Charleroi - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Charleroi

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Charleroi, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Charleroi and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Charleroi, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Charleroi for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Charleroi

Charleroi is a city in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of Belgium. It is located about 50 km south of Brussels and has a population of around 200,000 people. Charleroi is known for its industrial heritage and was once a major center of coal mining and steel production. Today, it is home to a number of museums, cultural attractions, and natural parks. The city has its own airport, Brussels South Charleroi Airport, which serves as a hub for low-cost carriers. It is also well-connected by train to other major cities in Belgium and beyond.

What to visit in Charleroi

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Charleroi, Belgium along with brief information about each: 1. Belfry of Charleroi: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a medieval bell tower that offers stunning panoramic views of the city from the top. It measures around 70 meters high and is a perfect spot for photographers.
2. Boat Lifts of the Canal du Centre: These incredible boat lifts have been in operation since the early 20th century and provide an interesting insight into the engineering marvels of Belgium.
3. Museum of Photography: Charleroi is known as the centre of the European photography and this museum is dedicated to all aspects of the art form. It has exhibitions ranging from historical to contemporary photography.
4. Palais des Beaux Arts: This art museum contains a wide variety of works, from the ancient collection to modern pieces. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.
5. Charleroi Danses: This dance centre organises a number of international contemporary dance events throughout the year. If you're interested in cultural events, you should definitely check out what they have to offer.
6. Place Charles II: This is the historic heart of Charleroi and features architectural marvels from the 1800s that were constructed during the boom of the coal mining industry.
7. Museum of Glass and Crystal: This museum gives an insight into the history of glass and crystal making, and also provides demonstrations by skilled craftsmen, making this a popular spot for art lovers.
I hope this information is helpful in planning your trip to Charleroi, Belgium!

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Charleroi.

When to go on holiday to Charleroi

The best time to visit Charleroi is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers as the area can be quite humid. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can also be good times to visit, as the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Winter (December to February) can be cold and grey, but there are festive markets and events to enjoy during the holiday season. Ultimately, the best time to visit will depend on your personal preferences and what activities you plan to do while you're there.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Charleroi

There are several ways to get to Charleroi, Belgium: 1. By Plane: Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) is the main airport which serves Charleroi. It is located about 7 km from the city center. There are daily flights from various European cities.
2. By Train: Charleroi has two railway stations, Charleroi-Sud and Charleroi-Ouest. These stations are linked to Brussels, Namur, and other Belgian cities. There are also high-speed trains connecting Charleroi to Paris and Amsterdam.
3. By Bus: Charleroi is well-connected by buses to other Belgian and European cities. Major bus companies such as Flixbus, Eurolines, and Megabus operate bus services to Charleroi.
4. By Car: Charleroi is located on the E42 motorway which connects Brussels and Liège. It is easily accessible by car from other European cities.
5. By Taxi: Taxis are available at Brussels South Charleroi Airport and Charleroi railway stations. It is advisable to book a taxi in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Charleroi, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Charleroi

Charleroi has a variety of delicious foods. Here are some typical foods of Charleroi, Belgium with a short description: 1. Boulette sauce lapin: Boulette sauce lapin is actually meatballs in rabbit sauce. The rabbit sauce is made with white wine, onions, carrots, and celery. It is served with fries or mashed potatoes and salad.
2. Carbonade flamande: Carbonade flamande is a hearty beef stew cooked with Belgian ale and onions, typically served with fries or potatoes.
3. Pain à la grecque: Pain à la grecque is a sweet bread that is typically eaten as a breakfast or a dessert. It is made with orange blossom water, anise, and raisins.
4. Fondus: Fondus, also known as fondue, is a popular appetizer in Charleroi. It is typically made with melted cheese or chocolate and is served with bread or fruit.
5. Boulets frites: Boulets frites is a popular dish made with meatballs in tomato sauce, served with fries.
6. Carbonnade à la flamande: Carbonnade à la flamande is a traditional Flemish beef stew seasoned with thyme, bay leaves, and Belgian beer. It is often served with French fries or boiled potatoes.
7. Croquettes aux crevettes: Croquettes aux crevettes are deep-fried shrimp croquettes typically served as a starter or side dish.
8. Waterzooi: Waterzooi is a creamy soup made with chicken, vegetables, herbs, and cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Charleroi an expensive destination for tourists?

Charleroi is considered to be an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to major European cities such as Paris, London, or Amsterdam. However, prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation, restaurants or activities you choose. In general, budget-friendly accommodations and restaurants can be found easily in Charleroi, and there are also many free or low-cost attractions to explore, such as the Photography Museum or the Belfry of Charleroi. Therefore, Charleroi can definitely be a good option for travelers looking for an affordable destination in Europe.

Where to find accomodation in Charleroi

In Charleroi, it is generally best to find accommodation in the city center, as this provides easy access to the main attractions and public transportation. Other areas to consider are the nearby towns of Gosselies and Montignies-sur-Sambre, which are both well-connected to Charleroi by bus and train. Additionally, if you want a more peaceful stay, you could consider accommodations outside of the city in the surrounding countryside, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and rural setting.
You can check hotel prices at Charleroi here:
Booking.com

Is Charleroi a safe destination for tourists?

Charleroi, like any other city in the world, has its safe and unsafe areas. However, according to reports, Charleroi has higher crime rates than other Belgian cities. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas, and use common sense when out and about. It would be best to stay in well-lit, busy areas and avoid carrying large sums of money or valuables. Overall, if tourists remain aware of their surroundings and take precautions, they can have a safe and enjoyable time in Charleroi.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Charleroi.

What type of travelers will enjoy Charleroi the most?

Charleroi, Belgium can be a great destination for all types of travelers, depending on their interests. Couples may enjoy the many romantic sights that Charleroi has to offer. For instance, you could take a stroll through the Parc de la Serna, which has beautiful landscaping that includes abundant foliage and colorful flower beds. The park also features sculptures and a lake with a fountain, making it a serene and picturesque spot for a romantic picnic.
Young travelers looking for fun will appreciate Charleroi's many entertainment options. The city has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. There are also several festivals throughout the year that offer great music, food, and opportunities to socialize with locals and other travelers.
Families will enjoy exploring the many cultural and historic attractions that Charleroi has to offer. There are numerous museums, such as the fascinating Museum of Photography, which provides a well-curated history of photography from its early days to the present. Families can also enjoy visiting the Belfry of Charleroi, which offers stunning views of the city from its 70-meter-high tower.
Overall, Charleroi has something to offer for travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Charleroi

The best way to move around Charleroi is by bus or by car. The city has a well-established network of buses connecting different parts of the city. There are also taxis and car rental services available for more personalized transportation. However, it is important to note that due to the narrow streets in the city center, driving may be difficult and parking may be limited.

What to see around Charleroi

There are a number of beautiful places you can visit on a day trip from Charleroi. Here are some options: 1. Brussels - the capital city of Belgium is just an hour's drive from Charleroi. You can visit the Grand Place, the Atomium, the Manneken Pis statue, and other top sights.
2. Dinant - a charming city located on the banks of the Meuse River, it is just a 45-minute drive from Charleroi. Visit the Citadel of Dinant, the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, and take a boat ride on the river.
3. Leuven - a historic university town with beautiful medieval architecture, it is just a 50-minute drive from Charleroi. Visit the St. Peter's Church, the Old Market Square, and the University Library.
4. Namur - the capital city of Wallonia region of Belgium, it is just a 40-minute drive from Charleroi. Visit the Citadel of Namur, the Saint-Aubin's Cathedral, and the Félicien Rops Museum.
5. Mons - a charming city located in Hainaut province, it is just a 30-minute drive from Charleroi. Visit the Grand Place, the Mons Belfry and take a walk through the picturesque streets of the town.
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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