5 hours ago
9
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Have you ever imagined spending your retirement surrounded by charming cobblestone streets or basking in the most delicate sunshine whilst relaxing on serene beaches? Not to forget, the high quality of life that awaits and promises a pleasant life.
Every part of which becomes a dream come true once you’ve embarked on a golden years journey in the best places to retire in Europe in 2025. Whether you’re nearly retiring or casually planning your future, this article is a go-to guideline.
List of the Best Places to Retire in Europe
Out of all destinations, Bordeaux in France and Prague in the Czech Republic take the top spots among the best places to retire in Europe, as highlighted by Travel + Leisure and Veranda. Other ideal retirement spots on the continent also include:
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux lets you immerse yourself in the dream of sipping the finest wine in the heart of French wine country. Each and every day of your retirement will be filled with nothing but delicious cuisine, rich cultural heritage, and also reliable high-speed trains integrating Bordeaux with other French cities.
While France provides no retirement visa, the Long Stay Visitor Visa (VLS-TS) is available for a three- to 12-month residency. As of 2025, an applicant must meet the minimum annual income of €16,525 to qualify for VLS-T, according to Bright Tax.
Prague, Czech Republic
A fulfilling day of retirement is easily spotted in Prague, Czech Republic. The captivating city is graced with impressive architecture, rich historical charm, and world-renowned museums—all warmly welcoming the thriving expat communities.
The Czech Republic doesn’t offer a retirement visa, but pensioners can apply for the long-term visa, which allows foreigners to stay within for a maximum of one year. To successfully grant the permit, applicants must specify the purposes for residing in Czech, along with providing proof of funds that meet at least 15 times the subsistence minimum.
Algarve, Portugal
Endless sun and a peaceful rhythm of coastal life are just some of the glimpses of spending the golden years in Algarve, Portugal. Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, this area is brimming with sparkling beaches, quaint fishing villages, and mild climate year-round, all of which go hand in hand with low living costs and a healthy lifestyle.
One of the best places to retire in Europe, Portugal makes it easy and affordable when it comes to residency, with an income requirement at just €870. Combined with the D7 visa, a passive-income visa, you can initially enjoy a five-year residency before being eligible for citizenship.
Alicante, Spain
Nestled on Spain’s Costa Blanca, Alicante is another excellent choice for retirees who crave Mediterranean living. Strong expat communities, easy and well-connected areas, as well as a mild climate, take center stage for attracting pensioners.
When it comes to residency permits, Spain has the Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) or a passive-income visa. With a proof of minimum monthly income of €2,400, you can stay within for a year and renew it for another four years.
Crete, Greece
Greece has long been a beloved choice among the best places to retire in Europe and also in the world. Crete Island, particularly, comes perfect for those seeking an idyllic island lifestyle where beaches and inspiring villages adorn every corner.
Not only does the country offer low-cost living and a laid-back lifestyle, but Greece also provides a relatively low income requirement for the Financially Independent Person (VIP) visa—coming at €3,500 monthly. The permit is valid for two years and can open the path to citizenship after seven years.
Budapest, Hungary
Often dubbed “Paris of the East,” Budapest is a beautiful city split by the Danube River. With its remarkable architecture, vibrant arts scene, and relatively low living cost, there’s no aspect stopping retirees from spending the golden years here.
You are welcome to apply for the Hungary Golden Visa, also known as the Guest Investor Program (GIP). Known as one of the cheapest golden visa countries in Europe, the investment requirement is just €250,000 for granting a 10-year residency that is also renewable.
Kinsale, Ireland
One of Europe’s best-kept secrets, Kinsale is an outdoor paradise nestled in County Cork, Ireland. Well-known for its maritime culture, the town allows you to engage in an endless exploration of fishing, boating, and even cycling and hiking.
Applying for a D-Reside Visa is straightforward but can cost much. A minimum personal annual income comes at €50,000. More to that, you should have access to a reserve fund to cover unexpected large expenses, which should be equivalent to the cost of purchasing a residential property within the country.
From the beaches of Portugal to the cultural treasures of Budapest, each of these best places to retire in Europe has something unique for every retiree. For a broader discovery, be sure to take a look at the best countries to retire in 2025.
Editor's Choice: Forbes' 10 Best Places to Retire, Panama Takes the Crown
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
