Piestany, Slovakia

Capital City

With a population of just over 26,000, Piestany is a small spa town that relies heavily on foreign tourists. The town's main draw is its thermal springs and mud baths, which treat chronic rheumatic and arthritic conditions. However, bureaucracy is a persistent headache - the spa is operated by a private company that was purchased by a foreign conglomerate. And while the town has a warm, sunny climate, it has a history of destructive floods. Overall, Piestany is best suited for those seeking a quiet, therapeutic retreat, rather than an exciting cultural hub.