Dessau, Germany

Capital City

With a population of just 83,616, Dessau is a small, industrial city in eastern Germany that lacks the glamour of its more famous neighbors. The town was nearly destroyed during World War II and has struggled to recover, with its rebuilt concrete architecture and persistent bureaucratic headaches. Still, Dessau offers a glimpse into Germany's Bauhaus design legacy, with several iconic modernist buildings dotting the landscape. For those seeking an affordable, quieter alternative to the country's major hubs, Dessau may be worth a look - but the frequent floods and heavy industrial presence are realities to consider.