Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium

This purpose-built university town of 10,710 residents is dominated by the Catholic University of Louvain, which owns all the land. While the pedestrian-oriented design and vibrant student culture have their charms, the relentless construction and near-constant influx of 15,000 students mean Louvain-la-Neuve can feel empty and soulless outside of term time. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the university calling the shots on all aspects of civic life. Overall, this is a town best suited for academics and those who thrive in an academic environment.