Krefeld, Germany

With a population of just 228,550, Krefeld may seem quaint, but don't be fooled - this former silk and velvet hub has a complex history that belies its modest size. While the city has managed to preserve its charming old towns, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for newcomers. And with a synagogue destroyed during the November pogroms and Jews deported to their deaths in World War II, Krefeld's Jewish community has faced its share of dark chapters. Still, the city's diverse cultural offerings, from the Textile Museum to the contemporary art venues, may appeal to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path German experience.