Things To Do
in Charleroi

Meatballs in a sweet-and-sour sauce (often served with fries); a local favorite found in many brasseries and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

A slow-cooked beef and beer stew, typically served with fries or mashed potatoes—comfort food suited to Charleroi’s hearty cuisine.

Belgian-style fries from a friterie with a wide selection of sauces; an essential and inexpensive sample of local street food.

From regional ales to national labels, you’ll find bars and cafés serving a wide range of Belgian beers—ask for local drafts.

Typical weekly market selling fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie and prepared snacks; a good place to try local flavors and buy picnic supplies.

Scattered around the city, these stands are the best places to sample classic Belgian fries and quick savory snacks in an authentic setting.

French is the primary language—greet with 'Bonjour' (day) or 'Bonsoir' (evening). A few polite phrases in French go a long way and are appreciated by locals.

Belgians tend to be polite and slightly formal in first encounters—use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' and wait for a handshake in business or formal contexts.

Avoid loud behavior in residential areas, especially late at night. Recycling and proper waste sorting are observed and expected.

Be mindful photographing people, especially in quieter neighborhoods; ask permission when taking close portraits.

Service is generally included in restaurant bills in Belgium; leaving small change or rounding up for good service is appreciated but not obligatory—tip 5–10% in upscale places if service was exceptional.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels; contactless payments are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, markets and friteries that may be cash-only.

Mild temperatures and blooming parks make this a pleasant time for walking and photography; occasional rain showers are common—bring a light waterproof layer.

Generally warm but not as hot as southern Europe; outdoor cafes and festivals appear, though occasional heatwaves and thunderstorms can occur—pack light layers and sunscreen.

Crisp air, colorful foliage on terrils and parks, and fewer tourists—great for hikes and atmospheric photos, but expect more rain as the season progresses.

Cold and gray days with possible frost; cultural venues, museums and cozy brasseries provide indoor options—bring warm clothing and waterproof footwear.

Short, distinctive hikes up reclaimed mining spoil heaps offering panoramic views over Charleroi and a unique post-industrial landscape.

A traffic-free walking and cycling path along the Sambre river that connects towns and offers easy riverside hiking for all fitness levels.

Trails around the mining museum offer a blend of industrial heritage and gentle walking routes suitable for families and history enthusiasts.

Within an hour or two by car you can reach Ardennes trails for longer, more rugged hikes through forests, hills and river valleys for experienced walkers.

Options are increasingly available in cafes and bistros (salads, omelettes, vegetable dishes), but many traditional plates are meat-heavy—ask staff for vegetable variants or check vegetarian-friendly cafés.

Vegan options exist but are more limited than in larger Belgian cities; specialty vegan-friendly cafés or markets are your best bet—bringing a translation of dietary needs in French helps.

Gluten-free choices are available in some restaurants; inquire about fries (usually gluten-free) and cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

You can find halal-friendly shops and restaurants in the more diverse neighborhoods; for specific needs seek out specialty stores or international markets.