Canal area

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Charleroi Canal and the docks stimulated the industrialisation of the neighbouring municipalities. After the factories left in the 1970s, a long period of neglect and decay followed. The Canal deteriorated into an unattractive fault line between Brussels and Molenbeek. 

This situation has been changing since the year 2000. Old factories are being repurposed and new architecture is filling in the gaps. Work is also being done to improve the connections between the water and the districts alongside it.

This Bruksel tour follows the Canal southwards or northwards, between Molenbeek Lock and Sainctelette. We take in Parc de la Porte de Ninove, the old Belle-Vue brewery which is bustling with new life, the Chien Vert fabric shop, the Petit-Château and the Kaaitheater. We wander down the waterside cycle highway and try out the new cycle and footbridges.

Practical information

Departure: by the Canal (e.g. Porte de Ninove or Porte de Flandre)

Finish:  Square Sainctelette or Place des Armateurs

Prices and practical details  

Booking