The Métro Léger de Charleroi connects the lower town (around the main railway station) to the upper town and extends to Gilly in the east and Anderlues in the west. It is the quickest way to navigate the city's two levels.
The city centre is walkable once you are in the Ville-Haute, but the slope between the upper and lower towns is steep. Taxis are plentiful around the railway station.
For the Bois du Cazier in Marcinelle and the Musée de la Photographie in Mont-sur-Marchienne, the metro and connecting buses are the most practical options without a car. Both sites are well signposted from the city centre.
Note: Brussels South Charleroi Airport is served by a dedicated bus shuttle from the Charleroi-Central station — confirm the current schedule before travelling.