Herzogenaurach, Germany

Living in Herzogenaurach is no sportswear fairytale. With a population of just 24,674, this Bavarian town is dominated by the dueling headquarters of Adidas and Puma. While the long-feuding founders are gone, the brands' bitter rivalry has left a lingering mark. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the town's isolation - 23 km northwest of Nuremberg - can feel stifling. Still, for those willing to embrace the sporty lifestyle and accept the town's quirks, Herzogenaurach offers an intriguing alternative to Germany's crowded cities.