Vranje, Serbia

Capital City

With a population of just 55,214, Vranje is a small, provincial Serbian city that struggles to offer the comforts and opportunities of larger urban centers. The city's industrial base has been decimated since the breakup of Yugoslavia, leaving many residents unemployed - as of 2010, only 18,958 were employed out of a workforce of 59,278. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the city's efforts to develop a 'Strategy of sustainable development' to attract investment. And while Vranje boasts scenic mountain backdrops, its location near the borders with North Macedonia and Bulgaria means a hot, continental climate that can be oppressive. This sleepy, struggling town is best suited for those seeking a slower pace of life and willing to navigate Serbia's notorious red tape.