Fidenza, Italy

With a population just shy of 27,000, Fidenza is a compact Italian town that can feel claustrophobic for some expats. The medieval architecture and Romanesque churches are undoubtedly picturesque, but the bureaucratic headaches of living under the Duchy of Parma's rule persist even today. Fidenza was repeatedly conquered and destroyed over the centuries, leaving it with a complicated history that can make navigating local politics a persistent challenge.

Those seeking the quintessential Italian small-town experience may find Fidenza charming, but its turbulent past and current bureaucratic tangles mean it's not for the faint of heart. Prospective residents should weigh the trade-offs carefully before making the move.