Portugal has long been known as the best retirement spot in Europe. Not so fast, as there are plenty of unique wonderful cities popping up offering affordability, culture, and amazing food. As remote work blurs the line between pre-retirement and full retirement, these rising European stars are attracting forward-thinking retirees seeking fresh experiences and better value.
Ljubljana, Slovenia:
Slovenia remains surprisingly overlooked despite offering everything discerning retirees desire. Its capital, Ljubljana, combines old-world European charm with progressive urban planning and exceptional quality of life. It may seem like a small capital city, but it is bursting with culture, fantastic little cafes and restaurants, and quality life.
The pedestrian-only city center features winding cobblestone streets lined with Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings, while the emerald-green Ljubljanica River flows through the heart of town, bordered by lively café terraces. The nearby Julian Alps, Lake Bled, and Adriatic coastline are all accessible within a 90-minute drive. This little city allows you to live well and be within a short bus or train ride from some of the best parts in Europe like the Alps and Italy.
Why it works now: Slovenia’s excellent healthcare system ranks among Europe’s best, with English widely spoken among medical professionals. A comprehensive public transportation network and the country’s compact size make car ownership optional. Two-bedroom apartments in desirable central neighborhoods average €1,100-1,500 monthly for rentals, while purchase prices remain reasonable compared to Western Europe.
Braga, Portugal:
While Portugal’s southern coast grows increasingly crowded and expensive, savvy retirees are discovering Braga in the northern Minho region, Portugal’s oldest city and newest lifestyle destination. While spend a fortune down south, when you can venture up north for an affordable Portuguese lifestyle.
Braga’s historic center boasts Roman ruins, medieval churches, and baroque splendor, while its large student population keeps the atmosphere vibrant and forward-looking. The nearby Peneda-Gerês National Park offers spectacular hiking, while the Atlantic beaches and Porto’s international airport are just an hour away.
Why it works now: Portugal’s affordable healthcare and favorable tax status for foreign retirees apply nationwide, not just in well-known expatriate enclaves. Braga’s cost of living runs 25-30% below Lisbon or the Algarve, with two-bedroom apartments in the historic center available for purchase between €150,000-220,000. The growing but still modest expatriate community means you’ll integrate more authentically into Portuguese culture while still finding English-speaking networks when needed.
Annecy, France:
The French Alps have typically remained off-limits to budget-conscious retirees, but Annecy offers an affordable gateway to mountain living with a distinctly French flair.
Often called the “Pearl of the French Alps,” Annecy centers around a pristine lake with stunning mountain backdrops. The medieval Old Town, with its winding canals and pastel-colored buildings, provides daily doses of beauty that would cost a fortune in more famous Alpine destinations.
Why it works now: France’s excellent healthcare consistently ranks among the world’s best systems, while Annecy’s location near the Swiss border provides easy access to Geneva’s international airport. Though not a budget destination by Eastern European standards, Annecy offers remarkable value compared to nearby Swiss and Italian Alpine communities. Monthly rentals for well-appointed apartments start around €1,200, while the seasonal rhythms and outdoor lifestyle contribute to wellbeing and longevity.
Split, Croatia:
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast offers Mediterranean magic without the French or Italian price tags, and Split stands out for combining a livable city with coastal splendor.
Built around the 1,700-year-old palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian, Split balances historic grandeur with practical amenities. The palm-lined Riva promenade serves as the city’s living room, while the surrounding islands provide endless exploration opportunities.
Why it works now: Croatia joined the Eurozone in 2023, simplifying financial matters for retirees while maintaining a cost of living roughly 30% below Italy or France. Now they use the Euro. The country’s residence permit process for retirees has streamlined considerably, while the healthcare system offers both quality public options and affordable private care. Two-bedroom apartments in desirable areas start around €950 monthly for rentals, while the extensive ferry network makes car-free living entirely practical.
Kotor, Montenegro:
For those seeking truly dramatic scenery without the accompanying price tag, Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor delivers breathtaking fjord-like landscapes and medieval charm at a fraction of Western European costs.
The walled city of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits at the foot of towering limestone cliffs along Europe’s southernmost fjord. The combination of Venetian architecture, crystal-clear waters, and mountain backdrops creates an environment that feels almost surreal in its beauty.
Why it works now: Montenegro’s government has actively courted international retirees through simplified residency processes and tax incentives. The country aims to join the European Union by 2028, creating a window of opportunity before prices potentially rise. Real estate remains remarkably affordable, with restored stone houses in historic villages available from €120,000, while monthly living costs for a couple typically range from €1,500-2,000 including rent.
Kaunas, Lithuania:
While Vilnius gets most of Lithuania’s international attention, the country’s second city of Kaunas offers an appealing blend of architectural splendor, cultural richness, and remarkable affordability.
Named a European Capital of Culture in 2022, Kaunas boasts exceptional modernist architecture, vibrant arts scenes, and a relaxed atmosphere. The compact city center makes daily life convenient, while Lithuania’s healthcare system ranks among the best values in the EU.
Why it works now: Lithuania’s robust digital infrastructure makes it ideal for “pre-tirees” who still work remotely part-time. The country offers residence permits specifically designed for retirees with passive income, while the cost of living remains among the lowest in the Eurozone. Comfortable two-bedroom apartments in desirable central neighborhoods average €650-800 monthly for rentals, with purchase prices starting around €120,000.
Pescara, Italy:
Italy’s appeal to retirees needs no explanation, but finding affordable, authentic locations has become increasingly challenging. The Adriatic city of Pescara in the Abruzzo region offers a genuine Italian lifestyle without the tourist multitudes or prohibitive costs.
With miles of wide, sandy beaches, a pedestrian-friendly center, and the stunning Apennine mountains just 30 minutes away, Pescara provides diverse experiences in all seasons. The city strikes an ideal balance—large enough to offer excellent amenities but small enough to quickly feel at home.
Why it works now: Italy’s new digital nomad visa and tax incentives for foreign retirees have simplified the path to Italian residency. While healthcare quality varies by region, Abruzzo’s medical facilities earn consistently high ratings. Housing costs run 50-60% below comparable properties in Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast, with monthly rentals for sea-view apartments starting around €800-1,000 and purchase prices from €150,000.
Making the European Retirement Dream Work
While these emerging destinations offer compelling advantages, successfully retiring in Europe requires thorough preparation. Consider these essential steps:
- Test before you invest: Spend at least three months in your target location, ideally during the least appealing season. We know how winter affects people so whichever season feels less ideal travel during then to see if you can last.
- Healthcare navigation: Each country has a different healthcare system and rankings. It is always best to do some research on it before you move.
- Tax implications: Take a look what may be needed for taxes. Some countries have higher taxes, some do not have any on retirees. It is best to consult your tax professional to make the best decision.
- Language reality check: Speaking English can get you by, but having the ability to converse in the language of the people can dramatically help out. So see if you are willing to learn a new language for your new life.
- Digital connectivity: Confirm reliable internet infrastructure if you’ll be maintaining remote work, managing investments, or videoconferencing with family. Speed and reliability vary dramatically between urban centers and rural retreats.
The ideal European retirement location balances affordability, healthcare quality, cultural richness, climate preferences, and accessibility. These emerging destinations offer compelling combinations of these factors without the expatriate saturation that has transformed many traditional retirement havens. As traditional hotspots become increasingly crowded and expensive, these rising stars provide fresh opportunities for the next generation of European retirees.