Trip to Charleroi, Belgium

Day 1: Arrival in Charleroi

Welcome to Charleroi, Belgium! After arriving at Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), you can take a taxi or bus to your accommodation. Once you have settled in, take some time to explore the city and the surrounding areas. Visit the Place Charles II, which is the main square in Charleroi and home to beautiful architecture and many restaurants and cafes. Take a stroll along the Sambre River, which flows through the city, and enjoy the views.

Day 2: Visit the Belfry and the Museum of Fine Arts

Today, you can visit the Belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Charleroi. The Belfry dates back to the 17th century and stands at 70 meters tall. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. You can also visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which is located in the former Palais des Beaux-Arts. The museum houses a collection of paintings and sculptures dating back to the 16th century.

Day 3: Explore the Bois du Cazier and the Mining Museum

Today, you can visit the Bois du Cazier, which is a former colliery that has been turned into a museum and cultural center. The site includes the former mine buildings, a worker’s house, and a memorial to the 262 miners who lost their lives in a disaster in 1956. The Mining Museum, which is also located at the Bois du Cazier, gives you a deeper understanding of the coal mining industry that has shaped the region.

Day 4: Trip to Brussels

Today, you can take a day trip to the capital city of Brussels, which is just a short train ride away from Charleroi. In Brussels, you can visit the Atomium, a futuristic structure that offers panoramic views of the city. You can also explore the historic center of Brussels, which is home to numerous museums, galleries, and landmarks, including the Grand Place, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Manneken Pis statue.

Day 5: Visit the Charleroi Danse Cultural Center

Today, you can visit the Charleroi Danse Cultural Center, which is a leading venue for contemporary dance and theater productions. The center is located in a former factory and includes four performance spaces, a large auditorium, and a rehearsal room. You can watch a dance or theater performance or visit one of the exhibitions that are regularly held at the center.

Day 6: Go shopping in the Ville Basse

Today, you can explore the Ville Basse, which is the lower part of Charleroi’s old town. This area is home to numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can go shopping for souvenirs, clothes, and other items, and take breaks at one of the many cafes or restaurants. Make sure to try some Belgian food, such as waffles, chocolates, and fries.

Day 7: Enjoy some nightlife

For your last day in Charleroi, you can enjoy some of the nightlife the city has to offer. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs to choose from. Visit the La Ruche, which is a popular nightclub and live music venue, or the Rockerill, an industrial-style club that hosts a variety of events and concerts. Alternatively, you can relax at one of the city’s many cafes or restaurants and reflect on your wonderful week in Charleroi.