Choosing where to spend your retirement is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your well-being and quality of life. Spain, with its favourable climate and rich cultural diversity, presents many ideal destinations for this new chapter.
According to the Live and Invest Overseas portal, one city shines above the others, offering an exceptional balance of quality of life, delicious cuisine and an enviable climate. Discover which city is the best in Spain for retirement.
What is the best Spanish city to retire in?
After evaluating various factors such as cost of living, quality of health services, accessibility and leisure and cultural options, the Live and Invest Overseas portal claims that Valencia is the best Spanish city for retirement.
Located on the east coast of Spain, the city offers an idyllic Mediterranean climate and a modern and efficient infrastructure that guarantees a high quality of life for retirees. In addition, its easy access to historical heritage, beaches and nearby tourist attractions make it a very interesting place for this stage of life.
City life: a Mediterranean atmosphere
Living in Valencia means enjoying a warm and welcoming atmosphere, thanks to its Mediterranean climate that encourages outdoor living nearly year-round. Renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and beautiful beaches, Valencia offers an exceptional quality of life that’s hard to match. For retirees, the city presents an ideal setting with its affordable cost of living and a wide array of services and activities tailored to their needs.
Retirees in Valencia benefit from a top-notch healthcare system, featuring well-equipped hospitals and a healthcare network that is considered a benchmark in Spain. Additionally, the city provides numerous opportunities for staying active and socialising, from university courses to clubs and recreational activities specifically designed for seniors. The locals’ hospitality further enhances the experience of living in Valencia, making it a rewarding place for retirees.
Tourist destinations near the city
Around Valencia, retirees and tourists can discover a variety of captivating destinations that enhance any travel or living experience. Just a few kilometres away, the Albufera offers a stunning natural setting perfect for boat trips and birdwatching. Meanwhile, cities like Sagunto, with its rich historical heritage and Roman theatre, provide an unforgettable cultural journey without straying far from Valencia.
Gandía, a little over an hour's drive away, is a coastal town renowned for its expansive golden sandy beaches and peaceful atmosphere outside the high season. Benidorm is another popular choice for retirees, known for its leisure facilities and sunny climate for much of the year. While famous for its vibrant nightlife, Benidorm also offers a relaxed atmosphere for seniors, featuring accessible beaches and tailored services.
Other Spanish cities to retire in
In addition to Valencia, several other cities in Spain are considered ideal destinations for a fulfilling retirement. These locations stand out for their quality of life, infrastructure and services tailored to the needs of retirees.
Zaragoza is among the recommended cities, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other large Spanish cities and boasts excellent healthcare services alongside a wide array of cultural and recreational activities.
Bilbao, located in northern Spain, is another attractive option. Despite its cooler climate, it captivates with its vibrant cultural scene, renowned gastronomy and the warmth of its residents, as well as a high level of public safety.
Málaga, on the southern coast, is also worth mentioning. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it enjoys an enviable climate and has experienced significant cultural transformation over the last decade, making it a desirable place for retirees.
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