Living in Italy

Palermo is one of those places that refuses to be pinned down. With a population circling 650,000, Sicily’s capital is all about contrasts.

If you’re planning a move to Italy but don’t fancy blowing your budget on big-city living in places like Rome or Milan, you’re not alone.

There’s something a bit magical about life in an Italian village.

Moving to Italy with family in tow is one of those ideas that sounds like a daydream, but it’s a more grounded and rewarding choice than you might imagine. Beyond the visions of la dolce vita, Italy offers a lifestyle that is genuinely family-centric.

The new legislation introduces harsher penalties against squatting and, more broadly, against crimes related to public safety and order.

While Italy’s city life thrums with energy and history, there’s something quietly captivating about the countryside. Think rolling hills dotted with olive groves, vineyards that seem to stretch for miles, and rural villages where every neighbour knows your name.

Perched on Italy’s far northeastern edge, this seafront city often feels like a crossroads — not quite like the rest of Italy, but not completely apart.

Tucked away in the far north of Italy, Trento is a small city with big personality and just the right mix of Alpine air, Italian flair, and a relaxed pace.

Nestled right down in the heel of Italy’s boot, Lecce is called the “Florence of the South”, known for its extravagant Baroque architecture and winding old town.

When you start dreaming about moving to Italy, it’s easy to imagine sun-drenched piazzas, fragrant morning coffee, and those long, chatty dinners that stretch late into the night.

Lake Como has a way of sneaking into your heart without much fuss. Sitting comfortably at the foot of the Alps, it offers stunning views that never get old, alongside a lifestyle that’s more about enjoying the moment than rushing around.

Ollolai is a small village tucked away in the mountainous heart of Sardinia, part of the Nuoro province. Located roughly 60 kilometres from the nearest coastline, it offers a peaceful setting surrounded by rolling hills and traditional stone houses.

Benevento sits in Campania with a population just over 60,000. The city is perched on rolling hills inland from the Tyrrhenian coast, surrounded by a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves and farmland.

Syracuse, or Siracusa in Italian, is a charming city packed with attractions and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. If you’re into history, art, or just soaking up nature, this Sicilian gem has plenty to offer without the hustle of bigger Italian cities.

With its legendary university, lively piazzas, and irresistible food scene, Bologna has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s top student destinations. Boasting the oldest university in Italy, it's no surprise that many international students choose to study abroad in Bologna.

When most people picture Naples, they’re thinking of that iconic city clinging to the Amalfi Coast—yes, we’re talking about Naples in Italy, not Florida or anywhere across the Atlantic.

Milan is Italy’s lively economic, fashion, and cultural capital, set in the heart of the Lombardy region. The city attracts expats from all over the globe, drawn by its international work environment, world-class education, dynamic food scene, and iconic events like Fashion Week.

Rome has been shaped by millennia of history and sunny Italian culture, boasting a city centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as the "Eternal City," it blends ancient wonders with modern comforts, making it a popular place to live for expats.

Florence is a popular destination for foreigners, blending Renaissance history with modern innovation. Renowned for its art, culture, and urban appeal, Tuscany's capital city also offers many job opportunities, especially in tourism, art, and fashion.

Rome’s city centre is vast, and to fully explore its historical and cultural treasures, you would need at least a week. But where should you begin? A good starting point is Rome’s most famous streets, often lined with shops and notable landmarks.

According to the RE/MAX European Housing Trend Report 2024, the lack of balconies and gardens, combined with rising energy costs, is fuelling housing dissatisfaction in Italy and across Europe. In line with the European average, 24% of Italians want to move home.

In recent months, Elon Musk’s name has become increasingly associated with Italy in both political and financial circles. Now, amid ongoing international debates featuring the Tesla founder, a rumour has emerged suggesting that Musk is very interested in purchasing a property in Italy.

Life in Venice can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to be well-prepared. It’s one of the most unique cities in the world, built as a maze of canals, narrow streets, and small islands.

With Christmas approaching, luxury tourism is on the rise as more travellers seek exclusive destinations for high-end Christmas shopping. With nearly 56 million posts on TikTok under the hashtag #luxurychristmas, Milan and Venice rank high in the top ten preferred destinations for luxury shopping in Europe, solidifying their status as unmissable spots for fashion enthusiasts.

Italy is a nation plagued by ageing and inefficient homes.