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Retire in Bologna, Italy | Expat Exchange
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Bologna, Italy

Retire in Bologna, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 01, 2024

Summary: Bologna, Italy is a popular destination for retirees due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and mild climate. The weather in Bologna is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 37°F (3°C) in the winter to an average high of 79°F (26°C) in the summer. There are several retirement communities in Bologna, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Bologna is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.

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Italian For A While

What is it like to retire in Bologna?

"Retirees in Bologna and its surroundings enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from other countries choosing to settle in the city and its surrounding areas. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the city's many museums, churches, and historic sites. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Bologna is a great place for retirees to enjoy a relaxed and enjoyable lifestyle," said a retiree who moved to Bologna, Italy.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retirees in Bologna recommend researching the cost of living in the area before making the move. They suggest getting to know the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, they advise retirees to take advantage of the city's many cultural and recreational activities to stay active and engaged. Finally, they suggest making connections with other expats in the area to build a social network and get the most out of the experience," explained a retiree in Bologna.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Bologna?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Bologna is the cost of living. The city is known for its high prices, and retirees may find it difficult to make ends meet on a fixed income. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Italian. It can be difficult to navigate the city and access services without a good command of the language. Finally, the climate in Bologna can be difficult to adjust to, with hot summers and cold winters," explained a retiree in Bologna.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Bologna?

"Retiring in Bologna offers a wealth of rewarding experiences. The city is renowned for its vibrant culture, with its many museums, galleries, and theatres providing endless opportunities for exploration. The city is also home to some of the best cuisine in the world, with its many restaurants and cafes offering a variety of delicious dishes. Bologna is also known for its beautiful architecture, with its many churches, palaces, and other historic buildings providing a stunning backdrop for a relaxing retirement. Finally, the city is surrounded by stunning countryside, with its rolling hills and lush vineyards providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life," explained one retiree living in Bologna.

What are healthcare services like in Bologna?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Bologna. They wrote:

"Bologna offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a variety of specialized clinics and medical centers. The public healthcare system is managed by the Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) and provides free or low-cost medical services to residents. Private healthcare services are also available, offering a higher level of care and more specialized treatments. In addition, Bologna has a number of pharmacies, health food stores, and alternative medicine practitioners," explained a retiree in Bologna.

How do I meet people in Bologna?

When we asked people living in Bologna about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Bologna can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to connecting expats living in Bologna. Finally, expats can meet people by simply exploring the city and getting to know the locals," explained one retiree living in Bologna.

"Internations is a good way to meet some international ex-pats, though the majority are Italian and the organization charges a lot and offers little if you are not a paying member. If you are a woman there is also an international organization, IWF, where you can meet other women," said one retiree in living in Bologna, Italy.

What is life like in Bologna?

When we asked people living in Bologna what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Bologna is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to work from. The city is also well-connected with the rest of Italy and Europe, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas. Additionally, the cost of living in Bologna is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad," said one retiree in Bologna.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Bologna?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bologna, they said:

"I would tell them to try it out as it offers a bit of everything. The general population are well educated due to the strong university presence and there is a good mix of Italians from all over. Many come to study and then just stay. There is also a lot of cultural activities, many which are either free or low cost," commented one retiree living in Bologna, Italy.

"Before retiring in Bologna, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other parts of Italy. Expats should also research the healthcare system and the availability of medical services in the area. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, expats should research the local job market and the availability of part-time work, as this may be necessary to supplement their retirement income," explained one retiree living in Bologna.

What type of recreational activities are there in Bologna?

"Bologna is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to a number of parks, including the Giardini Margherita, a large public park with a lake, a botanical garden, and a playground. The Parco della Montagnola is another popular park, with a large lake, a playground, and a variety of sports facilities. For those looking for a more active experience, Bologna has a number of sports facilities, including a number of swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf course. The city also has a number of cultural attractions, such as the National Art Gallery, the National Museum of Music, and the Teatro Comunale. Finally, Bologna is home to a number of shopping centers, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the city," explained one retiree living in Bologna.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Bologna?

"Bologna is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular grocery stores is Coop, which has several locations throughout the city. Coop offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other items. Another popular grocery store is Conad, which also has several locations in Bologna. Conad offers a variety of international and Italian products, as well as a selection of organic and natural foods. For other shopping, expats can visit the Centro Commerciale I Portali, which is a large shopping mall with a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. Additionally, the city center of Bologna is home to many small shops and boutiques, offering unique items and souvenirs," said one member in Bologna.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Bologna, Italy

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