Ingolstadt, Germany

Capital City

With a population of just 19,398, Ingolstadt is a far cry from the bustling metropolises that many Americans dream of. This sleepy Bavarian town boasts a long military history, with former "off-limit" training grounds now repurposed as parks. However, the bureaucracy here can be a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's protracted university relocations over the centuries. And while the Danube River and surrounding forests offer natural beauty, the chilly Central European climate is a far cry from the sunny climes many expats crave. Ingolstadt may appeal to history buffs and those seeking a slower pace of life, but it's hardly the vibrant, dynamic hub that most Americans moving abroad have in mind.