If you’re looking to spend the gray winter months with blue skies and a slower pace, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Europeans seriously consider the idea of spending their retirement outside their homeland. In the latest 2025 “Retirement Paradise” rankings: Retirement without borders It shows you exactly where those dreams are taking shape.
Now in its 12th year, the study compares countries using 12 practical lifestyle criteria that are most important to retirees: cost of living, property prices, climate, healthcare, gastronomy, safety, infrastructure, accessibility, leisure, environment, cultural life and ease of integration. Public data is combined with reports from retired expatriates who are already settled abroad, providing insights based on everyday reality rather than fancy brochures.
result? A mix of European comfort and exotic adventure, with something for every kind of retiree.
Southern Europe still sets the standard
Portugal once again sits squarely at the top of the 2025 list. For many retirees, this region holds a golden balance. It has more spending power than most parts of Western Europe, while at the same time maintaining a familiar and secure ‘European’ lifestyle. Safe cities, great food, warm winters, and a relaxed pace of life all add to its appeal.
Portugal may not offer the super-cheap prices found in parts of Asia or North Africa, and its public healthcare system is notoriously slow, but overall it continues to offer what most retirees want: comfort, stability, and simplicity.
In second place, Spain remains the obvious choice for those looking to stay geographically close to family. Although the cost of daily living is not dramatically lower than in many European countries, there are still local real estate bargains, especially outside of the big cities. Cultural similarities, modern infrastructure, and a healthcare system roughly on par with France and Germany have helped Spain maintain its popularity.
The bronze medal goes to Greece, which continues to attract retirees with its sunshine, island scenery and laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. As well as its romantic appeal, Greece is also attracting interest thanks to the tax benefits offered to private pensioners. However, learning Greek can be difficult for beginners, especially on small islands where infrastructure such as hospitals and airports may be limited.
Chasing the sun further away
For pensioners ready for more adventures, Thailand ranks fourth and offers a completely different lifestyle. Known for its tropical beaches, rich cultural traditions, and incredibly low cost of living, this country attracts retirees looking to boost their pensions. However, health risks such as dengue fever, unpredictable weather events, and ongoing political concerns prevent Thailand from rising further.
Morocco, in fifth place, ticks a lot of boxes for Europeans. Proximity, French is widely spoken, warm hospitality, mild winters, and favorable taxation. The combination of architectural charm and vibrant culture makes this country a strong attraction. On the downside, the public health system is under-resourced and perceptions shaped by widespread regional instability persist.
Tunisia is right behind them in 6th place. Often referred to as “the quiet treasure of the Maghreb,” Tunisia continues to attract retirees due to its affordable cost of living, sunny climate, French-speaking environment, and proximity to Europe. The biggest hurdles expats cite are administrative bureaucracy and political uncertainty.
Escape from the island and dreams of long distances
Mauritius came in seventh place, maintaining its reputation as a peaceful island with political stability, year-round warm weather and picture-postcard beaches. However, investment restrictions on foreigners purchasing real estate and environmental issues related to coastal erosion remain concerns.
In eighth place is Senegal, which has been praised for offering an immersive cultural experience that is far removed from mass tourism. Retirees are attracted to the peaceful lifestyle, preserved traditions, and beautiful scenery. However, limited infrastructure and security concerns near certain borders have slowed its rise in the rankings.
Bali ranks number 9 and has long been popular with travelers and creative expats. The island is dazzling with active volcanoes, rice terraces, and dramatic sunsets. Known for its low cost of living, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals, this region is attractive to adventurous retirees. But Bali is held back by overtourism, pollution, the risk of volcanoes and earthquakes, and its extreme distance from Europe.
The Dominican Republic is in the top 10. Areas such as Las Terrenas are well known among retirees. Enjoy easy access to European-style services such as clinics, restaurants, and retail stores customized for residents. However, the lack of tax agreements with many countries and vulnerability to hurricanes and earthquakes remain major drawbacks.
There is no perfect paradise – it’s just a personal choice
The 2025 rankings reaffirm the simple truth that there is no single perfect retirement destination. Some retirees prioritize proximity to family, others pursue savings, and many want nothing more than sunshine and peace of mind.
From the reassuring friendliness of Portugal and Spain to the exotic atmosphere of Thailand and Bali, retiring abroad is ultimately a matter of lifestyle suitability. The key is to balance dreams and reality. Access to healthcare, infrastructure, safety and legal stability are all as important as the view from your balcony.
Whether you’re drinking vino verde in the Algarve or watching the sun set over the Caribbean horizon, one thing is for sure: retirement has never offered so many possibilities for Europeans willing to look beyond their borders.
