of Living: One of the lowest in Italy; excellent value on housing, groceries, and dining out.
Climate & Lifestyle: Mediterranean weather with hot summers and mild winters; ideal for relaxed, outdoor living with a strong island culture.
Community & Connections: Active expat groups in cities like Palermo and Taormina; international airports in Palermo and Catania offer good international links (Palermo is now directly connected to New York) — but local train and bus services can be limited and unreliable.
Healthcare: Public hospitals in larger cities; access to private clinics is improving, but can be uneven in rural areas.
Local Amenities: Stunning beaches, fresh seafood, archaeological sites, and lively traditions — but infrastructure in smaller towns may feel underdeveloped.
Tax Benefits: Eligible towns offer a 7% flat tax incentive for foreign retirees, making Sicily a financially attractive destination.
Lazio
Lazio is the heart of Italy — home to the capital city, Rome, and filled with history, culture, and stunning countryside. Retiring here gives you access to world-class museums, healthcare, and international connections. While Rome’s pace and prices may not suit everyone, Lazio’s surrounding towns like Viterbo or Tivoli offer a quieter life just a train ride from the capital.
Cost of Living: Higher in Rome, but significantly lower in smaller towns and countryside areas nearby.
Climate & Lifestyle: Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters; combines urban energy with rural serenity.
Community & Connections: Large international expat scene in Rome; excellent transport via high-speed rail and Rome’s two international airports.
Healthcare: Top-tier hospitals and clinics, particularly in the capital; strong availability of English-speaking doctors.
Local Amenities: History, theater, parks, beach access (e.g., Ostia), and lively social life.
Tax Benefits: Some rural towns in Lazio may offer the 7% flat tax scheme for eligible retirees, but overall less available than in Southern regions.
Watch-outs: Rome can be crowded and bureaucratic; traffic and housing prices can be a challenge in the city.
Veneto
Veneto offers a rich mix of culture, nature, and elegance, making it a compelling choice for retirees looking to settle in Northern Italy. The region is home to world-renowned cities like Venice and Verona, while its countryside and smaller towns offer peaceful alternatives with lower living costs. Veneto is ideal for those who want access to the arts, Alpine views, and well-developed infrastructure — all with a touch of Italian sophistication.
Veneto Retirement at a Glance
Cost of Living: Moderate to high in cities like Venice and Verona; more affordable in inland towns such as Treviso and Vicenza.
Climate & Lifestyle: Four-season climate with hot summers and chilly winters; ideal for wine lovers, mountain escapes, and cultural events.
Community & Connections: Smaller but growing expat presence; excellent high-speed rail to Milan and Florence; Venice and Verona offer international airports.
Healthcare: High standard of public healthcare; private clinics widely available in major towns.
Local Amenities: Opera, architecture, Dolomite proximity, cycling paths, and picturesque canals.
Tax Benefits: Not available for retirees.
Watch-outs: Tourist crowds and flooding risks in Venice; winters can be grey and foggy in some inland areas.
Puglia
If you're looking for a combination of relaxed living and affordable costs, Puglia is one of the best places for retirement in Italy. Puglia is renowned for its charming villages, crystal-clear waters, and delectable cuisine. Towns like Lecce, Alberobello, and Ostuni provide a slower pace of life where retirees can unwind and enjoy the beauty of a laid-back lifestyle.
Cost of Living: Very affordable; great value on property and daily expenses.
Climate & Lifestyle: Warm, sunny weather with a relaxed, coastal pace of life.
Community & Connections: A Growing international community in towns like Ostuni and Lecce. Bari has an international airport, with a new flight to NYC.
Healthcare: Public and private clinics in major towns; Bari has excellent facilities.
Amenities: Beaches, historic towns, local produce, and festivals.
Tax Discounts: 7% flat tax for foreign pensioners in qualifying municipalities.
Curious about the other regions in Italy? Read more about it in our article Retiring in Italy: A Region-by-Region Guide for Expats
Mitos Relocation for Your Retirement Plans In Italy
Italy is certainly one of the best places to live as an expat, and these regions are some of the best, specifically for retirement, offering a wide range of amenities that make your life comfortable and peaceful. From Tuscany to Sicily to Puglia, each region has its personality, giving you something to consider while planning your retirement abroad.
Retirement is a time to focus on what truly matters — lifestyle, wellbeing, and the freedom to enjoy life at your own pace. At Mitos Relocation Solutions, we support you at every step of your journey to retiring in Italy. Whether you’re still exploring if this is the right move or already set on making it happen, we’re here to simplify the process. From understanding visa options and legal requirements to finding the right home and adapting to a new culture, we offer tailored guidance to help you feel confident, informed, and supported, not just during the move but long after you arrive.
Book a free discovery call to explore whether retiring in Italy is right for you.
FAQs
What is the best part of Italy to retire in?
The best part depends on what you like. Many retirees love Tuscany for its beautiful countryside, food, and calm lifestyle. The Dolomites are also popular for their stunning scenery, and Sicily and Puglia offer a warmer climate.
Where is the cheapest place to live in Italy for retirees?
Southern Italy is cheaper than the north. Regions like Puglia and Sicily are affordable, with lower rent and living costs.
Is retiring in Italy a good idea?
Yes, retiring in Italy can be wonderful! The country offers great weather, delicious food, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes. The healthcare system is also excellent, which is a big advantage for retirees.
How much money do you need to retire comfortably in Italy?
It varies, but on average, you might need about €1,500 to €2,500 per month to live comfortably, depending on where you live. Northern Italy is more expensive than southern regions.
Which regions in Italy offer tax discounts for foreign retirees?
Foreign retirees can benefit from a 7% flat tax in Italy by moving their tax residency to a municipality with fewer than 20,000 residents in select southern regions — Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sardinia, or Sicily. The incentive also applies to certain towns in Lazio, Marche, Umbria, or Abruzzo that were affected by specific earthquakes.