luxembourg travel guide book

You may need to look twice to find it on a map, but Europe’s ‘smallest big country’ shoehorns a lot into an area no bigger than a typical English county. Tim Skelton , author of Luxembourg: the Bradt Guide

This tiny land’s strategic importance is plain to see. The ruins of dozens of medieval castles, from Bourscheid to Vianden and from Brandenbourg to Beaufort, dot the landscape, bearing witness to the power struggles of would-be conquerors for centuries.

At the centre is the capital, Luxembourg City, straddling two intersecting gorges and guarded by a maze of underground casemates.

Other towns reflect more peaceful times. Echternach’s abbey dates back to the arrival of Christianity in the region, while on the cultural side, two of the world’s best photographic exhibitions have permanent homes in Clervaux and Dudelange respectively.

Those craving the outdoors will love the Ardennes, where the rolling forested countryside is perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The adjoining region of Little Switzerland ups that ante by adding craggy narrow gorges to the mix.

You’re unlikely to go hungry here, as Luxembourgers love their food, combining French finesse and Germanic excess whilst using fresh seasonal ingredients. The result is more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other country. And Luxembourg’s Moselle Valley is one of the wine world’s best-kept secrets.

Best of all, everything is handily packaged into a space so small that even those with limited time can take in a great deal. It’s an ideal European getaway just begging to be discovered.

Food and drink in Luxembourg

For those with deep pockets, the good news is that Luxembourg probably has more Michelin-starred restaurants per head (12 in a nation of 600,000) than anywhere else in the world, with truly outstanding cuisine and wine lists to die for. But you don’t need to break the bank in order to eat very well anywhere. Most places, even the top ones, offer a special menu du jour at lunchtime on weekdays, which may include up to three courses sold at a fraction of the à la carte prices.

The biggest influences in Luxembourg restaurant food tend to come from the south, and many dishes are French-inspired. Despite the proximity to Germany you won’t find sausage very often (apart from at festivals), although a central European influence is visible in the regular appearance of veal in tourist areas – particularly in the triumvirate form of veal cordon bleu (stuffed with ham and cheese, and fried in breadcrumbs), veal escalope with cream and mushrooms, and e scalope viennoise , also known as wienerschnitzel . These latter dishes pander to tourist rather than local demands, however, so can’t really be classed as ‘typically Luxembourgish’.

The national dish is judd mat gaardebounen (the ‘j’ is pronounced like the ‘s’ in measure): smoked neck of pork, served on a bed of stewed broad beans and accompanied with potatoes sautéed in bacon. It’s hearty, tasty, and the portion sizes oft en verge on the titanic. Another favourite is bouchée à la reine , also called paschtéitchen – chicken and mushrooms in a puff -pastry case. A large vol-au-vent in other words.

Grilled sausages appear on restaurant menus in the form of the slender weinzossis , served with mashed potatoes and a mustard cream sauce – the Luxembourg equivalent of bangers ‘n’ mash. Chunkier mettwurst and grillwurst are sold from outdoor stalls during festivals and other events. You may encounter the latter billed as Luxemburger grillwurst , Lëtzeburger grillwurscht , Luxringer , and other regional alternatives such as Ouringer (in Vianden), but all are essentially the same thing: variations on the classic Germanic bratwurst .

As Luxembourg is landlocked, freshwater fish have had a greater impact on national cuisine than seafood. Trout ( truite ) is seen everywhere, cooked in a variety of ways, often au Riesling , with a wine/cream sauce. Near the Moselle, two regional specialities to look out for are pike ( brochet ) in Riesling sauce, and  friture de la Moselle : a plate of Moselle river fish of various descriptions and sizes, deep-fried. Eat the latter with your fingers: with larger specimens, chew the flesh off the bone; smaller ones are designed to go down whole in the same way as whitebait.

Luxembourg’s home-produced Moselle wines are frequently excellent and several of the larger wineries have caves (literally cellars) that can be visited on a tour for a small fee, usually including a tasting. Almost every café and restaurant stocks at least a small selection alongside its imported (predominantly French) choices. The only exceptions tend to be upmarket Italian restaurants, which may stock only wines from that country.

Local wines sold by the glass in traditional bars and cafés cost €2–4 depending on grape variety (Elbling and Rivaner are cheaper, Riesling more expensive) and location. The vessel in question often used to be the distinctive 20cl engraved bowl with a green stem that’s common in the nearby German Mosel, often one with a small chip out of its base.

The craft revolution that has shaken up the world brewing industry was slow to reach Luxembourg, but it has now arrived, albeit on a tiny scale. For now, the vast majority of the widely available beers remainlager-style Pilseners created for the mass market and without much attention paid to flavour. If you just ask for a beer in a bar, this is what you’ll end up with – the strength of most offerings hovers in the 5% abv region. Ordering a mini will get you a 25cl glass of draught beer; a humpen is a 33cl glass; and a grande bière 50cl.

Health and safety in Luxembourg

There are no serious health issues to worry about, and no endemic diseases. As in other parts of northern Europe, influenza outbreaks can occur over the winter months. Elderly or vulnerable visitors arriving at this time may therefore wish to consider vaccination before travelling. Insect bites are perhaps the biggest risk in rural areas so it is worth taking an insect repellent. There is also a risk (albeit low) of Lyme disease. It is wise to be up to date with the standard UK vaccinations including diphtheria, tetanus and polio which comes as an all-in-one vaccination (Revaxis), which lasts for ten years.

If you do have an accident or fall ill, the level of healthcare is amongst the best in Europe (and by inference, the world). Residents of EU countries including the UK and Ireland should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)  before travelling, as this covers the costs of any standard medical treatment you may require. Everyone, including holders of an EHIC, should also take out travel insurance that includes medical costs, as the EHIC doesn’t cover all eventualities, such as repatriation to your home country following an accident. 

Travel clinics and health information

A full list of current travel clinic websites worldwide is available on w istm.org. For other journey preparation information, consult travelhealthpro.org.uk (UK) or  wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel (US). Information about various medications may be found on netdoctor.co.uk/travel. All advice found online should be used in conjunction with expert advice received prior to or during travel.

Luxembourg is a very safe place in which to travel. The crime rate is low compared with most places in Europe, and violence a rarity. You can wander round anywhere without fear, although incidents aren’t completely unknown so normal precautions should be taken, particularly late at night. Lone women travellers seldom experience problems, but again the usual common-sense rules apply. Attacks on women do occur, but are rarer than in most western European countries. This is also officially one of the world’s least corrupt lands, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any ‘requests for additional payments’.

Some streets in the immediate vicinity of Luxembourg City’s main railway station – including rue Joseph Junck, directly opposite the entrance – form the red light district and have a local reputation for drug dealing and prostitution. In reality it’s pretty low key compared with larger cities elsewhere, which is just as well because a lot of hotels are located there. Besides having to walk past a few seedy bars, you’re highly unlikely to be disturbed by anything other than loud music, and even here single women are not in any significant danger. There are also a few down-and-outs and winos in the same area, but they’re generally harmless and far fewer in number than you would find in other major capitals.

Of course, nowhere in the world is completely without risk, but a little due care and attention to what’s happening around you should keep you safe. If anything, your biggest annoyance is likely to stem from the drunken behaviour of expat office workers having one too many on their way home on a Friday evening. Antisocial behaviour and assaults (usually alcohol-related) among the nation’s youth are on the rise – or so the national papers will have us believe – but again this is a minor annoyance compared with most countries.

Travellers with a disability

Luxembourg’s efforts to make the country as convenient as possible to people with mobility difficulties are as advanced as anywhere in the world, and disabled visitors should not encounter any unexpected surprises. Most hotels, restaurants and tourist sites are fully accessible to wheelchair users. There may, however, be a few smaller hotels that do not have lifts, and some attractions – not least of all castle ruins on rough ground – may be less easy to visit than others.

For specific queries and the most up-to-date information, contact Info-Handicap , Luxembourg’s national association for the disabled. The multilingual website wheelmap.org has an interactive global map showing accessible and partially accessible properties, including museums, hotels and restaurants. If in doubt, local tourist offices are also usually happy to assist with any special requests from disabled travellers.

LGBTQ+ travellers

Luxembourg’s tolerance of homosexuality is reflected in the fact it has been legal here since 1792. It’s an offence, punishable with a fine or prison sentence, to incite or indulge in acts of hatred, discrimination or violence based on sexual orientation. Gay and lesbian visitors are by and large treated with respect and accorded the same welcome as anyone else. The age of consent for everyone, gay or straight, is 16.

Owing to the country’s low population as a whole, the gay scene is quite limited in scope. The website of the Rosa Lëtzebuerg Gay and Lesbian Association has information about upcoming events in the Grand Duchy, and lists the addresses of gay (and gay-friendly) bars and restaurants.

The election of Xavier Bettel as Luxembourg’s first openly gay prime minister in 2013 has brought further benefits, most notably his pushing of the same-sex marriage bill through parliament in 2014. This bill, which also gives same-sex couples the right to adopt, came into effect on 1 January 2015.

Travel and visas in Luxembourg

Citizens of EU countries including Ireland can enter Luxembourg for visits of up to 90 days with a valid passport or national identity card. Nationals of 62 non-EU countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, need only a valid passport to enter for up to 90 days – but passports must also be valid for three months after your intended departure date.

There are plans to introduce a new EU-wide system to keep tabs on visa-free arrivals via the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a similar arrangement to the US ESTA. Once it is implemented (likely to happen in 2020), citizens of these countries will get charged (possibly €7) for the pleasure of undergoing an online security check. Another post-Brexit bone of contention will be whether UK citizens will be included in or can gain exemption from this charge. 

Citizens of most African states, including South Africa, and some Asian nations (but not Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore or South Korea, whose citizens require only a valid passport), need to obtain a Schengen visa before travelling. These entitle holders to enter one country and travel freely throughout the 26 countries of the Schengen zone, which includes Luxembourg, for stays of up to 90 days within a six-month period.

If you intend only to visit Luxembourg, or Luxembourg is your main destination, you must apply for the visa at a Luxembourg embassy. Applicants living in countries where Luxembourg has no consular representation should apply at the Belgian embassy or consulate. Otherwise you must apply to the embassy of the country that is your main destination. If you intend to visit several countries, but don’t have a main destination, apply at the embassy or consulate of the country that is your first point of entry. 

Getting there and away

With its handy location at the heart of the continent, reaching Luxembourg from the UK and other points in Europe is a straightforward matter. There is a wide range of transport options available that will get you to the Grand Duchy by plane, train or automobile in a matter of a few hours. From further afield, the lack of direct inter-continental air routes makes life slightly more complicated. Nevertheless, several European hub airports offer easy onward connections for far-flung arrivees.

Luxembourg’s Findel Airport  has all the usual facilities, including a newsagent, bank, café/restaurant, and information desk. Arrivals are on level –1; check-in, departures and shops on level 0. Level 1 landside has a self-service restaurant with panoramic windows, and a more upmarket brasserie ( open: 11.30–14.30 Mon–Fri ) that will refund two hours of parking. There are more bars and restaurants airside. The taxi rank is on the right as you exit; the bus stop (9 or 16 for downtown) to the left. The major car-rental firms have offices on level –1, on the left as you emerge through arrivals.

I’d love to be able to tell you to leave your car behind, but for now the most popular and practical way to reach Luxembourg as an independent traveller remains the car. Once you arrive it has the advantage of liberating you from sometimes-limited public transport connections, and fuel prices are relatively low (by northern European standards). On the downside, having your own vehicle may become a burden in Luxembourg City where parking is expensive. Driving times from the Channel ports should be around 3½ to 4 hours.

To reach Luxembourg from the UK by rail you have two choices: one is to take the Eurostar from London to Brussels-Midi and change to an intercity; the other is to ride the Eurostar to Paris Nord, then take a TGV from Gare de l’Est. Both routes take the same time: 5½–6 hours depending on connections. One slight disadvantage of travelling via Paris is that you need to transfer between main line stations to continue (an easy 500m walk, or 5minutes by metro), whereas the transfer in Brussels is within the same building. Another point in favour of Brussels is that you don’t have to reserve on a specific onward train, whereas you do for the Paris TGV: if you miss your connection due to a delay you have to re-book.

Getting around

Cycling has historically been the one sport at which Luxembourg competes on equal terms with the world’s best. François Faber (in 1909) was the first non-Frenchman to win the Tour de France, and Nicolas Frantz (1927 and 1928) and Charly Gaul (1958) have also won the coveted race. Half a century later, the country’s two more recent heroes, brothers Fränk and Andy Schleck, began emulating these past legends, and their exploits have sparked a new wave of interest in cycling across the country.

It isn’t surprising then that there’s an extensive network of cycling and mountain-biking routes short and long for you to choose from if you want  to get around under pedal power. Be warned, however, that if you get tired you aren’t allowed to take your bike on the bus. Bookshops and some tourist offices sell a map ( Luxembourg by Cycle, €5 ) showing every dedicated cycle path in the country. 

By bus and train

Getting around by public transport is very cheap, and simple in all but the remotest areas. On quieter routes the regularity of service tails off dramatically on Sundays – bear this in mind if you need to do much travelling then.

For short journeys buy a ‘short duration’ ticket ( billet ‘courte durée’ ), valid for two hours. These can be bought for €2 each, or in packs of ten (carnets à dix billets) for €16. If you travel a lot, go for the ‘long duration’ ticket ( billet ‘longue durée’ ) for €4 (€16 for five), valid all day and until 04.00 the following morning. All tickets can be used on any bus or train (second class), including transfers. Travel on all buses and trains (second class) is free with a Luxembourg Card.

Driving distances are never that great in Luxembourg, the roads are in excellent condition, and with your own vehicle you can see a lot in a little time. The winding roads and sparse traffic in the north are also particularly popular among motorcycling enthusiasts. All major car-rental companies have offices in Luxembourg City and at Findel Airport. Some are also represented in Esch-sur-Alzette, but are a rare find elsewhere. Expect to pay €40 per day and up, depending on size of car and length of hire.

A great way to get a feel for the countryside is to walk through it. There are hundreds of hiking routes available, ranging from a couple of kilometres to several hundred. If you hit the trails during the week, then even in summer you may find yourself alone with the skylarks. In all regions, short walks are waymarked with letters; medium-length routes with numbers; and long national paths with symbols. Tourist offices throughout the country carry walking maps for their region.

When to visit Luxembourg

You can visit Luxembourg at any time, but bear in mind that the availability of services in some regions varies with the seasons. May, June and September are usually very pleasant months, as the weather is often at its most benign during late spring and late summer. July and August are also recommended, as they tend to be slightly warmer, if marginally wetter and busier.

In much of the Ardennes, mid-July to the end of August is considered ‘high season’, and it’s only at this time of year that everything is fully open. Outside this period some attractions may be closed or have limited opening hours. Many smaller hotels and restaurants shut during the winter months, limiting your eating and sleeping choices. Autumn, however, can be lovely in the north as the weather is not too bad, and the annual turning of the leaves provides a wonderful and free spectacle. Moreover, many country hotels have open fireplaces for warming your feet during colder evenings.

In Luxembourg City, restaurants, hotels and most attractions remain open all year. There’s no specific high or low season for tourism, but one big advantage of arriving in July or August is that room rates, especially in top hotels, can drop dramatically as the business trade temporarily evaporates. Hotels tend to fill up around the National Day celebrations (22–23 June), so book ahead if you plan to be in town then. Winters are rarely severe, and indeed December can be a great time to visit the city as it allows you to check out the Christmas Market on the place d’Armes.

Like much of northwest Europe, Luxembourg enjoys a temperate climate without extremes, not dissimilar to the UK. The sea is some 300km away, so its moderating influence is less than in Britain, and the ‘continental effect’ has marginally more impact. This makes winters slightly cooler and summers a bit warmer. January maximum temperatures in Luxembourg City average 5°C, while July maximums average 23°C. May and June are often the driest, sunniest months, while July and August are the hottest. It can rain at any time however, so come prepared – as with Britain, luck plays a major role in whether you stay dry, no matter what the season.

The Ardennes, being higher, is cooler than the south throughout the year. Winter often brings snow, although with less reliability than in past years. The north is also notably wetter.

Having said that, anyone who’s experienced the vagaries of British weather in recent times knows weather trends are no longer as predictable as they once were. Summers may be scorching one year, miserable the next. One winter it might snow heavily and often, the next not at all – the once-thriving cross-country skiing industry (Langlaufen) in the Ardennes has all but vanished now conditions have become so unreliable.

Whatever else: expect the unexpected.

What to see and do in Luxembourg

Bourscheid Castle

This grand old castle’s commanding position on a rocky spur completely dominates the Sûre Valley in every direction. One look at its strategic location leaves one in no doubt as to why the local lord chose to build his defensive stronghold here. You’d have to be a fool, or have wings, to attack it.

The first stone keep appeared around AD1000, replacing an older wooden construction, and archaeological digs have uncovered evidence that the Romans – no slouches in military terms – were here too. The major fortifications were built in the 14th century, but the glory days didn’t last long. By1512, the ruling Bourscheid dynasty had died out, leaving the castle divided into two. One half was never occupied; the other was abandoned in 1626. Despite centuries of neglect, the setting and sheer scale make this an exhilarating place to visit, arguably number two (after Vianden) in the unofficial national castle league. Ringed by a great stone wall with 11 watchtowers, the site covers an area of 150m by 50m. Clamber over the ruins and explore at your leisure, but don’t miss the quite wonderful views from the top of the tallest tower (No 14 on the plan you’ll be given with your entry ticket). The restored ‘Stolzembourg’ house is a multi-level mansion that hosts exhibitions, as well as models of the castle as it would have looked through the ages. For more detail than you could ever absorb, take the informative audio guide tour (included in the ticket price). One day each July (usually the second Sunday) the castle hosts its own medieval festival, on a similar theme, but smaller in scale to the one in Vianden.

Approaching Clervaux by road, you may have little idea it’s there at all until you stumble upon it. Hidden in a valley and surrounded by plateaux, the only clue indicating human habitation is the tower of Clervaux Abbey peeking above the horizon. The main approach road from the east drops dramatically off a ridge via a series of hairpins, offering great views of the charming little town with its pretty church, and the strikingly white castle at its centre – the whole area feels hemmed in by the sheer wooded slopes all around. The castle is home to ‘The Family of Man’: the world’s greatest photographic exhibition, recognised by UNESCO for its cultural importance.

When I first saw Echternach I was immediately smitten. On the German border, by the banks of the River Sûre, it’s a simply lovely place, which anyone with a soft spot for old European architecture will enjoy. With its arched shop frontages and wrought-iron shop signs, from some angles and with a favourable wind you may blink and think you’ve been transported to Salzburg, but in miniature. Yet even with a population of almost 5,000, Echternach still evokes a cosmopolitan city feel that belies its stature. And with a great choice of hotels, restaurants and bars it also makes an ideal base for a day or three while exploring.

The town is dominated by its medieval abbey, founded in AD698 by St Willibrord – a Northumbrian monk – whose body lies in the crypt of the basilica. Around that, some of the old city walls remain intact, and several of its original watchtowers have been restored, fitted with all mod cons, and made available as holiday apartments. In May and June, music fills the air as the Echternach International Music Festival comes to town. And on Whit Tuesday, thousands participate in the annual Dancing Procession. 

Esch-sur-Sûre

Before you even reach Esch you know something special is happening. Turning off the main road between Bastogne and Ettelbruck, the first thing you do is pass through a rock tunnel. It already feels like entering a secret world. And then you round the last bend and see the village proper, and it just gets better. Make no mistake: Esch is gorgeous, displaying a near-fairytale quality. It clings to the sides of a giant rock that’s been marooned by a sharp meander in the Sûre River. Looking down from above are romantically crumbling castle ruins. At the southern end of town is a second tunnel (rather prosaically, both were actually bored in the 1950s to allow construction traffic to access the Upper Sûre barrage). The river bends so severely it turns the land into a virtual island, connected to the ‘mainland’ only by a narrow isthmus. If you were so inclined you could use the 80m tunnel to bypass the entire place in under five seconds – but why would you want to do that?

Esch has few actual distractions to keep you entertained, but the big draw is the village itself. It’s just a fine place to be. Go walking in the surrounding region by day, and enjoy hanging out in Esch by night. Or just sit and enjoy the view. You won’t be alone though: while the official population is little more than 300, the numbers swell many-fold on sunny weekends.

Craggy outcrops, deep gorges and winding pathways abound in Luxembourg’s very own ‘Little Switzerland’ © Abhinav Malasi, Dreamstime

Little Switzerland

When Dutch tourists first arrived in this area a century ago, they took one look at the rugged rocky landscape and immediately dubbed it ‘ Klein Zwitserland ’ (‘Little Switzerland’). Compared with the flat farmlands of the Netherlands it may indeed seem like the Alps, but we should put things in a little perspective. Don’t be fooled into expecting extensive snow-capped vistas because you’ll leave disappointed – the highest point is, after all, only 414m above sea level.

What you will find is a maze of spectacular craggy outcrops, pathways, gorges and valleys. Situated between Beaufort and Echternach, and completely encompassing Berdorf, it has some of the best walking routes and the most sublimely beautiful scenery in the country.

Like many of nature’s greatest creations, Little Switzerland owes its existence to water. It formed over a million-year period as the Ernz Noire and Hallerbach rivers gouged away at the sandstone plateau, a former seabed that had covered the area  for 20 million years. When the sea receded, time and weathering, particularly of limestone deposits accumulated in cracks in the sandstone, eventually carved the exposed rock into gnarled and twisted formations.

This isn’t just a land of breathtaking beauty; it’s also tranquil and very peaceful. Beyond the clomping footsteps of fellow hikers the air is filled with birdsong and gently trickling water. Best of all, it’s easily accessible for hikes of almost any length, with well-maintained trails and clear signposting. Many of the best start and finish right by the bus station in Echternach. Visit the information offices in Echternach, Beaufort or Berdorf to pick up maps.

Luxembourg City

‘Gibraltar of the North’, one of Europe’s smallest capitals, or Eurocrat heaven. Think of it how you will, Luxembourg City is many things to many people. But put it all together and what you find is a place of manageable scale, with abundant charm and one of the most stunning settings of any urban area in Europe. At the confluence of the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers, both of which have cut deep gouges into the sandstone plateau, it’s the old town’s spectacular location, perched on a cliff edge, which grabs your attention right away. Its ‘Gibraltar of the North’ tagline actually refers to the fortifications dug into the rock – in appearance I think ‘Edinburgh of the Continent’ is more apt (although I concede it doesn’t scan as well). Lacking the overwhelming scale of London or Berlin, this is a city you can navigate on foot, with plenty of pleasant squares, surprising amounts of green, great museums and intact centuries-old architecture. In short, it’s a delightful place, and UNESCO clearly agrees: it awarded the old town World Heritage status in 1994.

Quaint and appealing as it is, the city also has a hard-working business and administrative side, which has made it wealthy. It’s a major centre of international banking, the seat of several significant European institutions, and (along with Strasbourg and Brussels) one of three capitals of the EU. Despite its permanent metropolitan population being just 114,000, these roles have turned it into the most multi-cultural of cities – around 60% of the residents are of foreign origin. The population also more than doubles every working day, when 120,000 migrant workers flood in from Belgium, France and Germany. When everyone goes home in the evening it can feel strangely empty in the centre, with only tourists and the remaining locals left to frequent the bars and cafés.

This is the only place to have become European Capital of Culture twice, having held the honour in both 1995 and 2007. The title may have since passed on, but its legacy is in plain view, as large sums of public money were poured into creating prestige sites such as the MUDAM Museum of Modern Art and the neighbouring Philharmonie Concert Hall, both gems of modern architecture. New and old, there’s more than enough here to keep you occupied for days.

The Moselle Valley

The wines of Luxembourg are an undiscovered secret, itching to take the world by storm. Few people outside the country are even aware they exist. And still fewer have noticed how good they are. Until now …

Oft-overlooked by the wider world, one of Europe’s smallest wine-growing regions stretches a mere 42km along the west bank of the Moselle River, which briefly grazes the Grand Duchy en route between France and Germany. The country as a whole has around 1,350ha of vines, but the overwhelming majority are here – besides its fertile soil, the location enjoys a microclimate particularly suited to winemaking.

A visit to this region is a must for wine enthusiasts. Not only will you be impressed by the quality, the prices may also come as a pleasant surprise, both in the shops and in bars and restaurants. Some wineries are happy for visitors just to turn up at the front door, and you may get a free tour and tasting (larger places tend to charge for these privileges). You’re generally discouraged from appearing at smaller premises at harvest time, simply because the overworked staff are too busy. Besides buying wine, there are several wine museums here, and practically every village holds its own festival, with attendant tasting opportunities, naturally. The two biggest events are the Grevenmacher wine festival and the Riesling Open.

Nestled in a steep valley on the banks of the Our River, Vianden’s setting alone would make it worth visiting. But the addition of one of Europe’s most impressive medieval castles, perched on a rock gazing imperiously down over the small town, sends its tourism credentials rocketing skyward. When you add the museums, churches, views, and an adventure rope garden for the restless, it becomes somewhere no-one should miss. It may not cover a huge area, but it packs an awful lot into a tiny space, and in-between are at least a dozen hotels and an even greater choice of eateries.

One thing you may notice is that the vast majority of your fellow visitors are Dutch. They clearly know what the rest of the world is just waking up to. Many signs and menus are designed in response to this, and aimed to appeal to Dutch tastes. You’re as likely to be greeted with a ‘goedemiddag’ as you enter a restaurant here as you are a ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Moiën’.

The local population certainly enjoy throwing a party and dressing up. All manner of special rituals, festivals and markets are held throughout the year, and if your arrival coincides with one of these it’ll add an extra dimension to your visit.

Walking around Vianden presents the visitor with something of an enigma. It’s one of Luxembourg’s most-visited spots, and deservedly so. The main streets in the centre are lined with bars, hotels, cafés and restaurants. There are places modelled on Swiss chalets, with eateries serving cheese fondue to perpetuate the illusion, and a chairlift to carry you up to a lofty viewpoint. This is full-on Touristville. Yet take two steps down practically any side street and it’s as if you’ve been transported to another world: into a quiet rural village with cobbled streets, where the smell of wood smoke lingers in the air even in summer, and where you feel that to breathe too heavily would disturb the sleeping dogs. The two conflicting halves together are what make Vianden such a vital and enjoyable place to be.

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Luxembourg (Bradt Travel Guides) Paperback – 30 Mar. 2012

• Print length 248 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Bradt Travel Guides
• Publication date 30 Mar. 2012
• Dimensions 13.5 x 1.1 x 21.5 cm
• ISBN-10 1841624241
• ISBN-13 978-1841624242
• See all details

Product description

About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bradt Travel Guides; 2nd edition (30 Mar. 2012)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 248 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1841624241
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1841624242
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 13.5 x 1.1 x 21.5 cm

About the authors

Tracey skelton.

Discover more of the author’s books, see similar authors, read author blogs and more

Tim Skelton

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The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg

Practical travel guide to Belgium & Luxembourg featuring points-of-interest structured lists of all sights and off-the-beaten-track treasures, with detailed colour-coded maps, practical details about what to see and to do in Belgium & Luxembourg. The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg also includes details on   how to get there and around, pre-departure information, as well as top time-saving tips, like a visual list of things not to miss in Belgium & Luxembourg, expert author picks and itineraries to help you plan your trip.

The Rough Guide to  Belgium & Luxembourg covers: Brussels, Flanders, Antwerp and the northeast of Belgium, Hainaut and Brabant Wallon, the Ardennes, and Luxembourg.

Inside this travel guide you'll find:

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER

Experiences selection for every kind of trip to Belgium & Luxembourg, from off-the-beaten-track adventures in The Hautes Fagnes to family activities in child-friendly places, like Ostend Beach or chilled-out breaks in popular tourist areas, like Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts.

PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS

Essential pre-departure information including Belgium & Luxembourg entry requirements, getting around, health information, travelling with children, sports and outdoor activities, food and drink, festivals, culture and etiquette, shopping, tips for travellers with disabilities and more.

TIME-SAVING ITINERARIES

Carefully planned routes covering the best of Belgium & Luxembourg give a taste of the richness and diversity of the destination, and have been created for different time frames or types of trip.

DETAILED REGIONAL COVERAGE

Clear structure within each sightseeing chapter includes regional highlights, brief history, detailed sights and places ordered geographically, recommended restaurants, hotels, bars, clubs and major shops or entertainment options.

INSIGHTS INTO GETTING AROUND LIKE A LOCAL

Tips on how to beat the crowds, save time and money and find the best local spots for hiking, biking and kayaking or exploring cosy bars and cafés.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THINGS NOT TO MISS

Rough Guides' rundown of Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent, Mechelen's best sights and top experiences helps to make the most of each trip to Belgium & Luxembourg, even in a short time.

HONEST AND INDEPENDENT REVIEWS

Written by Rough Guides' expert authors with a trademark blend of humour, honesty and expertise, to help to find the best places in Belgium & Luxembourg, matching different needs.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Comprehensive   'Contexts' chapter features fascinating insights into Belgium & Luxembourg, with coverage of history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife and books, plus a handy language section and glossary.

FABULOUS FULL COLOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning La Boverie and the spectacular Mullerthal Trail.

COLOUR-CODED MAPPING

Practical full-colour maps, with clearly numbered, colour-coded keys for quick orientation in Ieper (Ypres), the Ardennes and many more locations in Belgium & Luxembourg, reduce need to go online.

USER-FRIENDLY LAYOUT

With helpful icons, and organised by neighbourhood to help you pick the best spots to spend your time.

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Rough Guides Main Series

Practical travel guides series covering countries, cities and regions, with detailed factual travel tips, perfect for independent, long-stay, backpacking and budget-conscious travellers seeking comprehensive travel information and off-the-beaten track experiences

Extensive practical travel information including getting there, getting around, climate information, safety tips, accommodation explanations, food & drink advice and shopping essentials 

Curated author picks with destination highlights at the beginning of each guide

Ready-made itineraries covering every corner of the destination

Colour-coded places chapters with detailed coverage of places and sights, presented in a points-of-interest structure 

Extensive recommendations for accommodation, restaurants, shops and leisure activities for all budgets

Colour-coded detailed maps with marked-up key sights 

Insights on history and nature highlights  

Easy to use, newspaper-style layout

All guides published from January 2021 are printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

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Travel guide books to Luxembourg (5)

Introducing Luxembourg

About luxembourg.

• Images of Luxembourg
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Luxembourg
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Luxembourg Airport

Luxembourg travel guide

As the wealthiest nation in Europe and one of the founding fathers of the EU, it’s safe to say little Luxembourg is punching well above its weight.

But as well as the highest per capita income on the continent, this diminutive country also has more than its fair share of natural beauty with rolling hills, verdant valleys and meandering rivers painting picture of rural idyll.

Proud of its role as a founding member of the EU, Luxembourg plays a prominent position in European affairs and is home to a number of European Union institutions.

Most of the action takes place in the capital, Luxembourg City, which has something of a split personality: while it’s all antiquated charm in the Old Town, with its elegant squares, imposing churches, independent shops and cobblestone streets, the Kirchberg district has a modern, flashier feel thanks to its ubiquitous offices, shopping malls and entertainment complexes.

The most popular destination outside the capital is medieval Vianden in the northeast, with its cobbled streets and hilltop castle, which is the envy of many European cities. Vianden also hosts a range of festivals and events throughout the year, many of which celebrate its historical past.

Echternach, founded in the 7th century, is the oldest city in the country, with a picturesque centre dominated by an abbey. It is also a convenient base for exploring ‘Little Switzerland’, a tiny region of rocky outcrops, cliffs, cascades, and forests, crisscrossed by walking trails that are a haven for hikers and mountain-bikers.

On the southeastern border with Germany, the Moselle Valley enjoys a unique microclimate that has given rise to one of Europe’s smallest wine-growing districts, producing award-winning whites and sparkling wines. Meanwhile, northern Luxembourg is dominated by the Ardennes, an area of high plateau where wooded valleys, shimmering rivers and lofty peaks make for stunning trekking.

All in all, not bad for a country the size of Dorset.

2,586 sq km (998 sq miles).

576,243 (UN estimate 2016).

220.5 per sq km.

Luxembourg (City).

Constitutional monarchy.

Grand Duke Henri since 2000.

Luc Frieden since November 2023.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Luxembourg set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Luxembourg in London .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Luxembourg.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Luxembourg, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

To enter Luxembourg (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Luxembourg). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Luxembourg.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Luxembourg)  for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends

to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events

• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Luxembourg and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Luxembourg government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Embassy of Luxembourg in London .

If you stay in Luxembourg with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Applying for a visa

Check with the Embassy of Luxembourg in London what type of visa or work permit you may need.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Luxembourg guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Luxembourg. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money into Luxembourg

If you bring more than 10,000 euros in cash (even in transit) into Luxembourg, you must complete a cash declaration form. You must declare this to the Customs and Excise Agency (Administration des douanes et accises – ADA) .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Luxembourg

Terrorist attacks in Luxembourg cannot be ruled out.

Violent crime is not common in Luxembourg cities. However, robberies with violence occur.

Report any thefts in person to the nearest police station within 24 hours and get a police report crime number.

Protecting your belongings

Pickpockets operate on buses and in train stations, particularly in the main train station of Luxembourg Gare. Hotel lobbies in the Findel area are reported to be hotspots for thefts and pickpocketing.

Foreign visitors and residents can be targeted by scam artists. Be cautious and make sure you have all the information you need before providing any personal or bank details.

Laws and cultural differences

Alcohol laws.

The minimum legal drinking age is 16, but being drunk and disorderly in public is a criminal offence that can result in arrest for a night and a heavy fine.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Luxembourg, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC Luxembourg guide .

You may be fined if you cannot produce the following documents if they are requested:

• driving licence
• vehicle registration document
• car insurance certificate
• MOT certificate

Carry a passport, because it’s easy to cross into neighbouring countries without realising it. Beware that road traffic laws are strict and you can be fined for minor traffic infringements.

The minimum age for driving a car is 18.

You can use your UK licence for a period of one year before having to exchange it for a Luxembourgish licence.

Drink-drive laws are strictly enforced. You can be arrested for having a blood alcohol content of 0.5% or above.

Winter tyres

It is compulsory for all motor vehicles driving on public roads in winter conditions (black ice, packed snow, slush, ice sheets or frost) to have regulation winter tyres (winter tyres or all-weather tyres marked “M.S.”, “M+S”, “M&S” or the alpine symbol) mounted on all wheels of the vehicle.

This regulation applies to all drivers, regardless of the country of registration of the vehicle. You will be fined if you do not have the correct tyres. However, this does not apply to vehicles parked on public roads. For more information see Luxembourg government advice on winter driving .

It is safer to use official taxis at clearly marked taxi stands. A price list is displayed on official taxis. Check the rate per kilometre before getting into the taxi. Beware that some taxis may charge highly inflated prices. Taxi drivers are allowed to charge extra in the evenings and on Sunday.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. If you ask for a SAMU (Service d’Aide Medicale Urgente) the ambulance will come together with a doctor.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information read guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Luxembourg guide

where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Luxembourg

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Luxembourg .

COVID-19 healthcare in Luxembourg

See Luxembourg government information about COVID-19 .

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) before leaving the UK. If you already have a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) , it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Luxembourg’s nationals. If you do not have your card with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

GHIC and EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Luxembourg

Ambulance: 112

Police: 113

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Luxembourg
• dealing with a death in Luxembourg
• being arrested in Luxembourg
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime

what to do if you’re in hospital

• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Luxembourg and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy, Luxembourg .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges .

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

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Luxembourg Travel Guide

Luxembourg Motto: We want to remain what we are

Table of Contents

Top five destinations in luxembourg, stats/fun facts, luxembourg map, good to know before you go/essential info, our go-to resources, photo gallery.

• Luxembourg City is a small city full of life and beauty. Marvel at its history, ancient fortifications, tree-lined cobblestone streets, and lush parks. Wander the Old Quarter, Parc Merveilleux, and the impressive Citadel. Climb the Corniche walls, visit the remarkable Gate of Grund, or stroll along the river.
• Bock Casemates in Luxembourg City  is a subterranean defense system made up of 11 miles of tunnels and a fascinating history. It is one of Luxembourg’s most important visitor sites. These underground galleries were carved out in the 17th century under Spanish rule and have been extended twice. There is also an archaeological crypt and an antechamber to the casemates, which are worth adding to your visit.
• Vianden Castle and the town of Vianden are some of the most scenic in Luxembourg. They are surrounded by a medieval outer wall with guard towers throughout. The castle, built in the 9th century, sits above the town in all its glory. Take the chairlift and partake in the gorgeous views of the countryside.
• Bourscheid Castle This beautifully preserved 10th-century castle is in an area rich with outdoor activities and a charming village.
• Echternach This lovely quaint town on the banks of the River, Sure near Germany, is a gem. Step back in time as you wander the winding streets full of lovely old homes and medieval architecture.

Did you know?

Luxembourg stats.

• Population: 628,381
• Capital City: Luxembourg
• Currency Euro (EUR)
• Government type: Constitutional Monarchy
• Prime Minister: Xavier Bettel
• Ethnic groups: Luxembourger 51.1%, Portuguese 15.7%, French 7.5%, Italian 3.6%, Belgian 3.3%, German 2.1%, other 16.7%
• Language: Luxembourgish (official administrative and judicial language and national language (spoken vernacular) 55.8%, Portuguese 15.7%, French (official administrative, judicial, and legislative language) 12.1%, German (official administrative and judicial language) 3.1%, Italian 2.9%, English 2.1%, other 8.4%, Luxembourgish
• Religions: Christian (predominantly Roman Catholic) 70.4%, Muslim 2.3%, other (includes Buddhist, folk religions, Hindu, Jewish) 0.5%, none 26.8%
• State Department Risk Level: 3 due to Covid
• Terrorist groups: N/A
• GDP 71.10 billion.
• Luxembourg is the second richest country in the world (GDP per capita).
• Luxembourg is a landlocked country bordered by Belgium to the West, France to the South, and Germany to the East.
• Being 1000 square miles, Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the world.
• The state of Rhode Island is a little larger than Luxembourg.
• It is the only Grand Duchy in the world.
• Luxembourg is one of the world’s major financial and business centers and a tax haven.
• Leading industries include banking and financial, steel, chemical, information technology, and agriculture.
• Inventions: self-disinfecting masks, freezer pops, the pool noodle, slip, and slide.
• Forests cover more than one-third of this tiny country.
• The world’s top steel-producing company is based in Luxembourg.
• Luxembourg has the highest minimum wage in the European Union.
• Life expectancy is 82 years old.
• Literacy rate 99%.
• Visit Restaurant Chiggeri in Luxembourg’s capital city, and you can order wine from the world’s largest wine list. It offers more than 2,200 choices.
•  Le Chemin de la Corniche is a pedestrian walkway built along the ramparts’ tops on the eastern side of Le Chemin’s fortress city. Its nickname is “Europe’s most beautiful balcony.” We totally agree.
• It has the second-largest cigarette consumption per capita in the world.
• Nearly half of Luxembourg’s workforce commutes to work in Luxembourg from another country.
• Luxembourg became one of the leading backers of international cooperation after World War II.
• All of Luxembourg City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historic fortifications and old quarters.
• Most Luxembourgans are typically tri-lingual. French, German, and Luxembourgish.
• Luxembourg has the highest rate of car ownership in the world.
• The highest court in the E.U. in matters of E.U. law is in Luxembourg.
• The country’s name originated from the Lucilinburhuc (“little fortress”) castle, which Siegfried, count of Ardennes, bought in 963 C.E., and which marked the foundation of Luxembourg.
• Luxembourg is among the twelve founding member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
• Skype’s corporate headquarters and the European headquarters of Amazon and Paypal, to name a few, are based in Luxembourg because it is a known strong financial center and tax haven.
• The Bourscheid Castle is the largest of the 75 castles in the country, and it still stands today.
• The Moselle Valley produces excellent wines from nine grape varieties: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Auxerrois, Rivaner, Pinot Noir, Elbling, and Chardonnay.
• Gromperekichelcher – potato pancakes made from potatoes, onions, parsley, egg, and flour – is the national snack.
• Quetsch is a Luxembourg traditional alcoholic drink made from plums.
• About 11 miles of underground tunnels are cut from the solid rock under the capital city.

Good to know before you go

• Tipping does occur in Luxembourg, as opposed to the rest of the E.U. At restaurants and bars, the tip is usually 15%. Hotels 2-3 euros a night for housekeeping and 1-2 euros for a bellhop. Car services and taxis account for about 10% of the total. Spas, personal services, and tipping are not expected.
• Credit cards are accepted everywhere.
• Overall, the clothing is stylish and well-kept. Keep in mind that most workers come from out of the country; they don’t reside in the city. We found many people walking around in casual and formal business attire. When dressed outside business attire, there were jeans, trousers, and comfortable shoes. The locals seemed to like brighter colors.
• Luxembourg has a good network of highways (toll-free) and secondary roads. Speeding and traffic offenses, in general, are subject to hefty fines. You pay on the spot. No getting home and saying, oh well, I’m not going back anytime soon. They have this covered.
• Luxembourg’s fuel is one of the cheapest in the E.U., so fill it there if you are heading to another country.
• Family always comes first in Luxembourg; it’s normal for parents to remain deeply involved with their children’s lives and adulthood choices. You may see many families with their children in all settings. The parks were full of families.
• The people of Luxembourg are private by nature and give off a feeling of being formal and reserved. They are not rude or unfriendly, but their personal expression is held back. Recognize that as who they are and do not take it personally if you don’t feel a strong welcome.  
• Greetings are more formal, and you do not use first names unless they offer them. The most common greeting is a brief handshake. Touching is not something you will see during conversations, even among close friends. Pointing is impolite to the locals, so avoid that.
• Certain behaviors will not win favors in Luxembourg. Chewing gum and putting your feet on a chair or table will give you some disapproving looks.
• Good manners are important to the Luxembourg people, and they practice them as well. Being blunt is considered rude behavior, and punctuality is taken very seriously. If you are late, you are seen as unreliable and should offer an apology and explanation.
• Bouneshclupp (a green bean soup) and Gromperenzopp (a potato soup with leeks, egg yolks, and cream) are Luxembourg’s specialties.
•  Another traditional dish, The “Luxembourg Menu,” is a meat platter of cooked and smoked hams, pâté, and sausage served with hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and fresh tomatoes.
• Table manners are important in Luxembourg. While eating, do not rest your elbows on the table; your hands should be visible at all times and not in your lap. Most foods are eaten with utensils, even sandwiches. You hold your knife in your right hand and your fork in your left when eating. To communicate you have finished eating, lay your knife and fork parallel across the right side of your plate. If attending a formal affair, you will likely be shown to a particular seat.
• Guest etiquette dictates you must always bring a gift if invited to someone’s home; chocolates or flowers are ideal. Give flowers in odd numbers (but never 13), and don’t bring chrysanthemums, as they are reserved for funerals.
• Smoking in Luxembourg is prevalent. Smoking in closed public spaces, including bars and cafes, is banned. You can not smoke with children in the car or on the playground. You will be fined for any smoking violation.
• Luxembourg is one of the world’s safest countries and the safest country to visit in Europe. It is economically and politically stable.

Luxembourg Essential Info

U.S. Consular Emergency The 24-hour number from a U.S. Phone is 1-888-407-4747 Outside of U.S., 011-202-501-4444 U.S. Embassy Luxembourg City 22 Boulevard Emmanuel Servais L-2535 Luxembourg City Luxembourg Telephone: +(352) 46-01-23-00 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(352) 46-01-23-23 Fax: +(352) 46-14-01 Email:  [email protected] Emergency Numbers GENERAL 112 Police 113 Country Code +352 Time Zone UTC+1 Driving Right side Adaptors “Standard” Euro plug Type C or F Tourism Office https://www.visitluxembourg.com/en

When to go to Luxembourg

Luxembourg, a small land-locked country between Belgium, France, and Germany, has a moderately continental climate, with cold winters and mild summers.

Luxembourg’s best time is mid-May to mid-September since it is the mildest weather month. In this period, the temperature is generally pleasant, and the weather is variable; the sun alternates with cloudy skies. Rain and thunderstorms are always possible, so prepare for them.

The shoulder season, April to early May and October, will help you avoid crowds from a travel perspective. However, Luxembourg is not known for being as packed as other E.U. countries.

Winters are cold and wet, with short days. Since walking Luxembourg City is an essential element of your visit, this might hinder you.

• Summer 52-73 °F (11-73 °C)
• Spring 36-64 °F (2-18 °C)
• Fall 36-64 °F (2-18 °C)
• Winter 28-45 °F (-1–9)

Our Favorite Luxembourg Resources

This resource section contains some Amazon affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Travel Books/Guides

Luxembourg was part of our seven-country trip. We had a full day on our way to Belgium. It is well worth more time if you can. Travel guides dedicated to Luxembourg are rare, but we found good info in the Lonely Planet guide. We listed one more guide below that others have said was very valuable though we have not tried it ourselves. We quoted the review from Amazon. Online resources for us were of the greatest use.

A passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice, the highlights Luxembourg has to offer, and what hidden discoveries await you. Detailed info to plan your visit to the Unesco World Heritage Luxembourg City and other lovely stops in this small but fascinating country. This is also an excellent resource for Belgium. Discover this travel guide here .

“L uxembourg  remains the only comprehensive English-language guide to focus exclusively on this small but fascinating European country. Included are detailed reviews of the best places to stay and eat in all price categories, from luxury to budget; information about every museum and significant place of interest in the country; in-depth guides to local food, drink, language, and culture; and guides to the best cycling and hiking trails, many of the latter having been personally tested and explored by the author.” Find this guide here .

Our favorite websites

• Luxembourg tourism site

2. U.S. Department of State: Bureau of Consular Affairs Greece Country Info

We cannot encourage you enough to visit this website as you plan and prepare for your trip. This is the U.S. Federal Government addressing the safety, security, travel risk, entry, exit, visa documents mandates, emergency U.S. and Embassy contacts, health, local laws, special circumstances, threats, traveler vulnerabilities, government warnings, and transportation In Luxembourg. This is your best and most reliable resource for all this important info. Check back often before you go, as things can change quickly. Being prepared is essential in all travel, but especially internationally.

In ternational Travel Information Luxembourg (state.gov)

3. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers Health Resource

This CDC travel resource provides essential health info for your specific destination. Using their tool, you can determine which vaccines, medications, and health advice recommendations are needed for Luxembourg.

CDC’s Travelers Health Page for Luxembourg

Our favorite maps

Accurate and easy-to-read road map with practical road and travel information. Major sites and landmarks are well-marked. Mapped road network with distances and designations for major highways to the off-the-beaten-path roads. City maps provide excellent details. Though we default to Google Maps, this came in handy in planning and when we lost cell service. Find this essential map here .

Our favorite apps

Rome2rio: Trip Planner  Trip and Holiday Organizer Enter any address, landmark, or city in the App will instantly display all your travel options, booking info, accommodation providers, and things to do. Find it on your local App Store.

Duolingo-Language Lesson  Audio lessons that help improve your listening and speaking skills. Find it on your local App Store.

Google Translate: We use this often to practice the proper pronunciation of words. Two of the three languages spoken, German and French, in Luxembourg are available. As we always encourage, learning the basics of greeting and thanking people in the local language is essential. Google Translate was an easy app to use. If needed, you can enter text in English, which will speak back in whatever language you need to aid in communicating with locals. Furthermore, it came in very handy to translate text into images instantly.

Do you have a favorite Luxembourg travel resource? Share your favorites in the comments section at the bottom of this page or

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Our Luxembourg Travel Gallery

Our Top Recommended Travel Products and Resources

Travel insurance.

Squaremouth.com Our favorite travel insurance site!

We could not be stronger advocates of being well-insured—not just for the little stuff but for the big things like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Our go-to place is Squaremouth.com . It does a fantastic job with its user-friendly interface and uses top-rated and reputable insurance carriers. They also mediate on your behalf if you have problems.

To empower you as a consumer, we suggest you read our blog post on the importance of travel insurance and how to get the best coverage from top-rated companies for an affordable price.

MedjetAssist Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world

They are the premier global air medical transport. One caveat to travel insurance is that medical evacuation usually gets you to the closest facility to care for you. Medjet gets you back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you are stable enough to fly. A Medjet membership is only for medical transport. Medjet Horizon offers expanded coverage. They have individual trip policies starting at $99 and annual policies for around $300. Most of their policies limit the age to 74.

To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.  

Accommodations & Experiences

Expedia. com  and VRBO Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours  

Expedia is a US-based company whose mission is to power global travel for everyone and everywhere. Wanderers Compass focuses on independent travel, and using sites like Expedia makes that possible. Every aspect of travel you need, from airfare, accommodations, rental car, and cruises to activities to do at your destination, can be booked on Expedia .  

Booking.com Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours 

Booking.com connects millions of travelers to memorable experiences, various transportation options, and incredible places to stay – from homes to hotels and much more. It is one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes. It is our preferred booking site.

Viator The leading marketplace for travel experiences

Viator believes that making memories is what travel is all about. And with 300,000+ experiences to explore—everything from simple tours to extreme adventures (and all the niche, interesting stuff in between)—making memories that will last a lifetime has never been easier. We use them often during our travels and love their liberal cancellation policy.

Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront An excellent source for all travel essentials and guides

Amazon is one of the most comprehensive online shopping sources in the world. Teams worldwide provide lower prices, better selection, and rapid delivery on behalf of customers. They offer a vast inventory, and their 1.7 million small and medium businesses worldwide selling on Amazon.com offer extensive options to customers.

This is not your ordinary drinkware company. The  HYDAWAY  difference is what their products do when you’re not using them. Practical and portable, HYDAWAY doesn’t take up unnecessary space in your already-packed life or pile up in landfills. We have used their collapsible water bottle, carrying case for the water bottle, and collapsible insulated drink tumbler. They are all lightweight and durable. This is a conservation-focused product you can be proud to buy.

Use our Promo Code. WANCOM15, at checkout for 15% off your Hydaway order

This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

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Do you have a question for us or have a comment?

Ras Bahadur Rai

This Luxembourg travel guide is incredibly informative and comprehensive! The tips and essential information provided are helpful for travelers, from tipping customs to transportation and etiquette. The overall presentation and organization of the guide are excellent, making it a valuable resource for anyone planning a trip to Luxembourg. Thank you for sharing this comprehensive guide!

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Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal  all  you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Belgium & Luxembourg.

Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from strolling around the Grande Place in Brussels to climbing the belfry in Bruges, and taking a fun-fueled brewery tour at De Koninck in Antwerp.

Build a trip to remember  with  Lonely Planet's  Belgium & Luxembourg  travel guide:

• Our classic guidebook format  provides you with the most comprehensive level of information for planning  multi-week trips
• Updated with an all new structure and design  so you can navigate Belgium & Luxembourg and connect experiences together with ease
• Create your perfect trip with exciting itineraries  for extended journeys combined with suggested day trips, walking tours, and activities to match your passions
• Get fresh takes on must-visit sights  including the EU Quarter, and Atomium and the Heysel
• Special features  on battlefields by car and on foot; tour of Flanders; best beer, chocolate and wine
• Expert local recommendations  on when to go, eating, drinking, nightlife, shopping, accommodation, adventure activities, festivals, and more
• Essential information toolkit  containing tips on arriving; transport; making the most of your time and money; LGBTIQ+ travel advice; useful words and phrases; accessibility; and responsible travel
• Connect with Belgian and Luxembourgish culture through stories  that delve deep into local life, history, and traditions 
• Inspiring full-colour travel photography and maps  including a  pull out map of Bruges & Brussels

Brussels; Ghent, Bruges & Northwest Belgium; Antwerp & Northeast Belgium; Wallonia; Luxembourg

ISBN: 9781838696771

Edition: 9th

Publication Date: July 2024

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"Green forests and orchards can be found all around Luxembourg, mingling with pretty little villages, lakes and more than 100 fairytale-like castles"

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Journey to Vianden Castle

Standing at a height of 310 metres, Vianden Castle is one of the largest fortified castles in Europe. It was built between the 11th and 14th centuries, on the 10th century foundations of a Roman castle, and was home to the powerful Counts of Vianden until the early 15th century.

Pay tribute to Allied Forces hero, General George S. Patton

We’ll take you to the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial, the final resting place of US General George S. Patton. There are more than 5,000 US soldiers buried in the cemetery, and it contains a wealth of information on battles such as the Battle of the Bulge.

Embark on a leisurely walking tour of Luxembourg City

Your Local Specialist will take you through centuries of history, as you walk past the Cathedral and the Grand Ducal Palace, with its Flemish Renaissance façades. See the city's unique forts and imposing Bock promontory, and stop by the Pont du Château, a curious two-tiered bridge with four ways of crossing between the cliffs.

Enjoy the views of the gorge of the Rivers Alzette and Petrusse

Your Luxembourg tour will take you to the intersection of the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers, where you can admire the gorgeous vista of greenery surrounding the gorge. These deep valleys were once an important part of the city’s defences, providing natural protection on all three sides.

People-watch in the leafy Place d'Armes

Relax with a coffee in Place d’Armes, a vibrant square at the heart of the Luxembourg city centre. There are orchestras playing every summer evening, and a Christmas market in winter. You can also find a monument celebrating Luxembourg’s national poets, Dick and Michael Lentz, who wrote the country’s national anthem.

Our top 5 things to do in Luxembourg

Our tours reveal the best places to visit in Luxembourg, from the monumental Vianden Castle, to the beautiful gorge of the Rivers Alzette and Petrusse.

Luxembourg City

Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art

Housed in a dramatic building designed by the famous architect Ieoh Ming Pei, the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art (MUDAM) is one of the city’s most impressive structures. It’s also filled with an excellent collection of contemporary artworks, with a permanent collection of more than 100 artists, including Andy Warhol.

National Museum of History and Art of Luxembourg

Located in the historical centre of Luxembourg, the National Museum of History and Art of Luxembourg houses a large archaeological collection. You’ll find jewels, coins, tools and sarcophaguses from Luxembourg’s history, and there’s also a visual arts section with Luxembourgish and international paintings from the 18th to the 20th century.

Villa Vauban

Housed in a former private residence built in 1873, Villa Vauban is an art museum dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of European works of art from the 17th to the 19th century. You can find a wide range of artworks including paintings, photographs, sculptures, graphic works and decorative design pieces.

Best museums in Luxembourg

Luxembourg is filled with fantastic museums and galleries, and we’ll show you the best on your Luxembourg city museum tour.

F'rell Am Rèisleck

A traditional Luxembourgish specialty, F’rell am rèisleck consists of fried freshwater trout covered in a creamy Riesling wine sauce, mixed with crème fraiche, spices and herbs. The trout is then baked and served with a side dish of potatoes. This delicious dish can be found in most fine-dining restaurants in Luxembourg.

Bouneschlupp

A hearty green bean soup with bacon, potatoes and onions, Bouneschlupp is a well-loved Luxembourgish dish. Typically served with potato pancakes (gromperekichelchen) and a dollop of sour cream, this is the perfect winter warmer.

Friture de la Moselle

This classic Luxembourgish dish uses small fish, traditionally sourced from the Moselle river. The fish is seasoned and soaked in lemon juice, coated with batter, then fried until crispy. The best way to enjoy this delicacy is by eating the fish with your fingers, accompanied by a glass of Luxembourg Riesling.

Best food in Luxembourg

Set at the crossroads of Europe, Luxembourgish cuisine is influenced by neighbouring France, Germany and Belgium. We’ll reveal the best restaurants in Luxembourg where you can taste their beloved dishes.

What to pack for Luxembourg

Pack a French or German phrasebook, or if you can’t spare the space, download them to your Google Translate app offline. Learning some Luxembourgish phrases is also appreciated.

Waterproof coat

Sudden showers are common throughout the year in Luxembourg, so pack a raincoat or small umbrella to stay dry.

Comfortable shoes

Luxembourg is best explored on foot, and you can spend hours wandering the streets lined with historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

An adaptor plug

Voltage in Luxembourg is 230V and the sockets are of Type F, with standard European 2-pin plugs.

With more than 100 fairytale castles surrounded by a blanket of forests and rolling hills, you’ll want to capture all the picture perfect magic of Luxembourg.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and toiletry bottles.

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50 things you need to know before traveling to Luxembourg

Luxembourg is often the forgotten country of Western/Central Europe, particularly by travelers. Bad mouths say it has nothing to do, and there’s nothing particularly interesting… Are they right? We don’t think so!

We have been to Luxembourg several times (we even have family there), so we think we are ready to present you with all the good (and bad) things you can do, eat, and experience in this small but fascinating country. These are the 50 things you need to know before traveling to Luxembourg,

Page Contents

Things to know about Luxembourg, and the Locals

#1 Where is Luxembourg? Luxembourg is a landlocked country located in central Europe between  France (to the West and south) Germany (East), and Belgium (North). Curious trivia fact: it’s the smallest country bordered by three countries.

#2 Luxembourg is a representative democracy with a constitutional monarch, however, the interesting part is that it’s a Grand Duchy, because the head of state isn’t a king but a Grand-Duke. Even more interesting is that Luxembourg is the only Grand Duchy in the world!

#3 Luxembourg has around 660,000 inhabitants (2023), and almost half of them are immigrants. These immigrants come from their neighbors ( Germany , France , and Belgium ), but also from Portugal and Italy . In fact, the Portuguese are the most significant foreign group in Luxembourg, with almost 20% of the Luxembourger population being from Portuguese ancestry.

#4 There is also a big community of ex-Yugoslavian countries and small communities of Africans and Asians. This is truly a multicultural society. Strangely, there are very few Middle Eastern and Luxembourg apparently received very few migrants.

#5 What’s the climate in Luxembourg? The climate in Luxembourg is considered a moderated continental climate with cold winters and mild Summers.

May to August are the warmer months with longer hours of sun, which means that is the best time of the year to visit Luxembourg. Nevertheless, bring warm clothes and raincoats/umbrellas, it usually rains and the summer nights are cold.

#6 Luxembourg (together with Belgium , Netherlands , France , Germany , and Italy ) is one of the founding members of the European Coal and Steel Community, which is considered to be “a first step to the EEC and later to the EU and Eurozone. Today, Luxembourg City is one of the unofficial capitals of the EU, with many services being held there.

#7 Luxembourg is one of the wealthiest and most developed countries in the world! It ranks second on the list only, behind Qatar , with the highest GDP per capita.

This wealth comes mainly from their banking system and low taxes on holding companies which means that many of the biggest companies in the world have their European headquarters in Luxembourg.

#8 Many people are working in Luxembourg and living in neighboring countries. It’s estimated that roughly 100,000 people (German, Belgian, and mostly French) cross the border every day to work in Luxembourg. Long live the European Union and the Schengen treaty.

#9 There are three official languages in Luxembourg: French, German, and Luxembourgish. Incredibly, most people actually speak the three languages, making it a de facto trilingual country.

You may have never heard of Luxembourgish, but it’s very similar to German; in fact, in the past, it used to be considered a dialect of German.

#10 One cool thing about the languages of Luxembourg is the fact that in the streets or stores, you see the three languages… Sometimes, you see things written in two languages, sometimes in only one…

It’s casual, but it shows how Luxembourgians change between the three languages naturally. Even in conversations, you can see them using one language and the other easily.

#11 Most people speak English fluently, and foreigners (and their descendants) tend to speak their own language. It’s not difficult to find a Luxembourger who speaks 4 or 5 languages. So, you probably won’t find many problems communicating here… at least we didn’t.

#12 When meeting a Luxembourger and you want to greet him/her with a kiss, you should give him/her not one, not two, but three kisses! Yeah, it’s weird… but it’s their thing 🙂 In fact, I kind of like… well… sometimes… let’s move on!

#13 Alike Belgium, Luxembourg doesn’t really have mountains. The highest point doesn’t even have 600 meters of altitude. Although I don’t think that the country is plain, it’s, in fact, very hilly, with small and slightly inclined climbs.

#14 When we think about Luxembourg, we probably think about the big companies, the banks, being so small and so rich. However, what will probably surprise you most is how rural the country is. Apart from Luxembourg City, the rest of the towns are incredibly small, and the countryside is full of forests, farms, fields, and livestock.

#15 Is Luxembourg clean? YES, it’s clean! And by clean, I mean extremely clean! I really can’t remember having been in a cleaner country than Luxembourg.

#16 Furthermore, Luxembourg takes recycling very, very seriously! In fact, our friends in Luxembourg tell us that if you don’t recycle plastic, particularly bottles, you’ll get fined! Way to go, Luxembourg!

#17 Is Luxembourg safe to travel to? It’s as safe as it gets 🙂 according to reports, it’s one of the safest countries in the world. However, like in any other destination, tourists should be aware of petty crimes like purse snatching and pickpocketing, but even that is quite rare.

Where to go in Luxembourg?

#18 Luxembourg only has one UNESCO Heritage site: the Old Quarters and Fortifications of the city of Luxembourg. These fortifications were regarded as some of the most impressive in Europe.

#19 The city of Luxembourg is really interesting. On the one hand, it feels like a huge city with all the banks, big companies headquarters, the European Union quarter… On the other hand, it’s a rather small town, with less than 120,000 inhabitants, and has a medieval, charming vibe with some old buildings, fortifications, and caves…

#20 Wandering around Luxembourg City is really pleasant and definitely one thing you should do. The old town center isn’t very big, and you can walk everywhere. You can’t miss the Palais Grand-Ducal, one of the most beautiful buildings in Luxembourg, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Old Quarter.

#21 Within Luxembourg City, we need to highlight the Bock and the city casemates as they were our favorite attractions in the whole country. This is a promontory and a series of tunnels and casements built in the medieval era.

It’s only a very small part of what once existed, but it’s still pretty cool to explore. It also allows you to observe the city and walls from some amazing angles.

#22 Outside the capital, the main attraction is probably Vianden. Vianden is a very cute small town with cobblestones, old houses, and an imposing castle, creating that medieval aura that we love in old European villages. Everything you need to have a great time exploring.

On top of all this, there’s a chairlift that will take you up to the mountain, where you can view the town, the castle, and the beautiful views of the forests of Luxembourg.

#23 The Moselle River region close to Remich is also worth checking for several reasons. First of all, it’s a big wine-producing region with absolutely beautiful vineyards, but it’s also the most similar thing that Luxembourg has to a Riviera.

Many people go there to enjoy the views and have fun by the river, particularly in Summer and on weekends.

#24 Did you know Luxembourg has a beach? Between Remich and Schengen, there’s an artificial beach with many people, at least in Summer. It costs 4 Euros to enter. Not really expensive if you think about the prices of everything else.

#25 Very close to the beach, it was built the biodiversum, and some nice trails where you can walk close/through the swamps while enjoying nature’s fauna and flora. These swamps were created decades ago when people used to remove sand near the river.

#26 Do you know Schengen is in Luxembourg? Schengen is the very, very small village in the southernmost part of Luxembourg, between Germany and France, where the agreement to abolish internal border checks was signed.

The village itself isn’t anything extraordinary, but it represents the freedom of movement and the abolishment of borders, and that’s why we wanted to visit it. There’s even a Museum dedicated to the history and significance of the Schengen Agreement.

#27 Eastern Luxembourg is really beautiful, with forests, hills, and fields of different colors. It also has its fair share of castles and cute little villages.

We really recommend you drive around and discover some of the little, hidden gems that Luxembourg has. Here you have to mention Berdorf, Larochette, Mullerthal, and Echternach, but look at this list of 10 best castles in Luxembourg .

#28 Another thing you should know before traveling to Luxembourg is that every tourist attraction closes at 18h, even in summer when there’s daylight almost until 23h… It’s frustrating when you want to do/see everything, so plan accordingly.

What to eat and drink in Luxembourg

#29 Traditional Luxembourgish food represents the country’s location, and its neighbors highly influence it. As in Germany, most traditional everyday Luxembourg dishes are of peasant origin.

However, lately, you can also see the influence of the food brought by immigrants from Portugal and Italy.

#30 Typical Luxembourgish dishes include Judd mat Gaardebounen (Smoked Collar of Pork with Broad Beans), treipen (the Luxembourg variant of black pudding), Bouneschlupp (green bean soup with potatoes, bacon, and onions).

#31 The bad news is that real Luxembourgish food is really hard to find in restaurants! In fact, we asked around and checked a few places and really couldn’t find traditional food… So, unfortunately, we haven’t tried any of these dishes.

#32 On the other hand, Luxembourg is full of Italian, Portuguese, and French restaurants! And apparently, Italian food is really good here!

#33 Supermarkets also reflect this. They are full of ingredients from all over Europe! It’s incredible the variety of things one can find! Portuguese, Italian, French, German, and even Spanish, Indian, and Chinese. It’s really a foodies’ paradise!

#34 Luxembourg produces some excellent wine, particularly the famous pinot. If you appreciate wine, you should try it. It could also make a good souvenir or a gift to bring back to someone special.

Money and Costs of traveling to Luxembourg

#35 Luxembourg is a founding member of the Eurozone, so it uses the Euro as its currency, with all the great things it brings us travelers, particularly Europeans.

#36 Luxembourg is really expensive all around, particularly accommodation in Luxembourg City (80-90+USD) and restaurants in the city (15-20USD per person). You may find some good bargains, but it isn’t easy. You should count on at least 120-150 USD per person in Luxembourg.

#37 One thing we found that wasn’t particularly expensive was the entry tickets to attractions. In fact, it looked cheap if we consider the cost of living and wages in Luxembourg.

#38 As one would expect, the ATM network is very developed, and you can find them basically everywhere, even in some very small villages.

We were never charged ATM fees in Luxembourg, but we are not sure if we were just lucky or if it’s free everywhere. Anyhow, if the ATM tells you that it will charge you a fee, just go to the one next door.

#39 Debit cards are accepted basically everywhere. Be aware that credit cards may not be accepted in smaller businesses, or you will be charged up to 5%.

#40 Supermarkets are expensive compared to other countries but cheaper than eating in a restaurant. So if you are on a budget, you should consider buying food there. Cactus supermarkets are spread nationwide and are a great option if you want to try Luxembourgish things!

Things you need to know about traveling in Luxembourg

#41 As you would expect, in a highly developed, small, and central country, the public transport system is highly developed. If you are traveling only in the capital, don’t even consider renting a car. It really isn’t necessary.

#42 Moreover, if you are coming from other European cities (like Brussels, Amsterdam , Paris, etc.), we would recommend you come in by train. It’s easy, central and always cool to travel by train.  Nevertheless, Luxembourg Airport receives several low-cost flights, which may be very convenient and budget-friendly 🙂

Another Luxemburg trivia fact: Luxembourg airport is a very, very busy cargo airport, it ranks as the 5th busiest airport in Europe, which is incredible for such a small country.

#43 It’s also really fun to drive in the rural areas because the roads are very good, there’s very little traffic in rural areas, and other drivers tend to drive very well (unless they are French, obviously 🙂 )

#44 There are no highway tolls in Luxembourg!

#45 Fuel prices are very low! Probably the lowest in the Eurozone and even among developed countries. There’s also little to no difference in prices between gas stations, so don’t lose time comparing prices or finding a cheaper one.

#46 One of the downsides of driving is that traffic during peak hours is terrible, particularly to enter and exiting the city. There are more than 100 000 people commuting from the neighboring countries to Luxembourg every day, and this obviously causes traffic on the highways. The other is that It may also be difficult (and/or expensive) to find parking spots in Luxembourg City.

Enjoying Luxembourg? You’ll also like the 50 things you need to know before traveling to Belgium!

Other things to know before visiting Luxembourg

#47 As you would expect, in such a developed country, you can find WIFI in many restaurants and almost all hotels/hostels. If you are from the EU, remember that you can use your own SIM card with the same costs as back home.

#48 Above, we said that tourist attractions close at 18h, but almost everything (including supermarkets) closes at that time or earlier. Be prepared for that. Also, as in many other central Europe countries, note that supermarkets are closed on Sundays.

#49 Are you asking yourself, what documents do I need to enter Luxembourg? As said above, it’s an EU member and integrates the Schengen area, which means the free movement of people within it.  If you are from a Schengen country, just take your ID Card (or passport) and enjoy these great times :).

If not, click here for more info on this and on Schengen Visas, and  here  find which passports need a visa to enter Luxembourg.

#50 Do I need vaccinations to travel to Luxembourg? You are not required to have any vaccination to visit Luxembourg unless you come from an infected area.

However, as in any part of the world, it is advisable to have your anti-tetanus vaccination up to date if you are going to be in contact with nature and the countryside, as well as any other official vaccination program.

Looking for more information on Luxembourg? Have a look at these interesting facts about Luxembourg.

Recommended Luxembourg Travel Guide Books

For those who want a travel guide only to Luxembourg we suggest: Luxembourg (Bradt Travel Guide)

If you are traveling to more than just Luxembourg, we suggest: DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Belgium & Luxembourg

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Luxembourg travel blog — the fullest luxembourg guide for a great trip for first-timers.

As the 7th smallest country in Europe but if you love the gentle, charm, quaint and quiet beauty of Europe, you must definitely go to Luxembourg. Surrounded by famous powers are Belgium, Germany and France, Luxembourg stands out for its diverse and unique topography with dense forests and plateaus in the north and many valleys and canyons in the south and southeast. Traveling to Luxembourg, you will clearly feel the wonderful mix between Luxembourgish culture and the wonderful cultures of Europe. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Luxembourg for the first-time? Let’s check out our Luxembourg travel blog (Luxembourg blog) with the fullest Luxembourg travel guide (Luxembourg guide, Luxembourg tourist guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Luxembourg City is also the capital city of Luxembourg. It has a unique topography when it is divided into two regions: Ville Haute (High City) and Ville Basse (Low City). Ville Haute temporarily called the “High City” is the place with all services, amusement parks, entertainment venues, Vieille Ville (Old Town) or City Town Hall. Ville Basse (Low City) is home to all of the most famous tourist attractions: Castles, canals, forests… all creating a mixture of nature and man-made, old and modern. So, you will find this city is very interesting and full of surprises. If you do not have much time, you should prioritize exploring Ville Basse with the key points you cannot miss below.

Luxembourg travel blog: Overview of Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a country located in Western Europe located entirely in the continent, bordering France, Germany and Belgium. Covering an area of ​​only about 2,586 square kilometers with a population of more than 640,000 people (as of Feb 2021), 67% are Roman Catholics. This country is also the last territory in the world where the head of the country is a Grand Duke or Lady of the Grand Duke (Grand Duchess). Due to it is located in the heart of Western Europe, from Luxembourg you can easily travel to other large and small cities located around this country.

The Grand Duchy is the state headed by the Grand Duke or Grand Duchess – a title under the king but superior to the Governor-General. So, Luxembourg is the only country in the world to have (female) the Grand Duchess, not the King like other countries.

The Grand Duchy is a term traditionally used by kings to refer to his vassal states. The name is derived from the event in 1815 when the Netherlands became an independent kingdom (Kingdom of Holland (1806–1810)) and Luxembourg was assigned to King Willem I of the Netherlands at that time.

Until 1890 when the Dutch King and the Grand Duke of Luxembourg died without a son succeeding the throne that the two states were separated with Princess Wilhelmina holding the Dutch throne and The Adolphe Duke of Nassau reigned the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Some interesting facts about Luxembourg:

• Luxembourg is a multicultural country with 3 official languages: German, French and Luxembourg. In fact, the Luxembourgish language is German but is pronounced in Luxembourgish style, so most Germans cannot understand and they see Luxembourgish as a local dialect.
• In addition, Luxembourg (German) is the national language – that is the main language is taught at schools in Luxembourg but the daily communication language is French. This I testify is true.
• I went from Cologne to Luxembourg when I hitchhiked thanks to the kindness of a German uncle, he said even though it was all German but what Luxembourgers said he could not understand. Also in supermarkets, signs and conversations I see people talking in French.
• Another interesting thing is that Luxembourg has a very high cultural diversity. Even in the capital Luxembourg city, nearly 50% are foreigners with more than 150 different nationalities living here, but the most foreigner here is still Portugal and some Balkans.
• In 1957, Luxembourg became one of the six founding countries of the European Coal and Steel Community (a precursor to the European Union) and in 1999, it entered the Eurozone. It is also a co-founding member of many international organizations such as the European Union, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), United Nations.
• Luxembourg, along with Brussels (Belgium) and Strasbourg (France) are home to the headquarters of the following organizations: European Union, European Court, European Investment Bank, European Investment Fund.
• Luxembourg economy thrives mainly on the steel industry and currently has a major shift to the finance and banking industry. (Currently this industry contributes 28% of the GDP of Luxembourg). This is considered a paradise for multinational corporations and companies because the tax rates are quite low.
• Luxembourg is the country with the highest GDP per capita in the world, with 115,839 USD / capita (2019).

Luxembourg travel blog: When to visit?

The climate of Luxembourg has 4 distinct seasons: Spring (March, April, May) – Summer (June, July, August) – Autumn (September, October, November) – Winter (December, January, February). Like neighboring countries, the weather in Luxembourg is quite mild, the summers are warm and the winters are not too cold. Therefore, visitors do not need to worry too much about the weather when traveling to Luxembourg and can come here at anytime of year. However, at certain times of the year, attractions may close or open for a shorter period of time.

There is also an advice for visitors to enjoy a perfect Luxembourg trip, you should come here in the spring. Because at that time the weather is quite pleasant, green plants and the colorful flowers. July and August are also not a bad choice, because this is the peak tourist season when all attractions in this small country are open but pricing of services is pretty higher.

Autumn is also an ideal time to visit the North of this country. At that time, the weather is not too cold and the forests begin to change its color leaves giving you the scenery that could not be better of Europe in the fall.

Luxembourg travel guide: How to get there?

Pre the Covid-19 pandemic, on some days, Luxembourg has nine flights to London, the world’s financial center just 1 hour flight away. Travel to Paris from Luxembourg also takes less than 1 hour by plane and 2 hours if traveling by TGV high-speed train.

You also getting to Luxembourg from other European cities by plane or train or bus which is quite easy and convenient.

Luxembourg blog: Getting around Luxembourg

The public transport system in Luxembourg is very convenient and easy to use. All information about the timetable for all public transportation is combined on a website called Mobility Centre which is very convenient for travelers who want to search. Although the city center of Luxembourg City – the largest city in the country of the same name is quite small and you absolutely walking between attractions. However, you can also try the city’s bus system which is also a great option when you’re tired of walking.

Despite being one of the richest countries in the world, it is astounding that the cost of public transport is among the cheapest in Europe. Perhaps because the government has a policy that urges its people to move towards using public transport more (more than 60% of commuters use private car) and wants to close the gap between rich and poor, so the cost of traveling here is really very cheap.

Even the Luxembourg government is planning to offer free public transport by March 2020 and become the first country in the world to have a free public transport system. (Update: On March 1, 2020 all public transport including trains, trams and buses in the country was free).

At the time of my travel to Luxembourg at the end of 2019, the travel fare here is only €2/trip, €4/day and if you are under 20 years old, it is completely free. In addition, the public transport is also free on Saturdays for everyone.

You should buy Luxembourg Card – A visit and travel card which including free public transport traveling and free admission to more than 60 museums, castles and other attractions, places to visit.

Indeed, I am stunned at the price of €13/day of traveling but you can go anywhere you want while traveling in Luxembourg if you own this card. Being a small country, so with this card, you can go to any city in Luxembourg too, even can be used to go to Trier – the German city bordering Luxembourg but also is another ineresting place to visit.

As you can see in the picture above, the price per day is 13 euros and if you go in groups of 2-5 people, it is only 28 euros. You can buy this Card via the Visit Luxembourg app ( iOS , Android ) or go directly to the Luxembourg railway station to buy it. In addition to the card above, it is accompanied by a booklet introducing 60 free entrance attractions throughout Luxembourg.

Note: A small note is that this card is only valid for the day, meaning that after 12PM, it is invalid, not 24 hours type like in other European cities.

Moreover, this card can be used to traveling throughout the country, so you can use it to get to the airport from the center. Luxembourg has only one airport and is about 20 minutes from the center of the capital. Every 10 minutes there will be a bus trip going here.

Luxembourg travel blog: Where to go and what to do?

Grand ducal palace.

Grand Ducal Palace was built in 1573 and is located in the old town in the heart of the capital. This palace is the residence and working place of many Great Dukes – the highest ruler in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

This palace has been chosen as the venue for important national events as well as officially welcoming politicans from other countries.

You should book a tour online or buy a ticket from the Luxembourg City Tourist Office at Place Guillaume II to visit this Luxembourg tourist destination. There are daily 2, 3 English tours at noon and 5 pm.

Luxembourg and Dinant Day Tour from Brussels

Address: 17 Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes, 1728 Luxembourg Architectural style: Renaissance architecture Opening time: From mid July to August every year. Ticket price: €12 and taking photos will not allow inside. I went at Christmas time, so it was closed.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

This is the Roman Catholic church of the city of Luxembourg built in Gothic architecture mixed with Renaissance and Baroque styles. The church was built in the 17th century and by 1870, it was promoted to Notre-Dame Cathedral. Inside the church there is the statue of Mary, the two saint Peter and Paul and the architectural interior is decorated in Renaissance style with many colorful glass windows.

The crypt is where the remains of many famous bishops and rulers of Luxembourg are kept. Every year, Notre Dame Cathedral is a crowded gathering place for everyone during the Octave of Our Lady of Luxembourg (the 5th Sunday after Easter). On this day, the statue of Our Lady will be paraded throughout the streets and pilgrims will pray on this occasion for the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Address: Rue Notre Dame, 2240 Luxembourg Admission: Free

Casemates du Bock

The Fort Casemates du Bock is a castle with corridors built from rock emerging the Alzette River and surrounded on all three sides. This Luxembourg tourist destination was voted as the top most famous historical place of the city of Luxembourg.

The ruins of the old castle and the huge system of corridors and galleries known as the castle Casemates du Bock are the most impressive highlights when referring to this place. With a total length of 23 km and a depth of up to 40 meters, these tunnels can hold up to 50 cannons and more than 1,200 soldiers.

Today this historical relic remains about 17 km of tunnels and has been recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage.

Address: 10 Montée de Clausen, 1343 Luxembourg Hours: 1–1:01AM Ticket price: Free if you have a Luxembourg card.

Chemin de la Corniche

The Le Chemin de la Corniche is also known as “the most beautiful balcony in Europe” running along the Alzette valley with ancient bridges, defensive walls built by the Spanish and French in the 17th century and canals. It was voted as the 2nd among the top destinations on TripAdvisor travel website. Therefore, you absolutely should not miss it if you have the opportunity to come here.

This place is like the upper path where the fortified walls are bound and you can panoramic view of the Alzette valley.

Address: Chemin de la Corniche, 1945 Luxembourg Admission: Free

• Mudam – The Contemporary Art Museum of Luxembourg
• National Museum of History and Art
• National Museum of Military History
• Musée du Luxembourg
• National Museum of Natural History

Luxembourg is a small country, but it owns many interesting museums. During my trip to Luxembourg, due to I did not have much time, so I only visited two museums: National Museum of History and Art and Luxembourg National Museum of Natural History . I also wanted to go to Mudam museum, but unfortunately that day was closed, so I missed it.

About the two museums I have visited, the National Museum of History and Art displays art works and artifacts about many different aspects of Luxembourg. The museum has 7 floors with each different theme on each floor. There are galleries display the development history of Luxembourg to modern times. There are galleries of paintings and pictures that created by famous Luxembourg artists. Or there are galleries that specialize in currencies, badges and many other related to Grand Dukes.

The biggest downside here is probably no English illustrations, only German or French. Among 7 floors, there are only 1, 2 floors with English guide, so although there are many things to explore, I do not understand the content of those artifacts. The interesting thing is that there is a floor displaying some rock samples from all over the world and there is a small sample taken from Dalat, Vietnam as well.

The National Museum of Natural History is smaller, consists of only 3 floors and focuses mainly on displaying species from animals, birds to aquatic animals. It also introduces a little about the planets that revolve around the sun.

In general, Luxembourg has a lot of interesting museums, if you have a passion to learn about the museums, then traveling to Luxembourg within 1 day is completely not enough. Only the above two museums have taken me at least 4, 5 hours, so if you intend to go to the museum when you come here, you should consider planning a slightly longer itinerary.

Christmas market

Because I come here during Christmas time, I also visit some of the markets here. The largest Christmas market in Luxembourg is located in the old town and the main streets right near the Notre Dame Cathedral.

Personally, I see the Christmas market is also quite beautifully decorated, maybe not as beautiful as in Germany but still better than Sweden or Finland. However, the Christmas atmosphere here is not as bustling as the neighboring countries. Before I came here, I visited Cologne and the neighboring cities and found that Christmas in Germany is much more crowded than Luxembourg.

Vianden Castle

Referring to Luxembourg is referring to the ancient castles built many centuries ago, representing a culture that was once formed and developed in this country. Typically among the castles in Luxembourg is the name Vianden.

Located right in the Northeast of Luxembourg, Vianden castle is testament to the achievements in legendary Gothic architecture style left by the talented “architects” of the Middle Ages. Stepping into the castle you will feel like you are lost in a mythical fairytale world with green forests surrounded, in the middle is a typical romantic classic architecture. Visitors will not be able to miss the chance to see a beauty radiating from Viaden Castle, the largest castle in the west of the Rhine River. Around the castle is a very beautiful and airy landscape. All create a magical picture.

Standing still over centuries to this day, Vianden Castle is always the pride of Luxembourgers and is a living history museum for visitors who want to learn about this beautiful country.

Address: Montée du Château, 9408 Vianden, Luxembourg Hours: 10AM–4PM

Grevenmacher Butterfly Garden

Although not a country with a diverse flora and fauna, Luxembourg also owns a large-scale butterfly garden with many beautiful and colorful butterflies. More specifically, among them are the most rare and precious species today. Here you can also see the wonderful birth of butterflies from the pupal stage. The butterfly garden is only open regularly between months in April and October. This is one of the most interesting places in Luxembourg.

Address: 56 Route de Trèves, 6793 Grevenmacher, Luxembourg

Caves St Martin

This is a famous wine cellar which located inside the rocky mountain, come here visitors not only can explore nature, admire the unique architecture in the cellar but especially you will enjoy a delicious glass of wine which brewed in the traditional recipe.

Address: 53 Route de Stadtbredimus, 5570 Remich, Luxembourg Hours: 10AM–12PM/Tuesday: 1:30–5:30PM/Monday: Closed

Adolphe Bridge

You should visit and admire the beauty of the Adolphe bridge – one of the symbols of this country. Built in 1900, the Adolphe Bridge offers a distinct charm by its unique arch architecture. Visiting Adolphe Bridge and watching the sunset fall is also an interesting thing that many tourists love.

Address: Uewerstad, 1212 Luxembourg Construction started: July 14, 1900 Clearance below: 42 m

The Family of Man

The Family of Man is a Steichen’s gallery which according to him, it represents “the pinnacle of his career”. With 503 photos selected from 2 million photos of other photographers around the world. These pictures represent human emotions in love, joy and pain of war, sickness and death. The exhibition even turned into a book of the same name and was printed in 38 different languages. More than 9 million people have come to visit and see the exhibition. It is permanently displayed in Clervaux. In 2003 this gallery was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage.

Address: Montée du Château, 9712 Clervaux, Luxembourg Hours: 12–6PM/Monday, Tuesday: Closed

Moselle River

The Moselle River originates from the Ballon d’Alsace in the Vosges mountain. The river flows through Lorraine in the western Vosges. The Moselle valley divides the terrain into two mountainous regions, Eifel and Hunsrück. The river is 546 km long with a coal mining and steel production industrial zone in the Moselle valley between Nancy, Thionville, Metz. It is famous for its wine. When you cruising or riding along the Moselle River you will see some beautiful castles built near the Moselle River.

Bernkastel-Kues

Bernkastel-Kues is the largest city in the Moselle Valley in Luxembourg. The city is located on Mount Olymp, 415 meters above sea level. In this city, archaeologists have uncovered the earliest evidence of humans living around 3000 BC. Coming here you should explore its famous wineries.

Cochem Castle

Located in the beautiful valley of Moselle, Cochem Castle is considered one of the most prominent classical structures in Luxembourg. Contrary to the romantic and serene beauty of Vianden Castle, Cochem Castle brings in its majesty and grandeur, making visitors surprised when they first visit the Moselle valley. Green moss covered the defensive walls along with the its quite high location creating a rare and noble power.

With a long history, this castle will also be a suitable place for visitors who want to learn about the development history of the land of Grand Duchy.

Address: Schlossstraße 36, 56812 Cochem, Germany Architectural style: Gothic Revival architecture

Fort Thungen

Fort Thungen is also known as Three Acorns or Drai Eechelen, is a very famous historic fortress located in the city of Luxembourg, the most impressive feature of this fortress is three acorns at the top of the three watchtowers. In 1990, thanks to the attraction of learning about the history around the fortress, the leaders of the city decided to renovate and rebuild to make Fort Thungen a tourist attraction of Luxembourg.

Address: Rives de Clausen, 1499 Lëtzebuerg, Luxembourg Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

Echternach is a small but cozy town located near the border with Germany. This is one of the most ancient and oldest places in Luxembourg and is famous for its houses from the Middle Ages. Here, you can leisurely walk around the town, visit the Benedictine monastery built in the 17th century, the Roman villa or the town’s church. If you come here in May and June, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the International Music Festival here.

Don’t forget to visit Mullerthal where is known as the little Switzerland thanks to its lush green hills landscape. Here, you should take the time to hiking on the 112km Mullerthal trail through the fields, forests full of romance and enjoy delicious food.

Luxembourg blog: What to eat?

Due to being located among major European countries, its cuisine is heavily influenced by German or French cuisine. That is why the culinary here are extremely diverse but still keep its own “feature” with delicious dishes such as:

Bouneschlupp

This is a traditional Luxembourgish green bean soup with potatoes, bacon, onions or sausage and is considered as a national dish. Some restaurants will add carrots, garlic, celery, even milk or cream. In winter there is nothing better than having a cup of this wonderful soup for a warm meal in Luxembourg.

Friture de la Moselle

This dish originated from the Moselle valley of vinyards. Friture de la Moselle is a traditional fried fish dish eaten by hand. When processing, different types of small freshwater fish will be cleaned and gutted (or left intact if the fish is too small), seasoned with salt and pepper, then dipped in lemon juice first, then put in flour and eggs before frying. It is served with some slices of lemon.

F’rell am Rèisleck

This is a dish made from river trout, which is deep-fried, before continuing to cook in a creamy sauce and Riesling wine.

Rieslingspaschteit

Like many other traditional Luxembourgish dishes, Rieslingspascchteit is also very popular with the people of this country. This is a cake made from flour with a fragrant crust, crunchy with a layer of minced pork inside mixed with a little wine to create a soft meaty pastry with a very unique wine aroma. Rieslingspaschteit is rated as the most delicious specialty in Luxembourg.

Huesenziwwi

This stew is meticulously prepared with the main ingredient of wild hare meat, marinated for nearly 3 days before cooking with wine and onions in a sauce thickened with hare’s blood and then served with a sauce made from red wine and cognac.

Gromperekichelcher (Potato Pancakes)

This is a traditional dish of Luxembourgers made from ingredients such as potatoes, coriander, mashed onions, then molded into round, flat shape and fried. Although this dish is made from simple ingredients and simple processing but its taste is extremely appealing and crispy.

Quetschentaart

This is a tart filled with plum jam with a golden brown outer layer, a very delicious speciatly and beautiful appearance.

Kachkéis (Cooked Cheese)

Kachkéis is often served with simple bread or potatoes, it’s simple but is loved by many visitors.

Not only is a famous wine producing country, but in Luxembourg there are also many brewers, not to mention the small beer firms, there are also 5 famous beer brands that are trusted around worldwide such as Mousel, Battin, Diekirch, Bofferding and Simon. The beer here is rich in flavor and has a beautiful golden color.

Luxembourg travel blog: Shopping

After a memorable journey when traveling to Luxembourg you can buy for your relatives, friends or for yourself souvenirs bearing bold cultural and traditional colors such as chocolate, jewelry, bags, figurines, magnets, T-shirts, crafts …

Luxembourg blog: Day trips

Vianden castle is probably the most popular day trip destination today in Luxembourg if you stay in the capital city. This castle is located on the northeast border of Luxembourg and Germany, on a 310m high mountain and overlooks the lovely little village of Vianden and the romantic Our River below.

• Luxembourg City: Hop On Hop Off Castles & Nature Day Tour

The castle was built on an ancient Roman watchtower from the 10th century and has undergone many historical events with many destruction and abandonment. This famous Luxembourg tourist destination was only rebuilt in 1962 and completed in 1990.

Ticket price: €7. However, if you have a Luxembourg card, traveling, admission tickets or take the cable car to get here are completely free.

Trier is a small German city, but due to its geographical location on the border with Luxembourg (50km from the capital of Luxembourg city), this is also considered one of the most worthwhile day trip destinations if you intending to travel to Luxembourg with a self-sufficient trip. The city with more than 2000 years of history and many architectural works dating back to the Roman period and recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage has become an important tourist highlight of this city.

The other interesting thing is that even though it is a tourist city in Germany, but with a Luxembourg Card you can still travel here for free, join a free 2 hour guide tour and lots of other interesting activities again. All are free and very close to the capital Luxembourg so why not go?

Luxembourg travel blog: Luxembourg self-sufficient travel itinerary

Luxembourg self-sufficient travel itinerary can last from 3-4 days depending on individual preferences of each visitor. If you only intend to stay in the capital Luxembourg city and walk around the city, 1 day can also do it. However, if you want to visit museums, take some day trips to more remote locations, I think you should stay here for at least 3, 4 days. You can refer to the following self-sufficient Luxembourg travel itinerary:

Most of the tourist attractions of Luxembourg city are located in the old town. So you should take the bus from the central station or from your hotel to come here.

• Day 1: Old Quarter includes: Notre Dame Cathedral –> Grand Ducal Palace –> National Museum of History and Art –> Casemates du Bock –> Chemin de la Corniche –> Grund.
• Day 2: Visiting the Old town near Alzette river and valley below: Walking around the valley –> Visit National Museum of Natural History –> Neimenster. Then take a bus to Mudam museum and Adolphe Bridge.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Viaden Castle.
• Day 4: Take a day trip to Trier City.

If you have 3 days in Luxembourg, you can follow the above itinerary but remove Trier. If you have only 2 days here, add Vianden Castle on the Day 2 and instead of spend all day to this castle, maybe just 3, 4 hours is enough and skip a few places you are not interested in. Like during my trip, Mudam museum and Grand Ducal Palace were closed, so I couldn’t go inside and had more time than planned.

Luxembourg travel blog: Where to stay?

During my trip to Luxembourg, I stayed at Studio Gasperich (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . Because I am afraid of the high cost of eating and drinking here, I choose an apartment to stay comfortably. This apartment is 2km from the center as well as tourist destinations. The room is quite good and has a kitchen if you need cooking. Price of €90/night for 2 people. A supermarket is about 5 minutes walk from the house and a bus stop is also nearby. In general, in such a high cost country, €90 for an apartment is very affordable, even cheap.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $204/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourg , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $117/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Park Inn by Radisson Luxembourg City , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $126/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Le Royal Hotels & Resorts – Luxembourg , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $235/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Sofitel Luxembourg Europe , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $149/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Luxembourg travel blog: Cost of traveling to Luxembourg

• Hotel: €45/day/person
• Eating: €40/day
• Travel cost, admission: 13 €13/day

The cost of traveling to Luxembourg in self-sufficient way at around €100/person/day. The cost is too good for a high income country like Luxembourg. Although hotel room rates and dining are a bit more expensive than other countries, but in return the cost of traveling and admissions are much cheaper, so traveling to Luxembourg is not too expensive compared to other countries in Europe.

Luxembourg guide: Some Luxembourg travel tips you should know before you go

• Regarding food and drink, I find the price is higher than other countries, but it is not too unbearable. The buying cost at supermarkets here is about double compares with supermarkets in the Netherlands, Spain, Austria. However, not everything is also expensive, there are things that are equally priced. I think maybe cheaper than Switzerland.
• Personally, every place in Europe has a cultural, history and attractions worth exploring. And Luxembourg is no exception. Feeling after coming here for myself, Luxembourg is also a worthwhile place to go. It may not be too romantic and flashy here with great works such as Germany, France, and Italy, but there is a very unique feature that I have yet to see in any other European country. There is no old town in Europe that combines in a valley with high rampart walls and a winding river and bridges and houses below. The landscape is a little bit old and peaceful. This unique point is the highlight that makes a difference when talking about Luxembourg tourism, so there is a writer who once said Luxembourg has the most beautiful balcony in Europe.
• Perhaps because Luxembourg is not so prominent as neighboring countries, the time I came here, I saw less tourists than the German city of Cologne that I went a few days earlier. This is probably one of the rare European tourist destinations that I do not feel too crowded or noisy … In return, the community here is very diverse, so when you go on the street you will see all kinds of races, colors, nationalities – a big different feature from other European countries. If you are looking for a destination that is not too bustling and has a speacial thing different unlike no other, then Luxembourg might be the right choice.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Luxembourg you can refer to

• Luxembourg: Magical Christmas Tour
• Luxembourg: Pétrusse Express Train Ticket
• From Brussels: Luxembourg and Dinant Full-Day Private Tour
• Brussels: Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip
• Luxembourg & Dinant: Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Brussels
• From Brussels: Day Trip to Luxembourg City

Are you looking for more top things to do in Luxembourg: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here.

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Lonely Planet Belgium & Luxembourg (Travel Guide) Kindle Edition

Lonely Planet’s Belgium & Luxembourg is our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the countries have to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Wander through Brussels’ Grand Place, explore the caves of the Ardennes, and indulge in Belgian chocolate and beer; all with your trusted travel companion.

Inside Lonely Planet’s Belgium & Luxembourg Travel Guide:

What’s NEW in this edition?

Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak

NEW top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of Belgium & Luxembourg’s best experiences and where to have them

Planning tools for family travellers - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids

NEW pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card* with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel

Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests

Eating & drinking in Belgium & Luxembourg - we reveal the dishes and drinks you have to try Colour maps and images throughout

Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, politics

Over 39 maps  

Covers Brussels, Bruge, Ghent, Northwest Belgium, Antwerp & Northeast Belgium, Wallonia, Luxembourg

The Perfect Choice : Lonely Planet’s Belgium & Luxembourg , our most comprehensive guide to Belgium and Luxembourg, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled. 

Visiting Brussels? Lonely Planet’s Pocket Bruges & Brussels is a handy-sized guide focused on the city’s can’t-miss experiences.

About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, videos, 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day. 

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• Print length 858 pages
• Language English
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• Publisher Lonely Planet
• Publication date October 1, 2022
• File size 75907 KB
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BLHMDGYQ
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lonely Planet; 8th edition (October 1, 2022)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 1, 2022
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 75907 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
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• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
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• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 858 pages
• #2 in Luxembourg Travel Guides
• #24 in Belgium, Netherlands & Luxembourg Travel
• #33 in General Belgium Travel Guides

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