Hof, Germany

Capital City

With a population of just under 47,000, Hof is a small town in northeastern Bavaria that can feel like a world unto itself. The brutal Siberian-like winters and heavy bureaucracy are persistent headaches, but the city's scenic forested setting and historic charm offer some appeal. Hof's location near the former East Germany border means it was a sensitive military zone during the Cold War, and the town still bears the scars of past sieges and fires. While Hof may attract some hardy souls, its remote, insular character makes it a tough sell for most.