Pisa

This Tuscan town of around 89,000 residents offers a substantial urban setting with genuine amenities and services you’d expect from a larger centre. As a well-established community, it provides the kind of infrastructure that makes day-to-day living straightforward, though you should be aware that an English-speaking GP has not been confirmed here, so you may need to arrange healthcare through Italian-speaking doctors or seek care elsewhere.

One practical consideration is transport: there is no train station in town, which means you’ll need to rely on other methods of getting around, whether that’s a car, buses, or taxis. This lack of rail connectivity could affect how easily you can reach other regions or cities.

Despite these limitations, the town’s substantial population suggests a functioning local economy with shops, restaurants, and services catering to residents. For retirees accustomed to having amenities within reach, this could work well if you’re comfortable navigating healthcare in Italian or arranging alternative solutions. Your lifestyle here would likely centre around local exploration and community rather than easy access to distant destinations via rail. Consider visiting to experience the practical realities of daily life before making any decision.