Five Days of Family Fun in Charleroi, Belgium!

Discover Charleroi: A Perfect Family Getaway!

19 July 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Charming Charleroi

  • Check into the family-friendly Hotel Leonardo, where comfy beds and a hearty breakfast await.
  • Start your adventure at the vibrant Place Charles II, with its trams bustling by and lively street performers.
  • Explore the intriguing BPS22 contemporary art museum housed in a former Art Deco-style swimming pool.
  • Treat your taste buds to the local delicacy, "boulets à la liégeoise" (meatballs in sweet sauce) at Le Vrai Jambon.
  • Unwind with a leisurely stroll along the Sambre River, soaking in the picturesque views.
Day 2

Delve into Charleroi's History

  • Begin at the imposing Charleroi Citadelle, a fortress-turned-park offering a glimpse into the city's past.
  • Visit the Photography Museum, showcasing captivating works by local and international artists.
  • Enjoy lunch at Brasserie du Pays Noirs, savoring their signature "Tarte al Djote" (cabbage tart) and craft beers.
  • Discover the engaging Le Bois du Cazier museum, an ancient coal mine turned memorial to a mining tragedy.
  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Maison du Cœur, a charming restaurant known for its refined Belgian cuisine.
Day 3

Adventures in the Outdoors

  • Head to the Bois du Prince, an enchanting forest perfect for family hikes and picnics amidst nature.
  • Encounter fascinating wildlife at the Pairi Daiza zoo, where exotic animals thrive in beautifully landscaped habitats.
  • Treat yourselves to mouthwatering Belgian waffles at Maison Dandoy, a local institution since 1829.
  • Take a leisurely canal boat tour, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and views of picturesque countryside.
  • Dine at Le Faubourg, a cozy bistro renowned for its delicious seasonal dishes and warm atmosphere.
Day 4

Discover Charleroi's Hidden Gems

  • Start the day at the quirky Musée de la Photographie, a treasure trove of vintage cameras and captivating exhibits.
  • Embark on a guided street art tour, marveling at the vibrant murals that adorn the city's walls.
  • Enjoy a delightful lunch at La Manufacture Urbaine, a trendy eatery offering delectable burgers and craft beers.
  • Visit the magical Jardin Extraordinaire, a whimsical park where sculptures and greenery blend seamlessly.
  • Try the famous Belgian chocolate at Bel Arte, a chocolate shop brimming with irresistible sweet treats.
Day 5

Farewell to Charleroi

  • Explore the enchanting Château de Monceau-sur-Sambre, a stunning castle surrounded by picturesque gardens.
  • Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the charming Canal Charleroi-Brussels, soaking in the serene surroundings.
  • Have a farewell lunch at La Cantina Ristorante, serving delightful Italian cuisine with a Belgian twist.
  • Wander through the bustling Sunday market at Place de la Digue, stocked with local produce, artisanal crafts, and lively street performers.
  • Bid adieu to Charleroi with a delightful ice cream from Glace Capoue, savoring the last tastes of this vibrant city.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Charleroi

Once upon a time, there was a city in Europe that was known for its quirky charm, delicious beer, and a football team that always seemed to lose. This is the story of Charleroi, a place where you can feel like a local even if you don't speak the language and where the locals don't really care about the football team anyway.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

4 Days of Fun: Exploring Charleroi on a Budget

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.

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.