Belgium, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) Travel to the Walloon province of Hainaut to find a charming town that offers a wide variety of cultural activities. Located in the Hainaut region, Charleroi features a stunning art deco city hall with a carillon that plays Belgian folk songs. There’s also a gold-leaf mosaic in the choir of St. Christopher’s Church, which is a popular tourist attraction. Afterwards, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which focuses on Belgian artists, including the famous René Magritte collection.
Whether you’re seeking upmarket French cuisine or a casual dining experience, you’ll want to try one of the many attractions in Charleroi. Visitors can sample a delicious EUR25-per-person set menu at the Chocolaterie Jacques. In case you’re looking for a less expensive option, try Chez Minh, which serves authentic Chinese food for a low price. Another popular attraction is the Bookshop and Cafe, Livre Ou Verre.
Besides the museums, there’s plenty to do and see in Charleroi. The town’s main thoroughfare is dotted with restaurants and boutiques. You can find a cup of hot coffee at one of the many cafes and art galleries. If you’re feeling nostalgic, take a tour of the old-world cathedral. And while you’re there, don’t miss a visit to the Museum of Photography, the largest photography museum in Europe.
A visit to the Museum of Fine Arts is a must for art lovers. This museum displays almost 10,000 paintings and works by Flemish artists. The top floor bar is especially popular during Sunday brunches, and you can even enjoy a spectacular view of the city skyline while sipping a cup of Belgian beer. A stop at the museum also means you can enjoy a brunch buffet, which is all-you-can-eat for thirty euros.
You can also try the local food and drink. A great place to sample the local food is Moon Food. This bistro serves organic vegetarian dishes and vegan desserts. You can also sample Japanese cuisine at Yaki. However, be warned that Yaki is not open on Mondays, so make sure to pay in cash before you eat here. A visit to the museum is a must for art lovers.
During your stay in Charleroi, you can explore the city’s beautiful architecture. The city is dotted with stunning statues, including the Belfry bell tower, which is part of a World Heritage Site. A walk along the main square will give you a good view of the entire city. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes where you can sample great Belgian beers and eat excellent food.