Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France

Capital City

With a population of just under 46,000, Saint-Germain-en-Laye is an affluent Parisian suburb that offers a blend of high-end amenities and exclusive residential neighborhoods. However, the city's history as a former royal town and headquarters for German forces during World War II has left a persistent bureaucratic headache for modern residents. Despite its elegant tree-lined streets, the sheer size of the municipality - covering nearly 19 square miles - can make navigating the area a challenge. Those seeking a quiet, upscale suburban lifestyle within easy reach of Paris may find Saint-Germain-en-Laye an appealing option, but the trade-offs of its past should be carefully considered.