Charming Charleroi: A Four-Day Budget Travel Guide

Discover Charleroi's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Charleroi

  • Check in at Ibis Budget Charleroi Airport hotel, a great budget option that's within walking distance of the airport
  • Relax and unwind in your cozy room before setting out to see the sights
  • Head to Place Charles II to get a feel for the city's vibrant atmosphere and enjoy some people-watching
  • Visit the nearby Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers stunning views of the city
  • Grab dinner at Le Rimini, a charming Italian restaurant that serves up delicious, affordable pasta and pizza
Day 2

Exploring Charleroi

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, a delightful bakery and cafe that offers fresh, organic fare
  • Make your way to the Photography Museum, which showcases the city's rich history and cultural heritage through a wide variety of exhibits
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Parc de la Serna, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city
  • Stop by L'Envers du Decor, a funky and eclectic bar that's perfect for an evening drink or two
  • Top off the day with dinner at the charming and authentic Le Baron, a cozy restaurant that serves up traditional Belgian cuisine at reasonable prices
Day 3

Day Tripping to Namur

  • Hop on a train to the picturesque city of Namur, located just a short distance from Charleroi
  • Explore the stunning Citadel, a historic fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside
  • Take a stroll along the scenic River Meuse and enjoy the charming cafes and shops that line its banks
  • Visit the famous Bourse aux Livres, a bustling book market that's popular with locals and tourists alike
  • Stop by Le Pain Quotidien Namur for a delicious lunch before heading back to Charleroi in the late afternoon
Day 4

Departing Charleroi

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the charming Cafe Brasserie Le Quebec, which serves up tasty croissants, coffee, and more
  • Take a final stroll through the city's bustling streets and soak up its vibrant atmosphere
  • Check out of your hotel and make your way to the airport for your departure
  • If you have some time to spare before your flight, grab lunch at the delicious and affordable L'Esperanza, a charming Italian restaurant located near the airport
  • Bid farewell to Charleroi and look forward to your next adventure!

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: The Ultimate Weekend Getaway

Charleroi is a small, industrial city located in Wallonia, Belgium. As a tourist, you can explore the city's rich history, architecture, and cultural offerings. From the unique art exhibitions, picturesque parks and gardens, and incredible cuisine, there's something for everyone to experience and enjoy during their stay in Charleroi.

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.

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.

Charleroi, Belgium: A Fun-Filled Weekend Itinerary

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.