Lecce, Italy

Capital City

With a population of just 94,783, Lecce is a sleepy provincial city that offers little to attract young professionals or families looking for economic opportunity. The city's much-touted Baroque architecture and 'Florence of the South' moniker mask a reality of heavy bureaucracy and a climate prone to sweltering summers. While Lecce's churches and ancient ruins may delight history buffs, the lack of a dynamic job market and persistent red tape make this an unappealing choice for most would-be expats. This is a city best suited for retirees seeking a slower pace of life in southern Italy.