Charleroi, Belgium: A Fun-Filled Weekend Itinerary

Explore the Rust Belt charm of Charleroi, Belgium.

03 May 2023

Charleroi, Belgium is a city known for its industrial past and rich art scene. As a tourist, you can explore its unique architecture, like the Art Nouveau-style houses and the iconic City Hall. You can also visit the Museum of Photography or take a day trip to nearby Brussels for more sightseeing.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Charleroi's Diamond in the Rough

  • Check into Hotel Charleroi Airport, located just outside Charleroi with easy access to the city
  • Start the day with a visit to the impressive 19th-century Art Nouveau Charleroi City Hall
  • Visit the Bois du Cazier, a former coal mine and UNESCO World Heritage site with a fascinating museum about the region's industrial history
  • Grab lunch at Chez Lydia, a charming family-run restaurant serving Belgian classics like moules-frites and beef stew
  • Take a stroll through the Parc des Canaux et Châteaux, a beautiful park with several historic castles and a picturesque canal
  • End the day with a beer at Brasserie des Légendes, a local brewery and taproom with over 20 beers on tap.
Day 2

Charleroi's Artistic Side

  • Enjoy breakfast at Creperie Ughini, a cozy cafe specializing in sweet and savory crepes
  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in Charleroi's Pays Noir district, which has become a hot spot for urban art
  • Visit the Photography Museum of Charleroi, one of the largest and most prestigious photography museums in Europe
  • Lunch at Cafe Leffe Charleroi, which offers delicious Belgian cuisine and a wide selection of beers in a beautiful setting
  • Take a walk through the Jardin du Mayeur, a beautiful park with a greenhouse, a pond, and stunning flower beds
  • End the day with a visit to the stunning modern art museum, BPS22, located in a beautifully renovated former art deco department store.
  • Charleroi may not be on every traveler's radar, but with its unique mix of industrial history, artistic flair, and delicious cuisine, it's definitely worth a visit.

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

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: A Two-Day Adventure

Charleroi, Belgium may not be the most famous European city, but it offers budget travelers a unique and affordable experience. Visitors can explore the city's industrial heritage, including the UNESCO-listed Bois du Luc mining site, for free. Plus, budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants make it easy to enjoy the local culture without breaking the bank.

Charleroi, Belgium in 3 Fun-Filled Days

Charleroi, Belgium is a great destination for tourists looking to explore an off-the-beaten-path location. Visitors can enjoy the city's rich heritage and diverse cultural offerings, including its stunning architecture and impressive art scene. From museums to markets to cozy cafes, Charleroi offers plenty to see and do for travelers seeking a unique travel experience.

Uncovering Charleroi: A Day Trip Adventure

Charleroi, a quaint town in Belgium, is a perfect destination for those who appreciate art and architecture. A must-visit spot is the industrial complex, Bois du Cazier, which is now a museum and a testament to the town’s coal mining past. The town also has an impressive collection of art pieces at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Charleroi.