Visiting Luxembourg: what are the best things to see and do in the Grand Duchy?
What do you know about Luxembourg? It’s a small country. Tiny, even. Cigarettes are cheaper than in France. People go there mainly to work. It’s officially called the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. That’s a bit simplistic! Did you know that there are many things to do in Luxembourg? We tell you more in our article!
Caught between France,Germany and Belgium, Luxembourg blends the 3 cultures. French and German are the official languages, and Luxembourg has long been an intermediary between its large neighbors. But the mesh of influences has also enriched the mini-state (with castles in both Germanic and Latin styles) and given rise to a lively gastronomic scene (13 Michelin-starred restaurants, Moselle wines…). According to some studies, the citizens of the Grand Duchy are the richest in the world, but they’d argue that their real treasures are natural, from the Ardennes forests to the valleys of southern Gutland. So, here are the best things to do in Luxembourg, and just as many reasons to go!
1. Luxembourg (the city)
Luxembourg’s capital is a two-speed city: the old town, whose construction dates back to the 10th century, is perched on a rocky spur above winding gorges. A vast system of bridges spans the valleys. A signposted two-hour walk, the Wenzel circuit, takes tourists along the city’s historic ramparts, cobbled streets past churches, towers and palaces. Don’t miss the lively Place d’Armes, a square in the heart of the pedestrian zone, as well as the other sites below.
2. The Grund
Flickr – Wolfgang Staudt
An incredibly picturesque and trendy little district, Grund lies at the bottom of the Pétrusse valley. Some of the stone houses are built right into the rock. Visit this touristy district of Luxembourg City, with its 15th-century bridge, ancient fortress ramparts, terraced gardens and vineyards, assortment of pubs and restaurants (it’s the place to go out in Luxembourg), and Neumünster Abbey.
3. The Casemates du Bock
Flickr – LinksmanJD
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this extraordinary maze of tunnels (casemates) representing 23 km of underground passageways, was dug through the stone cliffs (the Bock rock). These casemates were used to hide and protect during sieges and wars.
4. Le Chemin de la Corniche
Flickr – stewartmorris
This pedestrian walkway was built by the Spanish and French in the 17th century on the ramparts along the eastern side of the fortified town. The promenade runs along the Alzette River to the Grund Gate. Known as » Europe’s most beautiful balcony « , the Corniche is a superb stroll along which to admire the facades and roofs of the city’s houses.
5. The Grand Ducal Palace
The monarch spends most nights in his country castle, but the Grand Ducal Palace is his official residence, nestled in the heart of the city and open to visitors in summer. In fact, if you visit the city in summer, make sure you’re there on June 23, the King’s birthday, when there’s a big party with fireworks and more…
6. Vianden Castle
Flickr – Jqn OC
Although Luxembourg’s strategic position at the crossroads of Europe would have been a regular detour for the plunderers of medieval armies, it also engendered a defensive instinct that is visible today in its proud castles. Dozens still stand, having sprouted from almost every available rocky outcrop, and the grandest is Vianden. Framed by forests and perched on a hill 60m above a river, Vianden’s bell towers and ramparts evoke a fairytale. Built between the 11th and 14th centuries on the foundations of a Roman castellum, it has been impeccably restored. A cable car takes you up the hill to the castle gate. See Vianden Castle on Google Map.
7. The Abbey and the town of Echternach
A curious surprise awaits visitors to this town near the Luxembourg-Germany border during the Christian festival known as Whit Tuesday. It’s the Echternach dancing procession, in which thousands of people jump and dance through the streets, waving white handkerchiefs. The event honors the English monk Willibrord, patron saint of Luxembourg, who foundedEchternach Abbey in 698. Last year, UNESCO added the parade to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
8. The Mullerthal Trail
Flickr – Liquid Oh
The Mullerthal (Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland) is a great place for hiking. There are lakes, nature trails, waterfalls, impressive rock formations and an incredible relief. Let yourself be tempted by a moderate hike to the Mullerthal(see itinerary) to discover the richness of the landscape! Further information on the official Mullerthal Trail website.
9. Esch-sur-Sûre
This hamlet of Esch-sur-Sûre (50 km northeast of Luxembourg City) is perched on a steep hill overlooking a bend in the river. Dominated by a 15th-century watchtower and topped by the ruins of the castle, the town lies in the heart of the hilly northern part of the country known as the Oesling, a region dotted with pastures, farms and thick forests criss-crossed by winding rivers.
10. Cycling, markets and spas
Last but not least, Luxembourg is an ideal place for cycling, both on roads and trails.
Enjoy the markets on Place Guillaume II on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Mondorf-les-Bains is the place to go for thermal baths. This small town is also home to the country’s only casino.
How do I get to Luxembourg?
You can get to Luxembourg by car or train. If you want to fly, the nearest major airports are Frankfurt and Charleroi. There’s also Luxembourg-Findel Airport, but it offers fewer options. Find a cheap flight on our partner site Skyscanner.
Where to stay in Luxembourg City and the rest of the country
Luxembourg’s capital is made up of 24 districts, some of which offer their own special atmosphere. So it’s important to choose the right place to stay in Luxembourg City. To find a cheap hotel in Luxembourg, use this hotel comparator.
Map of hotels and accommodation – Luxembourg