Popular International Destinations for Buying a Vacation Home

2 September 2025

So, you’ve got this dream – one where you're sipping piña coladas by the beach or breathing in crisp mountain air without a care in the world. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, you're not alone. More and more people are packing up their daydreams and turning them into reality by investing in vacation homes abroad. Whether you're chasing sunshine, culture, or just a great Airbnb investment—you’ve got options, lots of them.

From tropical islands to cobblestone-paved European towns, the world is literally your oyster. In this guide, we’re diving into the quirkiest, coolest, and most popular international destinations for buying a vacation home. Get cozy, maybe grab a snack—this is going to be a fun ride.

Why Buy a Vacation Home Abroad?

Let’s pause for a sec. Why go international at all? Can’t you just buy a cabin in the woods or a beach shack in Florida?

Sure, you could. But buying abroad comes with perks that are hard to resist:

- Cheaper property prices compared to domestic vacation hotspots.
- Rental income potential from tourists year-round.
- Cultural enrichment—because, yes, food tastes better when you order it in the native language.
- Escape plan unlocked—your own private haven when you need to get away.

Okay, now that we’ve justified your future impulse buy, let’s see where you should set your sights.

1. Algarve, Portugal – Sun, Surf, and Sangria

Let’s start with a fan favorite: Portugal’s Algarve region. It’s like the Amalfi Coast but without the price tag and the crowds.

Why It Rocks:

- 300+ days of sunshine a year. That's practically solar-powered happiness.
- Stunning beaches with jaw-dropping cliffs and turquoise waters.
- English is widely spoken, and the expat community is thriving.
- The golden visa program makes buying property more attractive than a bottomless mimosa brunch.

Property Vibes:

Think whitewashed villas with infinity pools and ocean views that make you rethink your whole life. Prices vary, but you can snag something dreamy starting at around $250,000.

2. Medellín, Colombia – The "City of Eternal Spring"

Wait—Colombia? Yes, and hear me out…

Medellín has shaken off its past and is now one of the most innovative and livable cities in South America.

Why It’s Buzzing:

- Incredibly affordable real estate with luxury perks.
- Consistently pleasant weather (70s F year-round!)—Mother Nature showing off.
- A vibrant culture, killer cuisine, and buzzing nightlife.
- Strong digital nomad and expat community.

Property Vibes:

Modern condos with mountain views, rooftop pools, and prices that make your jaw drop—in a good way. You can find solid options around $150,000.

3. Bali, Indonesia – Spiritual Paradise with Investment Gold

If you’ve never considered owning a slice of tropical heaven, Bali will change your mind at hello.

Why It’s Lit:

- Cost of living is wildly low (I’m talking $2 smoothie bowls, people).
- High rental returns from yoga tourists, honeymooners, and influencers.
- Epic beaches one day, lush rice fields the next. It’s like living in a postcard.
- An ideal place to unplug or start that book you’ve been talking about.

Property Vibes:

You’ll find everything from jungle villas with infinity pools to beachside bungalows. Just remember—foreigners can't technically “own” land in Indonesia, so you'll either lease (up to 80 years!) or go through a local company structure.

4. Tuscany, Italy – Under the Tuscan Sun IRL

Okay, okay—this one’s a bit dreamy (and a tiny bit cliché), but we couldn’t leave Tuscany off the list.

Why It’s So Romantic:

- Rolling hills, vineyards, and gelato on every corner.
- Rich history, cobblestone towns, and architecture that makes your Instagram pop.
- Italy’s renovation incentives make fixer-uppers more appealing (some even sell for €1!).

Property Vibes:

Rustic farmhouses, historic townhouses, or vineyard-view villas—whatever your taste, Tuscany delivers big vibes. Prepare to spend about $250,000–$500,000+ depending on the spot.

5. Tulum, Mexico – Boho Chic Meets Beachside Bliss

Tulum is where beach bums meet bohemian influencers. This trendy Yucatán Peninsula town is a magnet for eco-conscious travelers and savvy investors.

Why Everyone's Obsessed:

- Epic beaches + Mayan ruins = Insta-worthy paradise.
- Airbnb-friendly laws make vacation rentals easy and profitable.
- A thriving digital nomad population and hipster cafes out the wazoo.
- You can live like royalty with a moderate budget.

Property Vibes:

From modern condos in gated communities to off-grid jungle huts with solar power, Tulum serves all kinds of vacation fantasy aesthetics. Starting prices hover around $180,000.

6. Split, Croatia – Game of Thrones Vibes with Adriatic Blues

Surprise! Croatia is stealing hearts and euros, and Split is leading the charge.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem:

- Gorgeous coastline without the sticker shock of Italy or France.
- Medieval architecture that transports you to GOT territory.
- Affordable yet high-quality lifestyle.
- Excellent rental potential in tourist seasons.

Property Vibes:

Stone homes with sea views? Yes, please. Prices are rising, but you can still find good deals around $200,000–$300,000.

7. Chiang Mai, Thailand – Cultural Charm Meets Budget Living

If your dream home includes nightly street food and temples around the corner, Thailand’s Chiang Mai is calling your name.

Why It’s a Winner:

- Hugely affordable real estate and cost of living.
- Rich cultural scene, from Buddhist temples to buzzing night markets.
- Medical tourism haven, so you'll never be far from top-tier healthcare.
- Well-connected airport and travel access throughout Southeast Asia.

Property Vibes:

Condominiums in the city center go for as little as $50,000–$100,000. You won’t get beachfront, but you’ll get mountain views and a killer night bazaar five minutes away.

8. Barcelona, Spain – Tapas, Gaudí, and Mediterranean Magic

Barcelona is like the overachiever of European cities. Beautiful, fun, smart—and probably speaks five languages.

Why It’s Irresistible:

- Beach life + city life = ultimate combo.
- Strong rental demand all year round.
- Rich with culture, world-class dining, and the magic of Spanish siestas.
- You’ll never get bored – from gothic quarters to beach festivals, it’s nonstop.

Property Vibes:

Expect to spend $300,000+ for chic apartments in the heart of the city. But hey, Gaudí didn’t build boring.

9. Cape Town, South Africa – Beauty, Wine, and Adventure

Cape Town has serious main-character-energy. It’s dramatic (in a good way), bold, and totally unforgettable.

Why It’s Amazing:

- Epic scenery: Table Mountain, coastal cliffs, and vineyards galore.
- Surf in the morning, hike by noon, sip wine at sunset.
- Strong expat community and top-class restaurants.
- Affordable luxury compared to other major cities.

Property Vibes:

Modern homes with ocean or mountain views can start at $150,000. It’s like Malibu, but without needing to sell your soul.

10. Athens, Greece – History With a Side of Real Estate

Let’s wrap it up where democracy was born: Athens. It’s got history, energy, and surprisingly affordable property.

Why It’s a Smart Pick:

- Low property prices compared to other European capitals.
- Golden Visa perks with property purchases over €250,000.
- Year-round sunshine and Mediterranean living.
- Underrated food scene—gyros and feta for days.

Property Vibes:

Chic city apartments go for under $150,000. Rooftop views of the Acropolis? Yes, your coffee will taste better up there.

The Bottom Line

Buying a vacation home abroad isn’t just a great way to level up your lifestyle—it’s also a pretty savvy financial move if done right. With the right destination, you can get warm weather, cultural enrichment, and income potential all wrapped up in one neat package.

Whether you're a beach bum, a culture vulture, or just trying to escape that 9-to-5, there’s a spot on this big blue planet with your name on it. So start dreaming, start planning, and maybe—say hello to your new international address!

Tips Before You Buy Abroad

Because let’s be real—this isn’t Monopoly. Here’s some practical advice before you throw your dollars (or euros, or pesos) at your dream home:

- Check local laws: Ownership rules can vary wildly. Some places don’t allow foreigners to own land (ahem, Bali).
- Think twice about financing: Banks abroad may not offer mortgages as easily, especially to non-residents.
- Understand taxes: You might owe local and foreign taxes—yay paperwork.
- Hire local experts: A reliable real estate agent and attorney can make or break the process.
- Visit first... at least a few times: Falling in love on the first date is romantic. Falling in love with a house you’ve never seen? Risky business.

Final Thoughts

Buying an international vacation home isn't just about square footage—it's about buying into a lifestyle. It's about that morning espresso in Rome, that waterfall hike in Chiang Mai, or that yoga session in the Balinese jungle.

So, go ahead. Dream big. Look at listings. Talk to agents. Imagine yourself living your best transcontinental life.

And if anyone asks? Tell them you’re “diversifying your portfolio.