Charleroi

Belgium, Europe

Charleroi, a vibrant city in Wallonia, Belgium, is known for its striking industrial heritage and contemporary art scene. One of its standout attractions is the Bois du Cazier, a UNESCO World Heritage site highlighting its coal mining history. Visitors can explore the renowned Le Palais des Beaux-Arts and enjoy the eclectic mix of street art throughout the city. Charleroi is appealing for its unique blend of history and modernity, offering a fresh perspective on Belgian culture.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Brussels South

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Charleroi

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the BPS22 Museum

Visit a contemporary art museum showcasing modern creations.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Place Charles II

Relax in the main square surrounded by historic buildings.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Visit the Charleroi Expo

Experience local culture and trade fairs at this venue.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Cité des Astronautes

Explore this unique space-themed attraction and museum.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Bois du Cazier

Visit a UNESCO World Heritage site of coal mining history.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Sample local beers at a brewery

Taste authentic Belgian beers at a local brewery.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Photography

Explore a fascinating collection of photography exhibits.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk along the Sambre River

Enjoy scenic views while walking along the riverside.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Palais des Beaux-Arts

Admire beautiful works of art in this grand palace.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Participate in a local festival

Join in the vibrant local festivals throughout the year.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Dutch

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Moules-Frite

Mussels served with fries. (National dish)

Belgian Waffles

V

Sweet, fluffy waffles, often topped.

Stoofvlees

Beef stew, slow-cooked in beer.

Speculoos

V

Spiced shortcrust biscuit, often caramelized.

Waterzooi

Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables.

Phrases to learn

English

Dutch

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nee

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Dank je

(Dank yuh)

Excuse me

Pardon

(Par-don)

How much?

Hoeveel?

(Hoo-vel)