When you come to pick up your rug at Tree of Colors, you might find yourself passing through Charleroi with a mix of curiosity… and maybe a little hesitation too. My showroom is located in Jumet, just 10 minutes from Charleroi’s city center, on my grandmother’s family property. It’s a place close to my heart, full of memories and history. Wondering what to do in Charleroi during your visit to Tree of Colors? Here are my favorite spots to turn your trip into a real getaway.
What to Do in Charleroi: Ideas for Families, Couples, or With Your Pup
Charleroi, nicknamed the “Black Country” in reference to its mining and steelmaking past, hides plenty of treasures. Behind its sometimes rough image, the city is vibrant, green, cultural, and full of beautiful surprises.
Enjoying Green Spaces
Parc Bivort is my favorite — the one from my childhood, where we went every weekend. Even today, it’s the perfect spot for a walk, whether you’re alone, with company… or with your faithful four-legged friend (they’re welcome at the showroom too).
In spring, skip the crowded Hal woods and head instead to Parc de la Serna when the wild hyacinths are in bloom. And if you love hidden gems, stroll along the canal near the Viesville lock, in the commune of Pont-à-Celles. Between a nature reserve and a local park, it’s an unexpected haven of peace.
Amélie Rimac - Parc Bivort Charleroi
For the Thrill Seekers
Love adrenaline? Airspace Indoor Skydiving offers a unique free-fall experience in one of Europe’s tallest simulators. There’s also go-karting for a few laps on the track, and bouldering at Maniak. For an outdoor family activity, try the treetop adventure course at the Marcinelle leisure center.
Museums in Charleroi
It’s too often forgotten that Charleroi is a major cultural city. Take the time to step into the Musée de la Photographie — the largest photography museum in Europe. BPS22, the contemporary art museum, always surprises with its exhibitions. As for the Museum of Fine Arts, it remains a timeless classic for art lovers.
Amélie Rimac - Musée de la photographie Charleroi
Grabbing a Drink in Charleroi
After a walk or an exhibition, nothing beats a good drink: Blah Blah Wine in the city center, or Vins Tricots nearby. Siblings Marine and Simon turned the old family warehouse into a unique wine bar. With nearly 600 labels, you’re bound to find the perfect bottle.
Amélie Rimac - Vins Tricots Charleroi
Time to Pamper Yourself
What to do in Charleroi? While you’re upgrading your home with a new rug, why not also treat yourself? At Pure Spa, you’ll be in great hands for a relaxing, high-quality massage. In Marcinelle, Alessia’s Japanese or Korean head spa is a rare experience — she’s the only one in the region offering it. And for those who love to combine wellness with a unique overnight stay, keep Nusa Dua in mind (I’ll tell you more below…).
Where to Eat in Charleroi: My Favorite Picks
Quick & Tasty Lunch in Charleroi
If you’re dreaming of a brunch with avocado toast, French toast, and delicious salads, Brunchy’s in downtown Charleroi is the place to be. For Asian flavors, I recommend Pot au Pho for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Kitcho for impeccable sushi, or Tomeo in Pont-à-Celles, my ultimate favorite.
For a quick bite, my go-tos are the sandwiches from Villa Dantimi. Closer to the boutique, Atelier by Max et Sandra combines bakery and homemade dishes with great finesse. And of course, there’s Friterie Frite d’Antan in Pont-à-Celles — my guilty pleasure, because in Belgium, fries are an institution.
Looking for something a bit more elegant? Mamma is a safe bet — try their parmigiana, it’s divine. For an exclusive and surprising dining experience, Vilain is the place to remember. And if you’d like more foodie recommendations, check out the Instagram account MyCharleroi.
Amélie Rimac - Mamma Charleroi
Cozy Cafés
There’s nothing like a café to soak in the soul of a city. At Des Plantes et Vous, you can sip your chai latte surrounded by plants, in a peaceful, lively atmosphere. Yuna Coffee is my warm retreat, with fluffy pancakes that are truly incredible. Finally, Le Chien Vert is a convivial, energetic spot where you can enjoy good music on vinyl records with a strong coffee.
Amélie Rimac - Des Plantes & Vous Charleroi
Dinner Spots
When thinking of what to do in Charleroi at night, Vilain definitely comes to mind, with its sharing food concept. The setting is magical and the chef cooks only seasonal products. The menu changes every week.
I also love Papilles et Pupilles, where you immediately feel Charlie and Audrey’s great energy. Their plates are generous, colorful, and always full of creativity.
For a more intimate setting, head to Mont-à-gourmet or L’Entre Deux, two restaurants 15 minutes from the city center and the boutique. Nicolas, the chef at Mont-à-gou’ (as we call it here), trained in Michelin-starred houses such as Prieuré Saint Géry and Au Gré du Vent. Finally, two of my absolute favorites: Maison Yang, a subtle French-Asian cuisine just 4 minutes away by car, and Sel et Poivre — a Jumet classic for generous, convivial dining.
Amélie Rimac - Vilain Charleroi
Where to Stay in Charleroi
The big names like Novotel in the city center or Hotel Van der Valk remain safe choices. But for a warmer, more personal welcome, I recommend two guesthouses: Au 16 in Mont-sur-Marchienne with Géraldine, and La Sambre des amis in Landelies, in the south of Charleroi. The latter is more touristy and allows you to visit the surroundings of the Abbey of Aulne.
For unique stays, I suggest L’Annexe Douceur: a room with a jacuzzi and all the thoughtful touches to make your stay unforgettable. Nusa Dua invites you to sleep in a bubble. You’ll have access all evening to a full wellness area: sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, heated pool, and infrared loungers.
My Perfect Day in Charleroi
Between a stroll in Jumet, a tasty lunch, cultural discoveries, and a cozy evening, Charleroi reveals itself as full of surprises. To follow my daily finds, join me on Instagram.
Charleroi, behind its industrial appearance, is a city that opens up to those who take the time. If you were still wondering what to do in Charleroi, I hope my favorite addresses will inspire you to extend your stay.
Amélie Rimac @mycharleroi