Hidden European Towns Where Life Is Affordable and Rich

The 8 Hidden Towns

1. Villefranche-sur-Mer, France

Tucked between Nice and Monaco on the Côte d’Azur, Villefranche-sur-Mer is a pastel-hued gem offering a quieter take on Riviera glamour. Its sweeping bay, framed by colorful villas, hosts a lively expat community, particularly Americans, who feel at home amid the town’s welcoming vibe. Year-round cultural events, open-air concerts, art exhibitions, and jazz nights in harborside clubs, enliven the cobblestone streets. The hilly terrain requires some fitness, but the walkable center, vibrant café culture, and proximity to Nice’s international airport make it ideal for retirees and remote workers. High-speed internet and private healthcare options ensure modern conveniences.

• Cost of Living: A couple needs ~€2,700 ($3,000 USD) monthly, with two-bedroom rentals starting at €1,300 ($1,450 USD).
• Highlights: Stunning bay views, vibrant arts scene, easy train access to Nice (10 minutes) and Monaco (15 minutes).
• Expat Tip: Join local language classes to connect with residents and enhance integration.

2. Toulon, France

Often eclipsed by glitzy neighbors like Cannes, Toulon is a Mediterranean port city with 300+ days of sunshine and a revitalized historic core. Its waterfront, lined with trendy bistros and markets like Les Halles, buzzes with energy, while Rue des Arts showcases galleries and live performances. The Mourillon beachfront is a retiree haven, with yoga classes, swimming, and wine-soaked evenings at cafés. Toulon’s affordability, 20% cheaper than Nice, makes it a standout, with excellent public transport and nearby hospitals. The city’s naval history and vibrant markets add depth to daily life.

• Cost of Living: ~$2,800/month for a couple, with two-bedroom rentals from $950.
• Highlights: Affordable coastal living, gourmet food hall, proximity to Provence’s vineyards.
• Expat Tip: Explore the weekly Cours Lafayette market for fresh produce and local crafts

3. Esposende, Portugal

Known as Portugal’s birthplace, Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage city where medieval charm meets modern vitality. Cobbled lanes, Gothic churches, and wrought-iron balconies give way to trendy cafés, art galleries, and music festivals. A youthful student population and growing expat community add energy, while lush parks and hiking trails appeal to nature lovers. Just 40 minutes by train from Porto’s international airport, Guimarães offers affordability and connectivity without the tourist crowds of Lisbon. Its blend of history and progress makes it a dynamic yet serene home, ideal for those considering retirement in Portugal.

• Cost of Living: ~$1,800/month for a couple, with one-bedroom rentals from $700.
• Highlights: UNESCO historic center, affordable dining ($10-$15/meal), vibrant cultural scene.
• Expat Tip: Attend the summer Guimarães Jazz Festival for world-class performances.

4. Guimarães, Portugal

Known as Portugal’s birthplace, Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage city where medieval charm meets modern vitality. Cobbled lanes, Gothic churches, and wrought-iron balconies give way to trendy cafés, art galleries, and music festivals. A youthful student population and growing expat community add energy, while lush parks and hiking trails appeal to nature lovers. Just 40 minutes by train from Porto’s international airport, Guimarães offers affordability and connectivity without the tourist crowds of Lisbon. Its blend of history and progress makes it a dynamic yet serene home, ideal for those considering retirement in Portugal.

• Cost of Living: ~$1,800/month for a couple, with one-bedroom rentals from $700.
• Highlights: UNESCO historic center, affordable dining ($10-$15/meal), vibrant cultural scene.
• Expat Tip: Attend the summer Guimarães Jazz Festival for world-class performances.

5. Santo Tirso, Portugal

This riverside town in northern Portugal exudes tranquility, centered around a 10th-century monastery and verdant public gardens. Santo Tirso’s thermal spas, riverside parks, and unique “urban beach” along the River Ave create a peaceful retreat. Retirees and remote workers appreciate the low cost of living and access to a 24-hour hospital, with Porto’s advanced clinics 30 minutes away. While English is limited, the welcoming community eases integration. The town’s serene pace and natural beauty make it ideal for those seeking simplicity.

• Cost of Living: ~$1,900/month for a couple, with furnished one-bedroom rentals ~$925.
• Highlights: Thermal spas, proximity to Porto, affordable healthcare.
• Expat Tip: Relax at the Termas de São Vicente spa for a rejuvenating day.

6. Vila Nova de Famalicão, Portugal

A rising star in northern Portugal, Vila Nova de Famalicão combines modern infrastructure with a youthful, entrepreneurial spirit. Just 20 minutes from Porto by train, it offers excellent connectivity to Lisbon and beyond. The walkable town boasts green spaces, co-working hubs in libraries, and a vibrant cultural scene with festivals and markets. Its middle-class vibe and growing economy make it ideal for families, digital nomads, and retirees. Affordable housing and strong transport links enhance its appeal as a practical yet lively base.

• Cost of Living: ~$2,000/month for a couple, with four-bedroom rentals ~$1,516.
• Highlights: Co-working spaces, excellent train links, family-friendly parks.
• Expat Tip: Explore the weekly feira for artisanal goods and local wines.

7. Litochoro, Greece

Nestled between the Aegean Sea and Mount Olympus, Litochoro is a 7,000-person village blending alpine charm with coastal access. Its cobblestone streets, vibrant tavernas, and proximity to world-class hiking trails draw nature lovers and adventurers. The mild, four-season climate supports outdoor activities year-round, while affordable healthcare (with hospitals in Thessaloniki, an hour away) ensures peace of mind. The small but welcoming expat community fosters connection, making Litochoro a haven for retirees and digital nomads seeking myth and tranquility. To better plan your move, explore the cost of living in Greece and see how affordable life in Litochoro can be.

• Cost of Living: ~$1,600/month for a couple, with two-bedroom rentals $270-$380.
• Highlights: Mount Olympus trails, affordable tavernas ($11-$16/meal), coastal proximity.
• Expat Tip: Hike the Enipeas Trail for stunning views of Mount Olympus.

8. Ascoli Piceno, Italy

Older than Rome, Ascoli Piceno in Italy’s Marche region is a travertine-clad masterpiece of 46,000 residents. Its historic center, with Renaissance piazzas, medieval churches, and artisan studios, feels like stepping into a painting. Expats enjoy flat, walkable streets, a thriving cultural scene with festivals, and the local delicacy olive all’Ascolana (stuffed olives). Top-tier healthcare, Italian language schools, and proximity to Adriatic beaches and the Apennine Mountains add to its allure. The small expat community is tight-knit, making integration seamless.

• Cost of Living: ~$2,000/month for a couple, with two-bedroom rentals $650-$1,200.
• Highlights: Renaissance architecture, year-round festivals, affordable countryside homes (~$200,000).
• Expat Tip: Try olive all’Ascolana at a local trattoria for a true Marche experience.