Lerici

Sitting on the Ligurian coast, this small town of around 9,700 residents offers a quieter pace of life by the sea. The modest population size suggests a tight-knit community where you’re likely to become familiar faces rather than permanent tourists.

One practical consideration: there is no train station in town. This means you’ll need to arrange alternative transport for longer journeys, whether that’s a car, bus connections, or travelling to a nearby station. For those accustomed to rail access, this is worth factoring into your decision.

Healthcare is an important factor when choosing where to retire. While the town has medical services available, an English-speaking GP has not been confirmed. You may need to rely on basic Italian language skills or arrange translation services for medical appointments, or investigate nearby options in larger towns.

The waterside location is a clear draw—daily life revolves around the coastline, which appeals to many retirees seeking a seaside retirement. The limited size keeps things manageable and peaceful, though it also means fewer amenities and services than you’d find in larger Italian towns.

This is best suited to retirees comfortable with a very small community, prepared to manage transport independently, and willing to navigate healthcare with some language barriers.