Italy at a Glance
Moving to Italy
Italy's historical and architectural heritage delights both tourists and expats.
If you have always wanted to live la dolce vita, it is time you pack your bags and start planning your move to Italy. The boot-shaped country is full of spirited people, sun, good wine, and, of course, pasta! But that is not all you will encounter when you move to Italy. Due to the country’s 7,600 kilometers of coastline, it is no wonder that a lot of expats and emigrants consider moving to Italy.
With its more than sixty million inhabitants, Italy is the 6th most populous country in Europe. The preferred places among expats moving to Italy include the largest Italian islands, Sardinia and Sicily. The local weather is mostly sunny and warm, making them the number one choice for elderly citizens who move to Italy to retire.
The islands are not the only areas foreigners moving to Italy choose as their new home: The mainland also offers many great cities and beautiful regions that are well worth considering for your move to Italy.
Moving to Italy: General Information
La repubblica italiana has a very turbulent and ancient history, going all the way back to the Roman Empire. Those moving to Italy will appreciate this rich cultural heritage, which can be found even in the smallest of country towns.
If you are thinking about moving to Italy, remember that Italian is the official language. What expats may not know, though, is that German, French and Slovenian are also recognized as official languages in the northeastern region of Trento, the northwestern area of Valle d’Aosta, and along the Slovenian border respectively.
Therefore, if you are not fluent in Italian, but one of the other official languages, you may want to consider moving to Italy’s bilingual regions. It is very important to many Italians that anyone who wants to move to Italy at least tries to speak their language. They might consider it a sign of disrespect if you assume they should speak English with you.
Move to Italy: National Pride
Before moving to Italy and making it your new home, you should be aware that Italians are very proud of their country, their customs, and their food. Therefore, if you plan to move to Italy, avoid criticizing any of these aspects of life in this Mediterranean country, at least in the beginning.
This is not to say that moving to Italy should be reconsidered. Quite on the contrary: foreigners moving to Italy are often so happy there they may never return to their country of origin.
Moving to Italy: Climate
Italy’s climate is very diverse and, contrary to popular belief, it is not always sunny and hot. In the Alps, the longest mountain range in Italy, a mid-European climate will bring lots of rain. Along the Po River, hot humid summers and cold foggy winters prevail, with much precipitation in spring and autumn.
The middle of the country boasts a Mediterranean climate while southern Italy and the islands have hot dry summers and mild winters. Italy’s quality of life index, which ranks among the top ten in the world, does not even include the climate, although the latter may be another incentive for moving to Italy.
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