Varazdin, Croatia

Capital City

With a population of just 41,900, Varazdin is hardly the bustling metropolis some may expect. Fires have plagued this Croatian city for centuries, ravaging over half its buildings in some cases. The bureaucracy is also a persistent headache, with records of authorities mandating brick chimneys and fire-fighting duties for all citizens. Still, Varazdin's baroque architecture, annual music festival, and burgeoning IT industry make it an appealing option for those seeking a more sedate, provincial lifestyle.