Sandefjord, Norway

At 67,062 residents, Sandefjord is the most populous municipality in Vestfold county, Norway - but don't let the numbers fool you. This seaside town is not for the faint of heart, with a history of devastating town fires that have repeatedly destroyed large swaths of the city center. And while the mild, sunny summers may attract throngs of tourists, the long, dark winters can be a persistent headache, with frequent snowfall often melting away in the blink of an eye. Still, for those undaunted by the bureaucratic red tape and unpredictable climate, Sandefjord's Viking heritage, whaling legacy, and abundance of beaches make it an appealing choice for the adventurous sort.