Biella, Italy

Capital City

This is no postcard town. Biella's population of 42,619 is dominated by seniors, who make up nearly 30% of the total. The city's once-thriving wool industry has fallen on hard times, with many local mills shuttering in recent decades. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the town was passed between Savoy, France, and various regional powers over the centuries. On the plus side, Biella sits in the scenic foothills of the Alps, with natural attractions like the Sanctuary of Oropa drawing religious pilgrims. But overall, this former textile hub is best suited for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quiet, affordable corner of northern Italy.