Jurbarkas, Lithuania

With a population of just 10,186, Jurbarkas is a small Lithuanian town that offers little in the way of big-city amenities. The former manor estate is now home to a regional museum and cultural facilities, but the once-grand manor house was destroyed during World War I. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the town was passed between various noble families over the centuries before falling under Soviet rule. While the surrounding park provides some natural beauty, the long, harsh Lithuanian winters can be a significant challenge for those used to milder climates. Jurbarkas may appeal to history buffs or those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle, but it is unlikely to satisfy those craving the comforts and opportunities of a larger metropolitan area.