Peniche, Portugal

With a population of just 27,753, Peniche is hardly the bustling metropolis some expats may dream of. This sleepy seaside town on Portugal's central coast offers a slow-paced lifestyle, though the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. Despite its idyllic beaches and scenic harbor, the climate is surprisingly mild year-round, more akin to San Francisco than the Algarve. Peniche's economy relies heavily on fishing and tourism, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quieter, coastal existence - but not for the urban-minded.