Top 5 Destinations To Retire Abroad

Choosing where to retire abroad isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. After all, having worked
your entire life, you want to take this opportunity to relax in a warm climate and take long strolls to
the local beach, not regretting your decision to move abroad in the first place. We hope that this
post will help you decide the best destinations to retire abroad for you, whether it is because you
are seeking year-round beautiful weather, a high-quality life or low cost living. Find out the top 5
destinations to retire abroad below – and don’t forget your EHIC when the time comes to step on
that plane!

​1. Algarve Region, Portugal 

​One of the most popular destinations to retire abroad in Europe is the Algarve Region, located in Portugal. In fact, it has been said that the southwest region of Portugal in particular could be one of Europe’s most famous kept secrets, and we can see why! Algarve doesn’t just boast more blue-sky summery days than almost anywhere else in Europe though. In addition, you can truly make the most of the array of exciting activities the area has to offer, including numerous golf courses, with everything being highly affordable. As well as great weather and over 42 golf courses to choose from, retirement income is not taxed in Portugal. This means that you can receive pension income across the country tax-free. Result! 

2. ​Valletta, Malta

​There are numerous reasons why you should retire in Malta. If you love the sun, you’ll be pleased to know that you can enjoy fantastic weather as the country, on average, boasts more than 3,000 hours sunshine each year, and like the Algarve Region, Vallette is highly affordable. Life on this beautiful Mediterranean island is relatively inexpensive too, as cost of living isn’t high here. If you’re worried about leaving beloved family and close friends behind, you will also be pleased to learn that Malta has a great transportation system, and it is far easier to travel from place to place via public transport than in a car, so arranging regular visits both to your new home and your original home country is not an issue.

3. ​Saint-Chinian, France

​Home to fewer than 2,000 residents, Saint-Chinian, located in France, is the perfect place to retire if you are seeking peace and quiet, and want to escape city life. This charming retirement destination boasts high-quality healthcare and good infrastructure, and thanks to the rapidly growing expat community, you won’t be lost for people to experience the slower pace of life with. Much like in Valletta and Algarve Region, the cost of living in Saint-Chinian is also low, so you can enjoy the better things in life, and be assured that you can live comfortably for years to come. 

4. ​Lisbon, Portugal

​As well as being a hot tourist destination, Lisbon is a great place to retire – and for good reason. Not only does Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, offer a calm but vibrant retirement, but it is perfect for those who want to escape the rush of fast-paced cities. Just like Valletta and Saint-Chinian, the cost of living in Lisbon remains relatively low, which is one of the area’s main attractions, and is perfect for those who want to stay surrounded by a little bit of English culture. Moreover, when you retire in Lisbon, you can expect year-round sun, modern infrastructure, affordable healthcare and a better quality of life.  

5. ​Budapest, Hungary 

​There are numerous reasons why you should visit Budapest, even if you decide not to retire there. Not only does Hungary as a whole offer beautiful panoramic views, but it is one of the most historic countries in the world. Most importantly, though, expatriates enjoy living in Budapest for its friendly people, of which you are unlikely to find anywhere else. Nevertheless, if you are looking to bathe in the sun all day, Hungary may not be the dream retirement destination. Why? In Budapest, you can expect cold winters and dull weather from there on until summer rolls around. 

​There are numerous places you can retire in Europe, these are just five. With so many countries, cities and towns to choose from when you retire, retiring abroad is certainly not a light decision to make, and one that shouldn’t be rushed, no matter how eager you are to start your new life in the sun! Where will you retire?