Discover Charleroi's Art, History & Cheap Eats

Experience the charming streets of Charleroi without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Art and History in Charleroi

  • Start your day at Charleroi-Sud train station and grab a pastry at Au Pain Marie.
  • Visit the Royal Glass Museum, housed in a stunning Art Deco building, to learn about the local glass industry.
  • Walk through the historic city center, stopping at Place Charles II to see the impressive Baroque City Hall and the statue of famous mathematician Lambert Adolphe Jacques Quetelet.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the lovely Parc Reine Astrid, admiring the colorful flower beds and the sculptures dotted around the park.
  • Visit the Photography Museum, showcasing the work of Belgian and international photographers. Don't miss the roof terrace, offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Head back to Charleroi-Sud to try some classic Belgian dishes at Brasserie François, which has been serving locals since 1922.
  • Note: Charleroi has a reputation for being a gritty, industrial town, but it is also home to many hidden gems and underrated attractions. Give it a chance and you might be pleasantly surprised!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

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.

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.

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.