Who doesn’t fantasise about basking under the Mediterranean sun with a glass of local wine in hand? Are you dreaming of owning your own luxury villa in Europe for vacations and rental income? With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, deciding where to buy can be overwhelming. Keep reading for the inside scoop on the top countries to invest in a high-end vacation home.
Beautiful Italy
Italy simply can’t be beaten for history, culture, food and wine. From charm-filled Tuscany to the chic Amalfi Coast, Italy has something to delight every taste. Expats particularly love central Umbria with its rolling olive groves, hilltop medieval villages and easy access to Rome. For Italian luxury real estate, price your budget around €300,000-€2 million. This will get you a restored farmhouse or elegant palazzo. Just be prepared for higher purchase taxes than other hotspot countries.
Sun-Soaked Spain
Long golden beaches, hilltop towns, and sultry islands make Spain a favourite for seaside villas. Shop northern Costa Brava for whitewashed Catalan houses or wander down south to find a Moorish-inspired retreat. Spain’s purchase process is generally straightforward with fewer taxes. Bank on spending €200,000-€1.5 million for a glamorous villa or swanky beach apartment depending on where you buy. Marbella and Ibiza are perennial jet-set favourites.
Stunning Greek Islands
Greece serves up irresistible island life. From chic Mykonos to lush Corfu, the Greek isles seduce with gorgeous beaches, welcoming tavernas, and rich history. Purchase costs tend to be lower than in western Mediterranean hotspots. However, other fees like notary and taxes do add up. Spend anywhere from €150,000 for a modest home on a lesser-known island up to €2.5 million+ for a sprawling Cycladic villa with an infinity pool leading to the Aegean Sea.
Beautiful France
La belle France woos British buyers south with sun-baked Provence and celebrity-approved St. Tropez. Prices befit the glamour, especially on the Côte d’Azur, where a luxury villa can set you back €5 million plus. Lesser-known Languedoc-Roussillon offers better value — expect to pay €300,000-€600,000. France prides itself on culture, wine, and cuisine, qualities that translate perfectly for upscale villa rentals or extended family holidays.
History-Steeped Portugal
Once a well-kept secret, Portugal now stars as a top international hotspot. Lisbon impresses with its eclectic culture and foodie scene. Head south to find white sandy beaches and a dramatic coastline. Golfers adore the Algarve while surfers gather further west. Portugal offers EU residency incentives plus attractive tax rates for foreign property investors and pensioners. With development ongoing, it’s still possible to find attractive deals. Price tags run €250,000-€1.5 million.
The Finishing Touches
Whichever alluring corner of Europe you pick, buying a vacation home is sure to bring priceless memories. Do your due diligence regarding legalities, taxes, and paperwork to make sure your purchase goes smoothly. Most importantly, find a neighbourhood and property type that suits your family’s vacation style. With so many enchanting possibilities across this continent, you simply can’t go wrong. Enjoy creating magical moments in your very own overseas oasis for generations to come.
