Traveling to a new place can often be overwhelming, but when you retire and have the time, it's worth exploring all that the world has to offer. Here are 10 of the best places we recommend visiting in Europe when you're retired!
Important Things to Consider When Planning Your Retirement
There are a few important things to consider when planning your retirement and deciding on the best places to visit in Europe. Your budget, travel style, and interests will all play a role in determining where you should go.
If you're looking for an affordable retirement destination, consider Portugal or Spain. Both countries offer a good quality of life at a relatively low cost. If you're interested in history and culture, France, Italy, or Greece may be ideal destinations. And if you love the outdoors, Norway, Switzerland, or Austria could be perfect for you.
Of course, these are just general suggestions. The best way to figure out where to go in Europe is to start exploring and see what strikes your fancy. With so many amazing places to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your retirement adventures.
What Is The Cost of Living in Europe?
Assuming you will be retired and living off of your savings, the cost of living in Europe can be expensive. In order to get an accurate estimate of your monthly expenses, you need to consider the following categories:
Housing - This includes rent or mortgage payments, property taxes, and utilities. If you plan on purchasing a home in Europe, remember that real estate prices vary greatly from country to country. For example, average home prices in Spain are much lower than in Switzerland.
Food and Groceries - The cost of food and groceries also varies widely across Europe. In general, Western European countries are more expensive than Eastern European countries. For example, a loaf of bread in Poland costs about $0.50 while a loaf of bread in Norway costs about $5.00.
Transportation - The cost of transportation also varies depending on the country you live in. For example, public transportation is free in some cities like Tallinn, Estonia while it is very expensive in others like Zurich, Switzerland. If you plan on owning a car, keep in mind that gasoline is also more expensive in some countries than others.
Healthcare - The cost of healthcare also differs from country to country. In some countries like France, healthcare is free for residents while in others like Germany residents must pay for health insurance. long-term care can be very expensive so it's important to research the cost of healthcare in the country you plan on retiring to before making the move.
Barcelona, Spain
Spain is a renowned tourist destination for a plethora of reasons: its stunningly well-preserved architecture and historical landmarks, Mediterranean atmosphere, diverse landscape, tasty food, and passionate culture. Barcelona, in particular, is a top pick for retirees looking to enjoy all that Europe has to offer.
This beautiful city on the east coast of Spain boasts miles of sandy beaches along the Mediterranean Sea, world-famous art and architecture by the likes of Antoni Gaudí, a lively nightlife scene, and plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and exploring. With its central location, Barcelona also makes an ideal base for day trips to nearby destinations like Montserrat or the Costa Brava.
Venice, Italy
Venice, Italy is one of the best places to visit in Europe when you're retired. The city is full of history and culture, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Venice is also a great place to retire if you're looking for a slower pace of life. The city is full of beautiful canals and bridges, and you can easily spend a day or two exploring all that Venice has to offer.
Paris, France
Paris, France is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. It's also a great place to retire to if you're looking for a relaxed and cultured lifestyle. There are plenty of things to keep you busy in Paris, from exploring the many museums and art galleries to strolling through the picturesque streets and parks. And, of course, no visit to Paris would be complete without enjoying some of the city's renowned food and wine.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria is one of the best places to visit in Europe when you're retired. With its rich history, world-class museums, and stunning architecture, Vienna is a must-see for any traveler. And, with its central location, it's easy to get to from almost anywhere in Europe.
What to do:
Spend a day exploring Vienna's museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum. Or, take a walking tour of the city to see some of its most famous landmarks, like the Opera House and Hofburg Palace. If you're looking for something more active, consider taking a bike tour of Vienna's parks and gardens.
Where to stay:
There are plenty of great places to stay in Vienna, no matter your budget. For luxury accommodations, check out The Ritz-Carlton or Hotel Sacher Wien. Or, if you're looking for something more affordable, try Hotel Bei der Oper or Pension Martha.
No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in Vienna. So add it to your list of must-visit European cities and start planning your trip today!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a beautiful and historic city that has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a place to retire that is both vibrant and charming, Amsterdam should be at the top of your list.
This Dutch capital is home to more than just canals and windmills. Amsterdam boasts a rich culture and history, with a plethora of museums and art galleries to explore. The city is also known for its lively nightlife and diverse restaurant scene.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in retirement in Amsterdam. Stroll through the quaint Jordaan district, take a canal cruise, or visit one of the many parks. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a bike and explore the city like a local.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark is one of the best places to visit in Europe when you're retired. The city is full of life and culture, and there's plenty to see and do. From exploring the museums and galleries to taking a stroll through the beautiful parks, Copenhagen has something for everyone. And with its convenient location, it's easy to get around and explore all that the city has to offer.
Berlin, Germany
When it comes to choosing a retirement destination, Europe has a lot to offer. If you're looking for a lively city with plenty of history and culture, Berlin is a great option. The German capital is home to world-famous museums and galleries, as well as historic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Reichstag. There's always something going on in Berlin, making it a great place to stay active and engaged in your retirement. And with its convenient location in the heart of Europe, Berlin makes an ideal base for exploring the rest of the continent.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey is one of the best places to visit in Europe when you're retired. The city is full of history and culture, and there are plenty of things to see and do. If you're interested in architecture, you can visit the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. For a taste of Turkish culture, you can visit the Grand Bazaar or take a cruise on the Bosporus Strait. And if you want to relax, you can enjoy the city's many parks and gardens.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the most picturesque and well-preserved cities in Europe. It's also incredibly affordable, making it a great destination for retirees. There are plenty of things to keep you busy in Prague, from exploring the city's many historical monuments to taking in the views from one of its many bridges. And thanks to its central location, it's easy to get around and explore other parts of Europe as well.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a beautiful, medieval city in Belgium that is perfect for retirees. The city has a rich history, and there are plenty of things to see and do. The canals are a highlight of the city, and there are also plenty of museums and churches to explore. Bruges is a great place to retire to if you're looking for a European city that is full of culture and history.
How Much Do I Need To Live On?
If you're retired and looking to travel, Europe is a great place to start. But how much will you need to live on?
This is a difficult question to answer, as it depends on your lifestyle and spending habits. However, a good rule of thumb is that you'll need around $50,000 per year to cover your basic costs of living. This includes food, housing, transportation, and healthcare.
Of course, if you plan on traveling extensively or want to live in a more expensive city, you'll need to adjust your budget accordingly. But even with a modest lifestyle, Europe is a great place to retire and enjoy your golden years.
Advice for Retiring in Europe
If you're looking for a retirement destination with plenty of culture, cuisine, and history, then look no further than Europe. From the beaches of Spain to the rolling hills of Italy, there's something for everyone on the continent. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your retirement in Europe:
1. Learn the language. Even if you only know a few phrases, being able to speak the local language will go a long way in making your retirement more enjoyable. Not only will it help you communicate with locals, but it can also come in handy when traveling around the continent.
2. Get travel insurance. With so much to see and do in Europe, it's important to have travel insurance in case of an emergency. Be sure to read the fine print and understand what your policy covers before heading off on your trip.
3. Plan your budget. Retirement can be expensive, so it's important to plan ahead and budget for your trip accordingly. Consider all of your costs, including airfare, accommodation, food, and activities, before booking anything so that you don't end up overspending.
4. Stay healthy. With all the walking and sightseeing you'll be doing during your retirement, it's important to stay healthy and fit. Be sure to pack any medications you may need and consider getting travel insurance that covers medical expenses just in case.
By: news blare
