Are you curious about our ten rural towns in Italy for retirees? Retiring in Italy doesn’t have to mean crowded cities or expensive coastal villas. Across the country, small rural towns offer a quieter, more affordable way of life—with beautiful views, strong communities, and everything you need to settle in comfortably.
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If you’re looking for authentic experiences, friendly locals, and a slower pace, this list is for you. Below are 10 of the best rural towns in Italy for retirees, each with its own appeal—from medieval hilltop villages to sunny whitewashed seaside towns. I’m curious to know if our list is anywhere near yours or any that you would consider. They are in no particular order.
Let’s continue…
1. Spello, Umbria – Flowers, Festivals, and Charm
Spello is a picture-perfect town covered in blooms each spring and summer. Its Roman roots and peaceful vibe make it a favorite for those seeking beauty without crowds.
Pros for Retirees:
- Close-knit community with festivals and events
- Walkable center with cafes, shops, and a pharmacy
- Close to train connections and other Umbrian towns
Cons for Retirees:
- Gets a bit busy in peak travel season
- Several steep cobblestone paths in the historic center
2. Paciano, Umbria – Tranquil and Timeless
Paciano is a tiny, walled hill town with panoramic lake views and a relaxed pace. It’s ideal for those wanting a peaceful retirement surrounded by olive groves and fresh air.
Pros for Retirees:
- Extremely peaceful and low stress
- Friendly mix of locals and international residents
- Low cost of living
- Gorgeous countryside, perfect for walking and enjoying nature
Cons for Retirees:
- Limited services (nearest hospital and major stores are a drive away)
- A car is necessary
3. Pitigliano, Tuscany – A Town Carved from Stone
Built into volcanic cliffs, Pitigliano is stunning and full of character. It has a fascinating history, including a historic Jewish quarter and Etruscan tunnels below the streets.
Pros for Retirees:
- Strong cultural identity and rich history
- More affordable than many Tuscan towns
- Access to local health services
- Scenic surroundings perfect for weekend exploration
Cons for Retirees:
- Steep and uneven streets
- Tourist traffic in the summer months
A Guidebook but not in the Traditional Sense
Embark on an Italian adventure. Dive into the rich tapestry of each town, with insights into what to see, festivals and traditions, how to get there, plus the local food and wine you’ll enjoy—separate chapters on the seasons, national holidays, and an extensive rail travel section. Let us be your guide to these Tuscan towns!
4. Ostuni, Puglia – Sun, Sea, and Whitewashed Streets
Nicknamed the “White City,” Ostuni sits just a few miles from the Adriatic and has the laid-back vibe many retirees dream about. It’s lively without being chaotic.
Pros for Retirees:
- Warm climate year-round
- Close to beautiful beaches
- Affordable compared to the north of Italy
- Local hospital and medical services available
Cons for Retirees:
- Hilly town center with many stairs
- Can get crowded during the summer season
5. Cefalù, Sicily – Coastal Living with Historic Flair
Cefalù offers that perfect mix of beach town ease and historical richness. It’s one of the more well-known rural towns in Italy for retirees, thanks to its walkability, weather, and beauty.
Pros for Retirees:
- Stunning coastal scenery
- Good healthcare and daily services
- Compact, walkable old town
- Warm climate with mild winters
Cons for Retirees:
- Very popular in peak season
- Housing prices have gone up due to demand
Now the last half of our rural towns in Italy for retirees
6. Orvieto, Umbria – Beauty with Convenience
Set high on a volcanic bluff, Orvieto is dramatic to look at and practical to live in. It’s one of the most accessible hill towns in central Italy, with direct train links to Rome.
Pros for Retirees:
- Excellent public transportation
- Full range of services including hospital
- Cultural life with museums, music, and events
- Funicular helps with the hills
Cons for Retirees:
- Slightly higher cost of living than smaller villages
- Tourist activity during holidays and festivals
7. Città Sant’Angelo, Abruzzo – Underrated and Affordable
This hill town in Abruzzo combines mountain views, sea breezes, and low prices. It remains relatively undiscovered, which means fewer tourists and a very local lifestyle.
Pros for Retirees:
- Excellent value for housing and living costs
- Quiet and community-focused
- Close to both the Adriatic and national parks
- Near Pescara with an airport and hospital
Cons for Retirees:
- You’ll need a car to get around
- Not many English speakers, so some Italian helps
8. Arpino, Lazio – Ancient Soul and Simple Living
Home of Cicero, Arpino offers both incredible history and a strong sense of community. It’s tucked away in Lazio’s Ciociaria region, far from the usual tourist track.
Pros for Retirees:
- Peaceful with a deep local identity
- Affordable homes
- Great for history lovers
- Local produce, wine, and festivals
Cons for Retirees:
- Basic healthcare; major services require travel
- Limited public transit options
9. Pienza, Tuscany – Renaissance Beauty with a Village Feel
Known as the “ideal Renaissance town,” Pienza feels like walking through an open-air museum. Yet, it’s surprisingly livable, with strong community ties and stunning views over the Val d’Orcia.
Pros for Retirees:
- Small but well-kept and easy to navigate
- Breathtaking surroundings
- Community events and seasonal festivals
- Walkable, clean, and well maintained
Cons for Retirees:
- Heard it might have limited medical facilities
- Popular with tourists, especially in spring and fall
Italy of the Val d’Orcia
10. Locorotondo, Puglia – Circular Streets and Whitewashed Peace
Locorotondo is one of the prettiest towns in Puglia, with round-shaped alleys, bright white homes, and views over the Valle d’Itria. It’s peaceful but not isolated, offering a good balance for retirement.
Pros for Retirees:
- Calm, clean, and safe
- Close to train stations and regional roads
- Healthcare services in nearby towns
- A warm and friendly local vibe
Cons for Retirees:
- Requires travel for major hospitals
- Less English spoken than in bigger cities
Final Thoughts on Rural Towns in Italy for Retirees
Choosing one of these rural towns in Italy for retirees means embracing a slower pace, natural beauty, and everyday joys—think morning cappuccinos, walks through historic alleys, and neighbors who know your name.
Each of these towns offers a unique lifestyle, and deciding where to go depends on what kind of pace and setting feel right for your next chapter. Whether you’re still dreaming or getting ready to make the move, Italy has a quiet corner waiting to welcome you.
Which one do you see yourself in? Drop a comment or send us a message—we love hearing your plans!
Enjoyed this post! Now we have a great new list of towns to visit! Thank you! I’ve already pinned this post for our next visit! Bravo!
Thanks so much, Teresa! I so enjoy getting comments like this – you made my day!