Top 9 Cities Most Suitable for Retirees to Travel: Australia Takes 3 Spots

In the prime of life, there is no need to work nine to five, one can live a leisurely life and travel can become routine. So, which cities around the world are most suitable for retired travelers or expats? A new survey has identified a standout country.

Travel insurance website “Paying Too Much” examined popular cities around the world, comparing factors such as hotel quality, healthcare quality, off-peak tourism activities, number of walking trails, and leisure activities to help retirees find the best places to spend their golden years.

Topping the list is Melbourne, Australia! This city boasts comfortable hotels, numerous walking trails, rich city tours, and plenty of leisure activities, offering almost everything retirees might need.

Sydney and Brisbane in Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand, also made it to the top ranks — evidently, Oceania countries are a preferred choice for retirees’ vacations.

Here are the top 9 out of the top ten global destinations for retirees’ travel selected by “Paying Too Much”, with details referenced from Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

Melbourne has excellent infrastructure, a remarkable number of activities, and three to five-star hotels, all at relatively lower prices, averaging only $1,092 per week.

With over 15% of its population aged 60 and above, Melbourne offers 40 off-peak travel options tailored for retirees.

Not only suitable for young travelers, this city is also ideal for retirees. While it may have fewer leisure activities compared to Melbourne, the number of off-peak activities is almost double.

Popular tour activities include tasting food from all nearby wine regions and exploring local cuisine.

“Paying Too Much” conducted research on 361 off-peak travel routes designed specifically for seniors aged 60 and above.

From the Berlin Wall Memorial to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, Berlin is filled with museums, galleries, and historical sites.

The hotel ambiance here is quite impressive, but it comes at a slightly higher cost, with the off-peak average weekly expense being £2,444.

Auckland, the major city of New Zealand’s North Island, is the most affordable city in the top ten, with an average weekly accommodation price of $1,044 off-peak.

The city boasts 310 walking trails, allowing for ample time for pleasant strolls, and also features wonderful art and cultural landscapes.

Brisbane is undeniably one of the best travel destinations for ocean lovers. With the Gold Coast nearby and modern infrastructure in the city center making life more convenient, the only downside may be the somewhat hot climate.

Finland recently reclaimed the top spot as the world’s happiest country. The capital city of Helsinki has 146 walking trails.

Norway is renowned for its world-class healthcare and, similar to Finland, the residents of Norway also report high levels of happiness. The hotel environment here is very stylish, featuring breathtaking fjords, and further up north, one can witness the majestic Northern scenery.

The iconic Oktoberfest celebration in fall is world-famous.