When it comes to European travel, hotspots like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona have long dominated the itineraries of tourists from around the globe. But for those looking to stray from the beaten path and discover a gem of culture, cuisine, and history without the bustling crowds, Ghent in Belgium is a city that’s been undeservingly overshadowed.

A mere 30-minute train ride from the more well-trodden Brussels, Ghent offers a blend of medieval architecture and contemporary charm. Begin your journey at Gravensteen Castle, a fortress dating back to 1180 that sets the scene straight out of a fairytale. Climb the narrow staircases to witness panoramic views of the city’s spired skyline.

Stepping into Ghana’s heart, the Graslei and Korenlei streets line the serene Lys River and once served as the center of the medieval port. Nowadays, they’re home to beautifully preserved buildings reflecting centuries-old facades converted into cafes where you can indulge in a traditional Belgian waffle while soaking in the riverside ambiance.

Art enthusiasts will marvel at the city’s devotion to culture with a visit to Ghent’s Museum of Fine Arts, housing work ranging from Hieronymus Bosch to Peter Paul Rubens. For a more modern dose, SMAK (the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art) offers cutting-edge exhibitions. Still, no visit would be complete without seeing the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by van Eyck brothers — an altar masterpiece located in St Bavo’s Cathedral.

For culinary explorers, Ghent is known for its vegetarian cuisine being dubbed Europe’s veggie capital. Yet it also respects its roots with traditional dishes such as ‘Gentse Waterzooi,’ a rich stew often using fish or chicken. The local food market at Groentenmarkt is an excellent place for gourmands aiming to sample artisanal cheeses and cured meats amidst a lively local atmosphere.

Another not-to-miss experience is roaming through Patershol, Ghent’s oldest neighborhood with cobblestone streets lined with eclectic shops and restaurants set in former 17th-century homes. After dark, take part in Ghent’s vibrant night scene starting at one of many cozy Belgian beer bars.

Sustainability-minded travelers will appreciate that Ghent has been forward-thinking in terms of eco-friendliness—pledge to explore on foot or by using one of its free bicycles via their bike-sharing program. Every detail in Ghent speaks to those who seek undiscovered territories rich with authenticity that provide an unspoiled European experience lesser-known yet equally majestic as its metropolitan neighbors.

As you ponder your 2024 travel plans and seek an extraordinary setting that promises cultural wealth away from tourist throngs — consider letting Ghent weave its medieval magic into your adventurous heart.