If you’re planning to move to Italy for a few months, it’s important to know where to go. The cost of living can vary widely, and some areas are more expensive than others.
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to the popular tourist spots, check out southern Calabria. You’ll get great beaches and a more authentic Italian lifestyle for a fraction of the price.
Rome
Rome is a vibrant city and there are plenty of exciting places to live in the capital. It is also a great place to explore Italy, with its stunning history and many iconic monuments. It is also the perfect destination for those looking to travel on a budget, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars offering delicious Italian food at an affordable price.
The mediterranean climate means that Rome is much warmer than most other cities in Europe and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy during the summer months. If you like to go for a hike, you can find plenty of scenic trails in the surrounding countryside.
As with most major cities in Europe, crime rates in Rome are relatively low. However, pick-pocketing is a common occurrence and you should always be vigilant while in public spaces. Avoid carrying expensive bags and don’t leave valuables on train platforms or in cars, as this will attract thieves.
If you’re planning on spending a lot of time traveling within the city, it is best to buy a metro ticket that will allow you to travel on all the lines for a certain number of days. These tickets are easy to use and can be validated at each station on the line.
You will probably spend a lot of your time shopping in Rome – it is an excellent choice for people who love to shop and the city has a large range of high street stores and department stores, as well as smaller shops in the suburbs and outskirts.
Another good place to shop in Rome is at one of the many markets. The Mercado Testaccio is particularly popular and there are many stalls with fresh food for sale, as well as clothing, gifts and other things to buy.
It’s a good idea to visit some of the larger city centres, as these often feature a wide range of museums and galleries. You can also enjoy a stroll along the ancient city walls and admire the magnificent architecture of the Roman Empire.
The city is home to some of the world’s most famous buildings, including the Colosseum and Vatican. These are certainly worth a visit and you’ll be able to see the magnificent work of Michelangelo at the Sistine Chapel, as well as several other impressive art works.
Florence
Florence is a city full of cultural treasures. Whether you’re looking to see the best that Tuscany has to offer in art, music, food or nightlife, you won’t go wrong in this UNESCO World Heritage City.
As one of the most historic and cosmopolitan cities in Italy, Florence is the perfect place for expats to live and work. It’s also a great choice for families, as there are plenty of educational activities for children and large historical parks open to the public, which are ideal for play.
If you’re looking to find the best places to rent in Florence, it’s important to consider your budget before committing to a new apartment. Thankfully, there are some options available that can help you cut costs while still living in the heart of this vibrant Italian city.
For example, if you’re planning on having a few friends come to stay with you, you can often secure a three bedroom flat in the city for EUR1,500 a month. This is quite a bit cheaper than renting two rooms in a studio or one room apartment, so it’s worth considering this option if you want to save money while still living in the heart of Florence.
However, don’t forget to factor in some other expenses if you’re planning on living in Florence for six months or more. These include things like utilities, food and transport.
As a resident, you’ll need to pay your landlord’s monthly rental fees and you may also be required to pay additional costs for a property inspection or cleaning the apartment. You can also expect to pay a deposit of between 1-2 months’ rent to the landlord if you decide to use an agent to find you a flat.
Luckily, if you’re planning on staying for more than 6 months, you can usually secure an affordable apartment in the city center that includes basic amenities and access to public transportation. You might have to be a little flexible when it comes to the type of apartment you’re looking for, as more modern apartments tend to cost more than older ones, but if you’re willing to be creative you can find your dream home in this beautiful city.
Lucca
The Italian province of Lucca is a good choice for those who want to live in the countryside without being too far from some of Italy’s most famous cities. Its clean air and a low cost of living make it one of the best places to live in Italy for those who have a bit of extra cash.
A charming and walkable city brimming with centuries-old towers, churches, hidden alleyways, botanical gardens, and restaurants that play up the bounty of farm-fresh Tuscan produce, it’s a lovely place to base yourself. If you’re planning a stay, be sure to check out Via Fillungo (the city’s main shopping avenue), where the streets are lined with countless boutiques and cafes.
As you stroll around the city, you’ll come across plenty of medieval buildings painted in warm hues. They’re a joy to photograph and will be a great addition to your digital nomad lifestyle collection.
It’s a shame that this gorgeous city is often overlooked compared to the more famous Florence and Siena, but if you’re in the market for a quiet, cultural getaway, Lucca is the place to go. With its evocative history, well-preserved ancient towers and quaint, artisan-focused restaurants, it’s an idyllic place to call home for the next 6 months.
With an abundance of historic churches, Lucca is known as “The City of 100 Churches.” Take a stroll through its beautiful basilicas, including the imposing St Martin Cathedral and the Baroque Chiesa di San Michele in Foro. You’ll also want to visit the Basilica of San Freidano, which boasts an impressive 13th-century mosaic.
You’ll also be surprised to find a mommy in the Basilica of San Freidano, where a peasant girl called St Zita was naturally mummified when she died in 1272. It’s a must-see for visitors to the area, and is a unique and unforgettable way to see one of the most beautiful churches in the world!
Another unique activity to try while in Lucca is climbing the 14th-century Torre Guinigi. It’s 233 steps up to the top of this tower, and it offers views that will leave you awe-struck!
Tuscany
Tuscany is one of the most popular regions in Italy. It is known for its stunning landscape, vineyards and renaissance culture. There are many charming towns and villages in this beautiful region, each of them unique.
It is also home to world famous cities and resorts such as Firenze, Pisa, San Gimignano, Lucca, Grosseto, and Siena. Despite its popularity, Tuscany is not over-run with tourists, meaning you can experience authentic Italian life off the beaten path without the crowds.
While the majority of guidebooks will highlight the top sights and attractions in this Italian region, it is a great idea to seek out lesser-known destinations to truly get the authentic Italian experience. For example, while Florence may be known for its Renaissance art and architecture, it is also a city with a rich underground history that is well worth visiting.
The area is also a great place to explore the beauty of the natural countryside, including forests, lakes and beaches. It is home to many picturesque small towns and hilltop villages that are a delight for anyone who wishes to escape the rat race.
With its countless castles, ancient churches and perfectly-kept villages, this Italian region is a must-visit for anyone interested in culture. There are plenty of museums, churches and art galleries to visit, as well as historic towns and UNESCO heritage sites to discover.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are a wealth of walking trails and bike routes to keep you fit. You can even explore the breathtaking mountains in this region, which offer incredible hiking and climbing opportunities.
If you are a foodie, you will be glad to know that the cuisine in Tuscany is full of delicious dishes that will leave your taste buds drooling. With its focus on simple and traditional dishes, Tuscany is a great spot to try out the country’s classic cuisine.
Aside from the iconic pizza and pasta dishes, this region is also famous for its fantastic wine. Its wines are renowned for their quality and the variety that they offer.
However, it is important to note that not all of these wineries are accessible by public transport. In some cases, you will need to hire a car to access the wineries and vineyards. It is also essential to book accommodation that is near a train station or bus stop, if you wish to use this method of transportation for your local sightseeing trips.
