Tromso, Norway

Capital City

With a population of just 38,980, Tromso may seem like a remote outpost, but the reality is this city is an Arctic hub of activity. Its perch 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle means residents endure long stretches of polar night and midnight sun, with the famously variable weather creating "dangerous ice driving and walking conditions" that require spikes in shoes and studded tires. Yet the bureaucracy can also be a persistent headache, as seen in the 2011 controversy over the city's relationship with the indigenous Sami culture. Overall, Tromso is best suited for hardy souls drawn to its vibrant Arctic research community and stunning natural surroundings.