Lugano, Switzerland

Capital City

This Swiss city may seem like a picturesque escape, but with a population of 63,495, Lugano is no sleepy town. While it boasts a mild, subtropical climate and stunning natural surroundings, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, as the text notes the city has "limited autonomy" and was deeply divided during periods of political upheaval. With over a third of residents being foreign nationals and a thriving banking sector, Lugano is best suited for international professionals seeking a scenic, Italian-influenced locale - if they can handle the red tape.