Passing through Brussels South Charleroi Airport? A layover in Charleroi is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 110 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Before You Step Outside CRL
Before heading into Charleroi, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Belgium vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Charleroi is roughly 110 minutes from CRL via Flibco Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Charleroi from CRL
From CRL, the Flibco Shuttle gets you to Charleroi in around 110 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 130 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Flibco Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Charleroi layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$11 |
| Meal | ~$22 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$43 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Charleroi.
What’s Worth Seeing in Charleroi
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Charleroi, two standouts are:
- Bois du Cazier (UNESCO World Heritage Site) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Musée de la Photographie (Photography Museum) — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CRL, check out Charleroi Lounge or International Duty Free (IDF) to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Charleroi, local travelers recommend Au Fil de l’Eau. If you have time for a second stop, L’Arlequin is another popular pick.
Back at CRL, Exki is the go-to. Burger King rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Brussels South Charleroi Airport
Luggage storage is available at Level 0 (Arrivals). Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Charleroi.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CRL for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Charleroi or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CRL, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Charleroi genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.