Mafra, Brazil

With a population of just 55,286, Mafra is hardly the bustling metropolis many Brazilians dream of. The sleepy town is dominated by the imposing Baroque Palace of Mafra, a 1700s royal retreat that now serves as a museum. While the palace's grandiose library and ornate basilica may wow visitors, the everyday realities of life here are a far cry from cosmopolitan Rio. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the former convent now houses military offices. And with the palace as the main attraction, entertainment options are limited. Mafra may appeal to history buffs seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, but its small-town charms likely won't satisfy urbanites looking for big-city excitement.