12 Prime Coastal Areas to Retire & Buy Property in Europe

When it comes to picking a retirement location, coastal areas of Europe are always on top of most people's list, as it's difficult to avoid the allure of living near the seashore from the warmth of the sun's rays to strolling along the sandy beaches and wonderful ocean vistas. Europe has plenty of great places to spend one's golden age by the sea. The localities mentioned in this video are some of the most sought after to retire in Europe. These places are livable, picturesque, and cozy, with characteristics that appeal to both active and laid-back individuals. When it comes to the cost of living, all of these areas are different. Some of these are a bit expensive, while others are considered affordable for most retirees. Moreover, buying beachfront property in these areas is also quite appealing, be it as an asset or as a vacation and retirement home. So with that, here are 12 prime coastal areas to retire in Europe 2023. 12. Istrian Peninsula, Croatia Istria is located in the north of Croatia, with close proximity to the border with Slovenia and northern Italy. It's a perfect place for retirees looking for sun, relaxation, and gastronomy. And those who love both the sea and the forests, its shoreline is dotted with many well-renowned towns like Pula and Piran, both of which often make the lists of best towns to retire in Europe. Aside from its coastal towns, it's best known for its interior parts, offering wineries, orchards, forests, and medieval hilltop towns famous for their outstanding produce. Given its proximity to Germany, Austria, Italy, and the Balkans, it's a hugely popular summer holiday destination, so the cost of living can rise here in late summers. But for the most part, monthly expenses are quite nominal here, and a retired couple can easily reside in one of its coastal towns under $3,000 a month. In addition, the Istrian real estate market is also quite buoyant with availability of affordable vacant land and detached house listings. 11. Albanian Riviera Situated in southern Albania, this namesake riviera is a coastline among the Ionian Sea extending from the city of Vlorë to the city of Saranda. Most people perceive the Albanian Riviera as the entire coastline of the country, but it only encompasses the area bordering Greece in front of the island of Corfu. The beach cities of this area have become an attractive retirement and travel destination given that they are significantly less crowded and a lot cheaper than other European hotspots. Moreover, there are many small settlement large towns and gated communities along this coast to buy inexpensive beachfront property. But according to one of its local realtor websites, property prices in this area are expected to increase at a rate of almost 30% in the next couple of years as the country is starting to see a high demand for beachfront properties. So, with so many options to choose from, it's one of the most prime spots to retire in Albania. 10. Peloponnese, Greece The Peloponnese Peninsula is often characterized as an island within the mainland, located in southern Greece bordered by both the Aegean and Ionian Sea. It's separated from the mainland by a small brink of canal, but it's connected to the rest of Greece by several bridges and tunnels. Its topography is very diverse. In the northwestern part of the peninsula, there are mountain ranges, and the central part of the peninsula is dominated by the Arcadian Plateau, while the eastern and southern parts of the peninsula are distinguished by a picturesque coastline that hosts several seafront communities. The main points of interest for most retirees in this region are the city of Kalamata and Patras, both of which are known for their natural attractions, sunny weather, local cuisines, and a slow pace of life. In addition, the whole region is relatively affordable with a median cost of living for a couple at around $2,500, making it a popular choice for budget-oriented retirees. 9. Costa da Prata, Portugal Costa da Prata, also known as the Silver Coast, is a region located on the central western coast of Portugal. It stretches from the city of Porto in the north to the outskirts of Lisbon in the south, covering a distance of approximately 250 km along the Atlantic Ocean. There are many communities in this area to settle permanently, be it on the coast or even further inland. The region is also home to charming fishing villages and historic towns, as well as plenty of natural parks which are ideal to enjoy nature, relax, and soak up the sun. On the downside, due to a high influx of foreigners moving to Portugal, the cost of living in the whole country is increasing and Costa da Prata is no exception. However, the region is quite safe and the quality of life is high, plus the prices are not as high as other major coastal areas in Europe. On top of this, it's also home to some of the best healthcare centers in the country, which further ensures retirees' well-being. 8. Costa Blanca, Spain Costa Blanca is a 200 km coastline, which is often referred to as the White Coast in the Alicante region of Spain. This coastal area of the country is quite a popular destination for tourists from around the world, and it offers a wide range of resort cities like Benidorm and others to suit all interests and budgets. Furthermore, the area also hosts direct ferry links to the nearby island of Ibiza, which is infamous for its party scene. Aside from the amusement, it boasts numerous scenic beach cities that are ideal for retiring and buying property. With the average price of a mid-sized house in its cities like Torrevieja and Alicante coming in at around $200,000 to $300,000, prices of certain properties may be higher due to the demand for properties with sea views or easy access to the beach. Overall, Costa Blanca offers a comfortable and enjoyable lifestyle for retirees, with a welcoming and friendly local community, low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. 7. Burva Riviera, Montenegro When most people think about retiring in Montenegro, the Bay of Cotor is always the top choice. However, the Burva Riviera has its own unique charm and attractions. The Riviera stretches for approximately 40 to 50 kilometers and includes several towns and villages, like the namesake town of Burva. Those who retire here can enjoy picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The cost of living and housing in Burva Riviera is also relatively affordable when compared to the Bay of Cotor, and there are plenty of affordable property listings available. But keep in mind, the prices are currently on the rise due to a high influx of Russian buyers. In conclusion, retiring in here can be an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful, sunny, and affordable lifestyle. The region offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural activities, and modern amenities that can cater to the needs of most retirees. 6. Dalmatia, Croatia Located in the Western Balkans along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, Dalmatia is known for its beautiful coastline, islands, and historical cities. The region is part of modern-day Croatia, and it stretches from the island of Rab in the north to the Bay of Cotor in the south, including numerous islands and coastal cities such as Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. It also has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many historical sites and museums to explore. Its local cuisines are top-notch, and the friendly and welcoming locals can make retirees feel at home. The cost of living in Dalmatia is generally lower than in Western Europe, making it a more affordable option for most retirees. In addition, access to health care is also available and affordable here. However, retirees who prefer tranquility should be aware of its crowded touristic areas, especially in its peak seasons. Ultimately, whether or not it's a good option for retirement will depend on one's personal preferences, financial situation, and lifestyle goals. 5. Italian Riviera The Italian Riviera is a beautiful coastal stretch that covers about 350 km of area from the French border all the way to Tuscany. It's part of the larger region of Liguria and is characterized by its rugged coastline with steep cliffs, coves, and sandy beaches. Some of the most sought-after towns and cities for retirees in the Italian Riviera include Genoa, the region's capital and largest city, Portofino, a picturesque fishing village, and many tranquil communities and colorful villages along the coast. Retiring in the Italian Riviera offers a leisurely and relaxed lifestyle. The region is known for its slower pace of life with plenty of opportunities for socializing, dining out, and enjoying the outdoors. Furthermore, unlike neighboring French Riviera, the cost of living and housing in the Italian Riviera is much more affordable, with median price per square meter for a residential property on its shoreline clocking at around $2,500, which is almost 30% lower than neighboring France. 4. Costa del Sol, Spain This region stretches along the Mediterranean coast for about 150 km from the city of Malaga to the Strait of Gibraltar in the southernmost part of Spain's Andalusia region. The area is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, plentiful resorts, and is the most popular retirement destination in Spain. The main reason for its appeal is its cost of living. Both the affluent and budget-oriented retirees can reside here. It's home to many resort cities, gated communities, and habitable marinas to choose from, each one with their own unique pros and cons. The locality also offers a range of modern amenities and infrastructure, including excellent healthcare facilities and well-developed transport networks throughout Spain and entire Europe. Buying a retirement home in Costa del Sol is also worthwhile, with average median listing price at around $300,000. It can provide an opportunity for rental income during the months that the owner is not using the property. 3. Algarve, Portugal The Algarve is probably now the most searched and explored coastal area to retire in the entirety of Europe. In fact, almost 25% of the entire population in this area is made up of foreign retirees and expats. But despite this, it's still a worthy place to retire by the sea, as it offers over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an ideal destination for retirees looking for warm and sunny weather. Moreover, the region has all the modern-day services and amenities, including healthcare facilities, supermarkets, and transportation infrastructure, making accessibility easy as well. The main points of interest for most retirees here are the towns of Faro, Albufeira, and Lagos, all of which boast a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of restaurants and shops. When it comes to the cost of living, it's certainly getting expensive, but most retired couples can live comfortably here under $2,500 to $3,500 a month. 2. Amalfi Coast, Italy The Amalfi Coast is a breathtakingly beautiful area located in the Campania region of southern Italy. It's known for its rugged coastline, sheer cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, as well as its picturesque towns and villages. It stretches for about 50 kilometers along the coastline, between the Gulf of Naples and the Gulf of Salerno, and is home to several charming towns such as Positano. Retiring on the Amalfi Coast can be relatively expensive, depending on individual circumstances and lifestyle preferences. While the cost of living in the region is generally lower than in major European cities, the cost of housing and other amenities can be higher than in other parts of Italy. Generally, the prices of apartments and villas can vary greatly, depending on their location, size, and amenities. In contrast, the cost of food and other essentials can be relatively low, especially for those who prefer to shop locally. Additionally, public transportation here is generally good, but owning a car can be costly due to high fuel prices and limited parking spaces. 1. The French Riviera Known for its glitz and glamour, this is undoubtedly the most prime coastal area to retire in the entirety of Europe. The region stretches for approximately 550 kilometers along the Mediterranean Sea, from the Italian border in the east to Saint-Tropez in the west. The coastline of the French Riviera is dotted with picturesque towns and cities, each with its own unique character and charm. The region's largest city is Nice, which boasts a beautiful old town and a stunning promenade with a lively art scene, while the city of Cannes is famous for its film festival and renowned casinos. On the other hand, Saint-Tropez, once a small fishing village, has become a hot spot for celebrities and jet-setters, with its designer boutiques, trendy nightclubs, and beautiful beaches. In addition to the cities and towns, there's a vast variety of communes and municipalities that are ideal to retire in peace. But all of this comes with a hefty price tag, and most of the time, only affluent individuals tend to retire here. Nonetheless, it's still possible to retire here on a budget, if one chooses a simpler way of life away from the hustle and bustle.