Goettingen, Germany

Capital City

With a population of just 120,261, Goettingen may seem like a sleepy university town, but the bureaucracy is a persistent headache for newcomers. While the historic old town remains largely undamaged from World War II, the city's long association with academia has left it a hub of intellectual activity - for better or worse. Winters are bitterly cold, but the pedestrian-friendly layout and efficient public transit make Goettingen an appealing option for students and professors seeking an affordable, vibrant community. However, those seeking a laidback, small-town atmosphere may find the persistent bustle and red tape of this "city that creates knowledge" to be a poor fit.