Best Cities For Expats In Southern Europe part 2 – Part one is here.

Best Tourist Attractions for Expats in Southern Europe

Expats who decide to move abroad and settle in a new country usually do so because they were offered a job or an opportunity unavailable in their home country. Southern Europe, particularly the Mediterranean, is very popular with expat groups.

Some might even call it a “touristy hotspot” where tourists from all over the world flock to bask in the sun and enjoy its many treasures, such as fresh seafood and beautiful beaches. Surprisingly enough, though, there are so much more than stunning coastlines and long sandy stretches of white sand in southern Europe for expats who move to this area.

There is plenty to do and see, and traveling around the region will only make expats feel at home. In this section, we have compiled a list of the best tourist attractions for expat to visit. Without much talk, take a look at the list below and start planning your trip today.

Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was preserved under ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius since it was not fully inhabited at that time. This ancient Roman city is another must-see when in Italy.

Rome, Italy

Rome, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Italy and it is world-famous for its history and culture. Also known as the Eternal City, it has hundreds of monuments, museums galleries to visit. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Vatican City

Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, is an independent city-state of world-renowned where the Pope lives and works. The sheer size of Vatican City makes it one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, was built on the slopes of Mount Tibidabo. It is a melting pot of different cultures, making it an amazing place to visit. The city has an extensive array of famous structures and landmarks throughout its metropolitan area.

Seville, Spain

Seville, another best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is the capital of Andalusia. Often described as “paradise on earth” because of its mild climate and beautiful landscape, it is an excellent place to live. Several festivals take place here throughout the year, which makes it a popular destination for tourists.

Paris, France

Paris, the best tourist attraction for expats in southern Europe, is considered by many to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe and the world. It is home to some of the world’s finest cuisine and wine which makes it an important place to visit when in France.

Monaco

Monaco, one of the best tourist attractions for expats in southern Europe, is an independent city-state that borders France and shares its northern border with Italy. It is known for its famous casino, glamorous atmosphere, and historic royal family; it has also played host to major international conferences and events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Southern Europe

What’s unique about Southern Europe?

Southern Europe is a collection of nations, which are characterized by their distinct culture, history, and language. Some of the most famous nations in Southern Europe include Italy, Spain, and Greece, among many others. There are also many less famous nations, which are still worth mentioning because they offer interesting experiences to the people who come to them.

What should I know before moving to Southern Europe?

Southern European nations are very diverse. It is, therefore, necessary to research the country one will be moving to before making any plans. Researching a country can help one understand its culture and what’s expected of them as residents or tourists.

Where is good for starting a business?

Many nations in Southern Europe provide excellent opportunities for starting up a business. For instance, Portugal is an excellent nation for starting up IT companies because it has one of the fastest internet connections in the world.

Southern European nations are also suitable for people looking to start tech companies because tech-related jobs are very popular due to how common technology is in that part of the world.

Where should I go to find a job?

Southern European nations are full of tourist attractions. It is, therefore, no surprise that there are many businesses related to tourism in the region. People looking for jobs should consider searching for employment opportunities related to their degree or skillset within the tourism sector.

How do people dress in Southern Europe?

Southern European nations have the reputation of being very fashion conscious. This means that what people wear is not dictated by societal norms but by trends and personal preferences. In fact, the latest fashion trends from around the world are commonly found in Southern Europe.

Is it safe living in Southern Europe?

Of course, safety is a key concern when living in Southern Europe. However, for the most part, it is rather safe to live in this region. This makes it a great destination for people who want to live a more peaceful life away from major conflicts and issues in other parts of the world.

Conclusion

Southern Europe is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. The warm weather, history, and culture make it a desirable place to visit for many people worldwide. For those looking to move abroad, this ultimate guide is all you need. Read again to understand the benefits of moving to this part of the world.

Best Cities For Expats In Southern Europe part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

The southern part of the European continent is a popular destination for expats.  This is no wonder as it offers a lot of great opportunities and benefits, especially for those people who love to live in a Mediterranean climate.

Whether you’re looking for better work opportunities, more sunshine, or just a place to settle down and raise a family, you should consider immigrating to Southern Europe. There are many amazing cities in the southern part of Europe, each with its own unique character.

However, we’ve compiled this article not only to explain the best cities for expats in Southern Europe but also to explore the benefits. Have you been surfing the web to get the right information about living in this part of the world? Look no further as we’ve got you covered on this platform.

This list is an attempt to compile some of the best places for expats. If you’re considering making Southern Europe your home, do yourself a favor and visit our list of thirteen amazing Southern European cities that are perfect for living. That being said, the choice is yours, and we encourage you to take a look at all cities on our list, as they’re all worth visiting.

Top 7 Reasons Why Southern Europe is Suitable for Expats

There are many reasons you may want to move abroad, but whatever the case may be, there is always a destination that makes more sense for an expat. If you do not know where to go and you would like to live in a warmer place with a lower cost of living, then Southern Europe is what you might need. Here are the top seven reasons you should consider living in Southern Europe.

Low Cost of Living

Southern Europe is a trendy destination for expats worldwide because it has a lower cost of living when compared to other European countries, which would be a lot more expensive for expats. In Southern European countries, the standard of living is also higher than that of other countries.

Great Climate

Southern Europe has great weather all year, which means that there is one less reason why you shouldn’t consider living in this part of the world. The climate is similar to what you would find in the Caribbean islands and Florida, making it a top choice for expats.

Perfect Location

The locations of the southern European countries make it easy for expats to travel around Europe, and even though it is not such a big continent, if you wanted to go somewhere else, it would be very difficult. Another great thing about living in this part of the world is that since it has such temperate weather, you would not have to worry about extreme cold or heat.

Relaxed Lifestyle

Southern Europe is also different because it offers a relaxed lifestyle for expats who are not exactly fond of big cities or crowded areas. This region has lots of small towns and cities that people can explore, making it an excellent choice for those who are used to a more laidback lifestyle.

Great Travel Destination

The last reason why living in southern Europe would be suitable for expats is because it makes an excellent travel destination for those who are not residing there all year round. The weather is usually pretty good, allowing exploring the beautiful beaches and other great outdoor activities.

Historical Locations

There are also plenty of historical locations that people can visit when living in the southern European countries, which makes it even more appealing to expats who want to explore everything Europe has to offer. The regions might be different from what you are used to, but there is something for everyone here, and it is definitely worth trying out.

Business Opportunities

Business opportunities are definitely something that expats should consider when moving to a new destination. In Southern Europe, there are plenty of business opportunities for those willing to go there. Since this part of the world is doing pretty well right now, it would be an excellent choice for entrepreneurs who want to expand their business.

Best Cities for Expats in Southern Europe

Southern European countries are known for their ‘sunny’ climate and friendly locals. But this region is also home to some of the best cities in Europe for expats, with employment opportunities, quality of life, ease of settling into the country, and overall value. So which is the best? We’ve compiled the thirteen popular cities in southern Europe to help you decide. Without further ado, take a look at it now.

1.    Málaga

This wonderful city located in the south of Spain is one of Europe’s hidden gems and a fantastic place for expats who love spending time outdoors and exploring new places. The mild weather and beautiful beaches, as well as a low cost of living and great opportunities for people who love the seaside lifestyle, should be enough to convince you that Málaga is an excellent choice.

In addition to having a lot to offer to those looking for better work opportunities, the city also offers economic support for startups from other countries. This makes it a perfect place for young expats to start their businesses.

2.    Barcelona

Located in the northeast of Spain, this wonderful city has so much to offer that you can hardly name it all.  One thing is certain – there’s something for everyone here, and it is no wonder why so many people choose Barcelona as their place to settle down. Whether you’re a sun seeker, an outdoor enthusiast, or looking for better work opportunities, Barcelona has it all.

In addition to this, the city offers great public transport and low cost of living, giving people from other countries a chance to really get a feel for the local culture while still being able to afford a comfortable living in this wonderful city by the sea.

3.    Valencia

Located in the east of Spain, Valencia is another great place for expats.  If you’re looking for a sunny climate and lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, then Valencia should definitely be on your list! The mild weather here allows people to spend much more time outdoors, so if you love cycling or hiking, Valencia is perfect for you.

Valencia also offers great work opportunities and its cost of living is much lower than in some other European cities. This makes it a wonderful place for expats who are starting their own business or are looking for better career opportunities.

4.    Ljubljana

Located in the northwest of Slovenia, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most underrated cities.  It has everything to offer for people looking for a beautiful city with great nightlife, amazing food, and culture that will allow them to feel like they’ve stepped into another world.

The capital of Slovenia has one of the most amazing public transport systems in Europe and is known for its low cost of living. This makes it an excellent place to live for expats looking for a comfortable lifestyle while also having access to great education and healthcare opportunities.

5.    Athens

The capital of Greece is a trendy destination among expats from all over the world. This city has it all – great food, friendly locals, and wonderful weather throughout the year (except for summers), which allows you to explore new things and make the most of your time while living here.

Athens is perfect for people who love spending their time outdoors since there are so many incredible places in this city that allow you to go on a different adventure every time. The low cost of living and great work opportunities are also reasons why so many expats choose Athens as their home.

6.    Madrid

Spain’s capital is a wonderful place to live, especially if you’re an expat from the US.  The cost of living here is also very affordable, making it possible for people from other countries to start their own business or invest in one that already exists with minimal risks.

In addition to offering great work opportunities, Madrid also has many places where you can go to spend your free time better. The city has something for everyone, which is why it attracts so many expats from all over the world.

7.    Dublin

Located in the east of Ireland, Dublin has a lot to offer to find a good place to settle down in Europe.    The city’s weather is mild all year round, allowing people to take advantage of the beautiful environment and make the most of their time living in Dublin.

Dublin has excellent public transport and a low cost of living, which makes it a wonderful place for expats who are looking for better career opportunities while also having access to great education and healthcare opportunities.

8.    Nicosia

Located in the south of Cyprus, Nicosia is a wonderful city attracting more and more expats from all over the world every year thanks to its beautiful weather, great food, and very reasonable cost of living.

In addition to this, Nicosia has a vibrant history which makes it an excellent choice for people who are looking for a city with lots of things to do and see. Nicosia is especially great for families thanks to its low crime rate and friendly locals, making it easy for parents to provide their children with the best quality of life that they deserve.

9.    Belgrade

Belgrade is a very beautiful city attracting more and more expats every year with its friendly locals, great nightlife, and low cost of living.   It’s a very dynamic city which offers something for everyone who is looking for a wonderful place to live in Southern Europe.  If you’re looking for an affordable city where you can enjoy a high quality of life, then Belgrade is the place for you.

10. Lago di Garda

Lago di Garda is an incredible place that allows people to enjoy all of Italy’s beauty without having to spend a fortune.  It’s also one of the safest places in Italy, which makes it perfect for families who are looking for comfort and security when they move abroad.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors, then Lago di Garda is perfect for you – there are so many incredible places to explore near the city, and the lake itself offers so much life and beauty. There’s also a variety of delicious food and friendly locals, which makes Lago di Garda an excellent choice for anyone who loves spending their time outdoors as well as those who think that food is the key to happiness.

11. Sarajevo

The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina is an incredible city that offers a world-class quality of life for a very affordable price.  In addition to this, Sarajevo has some of the nicest people you will ever meet, which makes it a great place for expats to live in.

Sarajevo is also an up-and-coming city that has lots of opportunities for expats who are looking to grow professionally while living here. Finally, the low cost of living makes Sarajevo a wonderful place for young families with children since there are so many things to do daily, and everything is so affordable.

12. Rome

Rome may be one of the most expensive cities in Italy, but it still offers residents a very high quality of life.  Expats who live in Rome will enjoy spending their time outdoors since there are lots of great places to visit within a short distance from the city.

Rome also has good work opportunities for people who want higher salaries, so if you’re looking to save money for your retirement while also enjoying a great quality of life in Italy, then Rome is the perfect city for you. The people here are very friendly, and there’s always something going on, making it a wonderful place to live in.

13. Larnaca

Larnaca is another amazing place that deserves a spot on this list since it offers expats the chance to live in Cyprus at a very affordable cost. In addition to that, Larnacians are some of the nicest people you will ever meet, which makes a living here all the more enjoyable.

Moreso, Larnaca has a lively nightlife and excellent weather, which means that you can save money for the future while also enjoying life now. Larnaca is perfect for anyone looking to save money and maintain a high quality of life without compromising on anything.

10 Best Cities for Expats in Eastern Europe

Expats moving to a new location can get an idea of the place through current and expat reviews. One such source of information is the InterNations Expat Insider 2021 survey, which helps people compare cities based on their quality of life and ease of settling in. We take a sneak peek at the best cities to live in Eastern Europe, which made it to the top of the list.

The survey looks at a number of factors: Quality of Life, Ease of Settling in, and Family Life. Additionally, expat Insider also provides an overview of what needs improving and whether people would recommend their city as a good place for others to settle in. Here are the ten best cities in Eastern Europe for expats.

1.    Zagreb, Croatia

The capital city of Croatia, with a population of over 800,000 people, is as welcoming as it is cosmopolitan and has thus made it to the list. In 2021, more than 76 percent of expats said that they enjoyed living in Zagreb.

The city has a lot going for it as far as quality of life goes. But it also lags behind other cities on the list when it comes to ease of settling down and making friends. It ranks considerably higher for family life as well. However, Zagreb’s low crime rate and decent healthcare system make it more attractive to expats.

2.    Budapest, Hungary

Hungary’s vibrant capital is at number two on the list. Over 79 percent of expats rated their quality of life as good in 2021, which was one percent higher than the previous year. Additionally, 70 percent felt that settling in was easy. As for making friends, Budapest ranked pretty high on the list, but over 81 percent termed it as a recommended place to live.

The Ease of Settling in Index assigns Budapest a higher score than Zagreb’s, which had lesser points despite ranking higher on the list. Meanwhile, Budapest’s place on the Quality of Life Index may be due to its low score for amenities.

3.    Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic (with a population of over 1 million people), ranked third on our list. Despite being one of the cheapest places in Europe to live in, expats are still satisfied with their quality of life, which increased by two percentage points.

Prague also ranked higher than other cities on the list when it came to the ease of settling down and making friends. This can be attributed to its high ratings for Fashion & Shopping, Leisure Options as well as Safety & Security—the city ranked number one on the list for this factor.

4.    Bratislava, Slovakia

The capital of Slovakia (with a population of over 583,600 people) is number 2 on the list. Expats are highly satisfied with their quality of life here—79 percent, which is three percentage points higher compared to 2019.

Additionally, 67 percent felt that settling in was easy, while Bratislava ranked good on the list of cities people would recommend. When it comes to family life, however, expats are not quite satisfied with what they offer—the city ranks low. This is despite scoring highly enough for both Costs of Living and Ease of Settling In.

5.    Ljubljana, Slovenia

The capital city of Slovenia, with a population of 275,000 people, was voted as the best place to live in Eastern Europe by expats. It outranked other cities on the list regarding the quality of life and ease of settling down (it ranked number 5 on our list).

Ljubljana is also a recommended place for settling in by 82 percent of expats. Settling down seems easier here as it ranked number 17 while making friends didn’t do so well with its 56th rank on the list. This can be attributed to its low scores for Leisure Options and Nightlife.

6.    Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with over 275,569 people, made it to the list at number six. About 78 percent of expats said that they enjoyed living in Sarajevo—a three percentage point increase from 2019.

It also ranked high on the list regarding ease of settling down. However, expats are not too satisfied with their quality of life. This is because; it ranked 51 out of 65 for this factor.

7.    Belgrade, Serbia

Serbia’s capital city with over 1 million people is number 7 on the list. Over 76 percent of expats said they are satisfied with living in Belgrade. On the other hand, an eight percentage point increases from the previous year. It also ranked highly (at number 16) when it came to ease of settling down.

As for making friends, Belgrade ranked 50th place on the list—the city didn’t do too well as it scored poorly for Leisure options and Nightlife.

8.    Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital of Romania with a population of slightly over 2 million people, is at number 8 on the list. Just over 76 percent said that they are satisfied living here. Meanwhile, a seven percentage point increase from 2019.

It ranked well on ease of settling down (at 22 out of 65) but not so much in terms of quality of life (ranked at 45). This can be attributed to its poorly scored factors for Cost of Living and Safety & Security.

9.    Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria with a population of 1.24 million people, is number 9 on today’s list. Over 75 percent said they are satisfied living here—a six percent increase from 2019.

It ranked low (at 30 out of 65) when it comes to ease of settling down but did better when making friends (at number 31). This is because of its low scores for Leisure Options and Nightlife.

10. Riga, Latvia

Riga, the capital of Latvia with over 614,618 populations, was voted as the 10th best city for expats in Eastern Europe. Fewer than 75 percent are happy living here, making it an 11 percentage point increase from 2019. It ranked low (at 42 out of 65) when it came to settling down and ease of doing so.

Its poorly scored factors can explain this for Leisure Options and the Cost of Living. Also, nearly two-thirds of expats don’t feel safe walking alone at night. Therefore, Riga ranked at 49th place on the list regarding safety and security.

Top 5 Tourists Attractions in Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is a part of the continent that has been more isolated from Western European countries, and it can also be described as a place where modern architecture has not gone through its greatest changes.

People who travel to Eastern Europe prefer visiting historical sights and landmarks to contemporary art galleries and museums. This means; these people want to experience what they see in pictures rather than admire modern architecture. So, read what you will find as the top 5 tourists attractions in Eastern Europe.

Chernobyl – The Ghost Town

Visiting Chernobyl, a ghost town abandoned after the nuclear disaster in 1986, is not for everyone. Even though it’s mostly safe to travel there now, many people don’t want to live downwind from a potential fallout zone. The surrounding area of Pripyat used to be home to over 50,000 people, and tourists can visit this area and see how the nuclear power plant affected the lives of residents.

Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia, and it consists of 16 lakes surrounded by different types of forests. The lakes are connected with small waterfalls and cascades, while their colors change from emerald green through turquoise to azure blue.

Romania: Bran Castle

Several places claim to be Dracula’s medieval castle. However, Bran Castle – which is visited by around 200,000 tourists every year – has a strong case for actually being the home of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula.

Terezin Concentration Camp Memorial

Located in the small town of Terezin, not far from Prague in the north of the Czech Republic, Terezin Concentration Camp was used to house Jews and other prisoners before they were transported to their deaths at Treblinka.

Krakow, Poland

Poland’s second-largest city was almost destroyed during World War II, and it has been restored to its former glory with cobble-stoned streets, Gothic churches, and Renaissance buildings. With so much history painted on each brick of its buildings, Krakow is one of the most visited cities in Eastern Europe.

Conclusion

If you are planning on traveling abroad, it is likely that you will be visiting an eastern European country. These countries have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their affordability and proximity to Western Europe. However, before heading off to these exciting destinations, check our ultimate guide to know what it offers.