by Adriana ruiz
For retirees dreaming of a picturesque life in Italy, there are regions offering not only stunning landscapes, warm communities, and a slower pace of life, but also many towns with populations under 20,000 that qualify for Italy’s special 7% tax rate for foreign pensioners. This article will guide you through some charming small towns in Sicily, Calabria, Sardinia, Campania, Basilicata, Abruzzo, Molise, and Puglia that are perfect for retirement.
Sicily is a treasure trove of history, nature, and culture. With affordable living costs and beautiful coastlines, it’s an attractive destination for retirees.
Castelmola: A small town perched above Taormina, known for its breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea.
Salemi: This charming town in the Trapani province boasts historical sites and easy access to both mountains and beaches.
Savoca: Famous as a filming location for The Godfather, Savoca is a quaint hilltop town with medieval charm and a tight-knit community.
Cefalù: A coastal town known for its stunning beaches and medieval charm.
Castellammare del Golfo: Nestled between the mountains and the sea, offering picturesque views.
With its stunning coastlines, lush mountains, and warm climate, Calabria offers a laid-back lifestyle and plenty of scenic beauty.
Tropea: Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Tropea is known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and historic old town.
Gerace: Nestled in the Aspromonte mountains, Gerace is a medieval village with a fascinating mix of Byzantine and Norman architecture.
Stilo: A small town with a rich history, Stilo is home to the famous Cattolica di Stilo, a Byzantine church and one of Calabria’s architectural gems.
Scilla: A charming town with mythological roots and beautiful beaches.
Sardinia is known for its beaches and rugged landscapes, as well as its distinctive culture and cuisine.
Castelsardo: This medieval fortress town sits on the coast of northern Sardinia, offering stunning views, history, and a tight-knit community.
Bosa: Located along the Temo River, Bosa is famous for its colorful houses and ancient stone streets, along with a mild climate year-round.
Carloforte: Located on the island of San Pietro, known for its unique linguistic heritage.
Campania, home to Naples, is a region filled with Roman ruins, coastal beauty, and vibrant communities.
Agerola: Overlooking the Amalfi Coast, Agerola offers stunning mountain views, access to hiking trails, and a welcoming community.
Ravello: Known for its iconic gardens and music festivals, Ravello is a serene town with breathtaking vistas.
Castel San Giorgio: Located near Salerno, this town provides access to both coastal and inland landscapes, offering a relaxed lifestyle with cultural depth.
Basilicata is a lesser-known region, but its quiet towns, friendly locals, and low cost of living make it attractive to retirees seeking tranquility.
Rotondella: With a view of both the Ionian and Adriatic Seas, Rotondella is a small town perfect for retirees wanting a serene environment.
Bernalda: Known for its archaeological sites and charming architecture, Bernalda is close to the beach and filled with Southern Italian warmth.
Maratea: A coastal gem with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage.
Irsina: A hilltop town with medieval architecture and vibrant traditions.
Abruzzo’s landscapes are a mix of mountains and coastline, with quaint towns and strong traditions.
Scanno: A scenic mountain town famous for its lake and medieval architecture, Scanno provides a quiet, community-focused lifestyle.
Pacentro: Nestled in the Apennine mountains, Pacentro is known for its medieval castle and panoramic views.
Castel del Monte: Set in a national park, this town is ideal for nature-loving retirees seeking peace and natural beauty.
Atri: A historic town with ancient ruins and charming streets.
Molise is a small, undiscovered region with an old-world charm and welcoming residents.
Agnone: Known for its artisanal bell-making, Agnone has charming streets, historical sites, and a friendly, supportive community.
Sepino: Near ancient Roman ruins, Sepino offers history lovers a quiet spot steeped in heritage.
Puglia, with its olive groves, whitewashed towns, and stunning beaches, is one of Italy’s most popular regions for retirees.
Locorotondo: This whitewashed town in the Valle d’Itria is known for its conical-roofed trulli houses and a relaxed, picturesque atmosphere.
Alberobello: Known for its unique trulli houses and charming streets.
These picturesque towns promise a fulfilling lifestyle, unique Italian traditions, and a community-focused environment.
Note: The list of towns provided in this article is for informational purposes only and represents suggested locations based on available data. Before deciding to transfer your tax residence to Italy to benefit from the optional 7% tax regime for foreign pensioners, please consult a professional. Eligibility may vary, and it’s essential to verify with current guidelines that a municipality qualifies under this tax benefit according to the most recent population data available from Istat’s “Annual Municipal Survey of Movement and Population Calculation.
Learn about the residence permit for digital nomads from non-EU countries working in Italy
Italy’s Investor Visa: A Visa to Attract Strategic Investments from Abroad
Find and Buy Your Ideal Property in Italy with Our Professional Services
Buying Property in Italy – How to Get a Mortgage as a Foreigner
How to Open a Bank Account in Italy as an Expat
Learn Italian and open up new possibilities for your career and personal growth
Prepare for the CILS B1 Citizenship exam to obtain citizenship by marriage, residence or study or work in Italy.
Switching to a self-employment permit from a study or job-seeking one
Understanding the Tessera Sanitaria: Your Italian Health Insurance Card
Non-Married Partners: How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Italy as De Facto Cohabitants
How to get tax identification number for foreign citizens (Codice Fiscale)
How to register in Italy as an EU citizen
Mastering Public Transport in Italy
The Advantages of Dual Citizenship with an Italian Passport: Unlocking Boundless Opportunities
What you need to know about Visas and Permits to stay in Italy
Red flags to identify a scam when renting in Italy
Guest Article written by Sal from Nature of Sal November is a great time for expats to explore the historical and natural beauty of Veio Regional Park. Located just north of Rome, this park offers a fascinating blend of ancient ruins, scenic trails, and autumn colors. Discovering Veio Regional Park Veio Regional Park covers a […]
For retirees dreaming of a picturesque life in Italy, there are regions offering not only stunning landscapes, warm communities, and a slower pace of life, but also many towns with populations under 20,000 that qualify for Italy’s special 7% tax rate for foreign pensioners. This article will guide you through some charming small towns in […]
Italy’s aperitivo culture is one of the most cherished traditions in the country, and like so many things in Italy, it varies significantly from region to region. The aperitivo is more than just a drink – it’s a moment to unwind, socialize, and nibble on an assortment of local snacks. Here’s an exploration of the […]
Guest Article written by Sal from Nature of Sal As October gives way to November, it’s the perfect time for expat hikers in Rome to begin preparing for winter hiking, especially if you’re planning to tackle the cooler, higher-altitude mountains or venture into Northern Italy. With the right gear and thoughtful preparation, winter hikes can […]
Leave a Comment:
You must be logged in to post a comment.