Bardejov, Slovakia

Capital City

With a population of just under 30,000, Bardejov is a sleepy Slovak town that offers little more than a quaint, well-preserved medieval center. The town's fortifications and Gothic architecture may draw tourists, but the harsh continental climate, heavy bureaucracy, and lack of modern amenities make it a tough sell for all but the most dedicated history buffs. While Bardejov's Jewish heritage is a source of pride, the town is now effectively "a town without Jews" after the Holocaust devastated the local population. Overall, this isolated backwater is best suited for retirees and culture vultures willing to overlook its significant drawbacks.