Finding the Best Place to Live in Italy for UK Expats

Are you dreaming of trading the grey UK skies for Italy’s warm Mediterranean embrace? Picture starting your day with a leisurely espresso at a charming sidewalk café, surrounded by the slow-paced, enchanting rhythm of La Dolce Vita.

This dream has become a reality for many British expats who have discovered the best place to live in Italy, finding their perfect niche in this captivating country. Italy is more than just a place to visit; it’s a way of life, with its diverse history, culture, breathtaking scenery, and internationally recognized cuisine making it an alluring option for anybody looking to start over overseas.

The purpose of this article is to examine the best choices for UK expats, exploring the unique qualities of each place. We’ll assist you in navigating the many options to select your dream Italian property, whether your preference is for the artistic legacy of Florence, the vibrant energy of Milan, or the charm of small Italian villages.

Top Italian Cities for British Expats

Ancient ruins and thriving modern life coexist in Italy’s cities, creating an intriguing mix of the old and the new. The promise of a lifestyle rich in culture, history, and, of course, the best Italian food has long attracted British expats to the nation’s major towns.

With a sizable expat population, Rome, Milan, and Florence are some of the most sought-after locations for British expatriates. These cities serve as entry points to traditional Italy, where you can discover:

• Roman ruins
• Renaissance art
• High fashion
• A thriving expat scene
• A high quality of life

The Eternal City: Rome as an Expat Haven

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a hub for British expats. This city is filled with rich cultural heritage, bustling street life, and a leisurely pace. Living in Rome allows you to walk in the footsteps of emperors, enjoy world-class cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

The eternal city offers:

• A vibrant job market with opportunities where English and Italian are the main working languages
• Pleasant weather
• Friendly locals
• A wealth of cultural and work opportunities

Rome attracts many expats seeking to live the Italian dream.

Milan: The Northern Powerhouse

Milan is a large Italian city  that is a thriving economic center, famous for its fashion, design, and finance industries. This city, located in the north, is a center of innovation and creativity that has many British expats flocking to it because of its active job market and cosmopolitan environment.

You will enjoy high-quality  healthcare, good transportation, and plenty of cultural activities in Milan.
And with its closeness to stunning natural beauty spots like Lake Como and Lake Garda, weekend escapes are at your fingertips.

Florence: Art and History at Every Corner

Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance, enchants with its unparalleled mix of art, incredible history, and Italian allure. As a British expat living in Florence, you’ll be surrounded by some of the world’s most famous artworks, stunning architecture, and a vibrant expat community.

Beyond the art and culture, Florence offers:

• A high quality of life
• Affordable living options
• Excellent food
• A friendly local community

The city is also well-connected to other parts of Italy, making it an excellent base for exploring the rest of the country.

Coastal Charms: Living by Italy’s Stunning Beaches

Anyone who wants to live by the sea has a plethora of options along Italy’s breathtaking coast. From Sardinia’s shores to Calabria’s hidden coves, these coastal towns offer a simpler way of life, breathtaking scenery, and a tight-knit community.

These coastlines are not only vacation spots; they house successful expat communities, all the standard facilities, and an infinitely more leisurely lifestyle than in the big cities. From retirement to starting a new business, or a simple desire to get away from it all, Italy’s coast has a taste of heaven on offer.

Sardinia: Island Life with a British Twist

Sardinia, with its white sandy beaches and crystal blue seas, is a paradise for British expatriates. The island offers a mix of the Italian way of life, stunning scenery, and relaxed living that makes it a perfect home.

However, it is not just the natural landscape that attracts expats to Sardinia; the island also provides various outdoor activities, a lively local culture, and an open expat society. It’s the perfect place for all those who want nature and culture, relaxation and activity, together.

Calabria Region: Southern Italy’s Hidden Gem

Tucked away in the toe of Italy’s boot, the Calabria region shines as an undiscovered gem, providing a glimpse into genuine Southern Italian living. With its pristine beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages, Calabria is a paradise for nature lovers and sun seekers alike, making it a must-visit destination in Southern Italy.

In addition to its natural beauty, Calabria offers a laid-back lifestyle, a rich culinary tradition, and a warm, welcoming community. The region is less crowded than the more touristy areas of Italy, which makes it a great choice for expats seeking a more relaxed and authentic Italian experience.

The Heart of Italy: Settling in Central Italy’s Rural Idylls

If urban living isn’t your cup of tea, the tranquil Italian countryside in central Italy might be your perfect fit. These regions offer a leisurely lifestyle, breathtaking views, and a community atmosphere that’s missing in metropolises.

From the rolling hills of Umbria to the picturesque villages of Le Marche, these areas provide a relaxed yet inspiring Italian way of life. With history, local food, and welcoming communities, it’s no surprise that these areas are becoming more popular with British expats.

Umbria: The Green Heart of Italy

Umbria, usually bypassed for its celebrity  neighbor Tuscany, has its own unique  appeal.  Nicknamed the “green heart of Italy”, Umbria is a unique blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and relaxed pace of life.

From the stunning landscapes of the Sibillini Mountains to the historic charm of Perugia and Assisi, Umbria offers a great diversity of experiences. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a more relaxed pace of life, Umbria is where you can truly get beneath the surface of Italian life.

Le Marche: Italy’s Best-Kept Secret

Le Marche, or as it is frequently known, Italy’s best-kept secret, is blessed with exquisite natural landscapes, picturesque medieval towns, and rich cultural identity. From the gorgeous Adriatic coastline to the snow-capped Apennine peaks, Le Marche’s diverse landscape is pure joy to explore, including one that is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But Le Marche is more than mere natural beauty. The region contains a number of ancient towns and cities, each with its own distinct character and history. From strolling through the ancient city of Urbino, the sandy coast of San Benedetto del Tronto, or the region’s famous Verdicchio wine, Le Marche offers a flavor of Italian life that one cannot resist.

Lakeside Living: The Serene Appeal of Northern Italy

Those who yearn for peace and quiet will find a perfect haven in the serene lakes of northern Italy. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, these lakes offer a tranquil setting that is perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Living by the lakes of northern Italy, you’ll be able to enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including:

• Hiking
• Cycling
• Sailing
• Swimming

And with their close proximity to major cities like Milan, you’ll never be far from the buzz of big city life.

Lake Garda: Where Natural Beauty Meets Expat Community

Lake Garda, Italy’s most popular lake, is a mixture of nature, history, and internationality. With the stunning view of Monte Baldo and the charming towns surrounding it, Lake Garda is a paradise of activities to discover, which makes it the perfect location to reside in.

Yet it’s not precisely the natural scenery by itself that draws expats to Lake Garda. The lake is also sprinkled with activities to do, ranging from hiking and sailing to visiting the ancient towns and castles. And with Verona and Milan nearby, you’ll be near city amenities and work opportunities as well.

Lake Como: A Retreat for the Soul

Lake Como, often described as Italy’s lake gem, offers a countryside retreat that is perfect for those who seek to discover serenity and tranquility. Surrounded by its stunning mountain scenery, quaint lakeside villages, and calm waters, Lake Como is a place where you can truly escape the bustle of modern life.

By living at Lake Como, you will have the opportunity to indulge in a variety of outdoor pursuits, ranging from fishing and sailing to mountaineering in the nearby peaks. And since it is located so near Milan, you will also be within reach of city amenities and job prospects.

Urban Renaissance: Discovering Italy’s Lesser-Known Cities

Though Italy’s well-known cities and tourist hotspots are renowned, the nation is also home to a number of other lesser-known Italian cities, each with its own particular blend of history, culture, and lifestyle. Here, we look at some of these cities, ranging from the gourmet’s heaven that is Bologna to the vibrant atmosphere of Catania, which provides an alternative Italian experience to the typical tourist spots.

These vibrant cities provide a wide variety of experiences, from visiting historic sites and sampling local foods to becoming engaged in a thriving music and arts scene. And with their low costs of living, these cities provide an affordable alternative for anyone wishing to make Italy home.

Bologna: The Culinary Capital with a Youthful Spirit

Bologna, Italy’s unofficial  food capital, is a vibrant city with a rich  past and young vibe.  Home to an old city center and active food markets, Bologna has something for everyone,  which makes it an excellent city to call home.

If living in Bologna, you’ll have  access to a lively food scene, a range of cultural events, and a youthful, lively environment. And thanks to its low cost of living and good public transportation, Bologna provides foreigners with an excellent quality of life.

Catania: Sicily’s Vibrant Hub

Situated on the eastern coast of Sicily, Catania offers a unique blend of experiences that make it a vibrant hub for expats. Some highlights of the city include:

• A bustling fish market
• Vibrant nightlife
• Stunning baroque architecture
• Historic landmarks

Catania truly presents a city of stark contrasts that will captivate any visitor.

You’ll be able to enjoy a range of activities whilst living in Catania, whether it be exploring the city’s historic sites or enjoying its vibrant food scene. And with its affordable cost of living and close proximity to the beach, Catania offers a great quality of life for expats.

Navigating the Move: Practical Tips for Settling in Italy

Relocating to a foreign country may seem overwhelming at first, but with well-planned preparation, it can become an exhilarating and fulfilling journey. From understanding the property market to integrating into the local community, there are a number of practical considerations that can help make the transition smoother.

In this section, we’ll provide some practical tips for settling in Italy, including:

• Understanding the property buying process
• Learning about the local culture and customs
• Navigating the move to a bustling city, sunny coastal town, or picturesque rural area

These tips will help you make Italy feel like home.

Buying Property in Italy: What UK Expats Need to Know

Purchasing a property in Italy might seem complicated, yet armed with the correct information and advice, it can transform into a worthwhile investment. From understanding the legal requirements to navigating the Italian property market, there are a number of factors to consider when buying a property abroad. Check out our article about it here.

Require a removal service to Italy?

Italy, with its mosaic of historic cities, sunny coastal towns, picturesque rural landscapes, and serene lakesides, presents a diverse and enchanting array of experiences that captivate British expats. Whether your heart is set on the energetic pulse of urban life in Rome or Milan, Tuscany’s countryside, or the charming authenticity of a seaside town in Amalfi, Italy, offers a perfect spot that feels tailor-made for your dreams.

Ready to start your new life in Italy? Begin this exciting chapter by visiting our Removals to Italy page for detailed insights, or request an online quote today for a personalised moving plan. With Simpsons International Removals, your dream Italian lifestyle is just a move away. Let us handle the logistics while you immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Italy.