Artvin, Turkey

Capital City

Living in Artvin is a constant balancing act. With a population of just 25,838, this former bishopric and Armenian Catholic titular see is a far cry from the glitz and glamor of Turkey's major cities. The tax burden is heavy, and navigating the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. However, the surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with climbing, trekking, and rafting all popular pastimes. Whether Artvin is the right fit ultimately depends on your tolerance for chilly winters - the lowest recorded temperature here is a bone-chilling -16.1°C.