Santa Maria la Longa

This small Friuli Venezia Giulia town has a population of just 2,312, offering the quiet, close-knit atmosphere many retirees seek. The intimate scale means you’ll likely recognise faces around town and develop genuine connections with locals, though it also means amenities are limited compared to larger centres.

One practical consideration is transport. There’s no train station in Santa Maria la Longa, so you’ll need a car or be prepared to rely on local buses if you want to explore the wider region or access services in larger towns. This is worth factoring into your retirement plans, particularly if you’re considering eventually giving up driving.

Healthcare is another area requiring attention. While the town will have basic medical services, an English-speaking GP is not confirmed here. You may need to travel to nearby larger towns for specialist care or English-language medical consultations, which is something to investigate thoroughly before moving.

The town suits retirees who value peace and simplicity over convenience and who have reliable transport options. Its small size and location in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region offer authentic Italian life, but it requires self-sufficiency and careful planning around logistics and healthcare access.