Olsztyn, Poland

Capital City

With a population of 170,225, Olsztyn is a sizable city in northern Poland, but don't let the numbers fool you - it's a place of trade-offs. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the city's lakeside location and leafy parks do offer an escape from the urban grind. While the climate is on the chilly side, Olsztyn has a vibrant cultural scene and is home to one of Poland's largest universities. Overall, this is a city best suited for those who can navigate its administrative challenges in exchange for a high quality of life.