Everyone dreams of moving to Italy, but after 20 years here, I can tell you—it’s not all wine, pasta, and sunsets. Life in Italy as an expat has its perks: the slower pace, strong community, incredible regional diversity, and daily espresso rituals. But it also comes with challenges—bureaucracy that feels stuck in the ’80s, high taxes, rising costs of living, and cultural differences that take time to understand. From navigating the infamous paperwork at restaurants to realizing that social circles are tighter than you’d expect, moving to Italy isn’t as simple as just packing your bags.
That said, it’s never been easier to make the leap. With new digital nomad visa options, remote work flexibility, and online expat communities, settling in Italy today is more accessible than ever. I break down the biggest misconceptions, culture shocks, and what I wish I knew before moving here.
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15 Comments
The Truth About Moving Abroad (It’s Not What You Think) https://youtu.be/pbYOIH_nbKM&list=PLQlzzn3uLh_YHtZXflCIveQbYlVUWITLm&index=3
It must be hard talking with only one arm but you seem to be a master. BTW, great video series on Italy, currently watching all of yours in anticipation of my visit. Thanks for all the insights.
Buongiorno Gregor, mi sembra strano che non hai avuto modo di fare amicizia?? Nel centro/ sud sono molto amichevoli ; chiaro che devi esserci con una certa continuità. Ciao un caro saluto. ❤
Great video. Always wanted to work abroad and Italy appeals to me for its culture and lifestyle (although working and living abroad won’t be without its hiccups). I guess I have a good opportunity just now as I work remotely. 😀👍 🇮🇹
Help me
Hi Gregor, I love your Italy videos! I visited Italy years ago as a broke college student. I visited Rome, Florence and Venice but also visited Pisa and Cinque Terre. I'm thankful I traveled to Italy before social media, there's something special about that period of time. Now, decades later, I've started learning the language. Even as an intermediate speaker, I feel like more of an insider. I love revisiting Italy through your videos, thank you for all the great local insight.
Gregor, have you ever out out a where to stay when visiting Rome guide? We are heading there this summer and thought you would have some good points on which neighborhood to stay in. Thank you
"… he might have upset, well, he did upset a few people." 😂Since the last time I commented I have been in Italy! I spent one week in Rome in January. It was my first visit to Rome since I spent three days there during an Interrail-trip many years ago. I did most of what I had planned, but of course there is more to see and do, so I need to go back!
congrats!
Gregor 👍👍👍
I miss the morning espresso and watching the world go by.. We are returning next year.
Where would a person find a reputable agent to help with the process to move to Italy? Especially if you have kids.
I would certainly appreciate a video outlining the general Italian tax and health insurance structure. Yes, I know you’re not a tax specialist, but I believe you are one of the most qualified YouTube contributors to provide some general guidance on the matter. Also, is moving to Italy any easier for someone from another EU country (Ireland)? Many thanks.
Thank you for your fun and inspiring videos. Planning our move to Italy! Who knows, we might cross paths someday, would love that!!
I lived 21years in Brasil so can relate so much to that…