Biella

This northern Italian town has a population of around 43,600, making it a substantial community with genuine local services and amenities rather than a tiny village. It offers the advantage of a real town atmosphere where you’ll find established shops, restaurants, and facilities geared toward everyday living rather than tourism.

One practical consideration for healthcare: while the town has medical services, an English-speaking GP has not been confirmed, which means you may need to rely on translation services or build relationships with Italian-speaking doctors. This is worth factoring into your decision if medical communication is important to you.

For those planning to travel by train, it’s worth noting the town does not have a train station, so you’ll need to arrange alternative transport for longer journeys or connections to other regions. A car would likely be essential for independence and flexibility.

The town’s character reflects its position as a working community rather than a purpose-built expat destination. This can be appealing if you’re seeking authentic Italian life alongside modern conveniences, though it does mean you’ll be integrating into an established local culture rather than joining an established expat community.