San Sebastian, Spain

Capital City

While San Sebastian may be renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants and picturesque beaches, the reality is that it's a small, rainy city of just 176,908 residents. With a quarter of the population over 65 and a sizable foreign-born community of 14.5%, the city can feel bureaucratic and insular at times. Persistent political unrest and occasional states of emergency in the Basque region are another potential headache. However, those drawn to San Sebastian's world-class gastronomy, art festivals, and coastal charm may find it an ideal fit.