When you picture your golden years, does an image of sipping espresso in a historic Italian piazza come to mind? Many retirees dream of living out their later years in luxury, and Italy offers some of the best retirement opportunities in the world.

Italy’s cities (and even some of its more rural communities) have become highly sought-after retirement destinations, with the country seeing thousands emigrate each year. But for all the incredible benefits that retirement in Italy offers, it’s important to get a balanced view of what to expect.