25 College Towns That Are Ideal for Retiring Professors and Book Lovers

For book lovers and retiring academics, few places offer a more enriching, intellectually stimulating, and culturally vibrant environment than a college town. While well-known academic hubs like Oxford, Ann Arbor, and Berkeley often steal the spotlight, there are hidden gems all over the world that offer affordable, picturesque, and intellectually rich communities perfect for those who never want to stop learning. That’s why we’ve updated and expanded our list to 25 underrated college towns worldwide, ideal for those who dream of winding streets lined with independent bookstores, historic libraries, cozy cafés buzzing with student debates, and year-round literary festivals. Whether you’re looking for a quaint European university town, an affordable intellectual haven in Latin America, or a vibrant Asian city with a deep literary culture, these underrated destinations provide the perfect setting for a fulfilling retirement—one where coffee, conversation, and books are at the heart of everyday life.

1. Leiden, Netherlands – A Historic Haven for Scholars

Leiden is the quintessential European university town, where centuries-old academic traditions blend seamlessly with the relaxed charm of Dutch canal life. As the home of the Netherlands’ oldest university, established in 1575, Leiden has nurtured some of history’s greatest minds, including philosophers like René Descartes and physicists such as Albert Einstein. Walking through the town, retirees will find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of scholarship and curiosity, with historic bookshops, centuries-old libraries, and a vibrant academic community still shaping the city’s cultural identity. One of the town’s highlights is the Leiden University Library, which houses an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, early printed books, and an impressive assortment of scholarly resources. For book lovers, the annual Week of the Book Festival brings together authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts for discussions and readings. Leiden’s manageable size, excellent public transport links to Amsterdam and The Hague, and its network of cycling paths make it a peaceful yet well-connected retreat.

2. Coimbra, Portugal – A Riverside Retreat for Intellectuals

Leiden is the quintessential European university town, where centuries-old academic traditions blend seamlessly with the relaxed charm of Dutch canal life. As the home of the Netherlands’ oldest university, established in 1575, Leiden has nurtured some of history’s greatest minds, including philosophers like René Descartes and physicists such as Albert Einstein. Walking through the town, retirees will find themselves immersed in an atmosphere of scholarship and curiosity, with historic bookshops, centuries-old libraries, and a vibrant academic community still shaping the city’s cultural identity. One of the town’s highlights is the Leiden University Library, which houses an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, early printed books, and an impressive assortment of scholarly resources. For book lovers, the annual Week of the Book Festival brings together authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts for discussions and readings. Leiden’s manageable size, excellent public transport links to Amsterdam and The Hague, and its network of cycling paths make it a peaceful yet well-connected retreat.

3. Dunedin, New Zealand – A Literary and Coastal Escape

Dunedin is New Zealand’s most bookish city, officially designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, and it wears this title with pride. This charming university town, nestled on the Otago Peninsula, is a haven for writers, readers, and scholars seeking a slower, more introspective way of life. With its mix of historic architecture, dramatic coastal landscapes, and vibrant literary scene, Dunedin is an ideal place for retiring academics looking for both inspiration and relaxation. Dunedin is home to the University of Otago, New Zealand’s oldest university, which fosters a strong culture of research, debate, and intellectual curiosity. The city’s Dunedin Writers & Readers Festival attracts some of the best literary minds from around the world, offering retirees the chance to engage with contemporary literature and discussions on global issues. For those who love a good bookshop, Hard to Find Books and University Book Shop are excellent places to browse rare and out-of-print editions.

4. Tartu, Estonia – The Intellectual Heart of the Baltics

Often called the “Athens of the North,” Tartu is Estonia’s second-largest city, yet it remains a hidden gem among European university towns. As the home of Tartu University, the country’s most prestigious academic institution, Tartu has been a center for learning and culture since the 17th century. Today, it remains an ideal retirement destination for scholars and book lovers who value a close-knit intellectual community in a city that’s both affordable and rich in history. One of Tartu’s greatest draws is its impressive libraries, including the University of Tartu Library, which contains vast collections of historical manuscripts and modern academic works. Book lovers will also appreciate the town’s cozy, independently run bookstores, as well as its vibrant literary scene. The city’s Tartu Literature Festival brings together poets, novelists, and academics for discussions, readings, and cultural events that foster a sense of belonging among those who love words and ideas.

5. St. Andrews, Scotland – A Seaside Scholar’s Dream

Famous for being Scotland’s oldest university town and the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews is a picturesque and intellectually stimulating retreat for retired academics. Located on Scotland’s scenic east coast, this historic town combines a deep literary heritage with breathtaking seaside views, making it an ideal home for book lovers who enjoy both culture and nature. The University of St. Andrews is at the heart of the town’s intellectual life, offering lectures, book talks, and cultural events that retirees can attend. Bookstores like Topping & Company and J & G Innes are treasure troves for those who love classic literature and academic texts. The town’s literary scene is enriched by annual events like StAnza, Scotland’s International Poetry Festival, which brings poets and writers from all over the world.

6. Bologna, Italy – The Culinary and Intellectual Capital of Italy

Bologna, known as "La Dotta" ("The Learned One"), is Italy’s ultimate university town, making it an ideal destination for those who love books, history, and gourmet cuisine. Home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world (founded in 1088), this city has been a hub for scholars, writers, and intellectuals for over 900 years. Retirees in Bologna will find themselves surrounded by some of the most beautiful libraries in Europe, including the Archiginnasio, a historic university library with stunning frescoes and centuries-old manuscripts. The city’s numerous bookstores, including Libreria Nanni, one of Italy’s oldest bookshops, make it easy for book lovers to indulge their literary passions. Bologna also hosts the annual Il Librone Book Festival, where authors, publishers, and readers gather to celebrate literature.

7. Lviv, Ukraine – A European Literary Treasure

Lviv, a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, is a city where literature, history, and culture blend seamlessly. As a designated UNESCO City of Literature, Lviv is a haven for bibliophiles who appreciate a town where bookshops, coffeehouses, and literary events dominate daily life. The city’s streets are lined with charming, independent bookstores—some of which have operated since the Austro-Hungarian era—offering an unparalleled selection of Slavic and international literature. Whether exploring the grand halls of the Lviv National Library or finding a quiet corner in a café to read, the city's atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat for book lovers. Lviv is also home to one of the most significant literary events in Eastern Europe, the Lviv Book Forum, which draws writers, scholars, and book enthusiasts from around the world. Beyond its literary appeal, Lviv offers retirees an incredibly affordable cost of living, making it a dream for those looking to stretch their budgets while maintaining a high quality of life.

8. Lund, Sweden – A Small Town with Big Ideas

Lund, Sweden, may be small in size, but it has long been a powerhouse of intellectual and literary culture. As home to Lund University, Sweden’s second-oldest university (founded in 1666), this town has been a hub for scholars, writers, and philosophers for centuries. Lund’s compact city center is filled with cobblestone streets, picturesque courtyards, and historic bookshops, creating an enchanting setting for retirees who wish to be surrounded by academia and culture. The Lund University Library, which houses over 12 million books and manuscripts, is an absolute treasure for book lovers who want access to rare and contemporary works alike. Beyond academia, Lund’s literary culture thrives through events like the Lund Literature Festival, where international and Scandinavian authors gather to discuss literature, poetry, and philosophy. Additionally, the city’s slower pace of life, combined with its close proximity to Copenhagen, makes it an excellent location for those who want the benefits of Scandinavian culture without the high cost of living found in larger Nordic cities.

9. Stellenbosch, South Africa – A Literary and Wine Lover’s Paradise

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s wine country, Stellenbosch offers a dreamlike blend of intellectual stimulation, stunning natural beauty, and a relaxed pace of life. Home to Stellenbosch University, one of Africa’s leading academic institutions, this town has long been a center for literature, philosophy, and cultural dialogue. With tree-lined avenues, Cape Dutch architecture, and mountain backdrops, Stellenbosch is as picturesque as it is intellectually stimulating. For book lovers, Stellenbosch offers a thriving literary scene, with a number of independent bookstores, writer’s workshops, and public lectures hosted by the university. The Stellenbosch Woordfees, an annual literature and arts festival, attracts prominent South African and international writers, making it a paradise for those who love literature and the arts. Beyond books, Stellenbosch is also a wine lover’s paradise, with world-class vineyards just minutes from the town center.

10. Granada, Spain – A Moorish Gem for Literature and Learning

Granada, a city steeped in centuries of history, is one of Spain’s most culturally rich and affordable university towns. With its stunning Alhambra Palace, picturesque streets, and lively student population, Granada offers a unique combination of Moorish history and modern intellectual engagement. The University of Granada, one of Spain’s most prestigious institutions, ensures that the city remains a vibrant center for literature, philosophy, and artistic expression. Granada’s literary scene is woven into its daily life, from the historic Biblioteca de Andalucía to its many independent bookshops specializing in Spanish, Arabic, and English literature. The city hosts several book fairs and literary festivals, including the Granada International Poetry Festival, which attracts poets and writers from around the world. Granada’s Arabic heritage also adds a distinctive flair to its literary culture, with many cafés and libraries dedicated to preserving Moorish literary traditions.

11. Buenos Aires, Argentina – The Literary Capital of Latin America

Buenos Aires is a dream destination for literature lovers, often referred to as the Paris of South America due to its European-style architecture, café culture, and deep appreciation for intellectual pursuits. Home to one of the world’s largest book markets, Buenos Aires has more bookstores per capita than any other city in the world. Among them, El Ateneo Grand Splendid, housed in a former theater, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores on the planet. Beyond its bookshops, Buenos Aires has a rich literary history, producing world-famous writers such as Jorge Luis Borges and Julio Cortázar. The city hosts numerous book festivals, including the Buenos Aires International Book Fair, one of the largest in the Spanish-speaking world. Additionally, Buenos Aires boasts a significantly lower cost of living than many European and North American cities, making it an attractive choice for retirees looking for an intellectually stimulating yet affordable place to settle.

12. Halifax, Canada – A Maritime City for Book Lovers

Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a picturesque coastal city with a strong academic presence and a deep appreciation for literature. As home to Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University, Halifax fosters an intellectual atmosphere while maintaining the charm of a small maritime town. The city’s independent bookstores, like Bookmark Halifax and Woozles, are beloved among locals, and Halifax Public Libraries offer an extensive collection for book lovers. Halifax’s literary scene is enriched by events like the Halifax International Writers’ Festival, where readers can meet celebrated authors and poets. The city's strong connection to maritime history has inspired generations of writers, and its rugged coastline provides a stunning backdrop for those who enjoy reading and writing in nature. The affordability of Halifax—compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver—makes it a desirable place for retirees who appreciate intellectual stimulation, scenic beauty, and a tight-knit community.

13. Kyoto, Japan – A Tranquil Scholar’s Retreat

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city where history, academia, and tranquility seamlessly blend to create an environment perfect for retiring scholars and book lovers. The city is home to Kyoto University, one of Japan’s most prestigious institutions, known for its rich academic traditions and Nobel Prize-winning faculty. With research centers and cultural institutions spread throughout the city, retirees will find an intellectually stimulating environment where they can continue learning, attending guest lectures, and engaging with scholars from around the world. Kyoto’s literary heritage is just as profound, with historic bookstores tucked away in quiet alleys and traditional Japanese teahouses providing peaceful spots for afternoon reading. The city is also home to the annual Kyoto International Book Fair, which showcases literature from across Asia and beyond. With a landscape dotted by serene temples, cherry blossom-lined streets, and the peaceful Philosopher’s Path, Kyoto provides a meditative atmosphere that encourages reflection and creativity.

14. Christchurch, New Zealand – A Literary City on the Rebuild

Christchurch, a UNESCO City of Literature, is not just a hub for writers and book lovers but also a testament to resilience and cultural regeneration. After devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, the city has rebuilt itself into a thriving arts and literary capital, offering a dynamic space where creativity flourishes. Retirees who value a strong literary culture paired with breathtaking natural scenery will find Christchurch an idyllic place to settle. The city is home to the Christchurch Writers' Festival, an event that attracts world-renowned authors, poets, and scholars, making it a perfect place for literature lovers to engage with the global literary scene. Christchurch’s libraries, including the state-of-the-art Tūranga Library, offer vast collections and modern reading spaces that encourage lifelong learning. The city’s deep literary ties extend to its connection with famous Kiwi writers like Margaret Mahy and Eleanor Catton, whose works are celebrated throughout Christchurch’s cultural scene.

15. Uppsala, Sweden – A University Town Steeped in History

Uppsala, Sweden’s fourth-largest city, is a timeless university town that perfectly blends historic charm with intellectual vibrancy. Home to Uppsala University, founded in 1477, the city has long been a center for education, literature, and philosophical thought. Retiring academics will find an inspiring environment in Uppsala’s historic libraries, including the Carolina Rediviva Library, which houses a vast collection of rare manuscripts, including the Codex Argenteus, one of the world’s most famous Gothic texts. The city hosts the Uppsala International Literature Festival, a major event that brings together authors, scholars, and literature enthusiasts from around the world. Book lovers will also enjoy The English Bookshop, one of Europe’s most beloved independent bookstores, with a handpicked selection of literature from Sweden and beyond. Walking through Uppsala, retirees will be immersed in centuries of intellectual tradition, as the city was home to legendary figures like Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, and Nobel Prize-winning poet Tomas Tranströmer.

16. Heidelberg, Germany – A Fairytale University Town

Nestled along the banks of the Neckar River, Heidelberg is home to Germany’s oldest university, founded in 1386. This town has long been a magnet for poets, philosophers, and writers, from Goethe to Mark Twain, who wrote about its charm in A Tramp Abroad. The stunning Heidelberg University Library houses rare medieval manuscripts, and the city's annual literature festival brings together authors from around the world. With its fairytale castle, cobbled streets, and book-filled cafés, Heidelberg offers an intellectual and picturesque retreat for retiring academics.

17. Salamanca, Spain – The Golden City of Learning

Known as the "Golden City" because of its sandstone buildings that glow at sunset, Salamanca is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1218. The city’s grand Plaza Mayor, historic bookshops, and student-driven atmosphere make it a haven for scholars and book lovers. The Casa de las Conchas, a 16th-century library with a façade adorned with carved seashells, is an architectural gem. Salamanca’s affordability compared to other Spanish cities makes it an attractive option for retirees seeking a cultured and cost-effective lifestyle.

18. Leuven, Belgium – A Cozy Academic Hideaway

Just a short train ride from Brussels, Leuven is a small but dynamic university town with a deep literary culture. Home to KU Leuven, one of Europe’s most prestigious universities, the town offers a stunning university library, centuries-old bookshops, and cafés where students and scholars gather to debate philosophy and politics. Leuven’s strong cycling culture, green spaces, and high standard of living make it an ideal retirement destination for those who enjoy a quiet yet intellectually stimulating environment.

19. Aix-en-Provence, France – A Literary and Artistic Paradise

Famed for its connection to Paul Cézanne and other great artists, Aix-en-Provence is also a haven for literature lovers. The Université d'Aix-Marseille fosters a vibrant academic atmosphere, while the Cité du Livre, a vast cultural complex dedicated to literature, hosts readings, book fairs, and exhibitions. The town’s beautiful streets are filled with bookstores, and the Mediterranean climate provides an idyllic backdrop for reading outdoors year-round. Aix’s relaxed pace of life, historic charm, and cultural richness make it a dream location for retirees seeking a literary lifestyle.

20. Cuenca, Ecuador – A South American Sanctuary for Intellectuals

One of Latin America’s best-kept secrets, Cuenca is an affordable and vibrant university city with a rich literary culture. Home to Universidad de Cuenca, the city boasts a thriving community of writers, poets, and artists. Its colonial streets are lined with independent bookstores and cafés, and the Cuenca International Poetry Festival is one of the most celebrated in the region. With a low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and a mild climate, Cuenca is an attractive destination for retired academics looking for a slower pace of life in a cultured setting.

21. Durham, England – A Medieval University Town Steeped in History

With its UNESCO-listed Durham Cathedral, cobblestone streets, and one of the UK’s most prestigious universities, Durham is a book lover’s paradise. The Durham Book Festival attracts renowned writers, while the Palace Green Library houses an extensive collection of manuscripts and historical texts. The town’s proximity to both the English countryside and the literary hubs of Edinburgh and London makes it an excellent choice for retirees who love both history and books.

22. Galle, Sri Lanka – A Coastal Retreat with Colonial Charm

For retirees looking for a mix of tropical beauty and literary culture, Galle is an underrated gem. This UNESCO World Heritage city is home to the Galle Literary Festival, one of South Asia’s most prestigious literary events, attracting writers and scholars from across the world. Its colonial-era architecture, seaside cafés, and strong artistic community create an environment perfect for quiet contemplation and cultural engagement. Galle’s cost of living is significantly lower than in Western cities, making it an attractive option for retired professors on a budget.

23. Chiang Mai, Thailand – A Buddhist and Bookish Haven

For retirees seeking a serene, low-cost, and intellectually engaging place to live, Chiang Mai is an ideal choice. With several universities, including Chiang Mai University, the city has a thriving expat academic community. The Chiang Mai Book Fair and literary cafés provide opportunities for cultural exchange, and the town’s Buddhist temples and lush mountains offer a tranquil setting for reading and writing. The cost of living is exceptionally low, and the city’s wellness-oriented lifestyle makes it an excellent choice for retirees looking to combine intellectual pursuits with a high quality of life.

24. Tbilisi, Georgia – A Literary Crossroads Between East and West

With its unique blend of European, Middle Eastern, and Asian influences, Tbilisi is emerging as a hidden gem for intellectuals and book lovers. The National Library of Georgia houses ancient manuscripts, while a growing independent bookstore scene fosters literary discussions and cultural events. The Tbilisi International Literature Festival attracts global thinkers, and the city's affordable living costs make it an ideal place for retirees looking for an off-the-beaten-path academic retreat. With its dramatic landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant café culture, Tbilisi is a fascinating place to settle down with a book.

25. Wellington, New Zealand – A Small City with a Big Literary Heart

As another UNESCO City of Literature, Wellington has a thriving literary scene that punches above its weight. The city is home to Victoria University of Wellington, an institution known for its strong humanities programs, and the New Zealand Festival of the Arts, which includes major literary events. Independent bookstores like Unity Books serve as cultural hubs, while the city’s compact, walkable layout and picturesque harbor create a perfect setting for contemplative strolls. Wellington’s high quality of life, artsy atmosphere, and love of books make it an underrated but excellent choice for retiring academics.

The Ideal Next Chapter for Book Lovers

For retiring professors and lifelong readers, these 25 college towns offer the perfect blend of literary culture, academic stimulation, and scenic beauty. Whether nestled in historic European cities, coastal university towns, or artistic cultural hubs, each destination provides a sanctuary for those who wish to continue engaging with books, ideas, and intellectual conversations long after their formal teaching days are over. These towns are not just retirement spots; they are places where the written word thrives—from lively literary festivals to independent bookstores that feel like second homes. Whether wandering the historic streets of Lviv, reading poetry by the riverside in Kyoto, or attending a guest lecture at Uppsala University, these locations ensure that retirees remain connected to a world of knowledge and culture.