Sochi, Russia

Capital City

With a population of 445,149, Sochi is Russia's largest resort city, but don't expect it to be an easy escape. The subtropical climate is a mixed blessing, with mild winters but stifling summer heat. And the city's rapid development for the 2014 Olympics has left a legacy of bureaucratic headaches. Navigating the complex web of sanatoriums, tea plantations, and mountain villages requires patience. Overall, Sochi is best suited for retirees and families seeking an affordable beach getaway, rather than young professionals seeking a dynamic urban center.