15 epic things to do in Charleroi

Impressive industrial heritage, vibrant street art, fascinating museums, and a thriving cultural scene. Charleroi is often labelled as Belgium‘s ugliest city, but honestly, that reputation couldn’t be further from the truth. During my visit, I was genuinely surprised by how the city has embraced its mining and industrial past, transforming it into a destination full of character, creativity, and culture.From former mining sites and panoramic viewpoints to trendy cafés, contemporary art, and colourful murals, there are countless things to do in Charleroi that make the city far more diverse than you might expect. In this guide, I’ll share the very best things to do in Charleroi and take you to the places that impressed me the most. You may just discover, as I did, that Charleroi is one of Belgium‘s most underrated cities.

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About Charleroi

Charleroi is located in the south of Belgium, in the province of Hainaut, and is best known for its airport. For many travellers, the city is simply a departure or arrival point for their holiday, which means the city centre is often overlooked. That’s a real shame, because behind its rugged reputation lies a destination full of character, impressive industrial heritage, and a surprisingly diverse cultural scene.

The city’s industrial past is visible everywhere. For centuries, Charleroi was a major centre for coal mining, steel production, and glass manufacturing. Today, many former mines, factories, and industrial buildings have been transformed into cultural hotspots, museums, panoramic viewpoints, and green recreational areas. This unique blend of heritage and regeneration gives Charleroi an identity unlike anywhere else in Belgium.

What surprised me most was just how diverse the city is. One moment you’re exploring impressive industrial landmarks, and the next you’re admiring colourful street art, visiting a contemporary museum, or enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city centre. It’s this contrast that makes Charleroi far more interesting than its reputation suggests and proves that it truly deserves a place on your Belgium bucket list.

How to travel to Charleroi?

Charleroi is easy to reach from both Belgium and abroad. The city is best known for Brussels South Charleroi Airport, which welcomes numerous international flights every day. From the airport, you can reach the city centre quickly by shuttle bus, train, or rental car.

Travelling by train is just as convenient. From Brussels, you can reach Charleroi-Central in about an hour. There are also excellent rail connections from cities such as Namur, Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges, making Charleroi a great destination for both a day trip and a weekend getaway.

If you’re travelling by car, Charleroi is about an hour’s drive from Brussels and is easily accessible via Belgium’s motorway network. Thanks to its central location, it’s also easy to combine your visit with other destinations in Wallonia.

Planning a trip to Belgium? Be sure to read my blog, “10 Belgium travel tips you should know before you go.” It covers practical information on public transport, parking, payments, and plenty of other useful tips to help you prepare for your trip.

How much time do you need in Charleroi?

Charleroi is the perfect destination for both a day trip and a weekend getaway. How much time you’ll need largely depends on your travel style and how much you want to explore.

If you only have one day, you’ll still have enough time to visit the city’s main highlights and get a great first impression.

I personally spent a weekend in Charleroi, and I found it to be the perfect amount of time. It gave me the chance to explore the city at a relaxed pace, enjoy a few cafés and terraces, and really soak up the atmosphere without feeling like I had to rush from one attraction to the next. It also left plenty of room for spontaneous discoveries, which is often what makes a city break so enjoyable.

If you have more time, Charleroi is easy to combine with other destinations in Wallonia, such as Namur. Thanks to its central location, the city makes an excellent base for discovering even more of this surprisingly diverse region of Belgium.

When is the best time to visit Charleroi?

Charleroi is a destination you can visit year-round, but I personally found my trip during Carnival to be especially memorable. The entire city comes alive with celebrations, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The absolute highlight is the Brûlage du Corbeau (“Burning of the Crow”), a centuries-old tradition in which a giant wooden crow is set ablaze to symbolically bid farewell to winter and leave behind all negativity. The parade, live music, colourful costumes, and spectacular final ceremony made my weekend in Charleroi truly unforgettable.

There is plenty to experience throughout the rest of the year as well. In June, the Fête de la Musique and the Brocante des Quais bring the city to life with free concerts, market stalls, and street entertainment. During the summer, Quartier d’Été hosts a variety of open-air events, while the Fêtes de Wallonie in September fill the streets with folklore, music, and local celebrations.

If you’re planning a winter visit, the Christmas market is well worth experiencing too. The festive Christmas village, complete with twinkling lights, wooden chalets, an ice-skating rink, and plenty of seasonal treats, creates a warm and cosy atmosphere in the city centre for several weeks.

If possible, plan your city break around one of these events. Not only will you discover the city itself, but you’ll also experience just how lively and welcoming Charleroi can be.

1 – Explore the world of photography at the Photography Museum

As a photographer, this was without a doubt one of the highlights of my weekend in Charleroi. The Photography Museum is one of the largest photography museums in Europe, making it a must-visit in its own right. Housed in a former convent, the museum has a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere that perfectly complements the art of photography.

Inside, you’ll take a journey through the history of photography, from historic cameras and iconic images to thought-provoking temporary exhibitions by contemporary photographers. What I appreciated most is that the museum offers much more than a collection of photographs. It encourages you to look at images from a different perspective. How does a photographer use light? Why does a particular composition work so well? And how can a single image evoke so much emotion?

I left the museum feeling truly inspired. Not because I had learned new techniques, but because it reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place. A powerful photograph isn’t just about perfect composition or the right camera settings, it’s about the emotions it evokes. That’s exactly what this museum captures so beautifully.

Allow at least two to three hours for your visit. The museum is located about a 10-minute drive from Charleroi’s city centre and is also easy to reach by public transport. There’s also a museum shop and a cosy café where you can relax after your visit. If you’re a photographer or simply have a passion for photography, this is one place you definitely shouldn’t miss while exploring Charleroi.

2 – Discover Le Bois du Cazier and Charleroi’s remarkable mining heritage

Of all the places I visited during my weekend in Charleroi, Le Bois du Cazier left the biggest impression. I knew it was a former coal mine, but I never expected the site to affect me so deeply. As soon as you walk among the impressive headframes and historic buildings, you realise this is much more than a museum. It’s a place where history truly comes to life.

Le Bois du Cazier tells the story of the mining industry that shaped Charleroi for generations, but more importantly, it honours the people who worked there. Much of the visit focuses on the tragic mining disaster of 8 August 1956, when 262 miners lost their lives. Their stories are presented in a respectful and deeply moving way. I was genuinely impressed by how thoughtfully the entire site has been designed. Not only do you learn about the history of the mine, but you also gain a deeper understanding of the daily lives and harsh working conditions of the thousands of miners who once worked here.

The site is also home to the Glass Museum, which makes a wonderful addition to your visit. Charleroi played an important role in Belgium’s glass industry, and the museum showcases both historic glass objects and contemporary glass art. Together, they provide a fascinating insight into the region’s rich industrial heritage.

Set aside at least three hours to explore the entire site at a relaxed pace. Le Bois du Cazier is about a 10-minute drive from the city centre and is also easy to reach by public transport. For me, this is without question one of the very best things to do in Charleroi and a place that adds real depth and meaning to your visit.

3 – Be inspired by contemporary art at BPS22

If you’re a fan of modern and contemporary art, BPS22 is well worth a visit. The museum is housed in a striking former industrial hall, where raw steel structures and soaring spaces create a fascinating contrast with the contemporary artworks on display. The building itself is reason enough to stop by.

One of the things I loved most about BPS22 is that you never quite know what to expect. The museum hosts only temporary exhibitions, meaning every visit is different. Many of the artworks invite you to reflect on current themes such as identity, society, and culture, giving the museum a fresh and contemporary feel.

I’m not someone who spends hours analysing every piece of art, yet I genuinely enjoyed the combination of the impressive industrial architecture and the ever-changing exhibitions. Even if contemporary art isn’t usually your thing, I’d still recommend giving BPS22 a chance. You don’t need to be an art expert to appreciate the unique atmosphere of this place.

Plan to spend around one and a half to two hours exploring the museum. It’s within walking distance of Charleroi’s city centre and is open from Tuesday to Sunday. Thanks to its regularly changing exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover.

4 – Step inside St. Christopher’s Church

Located on Place Charles II, St. Christopher’s Church is one of Charleroi’s most impressive landmarks. Its large dome already makes it stand out from the outside, but the real highlight awaits inside. As soon as you enter, your eyes are drawn to the enormous golden mosaic behind the altar. Depicting the Apocalypse of Saint John, this remarkable artwork is made up of millions of tiny glass tiles and is one of the largest religious mosaics in Europe. That alone makes the church well worth a visit.

What surprised me most was the contrast between the church’s rather understated exterior and its vibrant interior. The moment you step inside, the space feels much warmer and more impressive than you might expect. I ended up staying much longer than I had planned. Even if you don’t usually visit churches, I would still recommend taking a look inside.

Admission is free, and the church is located right in the historic heart of Charleroi. Allow around 15 to 30 minutes for your visit. Be sure to combine it with a stroll around Place Charles II, where you’ll also find the Town Hall and the Belfry. Thanks to its central location, this is one of the easiest attractions to include in your Charleroi itinerary.

5 – Admire the impressive Charleroi Town Hall

Directly opposite St. Christopher’s Church stands the impressive Charleroi Town Hall. The building immediately catches the eye with its elegant architecture and soaring belfry tower, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Together, the Town Hall and the church form the historic heart of Charleroi’s Upper Town.

While many visitors admire the Town Hall from the outside, it’s well worth stepping inside if you have the chance. The interior is beautifully decorated with marble, fine woodwork, and colourful stained-glass windows, making it clear why this is one of the city’s most important buildings. Guided tours are regularly organised, allowing visitors to explore its most impressive rooms.

One of my favourite things about this spot was simply spending some time on the square outside. Several walking routes through the city begin here, and it’s a great place to appreciate the contrast between Charleroi’s historic architecture and its more modern side. Don’t forget to look up at the belfry tower—you might even hear the carillon echoing across the square if you’re lucky.

Allow around 30 minutes for your visit. Even if you only admire the building from the outside, it’s a landmark you really shouldn’t miss while exploring Charleroi’s historic centre.

6 – Discover Charleroi’s UNESCO Belfry

When admiring the Town Hall, it’s impossible not to notice the impressive belfry rising above it. Standing 70 metres tall, the Charleroi Belfry is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Its architecture beautifully combines classical design with Art Deco elements, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Belfries of Belgium and France.

One of the things I enjoyed most was hearing the tower come to life every fifteen minutes as its 47-bell carillon filled Place Charles II with music. As you stroll across the square, the sound of the bells adds a wonderful atmosphere to the city. It’s small details like these that make exploring Charleroi so enjoyable.

Normally, visitors can climb the belfry by ascending its 250 steps, where they’re rewarded with beautiful views over the city. Unfortunately, during my visit, access to the tower was temporarily suspended, so I wasn’t able to make the climb. If you’re planning a trip to Charleroi, it’s worth checking in advance whether the belfry has reopened to visitors.

Even though I couldn’t go inside, it remains one of the city’s most striking landmarks. Together with the Town Hall and St. Christopher’s Church, it forms one of the most photogenic spots in Charleroi.

7 – Get inspired at the Museum of Fine Arts

After exploring Charleroi’s impressive industrial heritage, the Museum of Fine Arts offers a refreshing change of pace. This modern museum houses an excellent collection of Belgian art, featuring works by renowned artists such as René Magritte, James Ensor, and Constant Permeke. It also shines a spotlight on artists from Charleroi and Wallonia, giving you the opportunity to discover the region from a completely different perspective.

What I liked most about this museum is how accessible it feels. You don’t have to be an art expert to enjoy it. The collection is thoughtfully displayed, the galleries are bright and contemporary, and you can explore everything at your own pace. It creates a relaxed atmosphere that naturally encourages you to spend a little more time with the artworks that catch your eye.

Since reopening in a completely renovated building, the museum has gained a fresh and modern look. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an hour, even if visiting art museums isn’t usually high on your itinerary.

Allow around one to one and a half hours for your visit. The museum is within walking distance of the city centre, and admission to the permanent collection is free. If you’re looking for a peaceful cultural stop during your city break, this museum is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

8 – Explore the street art trail along the Sambre

If you think Charleroi’s street art is limited to the city centre, think again. One of the city’s most enjoyable walks starts at Moulin metro station. From there, you follow the banks of the Sambre River for around five kilometres back towards the city centre. Along the way, you’ll pass former industrial sites, abandoned buildings, and an impressive collection of colourful murals. This unique combination of industrial heritage and contemporary street art gives the walk a character all of its own.

For me, this was one of the biggest surprises in Charleroi. The route reveals a completely different side of the city than its traditional attractions. Without a doubt, the highlight is the spectacular 700-metre-long wall that has been transformed into a giant open-air art gallery. One striking mural follows another, making this walk a dream for photographers and street art lovers alike.

Allow around one and a half to two hours for the walk, depending on how often you stop to take photos. Wear comfortable shoes, as the route is mostly flat but covers a fair distance. If you enjoy discovering hidden gems and have a passion for photography or street art, this walk is an experience you definitely shouldn’t miss during your visit to Charleroi.

9 – Hike the “Entre fer, charbon et eau” Terril Trail

If you’d like to discover a completely different side of Charleroi, lace up your hiking boots and follow the “Entre fer, charbon et eau: des terrils” trail. This circular walk of around 5 kilometres takes you across no fewer than four terrils: Terril des Piges, Terril Bayemont, Terril du Martinet, and Terril Saint-Théodore. These former mining spoil heaps have been transformed into surprisingly green natural areas, offering a unique way to experience Charleroi’s industrial heritage.

What I found most remarkable about this hike is the contrast between nature and industry. As you walk through woodlands and along narrow trails, you’re regularly rewarded with impressive views of old steelworks, towering chimneys, and the industrial landscapes that define Charleroi. You are quite literally walking between the city’s past and present, experiencing its history from a completely different perspective. For me, this was one of the most surprising experiences of the weekend.

Allow around two hours for this hike, and be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes, as the climb up Terril Saint-Théodore is fairly steep. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views over Charleroi’s former steelworks and its iconic industrial landscape.

10 – Stroll through the Passage de la Bourse

Hidden among Charleroi’s modern shopping streets, you’ll find a beautiful piece of history: the Passage de la Bourse. Dating back to the 19th century, this charming covered shopping arcade is one of the city’s hidden gems. As soon as you step beneath its elegant glass roof, it feels as though you’ve travelled back in time. The graceful architecture and peaceful atmosphere provide a welcome contrast to the bustling streets outside.

What I loved most is that the arcade has retained its authentic character. Don’t expect a large shopping centre; instead, you’ll find a charming passage lined with a handful of boutiques, cafés, and beautiful historic details. It’s one of those places that’s easy to walk past, yet it has so much character if you take the time to explore it.

The Passage de la Bourse is located right in the city centre, making it easy to combine with the other things to do in Charleroi. You won’t need long to visit, but it’s definitely worth slowing down for a few minutes to admire the architecture and soak up the atmosphere. For me, it was one of those unexpected places that added something extra to my city break.

11 – Discover Rockerill, where industry meets culture

Rockerill is one of Charleroi’s most iconic landmarks. This former steel factory has been given a completely new purpose and has evolved into a vibrant cultural venue. Where steel was once produced, you’ll now find concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and a wide range of cultural events. It’s an inspiring example of how Charleroi has successfully transformed its industrial heritage into something new and exciting.

Located just outside the city centre, Rockerill is easy to reach by car or public transport. The site is only open during scheduled events, so it’s worth planning your visit in advance. If you have the opportunity to attend a concert, festival, or exhibition here, I highly recommend it. It’s the best way to experience this unique venue as it was intended, a place where industrial heritage and contemporary culture come together.

12 – Discover the world of science at the Centre de Culture Scientifique

Looking for a unique experience in Charleroi? Then the Centre de Culture Scientifique of the ULB (Université libre de Bruxelles) is well worth a visit. This interactive science centre is all about discovering, experimenting, and learning through hands-on experiences. Rather than a traditional museum filled with display cases, it’s a place where science comes to life in a fun and accessible way.

Through interactive exhibitions, experiments, and workshops, you’ll explore a wide range of scientific topics. Whether you’re travelling with children or are simply curious about how the world works, there’s something here for visitors of all ages. Thanks to its regularly changing exhibitions, every visit offers something new.

Allow around one hour for your visit. The centre is open from Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (last admission at 4:30 p.m.) and on the first Sunday of every month from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Located just outside the city centre, the Centre de Culture Scientifique is easy to reach by both car and public transport.

13 – Relax in Parc Reine Astrid

After a day spent exploring museums and industrial heritage sites, Parc Reine Astrid is the perfect place to unwind. Located just a short walk from the city centre, this historic park has been a green oasis in Charleroi for more than a century. Wander beneath majestic trees, past colourful flower beds, elegant statues, and a charming bandstand, while leaving the bustle of the city behind.

What I enjoyed most is how the park reveals a completely different side of Charleroi. After spending time among the city’s industrial landmarks, the peaceful greenery comes as a welcome surprise. On sunny days, you’ll find locals enjoying picnics, reading a book, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. It’s the perfect place to take a break during your city trip.

Allow around 30 to 45 minutes for a leisurely stroll through the park. Thanks to its central location, it’s easy to combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Town Hall, St. Christopher’s Church, or one of the city’s museums. For me, it was a lovely stop that perfectly illustrates just how diverse Charleroi really is.

14 – Explore Charleroi by bike

Charleroi is a surprisingly enjoyable city to explore by bike. Scenic cycling paths run alongside the Sambre River, taking you past former steelworks, historic industrial sites, and unexpectedly green nature reserves. The contrast between industrial heritage and lush landscapes makes cycling here a truly unique experience.

Several signposted cycling routes guide you to the region’s most interesting sights. Charleroi is also connected to the RAVeL network, an extensive system of traffic-free cycling paths that follows former railway lines and towpaths. This allows you to explore not only the city itself but also many beautiful destinations in the surrounding area.

If you’d like to create your own itinerary, make use of the local cycling junction network, or stop by the Charleroi Tourist Office. There, you’ll find cycling maps and a variety of suggested routes for both shorter rides and longer cycling adventures.

15 – Discover Charleroi’s surprisingly vibrant food scene

Charleroi pleasantly surprised me when it came to food as well. The city is home to plenty of cosy restaurants, trendy bars, and creative dining spots where you can enjoy everything from a relaxed lunch to a memorable dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Belgian cuisine, authentic Italian dishes, or local specialities, there’s something for every taste.

My favourite spot was without a doubt La Brasserie du Quai10. Located along the banks of the Sambre River, this welcoming brasserie is part of the Quai10 cultural complex. The menu features burgers, pasta, fresh salads, and seasonal dishes. On sunny days, the spacious terrace is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Another place I’d highly recommend is L’Atelier de la Manufacture Urbaine. Set in a former industrial site, this unique venue combines a modern restaurant with its own brewery, where local craft beers are produced. The industrial setting, excellent food, and relaxed atmosphere make it one of Charleroi’s most distinctive dining experiences.

Craving Italian food? Then Socio-Pâtes is an excellent choice. This popular restaurant specialises in fresh, homemade pasta prepared with high-quality ingredients. Its warm atmosphere and authentic flavours have made it a favourite among both locals and visitors.

My advice? Stay in the city for dinner and experience Charleroi’s local food scene for yourself. It may not be Belgium’s best-known culinary destination, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding. You’ll discover plenty of original restaurants that add the perfect finishing touch to your city break.

Charleroi proved to me that you should never judge a city by its reputation. Often described as Belgium’s ugliest city, it turned out to be a surprisingly diverse destination filled with industrial heritage, fascinating museums, colourful street art, green terrils, and great places to eat and drink. It’s this unique blend of history, culture, and creativity that makes a visit so memorable.

Whether you’re visiting for just one day or spending an entire weekend, you’ll find more than enough things to do in Charleroi to keep you pleasantly surprised. Step off the beaten path, leave the usual tourist hotspots behind, and discover a city that has proudly embraced its industrial past and transformed it into something truly unique.

I hope this guide to epic things to do in Charleroi helps you plan your city break. One thing I know for sure: Charleroi completely exceeded my expectations, and I hope you’ll leave feeling exactly the same way.

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Thanks for reading.

Yours truly,

Sarah

Would you like to plan an unforgettable trip? Then be sure to check out useful websites.