The Best Countries in Europe for Buying a Second Home
Buying a second home in Europe gives you more than just a vacation spot. It can be a smart way to invest, enjoy new cultures, and have a place to relax whenever you want. Many look beyond their home country to find better value, better weather, or a different pace of life. This guide highlights the best countries in Europe for buying a second home. We will examine each location's property costs, legal details, and lifestyle perks. Whether you're planning for retirement, rental income, or weekend getaways, these options are worth exploring.
What to Consider Before Choosing a CountryBefore choosing a European country for your second home, look beyond just the price tag. Compare the total cost of buying, including legal fees, taxes, and ongoing maintenance. Some countries make it easy for foreigners to buy property, while others have strict rules. Always ask if you'll need a visa or if there's a path to residency. Research how taxes work locally and in your home country, especially if you plan to rent the home.
Think about the lifestyle, too. Do you want busy cities, quiet villages, or coastal views? Access to healthcare, transportation, and daily services can vary. Language may also affect how easy daily life feels. If you're considering moving to Europe full-time in the future, weigh the pros and cons of living here using real experiences. Many people love Europe for its travel options and history, but some find the pace or paperwork frustrating.
Visit during different seasons and talk to locals. That helps you get a real sense of life in the area, not just during holidays. By looking at all these points, you'll make a more informed decision about where in Europe to buy your second home.
Best Countries in Europe for Buying a Second HomeThe best European countries for buying a second home often share key features. They offer stable property laws, a range of prices, and a high quality of life. Many also allow buyers to enjoy warm weather, good food, and strong rental demand. Whether you're looking for a beach town, a quiet village, or a city apartment, you'll find options across the continent.
Portugal – Sunny Weather and Investor PerksPortugal attracts second-home buyers with its warm climate, friendly locals, and appealing property prices. As of March 2025, the median property price is €2,775 per square meter. In Lisbon, prices are higher, averaging €3,644 per square meter, while the Algarve region averages €3,334 per square meter. More affordable options are available in the Centro and Alentejo regions, with average prices of €1,448 and €1,507 per square meter, respectively.
Portugal's Golden Visa program offers residency to non-EU investors, making it attractive for those seeking a second home. English is widely spoken, especially in urban and tourist areas, easing the transition for foreign buyers. The country boasts a high-quality healthcare system and reliable infrastructure. Popular locations for second homes include Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto, each offering unique lifestyles and investment opportunities.
Spain – Great Weather, Low PricesSpain offers an attractive mix of affordability, lifestyle, and rental potential for second-home buyers. As of early 2025, the average property price across the country is €1,905 per square meter. In major cities, prices are higher: Madrid averages €4,030 per square meter, and Barcelona around €3,937 per square meter. Coastal areas like Málaga and Valencia offer competitive options, with Málaga averaging €2,358 per square meter and Valencia around €1,826 per square meter.
Spain's warm climate and diverse regions attract many buyers, from retirees to digital nomads. The country boasts a well-developed infrastructure, including a high-speed rail network and modern healthcare facilities. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, easing the transition for foreign homeowners. Popular regions for second homes include the Costa del Sol, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands, each offering unique lifestyles and investment opportunities.
Italy – Charm, Culture, and ValueItaly offers a wide range of property options for second-home buyers. In 2025 the national average price is around €2,056 per square meter. Milan leads with prices averaging €5,434 per square meter, while Rome follows at €3,124 per square meter. Florence stands at approximately €4,365 per square meter. For more affordable options, consider regions like Calabria, where prices average €951 per square meter.
Italy's appeal extends beyond property prices. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle. Foreign buyers can benefit from various tax incentives, including a flat tax regime for new residents. Additionally, Italy offers a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to reside there.
Popular regions for second homes include Tuscany, known for its picturesque countryside and historic towns. Sicily, offering coastal properties and a Mediterranean climate, and Puglia, famous for its whitewashed villages and olive groves. Each region provides unique opportunities for investment and lifestyle.
France – Strong Infrastructure and LifestyleFrance is one of the best countries in Europe for buying a second home, offering a strong mix of lifestyle, infrastructure, and property variety. As of early 2025, the national average property price is approximately €2,930 per square meter. Paris remains the most expensive market, averaging €9,470 per square meter. In contrast, regions like Brittany and Dordogne offer more affordable options, with prices ranging between €1,500 and €2,500 per square meter.
France's infrastructure supports easy travel, featuring a high-speed rail network and well-connected airports. The public healthcare system ranks among the best globally, providing accessible services to residents. Additionally, France offers various visa options for non-EU buyers, including long-stay visas and residency permits.
Popular regions for second homes include Provence, known for its Mediterranean climate and scenic landscapes; Dordogne, offering historic villages and countryside charm; and Brittany, with its coastal towns and maritime heritage. Each area provides unique opportunities for investment and lifestyle.
Croatia – Coastal Living Without the CrowdsCroatia offers a unique blend of coastal living and affordability for second-home buyers. As of early 2025, the national average property price is approximately €3,468 per square meter. Popular coastal regions like Split-Dalmatia and Istria have higher prices, averaging €3,490 and €3,517 per square meter, respectively. However, inland areas such as Požega-Slavonia and Virovitica-Podravina counties offer more affordable options, with average prices below €1,000 per square meter.
Croatia's appeal extends beyond property prices. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning Adriatic coastlines, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Foreign buyers can benefit from straightforward property purchase procedures and the potential for rental income, especially during the peak tourist season. Popular locations for second homes include Dubrovnik, Split, and the islands of Hvar and Brač, each offering unique experiences and investment opportunities.
Ready to Pick Your Second Home Spot?The best countries in Europe for buying a second home each offer something different. Some give you better prices, others better weather, and some both. Your choice depends on your goals—holiday use, rental income, or future relocation. Focus on local rules, lifestyle, and long-term value. Take your time, compare the pros and cons, and visit before you buy. A smart pick today can bring years of comfort and good returns.
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