For years, Europe’s big cities—Paris, Berlin, Barcelona—were the dream destinations for young people seeking opportunity, culture, and nightlife. But recently, a surprising shift has begun. More and more Gen Z Europeans are turning away from these bustling hubs and relocating to smaller, quieter towns often dismissed as “boring.”
This trend isn’t about rejecting excitement altogether. Instead, it reflects a generational desire for balance: affordable living, community connection, and sustainability. These so-called “boring” towns offer space, slower rhythms, and a quality of life that mega-cities, with their skyrocketing costs and relentless pace, often fail to provide.
Far from being dull, these towns are becoming hidden gems where young Europeans can experiment with creativity, remote work, and alternative lifestyles. What looks uneventful on the surface is, in reality, a new chapter in how Gen Z defines success and fulfillment.
Read Here European Things that terrify Americans and American Habits that make Europeans Cringe
Read here how to pack for Europe and Best eSIM for Europe
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Why Gen Z Loves These ‘Boring’ Towns
Affordability: Lower living costs allow young people to save money or invest in experiences.
Sustainability: Many of these towns prioritize green living, aligning with Gen Z’s eco-conscious values.
Remote Work Opportunities: As digital natives, Gen Z thrives in locations that support remote work.
Work-Life Balance: Smaller towns offer a slower pace of life, which is appealing to a generation prioritizing mental health.
Proximity to Nature: Outdoor activities and green spaces provide an escape from the stress of modern life.
Community Vibes: Tight-knit communities foster a sense of belonging that Gen Z often seeks.
Quick Easy Tips
Look beyond appearances. A town that seems uneventful may offer hidden advantages like lower costs and stronger communities.
Check digital infrastructure. Many “boring” towns are thriving because they support remote work with reliable internet.
Focus on lifestyle fit. Instead of asking if a place is trendy, ask whether it supports your health, work, and personal goals.
The first controversy is the label itself. Older generations often dismiss these towns as uneventful, while Gen Z argues that such labels reveal outdated views about what makes a place desirable. What was once “boring” is now being reframed as peaceful and sustainable.
Another debate centers on economics. Critics say Gen Z is moving to these towns because they’ve been priced out of cities, not because they want to. Supporters counter that even if affordability is the initial motivator, the long-term lifestyle benefits are undeniable.
Finally, there’s controversy about cultural identity. Locals sometimes worry that an influx of young outsiders will change traditions, while Gen Z newcomers see themselves as revitalizing communities. This tension reflects broader debates about modernization versus preservation in Europe.
1. Utrecht, Netherlands
Why Move Here:
A small, peaceful city with excellent public transport connections.
Strong focus on sustainability and cycling culture.
Lower cost of living compared to Amsterdam.
Gen Z Appeal: Utrecht’s vibrant student community and green initiatives make it a hotspot for eco-conscious young people.
2. Ghent, Belgium
Why Move Here:
Smaller and less chaotic than Brussels.
A hub for affordable housing and job opportunities in technology and education.
Thriving arts and culture scene.
Gen Z Appeal: A mix of medieval charm and modern innovation creates the perfect blend of tradition and progress.
3. Coimbra, Portugal
Why Move Here:
Affordable living costs compared to Lisbon or Porto.
Historic university town with a youthful vibe.
Close to both beaches and mountains.
Gen Z Appeal: Gen Z appreciates Coimbra’s rich academic culture and relaxed pace of life.
4. Malmö, Sweden
Why Move Here:
A sustainable city with a strong focus on green energy and eco-friendly living.
Proximity to Copenhagen without the high Danish living costs.
Small-town feel with modern amenities.
Gen Z Appeal: Malmö’s inclusive community and tech-driven economy resonate with Gen Z values.
5. Brno, Czech Republic
Why Move Here:
Affordable rents and a growing tech sector.
A quieter alternative to Prague, with a lively student population.
High quality of life at a low cost.
Gen Z Appeal: Brno’s mix of tradition, innovation, and affordability attracts digital nomads and students alike.
6. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why Move Here:
A small, picturesque capital known for its green initiatives and bike-friendly streets.
Lower cost of living compared to Western Europe.
Close to outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
Gen Z Appeal: Its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it a favorite for nature-loving Gen Zers.
7. Tallinn, Estonia
Why Move Here:
A leader in digital innovation and remote work infrastructure.
Affordable living with historic charm.
Small-town vibe with access to big-city tech jobs.
Gen Z Appeal: Tallinn’s e-residency program and remote work perks cater to tech-savvy individuals.
8. Leipzig, Germany
Why Move Here:
Known as “the new Berlin,” but with more affordable housing and less overcrowding.
A burgeoning arts and music scene.
Job opportunities in startups and tech.
Gen Z Appeal: Leipzig’s affordability and creative energy are magnets for young professionals.
9. Annecy, France
Stunning lakeside town with access to the French Alps.
Quiet yet culturally rich.
Excellent for outdoor sports and sustainable living.
Gen Z Appeal: Annecy offers Gen Z an active lifestyle paired with breathtaking scenery.
10. Bolzano, Italy
Why Move Here:
A bilingual town (Italian and German) with a unique cultural mix.
Gateway to the Dolomites for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lower cost of living than Milan or Rome.
Gen Z Appeal: Bolzano’s peaceful environment and connection to nature resonate with Gen Z priorities.
11. Graz, Austria
Why Move Here:
Affordable and less crowded than Vienna.
A UNESCO City of Design with a vibrant cultural scene.
Excellent for students and creative professionals.
Gen Z Appeal: Graz’s blend of affordability, culture, and design innovation is hard to beat.
12. València, Spain
Why Move Here:
Cheaper than Barcelona or Madrid, but equally rich in culture and amenities.
Excellent weather and beach access.
Growing opportunities in tech and remote work.
Gen Z Appeal: València’s balance of affordability, lifestyle, and career opportunities makes it a favorite.
13. Kraków, Poland
A historic city with a low cost of living and vibrant student life.
Opportunities in startups and IT.
Well-connected for travel within Europe.
Gen Z Appeal: Kraków’s mix of culture, nightlife, and affordability attracts young people looking for opportunities.
14. Faro, Portugal
Why Move Here:
A quiet town with access to the Algarve’s beautiful beaches.
Affordable rents and lower living costs than Lisbon.
Warm weather year-round.
Gen Z Appeal: Faro’s laid-back atmosphere is ideal for remote workers seeking balance.
15. Inverness, Scotland
Why Move Here:
A charming small town with access to the Scottish Highlands.
Peaceful living and affordable housing.
Opportunities in tourism and green energy sectors.
Gen Z Appeal: Inverness offers tranquility with plenty of adventure nearby.
Final Thoughts
The migration of Gen Z Europeans into smaller towns challenges the narrative that excitement and opportunity only exist in big cities. By redefining what makes a place “worth living in,” young people are showing that happiness often comes from slower, simpler environments.
This movement also proves that what one generation views as “boring” can be reimagined by the next as innovative, practical, and liberating. What matters most isn’t how flashy a place looks but how well it supports long-term well-being.
Ultimately, the choice to embrace smaller towns reflects a quiet revolution in values. Gen Z is rejecting old standards of status and prestige in favor of authenticity, sustainability, and community—a lesson that even older generations might find inspiring.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.