Set at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers in northwest Belgium, Ghent is a marvellous melting pot of contrasts and contradictions. At first glance, this small, compact city resembles a medieval masterpiece, but dig a little deeper and you will discover a thriving, modern community rich in innovative design, edgy underground music, and groundbreaking sustainable development. Historical treasures include ornate historic buildings, an impressive cathedral housing the famous Van Eyck altarpiece, and fabulous canal-side architecture. The city’s heritage is interspersed with contemporary art and design museums, quirky shops, and uber-trendy restaurants and cafes. With all of this diverse culture on offer, it is rather surprising that Ghent has managed to dodge the tourist hordes typically headed for the bright lights of Bruges or Brussels.