26 College Towns That Feel Like Mini Versions of Major Cities

17. Wellington, New Zealand – A Mini Melbourne with a Creative Edge

New Zealand’s capital may be a major city, but its compact, walkable downtown and strong university presence give it the feel of a thriving college town. Home to Victoria University of Wellington, the city is known for its coffee culture, arts scene, and cinematic legacy (thanks to Peter Jackson’s film industry influence). With a lively waterfront, indie theaters, and a booming tech sector, Wellington feels like a smaller, more laid-back version of Melbourne.