Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Capital City

With a population of just under 290,000, Cluj-Napoca is the second-largest city in Romania - but don't expect small-town charm. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache for residents. On the plus side, the city boasts the best air quality in the European Union. However, petty crime can be an irritant for foreigners, as in other large Romanian cities. Overall, Cluj-Napoca is a bustling regional hub best suited for those drawn to its academic, cultural, and economic opportunities.