Italy. The land of rolling vineyards, ancient ruins whispering stories of empires past, and vibrant cities bursting with culture and flavor. For many, Italy isn't just a vacation destination – it's a dream life waiting to be embraced. But with 20 wonderfully diverse regions, each with its own history, culture, and dialects, deciding where to call home can feel daunting.
This guide is here to be your compass! We'll explore 10 key factors to consider when choosing your ideal Italian region, along with a brief overview of Italy's North, Central, and South. Forget the tourist brochure version of Italy – we'll delve into hidden gems and lesser-known regions waiting to be discovered.
10 Things You Need to Consider When Deciding Where to Live in Italy
Availability of Work: Northern Italy, particularly Lombardy, is the economic powerhouse, boasting major industries and financial centers. The South is generally less wealthy, but this can translate to a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life. If you're planning to work remotely or start a business, Italy offers tax benefits for expat entrepreneurs, making the South a potentially attractive option.
Weather & Climate: Italy boasts a variety of climates within its borders. Love sunshine and balmy evenings? Head south or to the islands of Sicily and Sardinia for a taste of the Mediterranean dream. Craving cooler temperatures and snowy winters for skiing or cozy nights by the fireplace? The mountainous North, with regions like Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto, awaits!
Availability of Healthcare: Italy's national healthcare system is respected, but access and quality vary between regions. The North generally has better-funded healthcare facilities and shorter waiting times, while the South often relies more heavily on local medical professionals and small clinics. In Sicily, a new state of the art medical center in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania is set to open in 2025 just outside of Palermo.
Infrastructure, Roads & Telecommunications: Northern Italy has a well-developed infrastructure, with efficient transportation networks and readily available high-speed internet connections. While the South lags behind, public transportation connects most regions, and cities and towns offer fiber-optic connections.
Ability to Connect with Other Expats: Expats often gravitate towards famous cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan, or to beautiful regions like Apulia and Sicily. But if you crave a more local experience and the chance to truly immerse yourself in Italian culture, consider a charming village in regions like Sicily or Umbria.
Personal Safety: Italy is generally a safe country, with petty theft being the most common concern, particularly in crowded tourist areas. Bigger concerns might be air pollution, which is worse in major northern cities like Turin and Milan. Many smaller towns and villages throughout Italy offer a peaceful and secure environment.
Scenery: From rolling hills dotted with vineyards to dramatic seaside coves and soaring mountain ranges, Italy has a landscape to captivate every soul. Mountains, your thing? The North beckons with the majestic peaks of the Alps and the Dolomites. Dream of ocean views and sandy beaches? The South and islands are calling, offering picture-perfect coastlines and hidden coves. Central Italy offers a delightful mix, with rolling hills, charming towns perched on hilltops, and stunning lake regions like Lake Como. If you can’t decide between the mountains, the sea and the countryside, choose Sicily for its diverse landscapes and access to the sea and the volcanic areas surrounding Mt. Etna.
Hobbies: Italy caters to all interests. Water sports enthusiasts will find paradise in the North, with opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing on pristine lakes like Garda and Maggiore. Art and history buffs will be spoiled for choice across the country, with world-class museums and archaeological sites in every region especially in Sicily which boasts Greek and Roman ruins alongside remnants of the Arab conquests. Love relaxing hobbies like painting, knitting, or simply soaking up the sunshine? A picturesque village in the mountains of Sicily could be your perfect haven.
Travel & Ease of Movement: Italy's impressive train network, the Trenitalia, makes exploring the country easy and affordable. However, international flight options often connect through major hubs like Rome or Milan. If frequent travel abroad is important to you, consider a location with a nearby international airport.
Pollution: Air pollution is a real issue in some parts of Italy, especially in northern cities with heavy industry. The South generally enjoys cleaner air, with regions like Puglia and Sardinia boasting pristine coastlines and fresh mountain air.
A Brief Breakdown of Italy's Regions
North: Think industry, economic powerhouses, and stunning scenery like the Alps and Lake Como. Cities like Milan and Turin are major hubs, while hidden gems like Langhe, a wine region known for its Barolo wine, offer a taste of local life.
Central: A happy medium between North and South, offering rich cultural traditions, rolling hills, and accessibility for travelers. Regions like Tuscany, Umbria, and Emilia-Romagna are popular choices, but consider exploring lesser-known areas like Le Marche or Molise for a more authentic experience.
South: Envision sun-drenched beaches, passionate locals, and a slower pace of life. While less wealthy, the South boasts incredible history, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes. Regions like Apulia, Calabria, and Sicily are captivating, with hidden gems like Alberobello, famous for its Trulli houses, waiting to be discovered.
Beyond the Tourist Trail: Cities to Integrate into Italian Culture
While the likes of Rome, Florence, and Venice hold undeniable charm, there's a whole world of Italy waiting to be discovered beyond the tourist trail. Now, let's delve into some fantastic Italian cities that offer a delightful blend of local charm and expat-friendly environments:
Bologna (Emilia-Romagna): Nicknamed "La Dotta" (the learned one), Bologna is a vibrant university city with a rich history, a renowned culinary scene (think Bolognese sauce!), and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a great base for exploring the Emilia-Romagna region, known for its balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Trieste (Friuli-Venezia Giulia): Nestled on the Adriatic coast near the Slovenian border, Trieste offers a unique blend of Italian and Austro-Hungarian influences. This elegant city boasts stunning architecture, a thriving coffee culture, and a slower pace of life compared to major hubs.
Perugia (Umbria): Perched on a hilltop overlooking rolling green landscapes, Perugia is a charming university town steeped in history and culture. Famous for its annual chocolate festival, Eurochocolate, Perugia offers a vibrant arts scene, delicious regional cuisine, and a strong sense of community.
Verona (Veneto): Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet may have called Verona home, but this city offers much more than romantic tales. Verona boasts a well-preserved Roman Arena, a lively historic center, and a strategic location for exploring nearby Lake Garda, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lecce (Puglia): Puglia is a region known for its stunning coastline and delicious seafood, and Lecce, often referred to as the "Florence of the South," is its cultural heart. This baroque gem offers beautiful architecture, a relaxed atmosphere,and a strong sense of local identity.
Sicily (Sicily): The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient Greek ruins of Agrigento to the vibrant markets of Palermo, Sicily offers a unique blend of influences from across the Mediterranean. The island's stunning coastline, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a truly unforgettable destination.
Thinking Beyond the Tourist Trail: Additional Considerations
Cost of Living: Generally, the cost of living increases as you travel north. Major cities will be more expensive than smaller towns and villages. Consider your budget when choosing a region.
Language Learning: Italian dialects vary throughout the country and are not typically used in professional or public life, your focus should remain on learning standard Italian, this will help you integrate and navigate daily life. Numerous online resources and language learning apps can help you get started. For those who are not linguistically inclined, English is spoken in some throughout the country with children learning it in schools. Although you may find many Italians are nervous to speak it, just as you may struggle to speak Italian at first.
Cultural Considerations: Italians are known for their warmth and passion. Be prepared for a more relaxed approach to time management and embrace the importance of social interaction in Italian culture.
Ready to Start Planning Your Italian Adventure?
Italy is so much more than tourist hotspots. Explore beyond the usual destinations and discover the region that best suits your lifestyle and dreams. Whether you crave the buzz of a city, the tranquility of a rural village, or the beauty of a pristine coastline, Italy has a place for you. Don't wait any longer! Start visualizing your Italian dream and take the first steps towards making it a reality.