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Retire in Liguria, Italy | Expat Exchange
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Chiavari in the Liguria Region of Italy

Retire in Liguria, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 05, 2025

Summary: Liguria, Italy is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning coastal scenery, mild climate, and vibrant culture. The weather in Liguria is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit in the winter and the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit in the summer. There are several retirement communities in Liguria, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Liguria can range from $150,000 to $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can range from $200,000 to $500,000 USD.

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Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While

What is it like to retire in Liguria?

"Life for a retiree in Liguria and its surroundings is full of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The region is known for its stunning coastline, with picturesque villages, rolling hills, and crystal-clear waters. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from all over the world enjoying the Mediterranean lifestyle. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Cinque Terre, the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa, and the many churches and cathedrals in the region. For recreation, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. There is also a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore," said one retiree in Liguria.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Research thoroughly and be sure that you are familiar with the laws and language of your destination country, as well as its health care and taxation system. Contact and visit the Embassy of your destination country, as they can provide you with invaluable information. Know where your money is coming from and how it is going to be managed during your new retirement. Get the most out of your new retirement by joining clubs and activities to get to know the local community. Prepare to make adjustments along the way to find the retirement lifestyle that works for you. Consider more than one destination and make sure that the destination you choose is safe for retirees," remarked one retiree in Liguria.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Liguria?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Liguria is the language barrier. Although many people in the region speak Italian, English is not widely spoken, so it can be difficult to communicate with locals. Additionally, the cost of living in Liguria is relatively high, so retirees may need to adjust their budget accordingly. Furthermore, the region is known for its rugged terrain, so those who are not used to the mountainous landscape may find it difficult to navigate. Finally, the climate in Liguria can be unpredictable, with hot summers and cold winters, so retirees should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions," explained one retiree living in Liguria.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Liguria?

"Retiring in Liguria offers a wealth of rewarding experiences. From the stunning Mediterranean coastline to the picturesque hilltop villages, the region is a paradise for those looking to enjoy a peaceful retirement. The mild climate and relaxed lifestyle make it an ideal place to spend your golden years. The region is also home to some of the best food and wine in Italy, so you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and fine wines while taking in the breathtaking views. With its rich cultural heritage, Liguria is a great place to explore and discover new things. Finally, the friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to make new friends and build lasting relationships," said one retiree in Liguria.

What are healthcare services like in Liguria?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Liguria. They wrote:

"Liguria offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The region has a comprehensive public healthcare system, which is free for all residents. The public system is supplemented by a number of private healthcare providers, offering a range of services from general practice to specialist care. The region also has a number of hospitals, both public and private, providing a range of medical services. In addition, there are a number of health centres and clinics offering primary care services. The region also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications," said a person in Liguria.

How do I meet people in Liguria?

When we asked people living in Liguria about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Liguria can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, hiking clubs, and wine tasting groups. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals and events, joining a gym or fitness class, or volunteering with a local charity or organization. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Liguria, Italy," explained a retiree in Liguria.

What is life like in Liguria?

When we asked people living in Liguria what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Liguria is full of opportunities to explore the region's stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. With its picturesque coastline, rolling hills, and quaint villages, Liguria offers a unique and tranquil atmosphere for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Expats and digital nomads can take advantage of the region's excellent public transportation system, allowing them to easily explore the region's many attractions. Additionally, the region's mild climate and abundance of outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With its delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and laid-back lifestyle, Liguria is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking to experience the best of Italy," said one retiree in living in Liguria, Italy.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Liguria?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Liguria, they said:

"Before retiring in Liguria, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, the climate is mild and humid, with hot summers and mild winters. Expats should also be aware that the region is known for its stunning coastline, with many popular beach resorts. Furthermore, the region is home to a number of historical sites and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for retirees. Finally, expats should be aware that the region is home to a number of excellent healthcare facilities, making it a great place to retire," said one retiree in living in Liguria, Italy.

What type of recreational activities are there in Liguria?

"Liguria offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular is the Cinque Terre National Park, which is a stunning stretch of coastline with five picturesque villages. Here, visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and kayaking. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the beaches of the Riviera di Levante are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Other popular activities include cycling, golfing, and horseback riding. For those looking for a more cultural experience, the region is home to many historical sites, such as the Palazzo Ducale in Genoa and the Sanremo Music Festival. Finally, the region is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the local cuisine," explained one retiree living in Liguria.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Liguria?

"Liguria is home to a variety of shopping options for expats. One of the most popular places to buy groceries is the Carrefour Express, which has several locations throughout the region. This store offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other food items. Additionally, the Coop supermarket chain is another popular option for expats, with several locations in the region. For other shopping needs, the Centro Commerciale Le Terrazze is a large shopping mall located in La Spezia, offering a variety of stores and restaurants. Finally, the historic city of Genoa is home to a variety of boutiques, antique stores, and other specialty shops, making it a great place to explore for unique items," said one member in Liguria.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Chiavari in the Liguria Region of Italy
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Italian For A While

Become 'Italian for a While' - for students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, and professionals! Live out your dreams in Italy while learning Italian and immersing in the language, life, and culture.
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Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become 'Italian for a While' - for students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, and professionals! Live out your dreams in Italy while learning Italian and immersing in the language, life, and culture.
Learn More

Italian For A While
Italian For A While

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