• In the heart of the city, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h (31 mph).
• In the city residential areas, the speed limit is generally 30 km/h (18 mph) to ensure the safety of pedestrians and residents.
•  In the city's peripheral areas, the speed limit is typically 70 km/h (43 mph).
• The speed limit in the suburbs and for motorways around Charleroi are 90 km/h (55 mph) and 120 km/h (75 mph), respectively.

• A503: This major road connects Charleroi with the neighbouring city of La Louvière. It begins in the heart of Charleroi and passes through the town of Courcelles, providing a crucial link between these two urban centres.
• N5: The N5 road runs northward, passing through various towns and villages, including Gosselies, Fleurus, and Sombreffe. It eventually reaches Namur, making it an important route for regional travel.
• R3: The R3 ring road encircles Charleroi, offering convenient access to different parts of the city. It serves as a vital transportation artery and connects to major highways, such as the A54 and E42, facilitating connections to other cities and regions. 

The following roads/routes in Charleroi often experience heavy traffic:

• Boulevard Jacques Bertrand
• Rue de la Neuville
• Chaussée de Bruxelles.

Peak Traffic Hours: As commuters make their way to and from work, Charleroi experiences its worst traffic snarls in the mornings (about 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and evenings (around 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM).

• Leaving Charleroi, go northwest towards Brussels along the A54/E420 for about 50 kilometers (31 miles), passing via the cities of Nivelles and Ittre.
• Take the E19 highway in the direction of Brussels.
• Continue on the E19 for approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) until you arrive at Brussels.

Charleroi has a medieval industrial heritage, and a modern vibrant arts scene. Situated in the Wallonia region, it boasts of impressive architecture, with a standout example being the Art Deco Charleroi City Hall.

·         Bois du Cazier: An erstwhile coal mine in Marcinelle just outside Charleroi, the Bois du Cazier is now a fascinating museum and memorial. You can explore the old mines, learn about the coal mining industry, and the tragic 1956 mining disaster that claimed several lives. The museum provides insights into the region's industrial history and its impact on the community. Book a car hire in Charleroi and drive south on N5, to reach this historic destination.

·         BPS22 Musée d'Art de la Province de Hainau: Located on Boulevard Solvay, the BPS22 is Charleroi's contemporary art museum. Housed in a stunning Art Deco building, the museum displays a range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. The museum has become a popular hub for art enthusiasts.

·         Le Bois des Rêves: Le Bois des Rêves is a picturesque natural park, just a short drive from Charleroi, at Chaussée de Bruxelles. This oasis offers a great getaway from the city’s hustle. You can explore walking trails, enjoy picnics by the lake, and observe the local wildlife. The park is especially beautiful during spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom. You can drive your Charleroi rental car to this park via the E420 northward, and then the N25 eastward – the drive takes around forty minutes. 

Whether you’re interested in art, outdoor activities, culture, or photography, there is something to suit every taste at Charleroi.

· Street Art: Charleroi has a vibrant street art culture. You can take a leisurely walk through the city streets, particularly in areas like the Marcinelle district. You'll discover an array of variegated and thought-provoking murals and graffiti. The city actively promotes street art, making parts of the city a unique outdoor art gallery that's always changing. It’s a delight for budding and seasoned photographers.

· Museum of Photography: Photography enthusiasts cannot afford to miss the Musée de la Photographie in Charleroi. This museum houses an extensive collection of photographs, cameras, and equipment, showcasing the history and art of photography, and hosts exhibitions of renowned photographers.

· Citadel of Namur: The Citadel of Namur is a historic fortress east of the city. You can take your Charleroi rental car to the citadel via the E42 and reach the place in about forty minutes. You can walk along the ramparts of this majestic fortress, and enjoy panoramic views of Namur and the Meuse River valley.

As with other Belgian cities, Charleroi too offers a mix of traditional and modern options for shopping:

·  Rue de la Montagne: Rue de la Montagne is the main shopping street, a pedestrian-friendly area with a wide variety of shops and boutiques. Here, you can find fashion stores, department stores, gadgets and more. It offers a diverse shopping experience.

· Rive Gauche Shopping Center: This is the largest shopping centre in the city. Park your Charleroi rental car at the parking lot at Boulevard Joseph Tirou, 20 – just opposite the mall. The mall houses numerous stores, including clothing shops, cosmetics boutiques, food court, supermarkets and more.

· Local markets: The Sunday morning market at Place Charles II is known for its cheese, clothing, and antiques. It's a great place to explore and find unique local items. The city is also home to a lot of flea markets like Vossenmarkt, Waterloo Flea Market, and Marche Aux Puces de Bruxelles.  

Charleroi may not have the bustle of a metropolis, but it still affords visitors a vibrant nightlife.

 Charleroi has several bars and pubs where you can lift your spirits with spirits, cocktails and Belgian beers. Place Charles II and neighbouring streets have a dense concentration of bars with venues for live music performances too. For those who love to party until the early hours, Charleroi offers a selection of dance clubs and late-night venues. These clubs often stay open into the early morning hours on weekends.

 Charleroi also has a vibrant cultural scene with evening events and shows.

 Charleroi is home to the Casino de Charleroi, which offers a range of gambling options that include slot machines and table games. This is a great place if you want some Vegas-style fun without the hassle of crossing the Atlantic!