8 best places to live in Italy for expats in 2024, including the best small towns, coastal towns, places to live on a budget and the safest cities in Italy.
Siena, Italy
Siena, Italy Alessandro Rossi on Unsplash

Where is the best place to live in Italy for foreigners? The best cities to live in Italy are definitely places to consider when moving abroad as an expat. With over 7,000km of spectacular coastline, beautiful mountains and charming cities, Italy has something for everyone; whether you want to stay for a long time or just for a month, or live in nature, in a city or by the sea, not to mention the fact that it’s a sun lover’s paradise.

Italy also offers so much more than just a summer holiday destination and is an increasingly popular destination with expats who want a new life abroad. With such varied cities and landscapes, there is certainly plenty to choose from, but where are the best cities to live in Italy? 

If you’re thinking moving to Italy and joining the large expat community already working, retired or studying in Italy, then take a look our list of the best places to live in Italy in 2024, including the best places to live in Italy for families, foreigners, on a budget and more. 

Which part of Italy is best to live?

Italy offers a diverse range of cities, towns, and regions, each with its own unique charm, culture, and lifestyle. The "best" place to live in Italy can vary greatly depending on individual preferences, such as climate, job opportunities, cost of living, proximity to amenities, and personal interests. However, here are some popular and highly-regarded places to live in Italy:

Florence

Florence
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Known for its Renaissance art and architecture, Florence offers a rich cultural experience with its historic city centre, museums, and galleries. It's a relatively small city with a high quality of life, excellent food, and picturesque surroundings.

Expats in Florence may find employment opportunities in fields such as education, art restoration, tourism, and hospitality. While living costs in Florence can be relatively high, especially in the city centre, expats are rewarded with a unique blend of history, beauty, and Italian lifestyle that makes Florence a truly unforgettable place to call home.

Rome 

Rome
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As the capital city of Italy, Rome is steeped in history and offers a vibrant urban lifestyle. It's a bustling metropolis with world-famous landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. Rome also boasts excellent cuisine, nightlife, and cultural attractions.

The city boasts excellent amenities such as healthcare, education, and transportation, although the cost of living can be relatively high, especially in popular neighbourhoods. Expatriates living in Rome may find employment opportunities in various sectors, including tourism, diplomacy, academia, and the arts. Despite the hustle and bustle of urban life, Rome's laid-back Mediterranean vibe and rich cultural heritage make it a captivating and rewarding place for foreigners to call home.

Milan  

Milan
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Milan is Italy's financial and fashion capital, known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, thriving economy, and stylish lifestyle. It's a dynamic city with high-end shopping, a vibrant arts scene, and a bustling nightlife. Milan also offers excellent transportation connections and job opportunities.

The city's international community makes it easy for expats to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world, while its central location within Italy and Europe allows for convenient travel and exploration.

Bologna

Bologna
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This historic city in northern Italy is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, rich culinary tradition, and prestigious university. Bologna offers a lively cultural scene, excellent food markets, and a high quality of life. It's also strategically located between Florence and Venice, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Overall, Bologna's welcoming atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and relaxed pace of life make it a popular and rewarding destination for foreigners seeking to live and work in Italy.

Turin

Turin
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Turin, located in northern Italy's Piedmont region, is a great destination for expats seeking a high quality of life with relatively affordable living costs. Boasting a strong economy driven by industries like automotive and technology, Turin offers ample job opportunities in engineering, IT, and research sectors.

Its rich cultural heritage, including Baroque architecture and world-class museums, provides expats with plenty of opportunities for exploration and enrichment. Additionally, Turin's excellent educational institutions, proximity to nature with access to the Alps and Langhe wine region, and efficient transportation infrastructure further contribute to its appeal as a desirable place for foreigners to live and work in Italy.

Verona

Verona
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Famous as the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," Verona is a charming city with a well-preserved historic centre, Roman ruins, and a relaxed lifestyle. Verona's central location in northern Italy offers easy access to other major cities such as Venice, Milan, and Florence, as well as to the stunning landscapes of Lake Garda and the Dolomite Mountains, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Expatriates living in Verona enjoy a high quality of life with excellent amenities, including healthcare, education, and public transportation. The city's vibrant cultural scene, featuring music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances, provides expats with ample opportunities for entertainment and enrichment.

Siena

Siena
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Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany, is a charming and historic city that offers several advantages for foreigners looking to live in Italy. Firstly, Siena's well-preserved medieval architecture, including its iconic Piazza del Campo and stunning cathedral, provides a picturesque and romantic backdrop for daily life. Expats living in Siena enjoy a relaxed pace of life and a strong sense of community, with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.

Additionally, Siena boasts a high quality of life, with excellent amenities such as healthcare, education, and public transportation. The city's location in the heart of Tuscany provides expatriates with easy access to the region's renowned wine country, rolling hills, and historic towns, allowing for endless exploration and discovery. Overall, Siena's beauty, history, and quality of life make it a desirable destination for foreigners seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Perugia

Perugia
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Foreigners looking for the bets places to live in Italy are drawn to Perugia for its well-preserved medieval architecture, rich artistic heritage, and relaxed pace of life. The city's historic centre, characterised by its winding streets, ancient buildings, and panoramic views, provides expats with a charming and picturesque setting for daily life. Perugia is also home to a prestigious university, attracting students and academics from around the world and contributing to the city's vibrant cultural scene.

The city's central location within Umbria allows for easy access to other charming towns and villages, as well as to the region's beautiful countryside, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval castles. Additionally, Perugia hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing expats with opportunities for entertainment, socialising, and immersion in local traditions. Overall, Perugia's blend of history, beauty, and laid-back lifestyle make it a desirable destination for expats seeking an authentic Italian experience.

Where do most foreigners live in Italy?

Italy attracts a diverse expat population, with popular areas including Milan, Rome, Florence, Tuscany, Lake Como, Umbria, and Sicily. Milan and Rome are major hubs for international business, diplomacy, and culture, offering cosmopolitan lifestyles and employment opportunities in finance, fashion, technology, and tourism. Florence and Tuscany are renowned for their artistic heritage, attracting expatriates interested in history, art, and the slower pace of Tuscan life.

On the other hand, Lake Como and Umbria offer picturesque landscapes and tranquility, appealing to those seeking a peaceful retreat with access to outdoor activities. Sicily's Mediterranean climate, stunning coastline, and rich history draw expatriates looking for sunshine, seafood, and authentic Sicilian culture. 

Moving to Italy in 2024

Ultimately, the best place to live in Italy depends on your personal preferences and priorities. It's essential to visit different cities and regions to experience their unique atmosphere and lifestyle before making a decision. Additionally, consider factors such as employment opportunities, healthcare facilities, climate, housing costs, and transportation infrastructure when choosing a place to live in Italy.

Keep in mind that the cost of living varies from place to place. Like most expat destinations, seaside properties and those close to touristy areas tend to be the most expensive. Italy also has a developed healthcare system that is very affordable for EU citizens, just another reason why Italy is a great destination for expats in 2024. Wherever you choose, you are sure to enjoy Italy's charm and beauty, so what are you waiting for? It's time to find your dream home in Italy!  Check out our guide to moving to Italy in 2024 to get you on your way