Think you have to be rich to live in Europe? Think again. A new report from International Living spotlights the best places to live in Europe—eight secret towns across France, Portugal, Greece and Italy. These are places where expats can enjoy a high quality of life, for much less than it costs to live in the U.S.
The report is part of the brand’s new “Hidden Places Initiative,” which aims to uncover the next awesome spots. “At International Living, we’re on a mission to find the next great, overlooked expat destinations—the villages, towns, and cities where you can live well for less—before they hit the mainstream,” International Living’s executive editor Jennifer Stevens told me in an interview.
According to Stevens, the rise of social media has led travelers to crowd the same few hotspots. “On the one hand, social media has opened up the world to more people—in a wonderful way. But on the other hand, everybody is just following everybody else around,” says Stevens. The result? Overcrowding, homogenization and skyrocketing prices.
That’s where the Hidden Places Initiative comes in. Backed by on-the-ground contributors, International Living has identified destinations that haven’t hit the mainstream—yet. “To be clear, just because a place is ‘unknown’ doesn’t make it a worthy recommendation,” says Stevens. “We’re looking for places that earn your attention—because they’re beautiful, well-connected, offer enough to do and see and occupy you if you were to live there and offer excellent value for your dollars, too.”
Here, we’ve got a recap of International Living’s eight European picks. Keep in mind: These towns might not be full of English speakers or Instagram influencers. But each town on this list offers something more meaningful: an authentic lifestyle, a strong sense of community and the chance to live well—without draining your savings.
France
Villefranche-sur-Mer
Why: Right between Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a cozy village with swoon-worthy villas. “But this sunny port city offers all the Mediterranean lifestyle perks—waterfront living, 300+ days of sunshine a year and a thriving food and arts scene—at a far more accessible cost,” writes International Living. “Residents enjoy a revitalized historic center, trendy bistros, and highlights like Les Halles, a gourmet food hall and Rue des Arts, a creative hub with galleries and performances.”
The Cost: According to International Living, a couple should budget at least $3,000 a month. Housing is the biggest cost, with rent starting around $1,457 (€1,300). French healthcare is excellent and cheap—a doctor’s visit will cost you $28 (€25).
Toulon
Why: If Nice is the queen of the Côte d’Azur, Toulon is her scrappy little sister—with all the sun and sea, but no sky-high prices. “This sunny port city delivers all the perks of coastal living at a much more accessible cost,” writes International Living.
The Cost: According to International Living, a two-bedroom rental starts around $950, and couples can live comfortably on about $2,800 a month—including healthcare, groceries, dining out and endless aperitifs.
Italy
Ascoli Piceno
Why: Set in the Marche region, Ascoli Piceno is older than Rome and packed with beauty and culture. “Expats are drawn by the flat, walkable layout, active cultural life, highly rated healthcare and proximity to Adriatic beaches and the Apennine Mountains,” writes International Living. “A small but happy expat community enjoys year-round festivals, Italian language schools and excellent restaurants—don’t miss the local delicacy, olive all’Ascolana.”writes International Living.
The Cost: According to International Living, a two-bedroom rental in the historic center runs $650 to $1,200 per month. Couples can live comfortably on about $2,000 a month. And if you want to buy a house and move in for good, you’re in luck: You can find a countryside home for under $200,000.
Portugal
Esposende
Why: Located in northern Portugal’s Braga District, Esposende is a peaceful coastal town with a laid-back lifestyle and strong appeal for creatives, retirees, and remote workers. “It feels more like a beach town than a city,” writes International Living, “with walkable terrain, ocean breezes, and a slower pace that’s perfect for unwinding.”
The Cost: According to International Living, a two-bedroom rental ranges from $872 to $1,090 per month. Healthcare is affordable for legal residents, and everyday living costs are low enough that many couples can live comfortably on a modest budget.
Guimarães
Why: Known as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães blends medieval charm with modern livability. “It’s a walkable, culture-rich city where Gothic architecture meets contemporary cafés and boutiques,” writes International Living.
The Cost: According to International Living, couples can live well here on about $1,800 a month. Rent is modest, and the city’s size makes it easy to get around without a car—saving even more.
Santo Tirso
Why: Set along the River Ave in northern Portugal, Santo Tirso is a peaceful town with history and natural beauty. “It blends thermal spas, riverside parks, and small-town charm—with a lower cost of living and a relaxed pace,” writes International Living.
The Cost: According to International Living, furnished one-bedroom apartments rent for around $925 a month, and daily expenses are low. Healthcare access is excellent, with a 24-hour hospital in town and top clinics nearby in Porto.
Vila Nova de Famalicão
Why: Just 20 minutes from Porto, Vila Nova de Famalicão is an up-and-coming city combines modern infrastructure with small-town friendliness. “It’s well-connected, walkable and full of green spaces—plus it’s got a youthful, creative energy,” writes International Living.
The Cost: According to International Living, one-bedroom apartments start at $179,000 to buy, and four-bedroom rentals go for around $1,516 a month. With co-working spaces, a solid expat community, and affordable living, it’s a smart pick for remote workers and families.
Greece
Litochoro
Why: Set between the Aegean Sea and Mount Olympus, Litochoro is all about stunning views, outdoor adventure and lovely little villages. With snow-capped peaks towering above, a charming village nestled in the foothills, and the Aegean Sea minutes from town, it’s a breathtaking setting,” writes International Living. “The surrounding nature and welcoming community blend seamlessly, creating a place full of adventure and warmth.”
The Cost: According to International Living, two-bedroom rentals range from $270 to $380 per month. Meals out cost as little as $11, and healthcare is both accessible and affordable.
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