Nova Gradiska, Croatia

This sleepy Slavonian outpost has a population of just 11,690, which means getting anything done can be a bureaucratic headache. The climate is harsh, with temperatures plunging below -24°C in winter and soaring past 41°C in summer. But the town does have a well-developed tourism scene, with a string of festivals and events that celebrate the local culture and history. For those seeking a quiet, provincial lifestyle in Croatia, Nova Gradiska may fit the bill - but the persistent red tape and extreme weather are likely dealbreakers for many.