San Romano in Garfagnana

This small town in Garfagnana has a population of around 1,374 residents, offering the quietness and close-knit community feel that many retirees seek. The intimate size means you’ll likely recognize faces around town and develop genuine connections with locals fairly quickly.

A practical consideration for those with health concerns: there is no English-speaking GP confirmed in San Romano, so you’ll need to be prepared to navigate the Italian healthcare system or arrange medical support through other means. This is an important factor to research thoroughly before making any move.

The absence of a train station means you won’t have direct rail access from the town itself. If reliable public transportation is important for your lifestyle, you’ll want to understand what local bus services or nearby stations are available, and whether you’re comfortable relying on a car for getting around.

San Romano represents a genuinely remote Italian experience—the kind of place where daily life moves at a slower pace and tourist infrastructure is minimal. This appeals strongly to those seeking authentic immersion in Italian culture and willing to embrace the practical trade-offs that come with choosing a very small settlement. It’s worth visiting first to assess whether the isolation and services align with your retirement needs.