Turnhout, Belgium

With a population of just 44,136, Turnhout hardly qualifies as a thriving metropolis. The small city in northern Belgium is a quiet, provincial backwater, its economy centered around the playing card industry and a handful of local services. While the picturesque beguinage and historic castle offer charm, the persistent bureaucracy is a headache for newcomers. Turnhout may appeal to those seeking a slow-paced, provincial lifestyle, but it lacks the vibrancy and opportunities of Belgium's larger cities.