Charleroi: A Family-Friendly Adventure Packed with Delights

Discover Charleroi: Fun and Adventure for the Whole Family!

19 July 2023

Charleroi, Belgium offers a family-friendly trip with a mix of historical charm and fun activities. Explore the city's impressive comic strip art scene with a visit to the Centre de la Bande Dessinée, where kids can delve into the world of famous Belgian cartoon characters. Enjoy a day at the Parc de Parentville, a beautiful green oasis perfect for picnics, playgrounds, and leisurely walks, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Charming Charleroi

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Parfumé, a quaint bakery serving delectable pastries that will make your taste buds dance.
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Charleroi's graffiti capital, Marcinelle. Admire the spectacular murals that adorn the city's walls, bursting with color and creativity.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Bois du Cazier, a former coal mine turned into a fascinating museum. Learn about the region's industrial heritage and step back in time to the mining era.
  • Indulge in a delightful lunch at Brasserie Sauvenière, a charming eatery offering traditional Belgian dishes with a modern twist. Try their mouthwatering carbonnade flamande, a beef stew cooked in beer.
  • Embark on an underground adventure at the Grotte de Lourdes. Explore the mysterious cave system filled with stalactites and stalagmites, and marvel at the hidden wonders beneath the city.
  • End your day on a high note with dinner at Le Bistro du Rond-Point. This cozy restaurant serves up delicious Belgian cuisine, offering a range of culinary delights that will leave you satisfied and smiling.
Day 2

Hidden Gems of Charleroi

  • Start your morning by taking a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Charleroi-Brussels Canal. Enjoy the tranquility and breathtaking views, as you spot colorful barges and charming waterfront houses.
  • Delve into history at the Musée de la Photographie, a unique museum dedicated to the art of photography. Explore captivating exhibitions that showcase the works of renowned photographers from around the world.
  • Treat yourself to a delectable lunch at Les Caves de Charleroi, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the city. Savor their exquisite selection of local cheeses and indulge in a glass of fine Belgian beer.
  • Discover the architectural marvel that is the Charleroi Métro. Take a ride on this fascinating underground system and marvel at the modernist design of the stations, each unique in its own creative way.
  • Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the Parc Reine Astrid. Take a picnic basket filled with local delicacies and relax amidst the lush greenery. Let the kids roam free in the playground while you soak up the natural beauty.
  • End your trip with a culinary adventure at Le Comptoir de Marie. This family-friendly restaurant serves up mouthwatering Belgian classics, such as mussels and fries, guaranteed to satisfy all taste buds.
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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Charleroi, Belgium by plane is to fly into Brussels South Charleroi Airport. There are several budget airlines, such as Ryanair and Wizz Air, that operate flights from various European cities to this airport.

Car

The best way to get to Charleroi, Belgium by car is to take the E19 highway from Brussels. The journey takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Train

There is a train station in Charleroi called Charleroi-Sud. The best way to get there by train is to take a high-speed train from Brussels or Paris. From Brussels, the journey takes around one hour, with multiple trains running daily.

Boat

There are no boats that operate to Charleroi, Belgium as it is an inland city. The closest port cities are Antwerp and Rotterdam, both of which are located in the Netherlands.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Charleroi, Belgium by bus is to take an express bus from Brussels. There are several bus companies, such as Flixbus and Ouibus, that operate daily services between the two cities.

More travel plans

Charming Charleroi: A Four-Day Budget Travel Guide

Charleroi, Belgium offers many affordable attractions, such as the Photography Museum and the Glass Museum, both of which charge minimal admission fees. Many tourists on a budget also enjoy exploring the local street art scene and browsing the city's weekly flea market. Staying in budget accommodations such as hostels or low-cost hotels can make the trip to Charleroi even more affordable.

3 Days of Romance & Adventure in Charleroi

Charleroi, Belgium may not be the first place that comes to mind for a romantic trip, but its industrial charm and hidden gems make it a unique and romantic destination. Couples can explore the city's vibrant street art, delve into the art nouveau architecture, and dine on traditional Belgian cuisine at cozy restaurants. For a romantic escape from the city, couples can take a scenic hike in the nearby mountains or visit the picturesque villages in the countryside.

The Ultimate 5-Day Charleroi Adventure Guide

Charleroi, Belgium, known for its industrial past, has transformed itself into a vibrant, multicultural hub with plenty to offer visitors. The city is dotted with street art, such as the iconic comic book murals, and has a thriving food and drink scene, including craft beer and Belgian fries. Visitors can also explore the unique architecture of the Rive Gauche shopping center or take a boat ride on the Canal du Centre.

Charleroi on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun

Charleroi, Belgium offers affordable accommodations, local street food and free attractions. A visit to the BPS22 Art Museum and the Photography Museum are a must-see, as well as taking a walk through the beautiful Bois du Cazier park. Traveling on foot and using public transportation can help keep costs low during your trip.