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

Charleroi, Belgium: Embrace Quirky Charm and Family Fun

Charleroi, Belgium offers a diverse range of family-friendly activities that are bound to keep everyone entertained. Explore the magnificent Bois du Cazier, a former coalmine turned museum, which offers a unique insight into the industrial history of the region. Enjoy a stroll along the picturesque Sambre River, where kids can feed the ducks or try their hand at fishing, while parents can relax in the quaint cafes dotted along the waterfront.

A Charming Long Weekend in Charleroi, Belgium

Charleroi, Belgium may not be the first place you think of for a romantic getaway, but it's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Visit the breathtaking Belfry of Charleroi, enjoy a romantic walk along the river Sambre, and indulge in local Belgian cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants in the city. With its charm and beauty, Charleroi is the perfect destination for a unique and unforgettable romantic trip.

Discover Charleroi's Art, History & Cheap Eats

Charleroi, Belgium is a hidden gem for budget travelers with plenty of affordable accommodations, restaurants, and attractions to explore. Visitors can take a free walking tour of the city, visit the renowned Photography Museum, and indulge in delicious Belgian beer and chocolate. The city's industrial charm and picturesque parks make it a must-visit destination for those on a limited budget.

Five Days of Family Fun in Charleroi, Belgium!

Charleroi, located in the beautiful region of Wallonia, offers a delightful family-friendly trip. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the city is bursting with fascinating museums, such as the impressive Photography Museum and the colorful Museum of Fine Arts. Families can also enjoy outdoor activities in the stunning Bois du Cazier park or visit the enchanting Pairi Daiza zoo nearby.