Levanto, Italy

Levanto is a small coastal town in Italy, home to just 5,140 residents. While the 13th-century architecture and seaside setting may seem idyllic, the reality is that bureaucracy is a persistent headache for those looking to settle here. The town's inclusion in the Cinque Terre National Park means navigating a web of regulations, from restricted vehicle access to limited development permissions. And with a third of the population over 65, newcomers may struggle to integrate into the aging community. Still, for those seeking a slice of old-world Italy, complete with quaint piazzas and a centuries-old maritime heritage, Levanto could be the perfect fit.