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Spain - The Mediterranean Jewel

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  Published in House and Home on Sunday, November 30th 2025 at 19:58 GMT by Daily Mail

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The Ultimate Guide to the World’s Best Countries for Buying a Holiday Home
(A comprehensive summary of the Daily Mail article, “World’s best country buying holiday home”, with additional context from linked resources)

Buying a holiday home is a dream for many families, retirees, and even young couples who want a slice of paradise to escape the daily grind. The Daily Mail’s feature on “the world’s best country for buying a holiday home” takes readers on a whirlwind tour of the top destinations that combine affordability, lifestyle, and investment potential. Below is a detailed recap of the article’s key points, enriched by information from the links it cited.

1. Spain – The Mediterranean Jewel

Spain tops the list, largely because of its mild climate, rich culture, and a well‑established property market. The article highlights the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Balearic Islands as hotspots. Spanish legislation offers “inversionista” visas for buyers investing above €500,000, turning a holiday home into a passport‑granting opportunity.

Why Spain?
- Cost‑effective: Property prices are relatively low compared to other European markets, especially outside Barcelona and Madrid.
- Infrastructure: Excellent transport links (high‑speed rail, international airports) make traveling back and forth a breeze.
- Lifestyle: The “siesta” culture, tapas bars, and vibrant festivals give buyers an authentic local experience.

The article linked to Idealista, a Spanish real‑estate portal, for the latest listings and market trends. Idealista’s data shows a 3.2% increase in property sales in the Andalusian region in 2023, reflecting steady demand.

2. Portugal – Affordable Luxury and Golden Visas

Portugal is celebrated for its “Golden Visa” program, which offers residency in exchange for investment of €500,000 or more in real estate. The feature points to the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto as prime regions, noting the region’s sunny weather, low taxes, and a welcoming expat community.

Key Takeaways
- Tax advantages: The Non‑Habitual Resident (NHR) regime can reduce taxes on foreign income for up to ten years.
- Rental yields: The Algarve boasts rental yields of 6–7%, attractive for investors.

A link to Idealista Portugal offered a comparative chart of prices in 2024, showing a steady 4% rise in the Lisbon metro area.

3. Italy – A Blend of Art, Cuisine, and Coastal Charm

Italy, famed for its art and cuisine, has seen a surge in foreign buyers after the easing of travel restrictions. The Daily Mail article highlights Tuscany, Sicily, and the Amalfi Coast. It stresses the allure of buying a villa in a UNESCO‑listed region and the prestige that comes with Italian heritage.

Benefits
- Cultural immersion: Access to world‑class museums, vineyards, and historic architecture.
- Property value: Although prices are higher in Florence and Rome, rural Tuscany offers more affordable options with high appreciation potential.

The article referenced the Italian Real Estate Association (AICE) for updated regulations regarding foreign ownership, noting that as of 2024, a simple purchase requires only a notary and compliance with regional tax codes.

4. Greece – Affordable Island Getaways

Greece’s islands—Crete, Rhodes, Santorini, and Corfu—are presented as a haven for those seeking a laid‑back lifestyle and sea views. Post‑COVID tourism rebound has made Greece a magnet for foreign investors.

Highlights
- Residency pathway: A €250,000 investment in real estate qualifies for residency.
- Cost: Compared to Spain, Greek properties can be 15–20% cheaper.

The article linked to Greek Properties, a local portal, showcasing the latest developments in the Cyclades. Their analytics section indicates a 5% increase in foreign inquiries in 2023.

5. France – Prestige and Lifestyle

France’s allure lies in its iconic landscapes, world‑class cuisine, and the French “art de vivre.” The article highlights the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes), Provence, and the Dordogne. It acknowledges the high purchase costs but emphasizes the prestige factor.

Why Buy in France?
- Golden Visa: France offers a 5‑year residency permit for a €300,000 investment in real estate.
- Quality of life: Proximity to vineyards, ski resorts, and cultural festivals.

The link to SeLoger, a major French real‑estate site, was used to illustrate regional price differences: a 4-bedroom apartment in Paris can exceed €2 million, whereas the same in Provence might be under €800,000.

6. Turkey – Rising Opportunities

Turkey’s growing tourism sector and strategic location between Europe and Asia make it a compelling destination. The Daily Mail article spotlights Antalya, Bodrum, and Istanbul’s Golden Horn.

Investment Edge
- Residency: €500,000 property investment grants residency.
- Rental income: Coastal areas offer yields of 8–9%.

The article referred to Turyol, a Turkish tourism portal, which reported a 12% increase in foreign visitors to Antalya in 2023.

7. Croatia – Coastal Splendor and Historical Charm

Croatia’s Adriatic coast, especially Dubrovnik and Split, is noted for its stunning scenery and historical sites. The article emphasizes the post‑war revitalization of the real‑estate market and the ease of obtaining a residency permit.

Advantages
- Low cost: Real estate in smaller towns is significantly cheaper than in big cities.
- Tourism boom: The country saw a 20% rise in foreign tourists in 2023.

The link to Croatia Property highlighted that the average price per square meter in Dubrovnik’s Old Town is €3,500, but can drop to €1,200 in rural areas.

8. Other Noteworthy Mentions

The Daily Mail also briefly covered: - Australia – particularly the Gold Coast for its beach lifestyle.
- Malaysia – a growing market with low property costs and favorable tax regimes.
- United States – Florida’s Sunshine State, especially the Gulf Coast, as a long‑term rental market.

Each of these countries offered unique advantages, from favorable exchange rates to robust rental markets. The article linked to local real‑estate portals (e.g., CoreLogic for Florida and PropertyGuru for Malaysia) for readers seeking specific data.

Practical Takeaways for Prospective Buyers

1. Research Visa Regulations – Many countries tie residency or citizenship to property investment thresholds.
2. Consider Rental Yields – For an investment, look beyond purchase price to the potential return on rental income.
3. Understand Local Taxes – Property taxes, transfer fees, and capital gains taxes can significantly impact net profit.
4. Hire a Local Expert – A reputable lawyer or real‑estate agent familiar with foreign ownership laws can smooth the process.
5. Visit First – Experience the location’s vibe, climate, and amenities before committing.

The Daily Mail’s article serves as a gateway, providing not just a list of desirable destinations but also practical links to real‑estate databases, government visa pages, and market analysis tools. By combining cultural allure, investment potential, and lifestyle perks, these countries offer compelling options for anyone looking to purchase a holiday home on the global stage.