Loiano

This small Emilia-Romagna town is home to just over 4,300 residents, offering the quiet, intimate atmosphere many retirees seek. The modest size means you’ll likely become a familiar face in local shops and cafes, which can ease the transition to life abroad.

One practical consideration worth noting is that there is no train station in Loiano, so having access to a car or reliable alternative transport is important if you plan to explore the wider region or travel frequently. This isolation from rail links also means getting to larger cities requires more planning.

The availability of English-speaking healthcare hasn’t been confirmed, which is worth investigating carefully before committing to a move. Finding a doctor who speaks English can be essential for peace of mind, particularly as we age, so this is something to discuss directly with local residents or expat networks in the area.

For those prioritising a genuinely small-town pace of life and who are comfortable managing transportation independently, Loiano could work well. However, the lack of a train station and uncertain English-language medical support mean it’s best suited to retirees who either have their own transport and good Italian language skills, or are prepared to develop both.