Piemonte · Novara · Italy
Novara
Piedmont town features rich history, culinary traditions, excellent healthcare, and a strong transport network.
At a glance
About Novara
Novara, located in the Piedmont region of Italy, is gaining popularity among expats and retirees looking for a lively yet manageable lifestyle. Renowned for its rich history and culinary traditions, the city features key attractions such as the Basilica di San Gaudenzio and the charming landscape of the nearby countryside, celebrated for its wines. The vibrant local culture is highlighted by numerous festivals and events that promote a sense of community and connection among the residents.
A significant advantage of Novara is its outstanding public healthcare system, bolstered by private medical facilities, guaranteeing high-quality care. The city enjoys strong transport links, making it easy to explore the beautiful Piedmont region. Although Novara offers appealing amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, expats may experience climatic variability or face cultural adjustments if they are coming from more urbanized areas. All in all, Novara presents a harmonious mix of city convenience and rich regional customs.
✓ Pros for expats
– High-quality healthcare services accessible to residents.
– Excellent air quality contributing to a healthier living environment.
– Low unemployment rate reflecting a stable economy.
– Well-connected transportation options facilitating easy travel.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to discover.
– Numerous opportunities for community integration and social interaction.
– Moderate climate with mild winters and warm summers.
– Strong infrastructure supporting everyday convenience and accessibility.
– Quiet environment due to low tourist traffic.
– Reliable internet connectivity for remote work and leisure.
! Things to consider
– Limited nightlife options for those in search of vibrant entertainment.
– Smaller expat community may feel isolating for some newcomers.
– Language barrier could complicate daily interactions and services.
– Less variety in shopping and dining compared to larger cities.
– Limited cultural events compared to major tourist destinations.
– Reduced public transport frequency outside peak hours.
– Occasional bureaucratic challenges can delay relocation processes.
– Some may perceive the pace of life as too slow.
– Weather can be humid during peak summer months.
– Occasional flooding risks due to proximity to rice fields.
Where is Novara
Getting there
Novara is conveniently connected, located near major routes such as the A4 motorway, making access to Milan and Turin easy. The town features two train stations that provide frequent services, enhancing its rail connectivity. Its closeness to Malpensa and Linate airports further enhances accessibility for both domestic and international travel.
Housing & cost of living
Estimated cost of an 80 m² home: €117,280
Housing availability: High
Cost of living
Novara presents a balanced cost of living relative to its strong economic performance, marked by low unemployment and a favorable income-to-expense ratio. Housing prices are reasonable, especially compared to larger Italian cities, allowing potential residents or investors to find good value. The local economic climate appears sustainable, promising opportunities for stability and growth. Overall, Novara stands out as an attractive option for those looking to settle or invest, achieving an affordability rating that is favorable against a backdrop of economic vitality.
Climate & weather
Somewhat Low (21st-30th percentile)
Above Average (51st-60th percentile)
High (71st-80th percentile)
Average (41st-50th percentile)
Novara has a climate that features distinct seasonal variations. Winters are moderately cold, with occasional light snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape without extreme conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor activities and immersing oneself in local culture. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, providing plenty of chances for community events or tranquil moments in its numerous public squares and parks. Rainfall is evenly spread across the year, supporting the lush agricultural scenery around Novara, yet it is not excessive enough to disrupt daily routines. In summary, Novara provides a comfortable climate suitable for a peaceful and engaging lifestyle for expats and retirees.
Air quality & environment
Air quality rating: ★★★★★
In Novara, Italy, the air quality reflects a composition that aligns well with expectations for tranquil living, which is beneficial for both expats and retirees. The atmosphere is primarily characterized by moderate levels of particulate matter, ensuring a generally healthy aire for daily activities and leisurely pursuits. This balance is further bolstered by effective control over gases like nitrogen and sulphur dioxide, contributing to an overall air quality that supports outdoor activities. Residents in Novara enjoy an environment that is relatively free of pollutants, favoring those who prioritize a cleaner living space. This atmosphere creates a favorable backdrop for an active yet peaceful lifestyle.
Healthcare & safety
Road accidents: 14.0 per 10k inhabitants.
ASL Novara oversees healthcare in Novara province, encompassing Borgomanero and the lower Lake Maggiore. It has a composite score of 42/100, placing it in the bottom quartile nationally. Emergency response is a particular weakness (35), with significantly poor outcomes for STEMI heart attacks. The province finds itself in a challenging middle ground between the Milan and Turin metropolitan hospital systems, which has resulted in a lack of prioritization in data collection from either system.
Internet & connectivity
Transport & proximity
✈️ Airports
| Airport | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Malpensa (Milan) | 31 min | 10 |
| Linate (Milan) | 43 min | 7 |
| Torino Airport (Turin) | 50 min | 7 |
🚂 Rail stations
| Station | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Novara | 8 min | 9 |
| Novara Nord | 8 min | 6 |
| Galliate | 15 min | 6 |
What's nearby
Life in Novara
Neighbourhoods
– Centro Storico: The historic center features prominent architectural landmarks, government buildings, and serves as a hub of local commerce.
– Bicocca: Known for its residential neighborhoods, it also includes local shops and essential services.
– Lumellogno: Characterized by rural scenery, it is primarily a residential area with agricultural activities.
– Olengo: A smaller suburban locality with residential zones and community amenities.
– Pernate: Offers a blend of urban and industrial developments while maintaining community spaces.
– Sant’Agabio: Primarily a residential area with some commercial establishments, fostering a local community feel.
– Torrion Quartara: A suburban district featuring residential properties and local service facilities.
– Veveri: Comprises residential estates and is distinguished by its well-planned infrastructure.
– Vignale: Recognized for its residential nature and proximity to open natural areas.
Local cuisine
The culinary offerings in Novara showcase a blend of local traditions and international influences. Signature dishes include Paniscia, a rice dish that exemplifies local quality, Risotto made with regional ingredients like gorgonzola, and distinctive items such as Tapulone, a donkey meat dish prepared in red wine. The gastronomy also highlights Càsoeûla Novarese, a hearty meat and cabbage dish, along with a variety of pastries like rice biscuits and peaches filled with macaroons. The city features a handful of notable international dining establishments, reflecting its diverse culinary scene. Particularly noteworthy is the presence of Michelin-starred restaurants, including Cannavacciuolo Cafè & Bistrot, recognized for its culinary excellence and inventive dishes that enhance the local dining experience.
Where to shop
The shopping environment consists of supermarkets, boutiques, and large shopping centres. Key locations include farmers’ markets, gift and specialty shops, as well as flea and street markets. Notable retail spaces feature both local and international brands, offering a variety of categories such as clothing, accessories, and groceries, catering to diverse consumer needs. Additionally, modern malls enrich the shopping experience, providing numerous options in one location.
Green areas & parks
In Novara, Piemonte, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Grignasco – Grotte di Ara trail, providing a scenic walking path suitable for various fitness levels. The region also features trails and nature areas associated with Monte Rosa and verdant rice fields. Lake Orta, a favored spot in the province, offers water-based activities and hiking opportunities along its shores. These natural attractions present a range of outdoor pursuits, from hiking and biking to wildlife observation, appealing to retirees and expats seeking recreation within Novara’s beautiful landscapes without straying far from urban conveniences.
Education
People & tourism
Annual tourists (2023): 66,161