Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Capital City

With a population of just 27,509, this Alpine ski town in southern Germany offers a scenic but isolated existence. The winters are brutal, with high precipitation and frequent thunderstorms, and navigating the local bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. While Garmisch-Partenkirchen boasts world-class winter sports facilities from its 1936 Olympic hosting, the reality is a quaint, sleepy town that may appeal more to die-hard skiers than the average expat. Those seeking an authentic Bavarian experience could do worse, but the town's remoteness and challenging climate are significant trade-offs to consider.