Top 10 European Beach Destinations to Call Home, According to Real Estate Experts

Alicante, Spain

Revered as the gateway to Spain’s Costa Blanca, this Mediterranean city provides convenient access to some of the finest beaches in the country, showcases architectural styles that narrate its rich history, and boasts a surprisingly affordable cost of living. 

As reported by Euronews, you can rent an apartment on the outskirts of Alicante for as little as 600 euros per month. Additionally, International Living estimates that daily expenses, including housing and private health insurance, can be covered with less than $2,000 in this city of around 379,000 residents.

Furthermore, Alicante is a favored second-home destination for many residents from the U.K. and northern Europe. It also features a substantial expat community, making it easier for newcomers to adjust to their new surroundings.

Málaga, Spain

Last year, InterNations declared the southern city of Málaga the top destination for expats to live and work globally (with Alicante in second place), scoring highest in work-life balance and overall cost of living, and ranking second in leisure opportunities. 

Málaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol, has a history spanning over 2,000 years (making it one of the oldest cities in the world) and features a stunning historic center, numerous museums, and plenty of beaches. Notably the birthplace of Picasso, the city boasts a lively art scene and hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Valencia, Spain

Boasting over 300 sunny days annually and summer temperatures that typically peak at 85 degrees Fahrenheit and don’t drop below 65 degrees in winter, Valencia is a fantastic destination for those who love warm weather. The city, home to approximately 840,000 residents, offers abundant year-round outdoor activities with over 20 miles of picturesque coastline, numerous parks, cultural landmarks, and dining options (after all, this is the birthplace of paella). 

While Valencia ranked third in InterNations's latest findings (after claiming the top position in 2022), it is recognized for having the best quality of life globally and excels in healthcare affordability.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has become increasingly popular among retirees and digital nomads, thanks to its sunny climate, exceptional dining options, vibrant cultural scene, stunning hilly landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle. The city recently topped a survey on the most affordable monthly rents, with the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment around $1,125.

'However, those who think Lisbon is solely appealing to adults are mistaken; children also enjoy the city, thanks to the variety of events tailored for them and the ample parks and green spaces that offer enjoyable experiences for all ages,' said Paulo Lopes, CEO of Casaiberia Real Estate, in a conversation with Dinogo. He further noted that Lisbon is recognized as a safe city, with Portugal ranking as the seventh safest country worldwide according to the Global Peace Index.

Carvoeiro, Portugal

'The Algarve has gained significant fame for its laid-back lifestyle. Here, residents enjoy an elevated quality of life, as the region combines essential conveniences with the lively charm of larger cities,' noted Lopes regarding Portugal's southernmost region, which attracts visitors, retirees, and digital nomads seeking sun-soaked beaches.

Although the coastline is peppered with resort towns and charming villages, Lopes highlights Carvoeiro for its stunning backdrop of dramatic cliffs, charming whitewashed homes with striking red roofs, and an array of amenities, including premier golf courses and fine dining. The town is particularly famous for its gorgeous main beach, a stretch of golden sand framed by rugged limestone cliffs.

Nice, France

Known for its international airport, prestigious film festival, and some of the finest beaches in Europe, Nice attracts jet-setters and celebrities from around the globe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features museums, parks, quaint neighborhoods, and, notably, the 4.3-mile Promenade des Anglais that stretches along the stunning Baie des Anges.

'When looking to buy an apartment, I suggest selecting a centrally located neighborhood to easily access all that Nice has to offer. Areas like Carré d'Or, Musiciens, the Port, and Wilson are excellent choices,' advised Ulrika Topel, a sales agent at Riviera Keys. 'Nice boasts a diverse range of neighborhoods, with other desirable spots such as Cimiez, Mont Boron, or Fabron, which are slightly further up in the hills and quieter, providing lovely living spaces and breathtaking sea views.'

Split, Croatia

With its stunning islands, rich history, sun-kissed coastline, and budget-friendly living, Croatia has become increasingly attractive to expats. Split, the country's second-largest city after Zagreb, invites residents to explore its charming old town, bask in the beauty of the Adriatic Sea, and savor its diverse array of museums, restaurants, and cafes. The city’s airport offers frequent daily flights to major European destinations.

According to a 2023 report, Split boasts the third-lowest cost of living in Europe, with expats averaging around $1,585 per month for their expenses.

Antibes, France

'Antibes is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of experiences throughout the year. In contrast to the lively party scene of Cannes, Antibes has a more laid-back appeal,' remarked Anders Pettersson, a broker at Riviera Keys.

While Antibes is known for its lively summer atmosphere and prestigious marina, which hosts megayachts during July and August, it also neighbors Sophia Antipolis, a sprawling 2,400-hectare tech hub referred to as Europe’s Silicon Valley, where over 40,000 employees work for 2,500 companies daily.

'For several years, the availability of houses and apartments for sale has been quite limited. However, this trend appears to be shifting, as more sellers are starting to re-enter the market. The pricing situation remains stable, and in comparison to many other European cities, you can still find good value for your money per square meter,' noted Pettersson. 

As reported by the French real estate site SeLoger, the median price per square meter in Antibes in February 2024 stood at 6,060 euros (in contrast, the price in Paris is 9,581 euros, while Lisbon has a median of 4,151 euros).

Stockholm, Sweden

Although the Swedish capital might not immediately evoke images of a beach town, it is actually spread across 14 islands, many featuring sandy shores and swimming spots that attract crowds during the summer.

Långholmen, once a prison island, has transformed into a popular outdoor destination for locals, offering small beaches, cozy coves, and picnic areas. Another favorite among families is Tantobadet, located in Tantolunden Park.

Recently, Stockholm was recognized as one of the best cities globally for work-life balance. Additionally, if you find yourself wanting a change from the city's beaches, you can venture into the expansive Stockholm archipelago, which boasts an astonishing 30,000 islands, islets, and skerries.

Naples, Italy

Who wouldn't want to reside in the city that gave birth to pizza, offering stunning Mediterranean beaches and a rich tapestry of history and culture? With breathtaking hikes to Mount Vesuvius and leisurely boat trips along the Amalfi Coast, relocating to Naples seems like a fantastic choice.

The cost of living and housing in this area is also considerably lower than in major cities such as Milan and Rome, making it a popular choice for expats and retirees alike.