For some, Europe’s seaside towns are a once-a-year getaway; For others, it’s where they choose to settle permanently. Although the reasons vary – some are digital nomads because their careers allow them to work remotely, others are retirees looking for an exciting new place to spend their golden years – there are many benefits to moving to a European beach destination where strolls along the sand are part of everyday life. Best of all, settling in a seaside community across the pond doesn’t have to break the bank, and it’s often much cheaper than in the United States.
Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best European beach destinations if you’re considering a move – from bustling resorts where you can enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine a year, to equally exciting places rich in culture and history, for those who don’t mind snowy winters and mild summers. The prospect of exploring new cultures and histories can add a thrilling dimension to your relocation journey.
01.Alicante, Spain
Known as the gateway to Spain’s Costa Blanca, this Mediterranean city offers easy access to some of the country’s best beaches, an architectural style that reflects its rich history, and a surprisingly affordable cost of living.
Euronews reports that you can rent an apartment on the outskirts of Alicante for as little as €600 a month. International Living magazine estimates that in this city of about 379,000 people, you can expect to spend no more than $2,000 a day, including housing and private health insurance.
Finally, Alicante is a second home for many British and Northern European residents. Its large expat community makes it easy for newcomers to adapt to their new environment.
02.Málaga, Spain
Last year, the international organization named the southern city of Malaga the best place in the world to live and work for expats (Alicante was second). Malaga ranked first for work-life balance and overall cost of living and second for leisure options.
Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol region, dates back more than 2,000 years (in fact, it is one of the oldest cities in the world) and has a spectacular historic center, museums, and many beaches. The city, also the birthplace of Picasso, has a vibrant arts scene and annually hosts several festivals and cultural events.
03.Valencia, Spain
With more than 300 sunny days per year, average summer temperatures that usually don’t exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and winter temperatures below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, Valencia is an excellent choice for those seeking warmer weather. This city of about 840,000 people offers plenty of outdoor recreation year-round, with more than 20 miles of scenic coastline, parks, cultural and historical monuments, and restaurants (this is, after all, the birthplace of Spanish paella).
While Valencia is ranked third in the international organization’s latest report (it was ranked first in 2022), the city has the best quality of life globally. It is ranked first regarding healthcare affordability.
04.Lisbon, Portugal
The Portuguese capital has soared in popularity among retirees and digital nomads for its sunny weather, fantastic cuisine, rich cultural life, beautiful hilly cityscape, and laid-back lifestyle. Recently, in a survey of the most affordable monthly rents, Lisbon ranked first, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment here at $1,125.
“But anyone who thinks the capital is just an attractive destination for adults is wrong. Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate, told Travel + Leisure magazine: “Children also love Lisbon because of the activities designed for them and the large parks and green spaces spread all over the city. It provides fun moments for people of all ages.” He added that Lisbon is also a safe city. According to the Global Peace Index, Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world.
05.Carvoeiro, Portugal
The Algarve is notorious for its relaxed lifestyle. Here, people can enjoy a higher quality of life because the region offers the best of both worlds—all the conveniences and amenities within a short distance, with the energy and charm of a bustling big city, “said Lopez, adding that Portugal’s southernmost region attracts tourists, retirees, and digital nomads with its sun-filled beaches.
While the coastline is dotted with resort-style towns and villages, Lopez recommends Caveero for its beautiful cliffs, white houses, and bold red roofs. The town also offers a wide variety of amenities, including top-notch golf courses and restaurants. The town is also known for its spectacular main beach, a vast expanse of golden sand nestled between rugged limestone cliffs.
06.Nice, France
With its international airport, world-renowned film festival, and some of Europe’s finest beaches, Nice is a global hotspot frequented by the rich and A-listers. The city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has museums, parks, charming neighborhoods, and, of course, the 4.3-mile-long Promenade des Anges, which runs along the waters of the blue Baie des Anges.
“When buying an apartment, I recommend choosing an area centrally located with easy access to all the sights of Nice. Communities such as carr d ‘or, Musiciens, Port and Wilson are all good choices, “said Ulrika Topel, a sales agent in the Riviera Keys. “Nice has a wide variety of neighborhoods and other popular areas like Cimiez, Mont Boron, or Fabron, whereas this is a bit higher up in the hills and quieter, with great living space and beautiful sea views.”
07.Split, Croatia
With its picturesque islands, historic attractions, sunny coastline and affordable lifestyle, Croatia has become popular among expats in recent years. Split, the second largest city in the country, offers a unique living experience. Residents can stroll the streets of the old town, and be inspired by the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea. The city’s numerous museums, restaurants, and cafes add to its charm. Split Airport offers regular daily flights to and from a number of major European cities.
According to a 2023 report, Split has Europe’s third highest cost of living, with expats spending an average of $1,585 monthly.
08.Antibes, France
“Antibes is a city that thrives all year round, offering a rich experience for all. Unlike the raucous party atmosphere of Cannes, Antibes exudes a more down-to-earth charm, “said Anders Pettersson, an agent based in the Riviera Keys.
While many associate the resort with bustling summer vistas and world-renowned marinas, Antibes is also close to Sofia Antipolis, a 2,400-hectare tech community known as the Silicon Valley of Europe, where more than 40,000 employees from 2,500 companies work every day.
“We have had a limited supply of houses and apartments for sale for several years. However, as sellers gradually return to the market, this trend seems to be starting to change. The price pattern remains stable, and compared to many other European cities, it is still possible to get a lot of accommodation for a price per square meter, “Pettersson said.
According to SeLoger, a French property website, Antibes’s median price per square meter in February 2024 was €6,060 (€9,581 in Paris and €4,151 in Lisbon).
09.Stockholm, Sweden
When you think of a beach town, you don’t think of the Swedish capital. Still, the city is built on 14 islands, many of which have sandy stretches, and the swimming areas are packed during the summer months.
La Holman Island, formerly a prison island, is now a popular destination for outdoor recreation for residents, thanks to its small beaches, coves, and picnic areas. Tantobadet in Tantolunden Park is another place that is particularly popular with families.
Last year, Stockholm was named one of the best cities in the world for work-life balance. If you’re tired of the city’s beaches, you can explore the larger Stockholm Archipelago area, which has up to 30,000 islands, islets, and islets.
10.Naples, Italy
Who wouldn’t want to live in the birthplace of pizza, which boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean and thousands of years of history and culture? Add a hike to nearby Mount Vesuvius and a leisurely boat ride to the Amalfi coast, and moving to Naples sounds like a good idea.
The cost of living and housing here is also much lower than in major cities such as Milan and Rome, attracting many expats and retirees.
