Sestri Levante

This coastal town in Liguria has a population of around 18,000, offering a quieter alternative to Italy’s larger tourist destinations while still maintaining the infrastructure of a proper working community. The modest size means you’ll find a genuine local atmosphere where residents go about their daily lives rather than catering exclusively to visitors.

A significant consideration for your move is transport accessibility. The absence of a train station means you’ll need either a car or willingness to rely on bus services for reaching larger towns and cities. This is worth factoring into your retirement plans, particularly if you prefer not to drive long distances.

Healthcare is an important factor when choosing where to retire. While there are medical facilities available in town, we cannot confirm whether English-speaking general practitioners are based here. You may need to arrange your healthcare through Italian-speaking doctors or travel to larger towns for English-language medical support. It’s advisable to investigate this thoroughly before committing to the move.

The town’s seaside location provides the appeal of coastal living without the intensity of busier Italian resort areas, making it worth serious consideration if you’re seeking a slower pace of life combined with Mediterranean access.