Retiring in Greece: 15 Destinations with Expert Insights for 2025

Greece offers an incredible variety of retirement destinations, from vibrant cities brimming with culture to serene islands offering peace and natural beauty. To help you navigate these options, we’ve created a comprehensive guide that goes beyond the obvious choices to help you discover your perfect match. Tailored for 2025, our guide considers key factors like lifestyle preferences, proximity to the sea, cultural offerings, healthcare access, and cost of living, ensuring you find the retirement spot that feels just right for you.

We’ve grouped the destinations by lifestyle preference—whether you’re an urban enthusiast, adventure seeker, tranquility lover, or scenic landscapes aficionado, there’s a Greek destination tailored to your dreams. Let’s explore:

For Urbanites and Event Enthusiasts

1. Athens

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Vibrant cultural scene, including theatres, museums, and festivals)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐ (Higher than average for Greece)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (World-class hospitals and specialised care - keeping in mind private works better than public)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent public transport and international airport - the only one with regular flights outside of Europe)

Best For: Retirees who enjoy a dynamic, urban lifestyle with access to world-class amenities.

Description: Athens seamlessly blends ancient history with modern conveniences. Retirees can enjoy an active lifestyle surrounded by cultural landmarks, lively neighborhoods, and diverse dining options. Excellent connectivity, healthcare facilities, and an international expat community make it a top choice for those seeking a cosmopolitan retirement.

2. Thessaloniki

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Rich cultural scene with festivals, cafes, and museums)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable compared to Athens)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Strong healthcare options, but with less specialised care than Athens)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Public transport in the centre, including a new limited metro system that began operations in November 2024. Regular international flights, mostly within Europe)

Best For: Retirees who value a vibrant cultural life and a welcoming community.

Description: Thessaloniki offers retirees a balance between urban convenience and a relaxed pace. Its waterfront, historic sites, and thriving food scene make it a charming and affordable alternative to Athens. With a growing expat community and strong healthcare options, it’s ideal for those seeking a culturally rich yet manageable lifestyle.

3. Patras

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate cultural scene with occasional festivals)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable housing and local services)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Well-established hospitals and private clinics)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good transport links, including a major port and highway connections)

Best For: Retirees looking for a balance between urban living and natural surroundings.

Description: As the gateway to the Peloponnese, Patras offers a lively cultural experience with proximity to mountains and beaches. The city features traditional tavernas, a vibrant local market, and strong healthcare infrastructure. Its affordable cost of living makes it appealing for retirees seeking both convenience and authenticity.

For Those Seeking a Balance of Social Life and Serenity

4. Rhodes

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Rich history, cultural events, and local dining)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate, depending on location)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good facilities, especially in Rhodes Town)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Strong transport links within the island, seasonal international airport)

Best For: Retirees who want a blend of history, beaches, and a balanced lifestyle.

Description: Rhodes is known for its medieval charm, sandy beaches, and welcoming expat community. Its mild climate and year-round amenities make it a popular choice for retirees seeking a socially active and scenic island home.

5. Corfu

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Active cultural calendar and expat community)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate, with some tourist-driven pricing)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good facilities in Corfu Town)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Decent public transport and airport access)

Best For: Retirees looking for a lush, vibrant island with social and cultural opportunities.

Description: Corfu’s green landscapes, historical towns, and lively expat scene offer a balanced lifestyle for retirees. From local festivals to outdoor activities, it’s ideal for those seeking a dynamic yet relaxing environment.

6. Syros

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Renowned arts festivals and cultural events)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate; some luxury options)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good local facilities in the Cyclades’ administrative capital)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good ferry connections)

Best For: Retirees seeking an elegant island lifestyle with a strong cultural scene.

Description: Known as the cultural hub of the Cyclades, Syros is perfect for retirees who love the arts. Its neoclassical charm, vibrant community, and manageable size make it ideal for those looking for an active yet serene retirement.

For Tranquility Lovers

7. Kalamata

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐ (Low-key cultural events and a few local festivals)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable housing and daily expenses)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good access to local hospitals and clinics)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Developing but reliable, with good roads and proximity to Athens. International flights in the summer)

Best For: Retirees seeking a relaxed, seaside lifestyle with local charm and affordability.

Description: Kalamata is a coastal town offering stunning beaches and a tranquil pace of life. It combines a strong local feel with essential amenities like healthcare and easy access to Athens. Its mild winters and authentic food scene add to its charm, making it ideal for retirees seeking a peaceful yet connected home.

8. Aegina

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐ (Quiet with occasional local events)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable for an island)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐ (Limited, but Athens is nearby)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good ferry access to Athens)

Best For: Retirees wanting a peaceful island life with easy access to Athens.

Description: Just a short ferry ride from Athens, Aegina offers the tranquility of island living with the convenience of the capital nearby. With its traditional Greek atmosphere and mild winters, it’s perfect for retirees who want simplicity and flexibility.

9. Kavala

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐ (Vibrant local events and markets, especially in the summer)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable coastal living)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐ (Adequate with a mix of public and private options)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate public transport and road networks. Not far from Thessaloniki international airport)

Best For: Retirees seeking a coastal lifestyle with community charm and affordability.

Description: Kavala offers a picturesque blend of beaches and a bustling waterfront. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and emphasis on local culture, it’s ideal for retirees who want to enjoy stunning views and a slower pace without heavy tourist traffic.

For Scenic Beauty Enthusiasts

10. Coastal Crete

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐ (Lively during the summer, quieter in the winter)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate, depending on the area)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good facilities in major towns like Chania and Heraklion)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Reliable public services and ferry connections plus seasonal international flights)

Best For: Retirees who dream of a vibrant coastal lifestyle with cultural and social opportunities.

Description: Coastal Crete combines natural beauty with a lively expat community and rich history. The area around Chania has some of the most stunning beaches in all Greece. Retirees can enjoy traditional tavernas, mild winters, and plenty of outdoor activities. With a good healthcare network and a mix of modern and traditional amenities, it’s ideal for year-round living.

11. Santorini

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Fine dining, boutique shopping, and breathtaking views)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐ (High, reflecting its luxury reputation)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐ (Limited; travel required for specialised care)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐ (Good for tourists but less suited for long-term living)

Best For: Retirees with a larger budget seeking luxury and iconic beauty.

Description: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and luxury accommodations, Santorini is perfect for retirees who want scenic beauty and indulgence. While tourism dominates, the island offers tranquility in the off-season, ideal for retirees who value exclusivity and iconic vistas.

12. Paros

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐ (Cultural events and traditional festivals)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate, with some upscale areas)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐ (Basic, with access to clinics)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Reliable for an island)

Best For: Retirees seeking a Cycladic island lifestyle with modern comforts.

Description: Paros blends traditional Greek charm with modern amenities. Known for its picturesque villages and peaceful beaches, it’s perfect for retirees who want a serene but connected island experience.

For Adventure Seekers

13. Inland Crete

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐ (Focused on nature and local traditions, less on organised events)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable, especially for rural properties)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐ (Limited; requires travel to major towns)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐ (Basic; ideal for retirees who drive)

Best For: Retirees seeking peace, natural beauty, and a slower, self-sufficient lifestyle.

Description: Inland Crete offers a serene escape surrounded by stunning mountains and traditional villages. While it lacks robust public services, it compensates with authentic Cretan hospitality, cozy tavernas, and breathtaking landscapes. Perfect for nature lovers and those desiring local immersion.

14. Ioannina

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐ (Low-key cultural events and local traditions)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable housing and daily expenses)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good local facilities)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate; suited for those who drive)

Best For: Retirees who enjoy tranquil lakeside living with cultural and natural charm.

Description: Nestled by a serene lake, Ioannina combines historical allure with a laid-back lifestyle. Retirees can explore charming alleys, cozy cafes, and scenic mountain escapes. While winters are cooler, the area offers a peaceful retreat for nature and history enthusiasts.

15. Lefkada

• Activity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐ (Quiet with natural attractions)

• Cost of Living: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affordable, especially outside main tourist areas)

• Healthcare: ⭐⭐ (Limited; mainland hospitals accessible)

• Infrastructure: ⭐⭐ (Basic; suited for driving)

Best For: Retirees who enjoy natural beauty and outdoor activities on a budget.

Description: Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Lefkada is a budget-friendly island known for its stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle. Ideal for nature-loving retirees seeking peace without isolation.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to us at Mitos Relocation Solutions for personalised advice and support on planning your dream retirement in Greece. From selecting the right location to navigating the relocation process, we’re here to make your journey seamless and rewarding.