4 Days of Fun: Exploring Charleroi on a Budget

Discover the charm of Charleroi—a perfect family getaway in Belgium.

19 July 2023

Charleroi, Belgium offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of history and fun activities. Families can explore the impressive Charleroi City Hall and visit the intriguing Musée de la Photographie for an enriching cultural experience. Additionally, kids will enjoy spending time at BPS22, a contemporary art space, or having a thrilling day at the Walibi Belgium amusement park just a short drive away.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Hidden Gems

  • Start your day with a visit to the bustling Rive Gauche Market, where locals gather to hunt for fresh produce, cheese, and other treasures.
  • Immerse yourself in the alternative art scene at the Photographie Museum, showcasing captivating exhibitions that will make you see the world through a different lens.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Quai de Brabant, a picturesque riverside promenade lined with charming cafes and colorful street art.
  • Indulge in a delectable lunch at Aux Berges de la Dyle, a quaint brasserie serving authentic Belgian cuisine amidst a cozy atmosphere.
  • Spend the afternoon at the Bois du Cazier, a coal mine turned museum, and delve into Charleroi's industrial past with interactive exhibits.
  • End your day with a cozy dinner at La Manufacture Urbaine, a trendy restaurant offering a fusion of flavors, where food becomes a work of art.
Day 2

Historical Charms and Castle Tales

  • Immerse yourself in history at the Charleroi City Hall, an architectural gem with exquisite murals and a panoramic view from the bell tower.
  • Discover the mystical Château de Monceau-sur-Sambre, a charming fortress enveloped in lush greenery and a moat straight out of a fairytale.
  • Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at L'Epicerie du Clocher, a hidden gem serving traditional Belgian dishes with a modern twist in a charming setting.
  • Unleash your inner child at the Spirouland amusement park, home to thrilling rides, colorful characters, and laughter-inducing attractions.
  • End your day with a visit to the Maison Dorée, a historic and beautifully restored Art Nouveau gem, where you can enjoy a refreshing beverage.
Day 3

Art and Adventure

  • Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the BPS22, Charleroi's Museum of Contemporary Art, where you'll encounter thought-provoking exhibits and interactive installations.
  • Embark on an adventure at the Natura Parc, an exhilarating treetop adventure park featuring zip lines, suspended bridges, and breathtaking nature trails.
  • Refuel with a scrumptious lunch at Le Charbon, a trendy bistro offering a unique fusion of flavors inspired by worldwide cuisines.
  • Wander through the Charleroi Adventure Mine and discover the secrets of coal mining firsthand, guided by passionate ex-miners.
  • Indulge in a leisurely dinner at La Manufacture Charleroi, a charming restaurant specializing in organic, farm-to-table dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Day 4

Nature and Farewell

  • Kickstart your day with a visit to the Bois de la Cambre, a picturesque park perfect for picnics, boat rides, and leisurely walks amidst enchanting greenery.
  • Discover the majestic Le Palais des Beaux-Arts, Belgium's largest cultural venue housing an impressive collection of fine art, sculptures, and exhibitions.
  • Savor a delicious lunch at Le Panier d'Eglantine, a cozy restaurant tucked away in a charming courtyard, known for its homemade traditional Belgian cuisine.
  • Take a peaceful boat ride along the Charleroi-Brussels Canal, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.
  • Bid farewell to Charleroi with a visit to Place Charles II, the city's central square, bustling with cafes and shops, where you can grab a souvenir to remember your time in this hidden gem.

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.

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