Køge (Koege), Denmark

With a population of just 35,295, Køge is a sleepy town on Zealand's east coast, about 40 km from the capital. The municipality covers a sprawling 255 sq km, though much of that is rural and sparsely populated. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the town only recently merging with neighboring Skovbo in 2007 as part of a nationwide reform. While the climate is typical of coastal Denmark - cool and overcast for much of the year - the area does offer easy access to the beaches and natural beauty of Zealand. For those seeking a quiet, provincial lifestyle away from the bustle of Copenhagen, Køge could be a suitable option, but the lack of big-city amenities and entertainment may prove too isolating for some.