Chamonix, France

Capital City

With a population of just 8,705, Chamonix is a tiny town that caters to an outsized number of tourists - over 5 million per year. While the skiing and mountain sports are world-class, the local infrastructure struggles to keep up. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the town's guides and operators tightly regulated by distant civil servants. And the frigid, snowy climate means getting around is a constant battle against the elements. Chamonix is best suited for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts willing to brave the challenges of alpine living.