Erasmus in Charleroi

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Charleroi

Why doing Erasmus in Charleroi? Known as the heart of the black country for its coal mines, Charleroi is one of the best alternative cities to do your Erasmus in Belgium. If you like art, beer and gastronomy and you are interested in knowing the most amazing secrets of the great metropolis of Wallonia, keep reading.

Cost of living in Charleroi, Belgium

Belgium in general indeed has a cost of living that can be somewhat expensive for students. Of course, some expenses may vary depending on your priorities. In Charleroi, the preferred option for students is to rent a room in a shared flat. Their prices usually oscillate between €350-550 per month and to that, you have to add the maintenance and leisure expenses.

Another expense you must take into account is the possible trips that you make to the different regions. A good way to save is to take advantage of the discounts on train passes and City Cards. In addition, Charleroi has an airport where low-cost companies arrive that you can take advantage of to visit and get to know other Belgian and European cities.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Charleroi

Charleroi is part of the Comic Strip Route in Belgium. In fact, it is known to be the cradle of Belgian comics. There you will be able to entertain yourself with walks around the city while you observe some statues of characters such as Tintin, Lucky Luke or Spirou. Also, another way to get to know the city is through the Street Art, with a 3 km route that leads among the ruins of the industrial era.

If you like going for a drink or party, you can do it in the different bars and nightclubs that the city offers. You can go with your friends to Nautilus, where numerous students gather after school, or LeRockerill, an old factory where everything from concerts to exhibitions are held.

Culture and gastronomy in Charleroi

This city offers a great cultural dimension thanks to its many museums and theatres. Some of the most prominent buildings are located in Charles II Square. There you will be able to see, for example, the Basilica of Saint Christophe and the Town Hall, whose bell tower was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Inside of the wide range of museums that you will be able to visit in Charleroi are: the Museum of Fine Arts (“Musée des Beaux-Arts”), The Jules Drestrée Museum of (“Musée Jules Destrée”), the Museum of Glass (“Musée du Verre”) or the Light Infantry Memorial Museum (“Musée Mémorial des Chasseurs à Pied Charleroi”).

In Charleroi you will be able to taste traditional recipes like the “vitoulets”, a type of meatballs, or one of the best-known desserts, the “gayette”, a small truffle that looks like coal (symbol of the region's industrial history). And to accompany a good meal, you must try the "Blanche de Charleroi", a white beer characterized by its fruity and refreshing flavour, as well as the great variety of different beers available. Do you dare to try them?

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Charleroi, Belgium

If what you like is walking around the streets and discovering all its corners, in Charleroi you can enjoy magnificent works of street art, the largest photography museum in Europe and an enviable alternative music scene. Also, if you take advantage of the beer tasting, live music nights and free cultural events, you will make your Erasmus in Charleroi an unforgettable experience.

Cheap student accommodation in Charleroi

Do you need some accommodation in Charleroi? Don't worry, in Erasmus Play you can compare for free the best flats, rooms and apartments for students in Charleroi.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Charleroi

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