Belgium is a country favoured by many thanks in part to its infusion of medieval heritage with a modern vibe.
Bruges is the city most flock to but for those looking to beat the crowds while still experiencing the magic that is Belgium, Ghent could be your next port of call.
The region is packed with architectural marvels, historical sights and a bustling arts scene all adorned with cobblestone streets perfect for strolls and cycling.
Ghent was featured in a list by Which on the top 16 European city-break destinations that can be easily reached by train.
The lesser-known Belgium spot beat Paris and Amsterdam, proving it deserves a place on your next European bucket list.
Members of Which voted for their favourite European spot, marking each European location out of five stars under categories including accommodation, food and drink.
Bruges earned the top spot on the list with Ghent coming in at an impressive 5th with a city score of 80 percent.
Ghent is a port city located northwest of Belgium and is famed for its Gothic architecture.
The city is the fourth largest in Belgium and is home to around a quarter of a million people.
Culture is steeped throughout the region with a captivating arts scene, thriving culinary cuisine, vibrant street life alongside a historic centre.
Moreover, the city’s charming canals provide plenty of green spaces, boat tours, walking hotspots and cycling trails to take it all in.
The town has been described as an enchanting destination with a chilled-out vibe and best of all, fewer tourists than many other European destinations.
Ghent boasts many museums, medieval streets, three towers and the Ghent Altarpiece, a large 15th-century polyptych altarpiece also called the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb that’s a must-see.
Ghent is Europe’s largest car-free zone with vast pedestrianised areas. After working up an appetite following a long day of sightseeing, here you can look forward to a culinary journey like no other.
The region boasts the best mustard in town and is the perfect condiment alongside other traditional items including ganda ham, kroakdemandels, Ghent-style stoverij or waterzooi.
To wash down all those delicious flavours, beer flows through the veins of its people with a number of breweries to sample its delight.
You can visit Ghent from London St Pancras to Brussels followed by a transfer to Ghent which all takes less than three hours, making it a must-see European visit.