Elbasan, Albania

Capital City

With a population of just 66,834, this former industrial hub in central Albania is a far cry from the glitz of Tirana. The city's Ottoman-era fortress and medieval architecture may charm visitors, but the gritty reality is one of heavy pollution and lingering bureaucracy - a persistent headache for residents. While Elbasan boasts a rich cultural heritage, including Orthodox churches and museums, the harsh climate and environmental damage from decades of communist-era industrialization make it a tough sell for all but the most committed expats.