Den Helder, Netherlands

Capital City

With a population of just 56,582, Den Helder is an industrial port town that feels a world away from the picturesque canals of Amsterdam. The navy base and fortifications dominate the landscape, while the relentless North Sea winds make for a chilly, gloomy climate. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city center largely destroyed during World War II. Still, Den Helder's strategic location and rich maritime history may appeal to those drawn to its rugged, utilitarian character.