Sint-Niklaas, Belgium

With a population of just 80,167, Sint-Niklaas is no bustling metropolis. The central market square may be the largest in Belgium, but the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the city was bombed heavily during World War II. Though the textile industry has declined, the historic center now serves as a shopping district, and the city hosts several lively festivals. However, the long, cold winters and the lingering impact of wartime destruction mean Sint-Niklaas is best suited for those seeking a quiet, provincial Flemish life rather than big-city excitement.