Last week I revealed three of the European winners in this year’s Overseas Retirement Index—this week, let’s look at the next three…
Coming in at #5: Crete, Greece
Crete offers one of the most diverse and appealing retirement lifestyles in the Mediterranean. Greece’s largest island blends sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, dramatic mountains, and millennia of history into a single destination. From lively cities like Chania and Heraklion to quiet villages, olive groves, and pristine wilderness, Crete provides far more variety than most islands, making it easy to find a place that suits your pace and interests.
Chania stands out as the island’s top expat hub, with its Venetian harbor, maze-like Old Town, vibrant café culture, and deep layers of history shaped by Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. Crete’s Mediterranean climate delivers abundant sunshine—among the highest in Europe—along with hot summers and mild winters, perfect for outdoor living year-round.
Life here is affordable by European standards. Rents outside city centers can start around $500 per month, local produce is inexpensive, and meals at traditional tavernas average about $18. Healthcare is high-quality and accessible, with both public and private options and English-speaking doctors in major towns.
With its welcoming locals, strong expat community, rich culture, outdoor adventure, and relaxed European lifestyle, Crete is an excellent choice for retirees seeking sunshine, history, and everyday livability in one unforgettable destination.
Coming in at #4: Gascony, France
Gascony in southwestern France offers a rare opportunity to step into a slower, more grounded way of life—without sacrificing comfort, safety, or affordability. Tucked into southwestern France between Bordeaux and the Pyrenees, this pastoral region is defined by medieval villages, rolling farmland, vibrant local markets, and a pace of life that hasn’t changed in generations. It’s the kind of place where meals are unhurried, neighbors know one another, and daily life revolves around the seasons.
Despite its storybook charm, Gascony remains surprisingly affordable. Rent for a village apartment can come in under $500 a month, while a house with a garden often rents for around $800. Dining out is inexpensive, public transport is reliable, and local markets keep food costs low while delivering exceptional quality. Healthcare is excellent, and once you’re a resident, access to France’s national health system means world-class care with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Gascony is also one of France’s safest regions, with low crime and strong infrastructure. While French is essential and country hours take some adjustment, the rewards are immense. For retirees seeking authenticity, value, and a deeply satisfying European lifestyle, Gascony stands out as one of France’s best-kept secrets.
Coming in at #2: Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve delivers one of the most complete and appealing retirement lifestyles in Europe—sun, sea, safety, and everyday ease wrapped into one beautiful coastal region. Stretching along Portugal’s southern shoreline, the Algarve is defined by golden beaches, dramatic Atlantic cliffs, charming historic towns, and more than 3,000 hours of sunshine each year. Whether you prefer lively coastal hubs like Lagos, Portimão, and Faro or quieter villages such as Tavira, Ferragudo, or Carvoeiro, there’s a lifestyle here to match every taste.
The Algarve is famously welcoming to foreigners. English is widely spoken, the expat community is large and active, and settling in is remarkably straightforward. Healthcare is excellent, with both public and private options offering modern facilities and English-speaking doctors. Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, adding peace of mind to daily life.
While costs have risen, the Algarve remains a strong value compared with much of coastal Europe. Comfortable living is possible on around $3,000 a month, with lower budgets achievable outside premium resort areas. Add world-class golf, endless outdoor recreation, rich culture, and easy access to the rest of Europe, and it’s easy to see why the Algarve remains one of the world’s top retirement destinations.
Bonne route,
Kat Kalashian
Editor, In Focus: Europe
