Swords, Ireland

Capital City

With a population of 40,776, Swords is the eighth largest urban area in Ireland, but its rapid growth has come with downsides. The town's ambitious plans to become a "new city" by 2035 are hampered by persistent bureaucracy, as seen in the long-delayed Cultural Centre project. And while Swords has cleaned up its act after once being the "worst litter blackspot," the wet, changeable climate is an ever-present nuisance. Still, the town's proximity to Dublin Airport makes it an appealing option for those seeking easy access to international travel.