Nynäshamn, Sweden

Capital City

With a population of just 16,447, this sleepy port town 60 km south of Stockholm is hardly a bustling metropolis. While the harbor comes alive in summer with ferries to Gotland and cruise ships, the rest of the year Nynäshamn has a distinctly relaxed, small-town vibe. The main industries are an oil refinery and some light manufacturing, though the town's heyday as a spa destination faded long ago. Crime is low, but bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. For Swedes seeking a quieter coastal lifestyle away from the capital's hustle and bustle, Nynäshamn may be an appealing, if unexciting, option.