tourist attractions in luxembourg city

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Luxembourg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022

Although a small country of just 600,000 people that only covers around 1,650 square kilometers, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg delivers a considerable diversity of attractions and fun things to do.

While many of the country's top sightseeing opportunities and points of interest lie in vibrant Luxembourg City (Stad Lëtzebuerg in Luxembourgish), the old quarter of which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Luxembourg's many small towns are equally lovely and are well worth exploring.

It's also an extremely easy country to travel around. Whether you're exploring on foot in the capital city, are planning on taking a driving tour through the picturesque countryside, or are doing some town-hopping by train, you'll never have to travel too far before finding something worth seeing.

Old fortresses and castles complement the country's beautiful scenery, making it a popular tourist destination that is frequently visited in combination with surrounding countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands.

You'll find the best places to visit in this charming West European country with our list of the top attractions in Luxembourg.

1. The Old Quarter of Luxembourg City

2. national museum of history and art, luxembourg city, 3. the bock casements, luxembourg city, 4. grand ducal palace, luxembourg city, 5. the walls of the corniche, luxembourg city, 6. william square (place guillaume ii), luxembourg city, 7. grand duke jean museum of modern art (mudam), luxembourg city, 8. echternach and its benedictine abbey, 9. the luxembourg ardennes, 10. luxembourg city history museum, 11. bourscheid castle, 12. mondorf-les-bains and the moselle, 13. upper sûre natural park and esch-sur-sûre, 14. walferdange and its castle, 15. notre-dame cathedral, luxembourg city, 16. larochette, 17. berdorf, 18. beaufort castle, 19. vianden castle, 20. parc merveilleux.

There's no better place to begin exploring beautiful Luxembourg City than in its historic Old Quarter. Often referred to locally as simply "d'Stad," this wonderfully preserved old city center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

The city's impressive ancient fortifications also ensured its place as one of the most strategically important of Europe's major cities. The fortress was so impregnable, in fact, it was dubbed the "Gibraltar of the North." Although the original fortress was dismantled between 1867 and 1883, its impact upon the Old Quarter is evident everywhere.

Today, the old fortifications have given way to beautifully laid out parks and gardens, while its cobbled streets are lined with charming old homes and buildings. It's a great place to spend a few hours exploring as you cross its many bridges, including the spectacular Adolphe Bridge , considered a city landmark. You'll also traverse many interesting alleyways. For an added dose of fun, don't make use of a map; instead just follow your nose and see where you end up!

While there's ample public parking, if you're arriving by car, consider using one of the city's excellent park-and-ride facilities. Better still, arrive by train and book a stay in an Old Quarter hotel.

If you were to judge Luxembourg City on the quality of its museums, never mind its status as one of Europe's most historically important cities, it would still rank extremely high on the list of the continent's must-see cities. Topping the list is the National Museum of History and Art (Nationalmusée fir Geschicht a Konscht, or (MNHA).

It's located in the historic Fish Market area, once the original town center. The MNHA's collections include art objects, archeological finds, furniture, tools, coins, arms, and documents dealing with the history of the country, all of them housed in a stunning new building.

There's a particular emphasis on the Gallo-Roman period, with numerous fine displays illustrating the artistic, social, religious, and intellectual life of Luxembourgers from the 16th to the early 20th centuries. The contemporary art section is also a must-see, and is furnished with works by many of the most important artists of the 20th century. Guided tours in English are also available, and a research library and shop are also located on-site..

The unique Am Tunnel , or Galerie d'Art Contemporain Am Tunnel, is also worthy of a visit for art lovers. Located, as the name suggests, in an old tunnel, this contemporary art gallery with its first-rate collection of visual arts offers a pleasant respite from the many larger, busier museums and galleries in the city.

Address: Marché-Aux-Poissons, 2345 Luxembourg City

Official site: www.mnha.lu/en/

Luxembourg's Bock cliff, or Bockfiels, with its fortifications and cannon-loopholes, is where you'll find the entrance to the famous Casemates (Casements du Bock), a 21-kilometer network of underground passages hewn from solid rock. Capable of sheltering thousands of defenders, as well as equipment and horses, it also housed workshops, kitchens, and slaughterhouses.

All told, the Casements, some of which date back to Spanish rule in 1644, cover an impressive 40,000 square meters. Today, much of these remarkable fortifications can be explored on foot, while organized guided tours are available for those wanting to learn more about the tunnels' fascinating history.

On the Bock plateau itself are the remains of the old castle, discovered in 1963. There are beautiful views of the suburb of Grund and the Rham Plateau, the old 19th-century barracks, and the big towers and remains of the Wenceslas wall dating from 1390.

Address: 10 Montée de Clausen, 1343 Luxembourg City

The Grand Ducal Palace (Groussherzogleche Palais) is a must-see landmark in Luxembourg City. This gorgeous Renaissance building dates from 1572 and serves as the official residence of the country's reigning monarch, Grand Duke Henri . It was built as the city's original city hall in 1572, a role it served until 1795 before switching eventually to its present use as the Grand-Ducal Place in 1890.

While it's still the full-time home of the Duke, the public are permitted an opportunity for a peek inside during special organized tours made available from mid-July to the first week of September, when it becomes one of the city's most visited attractions.

Nine tour options are available daily, and are conducted in a variety of different languages, including English. Tickets are made available through the Luxembourg City Tourist Office from their office in Place Guillaume II.

Highlights of the tour include a chance to see the plush, elegantly furnished interior, including the ceremonial rooms used on significant occasions, such as visits by foreign dignitaries.

Address: 17 Rue du marché-aux-Herbes, 1728 Luxembourg City

Official site: https://monarchie.lu/en/visit-grand-ducal-palace

The spectacular Walls of the Corniche (le Chemin de la Corniche) in Luxembourg City have been called "the most beautiful balcony in Europe." Towering over the old city in the river valley below, it's here you'll find the big Gate of the Grund dating from 1632. Its ramparts reveal several aristocratic houses and refuges, as well as the ancient convent of the Dominicans and St. Michael's church (987 CE).

In the suburb of Grund itself is a large cluster of buildings with the church and ancient Abbey of Neumünster . It's notable for its 17th-century cloister of Limoges, an organ dating from 1720, and a 14th-century "black virgin." The adjacent buildings are part of the ancient Hospice St.-Jean, founded by Emperor Henri VII, Count of Luxembourg, in 1309.

Address: Chemin de la Corniche, 1945 Luxembourg City

Luxembourg's William Square (Place Guillaume II) is one of the city's largest open spaces. The former site of a Franciscan convent, it has since been converted into a pedestrian zone. In the center is the equestrian statue of William II, King of Holland and Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

William Square is also where you'll find the lovely Town Hall and the famous Trémont's lions. Here, too, the city's popular weekly market is held, and is famous for its flowers and plants, as well as local produce.

Nearby is the 16th-century House of Raville with its beautiful façade, well-restored balcony, and spiral staircase. Other notable landmarks are the Spanish Turret with its superb views of the Pfaffenthal suburb, and the old cavalry-barracks of Vauban. Dominated by Fort Thüngen , it's also known as the "Three Acorns" for the three acorns that adorn each of its three towers.

And be sure to take your time exploring this beautiful area. It's a delightful spot to stop for a meal or beverage at any one of the many fine cafés and restaurants located here.

Address: 23 Rue du Fossé, 1536 Luxembourg City

Fans of modern art and ultra-modern architecture must visit the superb Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art (Musée d'art moderne Grand-Duc Jean). It's also referred to simply as MUDAM, and its contemporary art collections from world-renowned artists make it one of Europe's most important art galleries.

Since its opening in 2006, MUDAM has drawn consistent rave reviews for its large contemporary collection. Highlights include works from such well-known artists as Bruce Nauman, Andy Warhol, and Julian Schnabel, to name but a few.

In addition to its fine permanent artworks on exhibit, the museum features many visiting and temporary displays. Also available to the public are a variety of first-rate educational programs and workshops, including some geared specifically to kids.

A large shop selling related gifts and souvenirs is located on-site, as is a great café. Guided tours are also available in English.

Address: 3 Park Drai Eechelen, 1499 Luxembourg City

Official site: www.mudam.lu/en/home/

The beautiful town of Echternach lies on the bank of the River Sûre, which forms the border with neighboring Germany. The Mëllerdall and Germano-Luxembourg Nature Parks are located nearby, and the surrounding woods are crisscrossed with hundreds of footpaths leading to spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, a lake, and numerous lovely viewpoints.

The town itself is well known for its centuries-old dancing procession, which takes place on Whit Tuesday and attracts visitors from around the world. The old aristocratic houses, narrow streets, and ancient ramparts have helped Echternach maintain its medieval appearance.

A must-see is the seventh-century Abbey of Echternach. This former Benedictine monastery is popular for its superb museum and is notable for its four long wings built around a large square courtyard. The basilica, considered the most important religious building in the country, is home to a crypt with a magnificent white marble sarcophagus containing the remains of St. Willibrord, the founder of the abbey, and its vaults are painted with frescoes dating back to the 10th century.

Echternach is also famous for its international music festival , which runs from late May to late June. The town also offers great dining at its many restaurants, as well as numerous boutique shops and galleries, a variety of top-rated hotels, and camping.

Standing in stark contrast to the rather flat landscape around Luxembourg City, the Ardennes is where you'll find high forested plateaus, sheer cliffs, wooded hills, and hidden valleys, as well as countless impressive views. This picturesque region, famous as the place where Hitler staged his last major campaign of WWII, boasts numerous castles, fortresses, and fortified farms rising out of the hilltops.

One of the prettiest towns, Wiltz , consists of an upper and lower town and is famous for its open-air theater and music festival. There's also a Battle of the Bulge Museum in Wiltz Castle. Another WWII-themed museum of note in the Ardennes is the General Patton Museum and monument in Ettelbruck.

The quaint village of Clervaux is also worth checking out. While the village lies amid a deep and narrow valley beside the river Clerve, its Benedictine Abbey of St. Maurice and St. Maur . Also known as Clervaux Abbey, it was built in 1910 in Romanesque-Burgundian style and dominates the valley. Visitors here can enjoy exhibits relating to the monastic life, as well as Gregorian masses.

One of the newer attractions in Luxembourg, the Luxembourg City History Museum (Musée d'histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg) was opened in 1996 and provides a fascinating insight into the rich 1,000-plus-year history of the city.

The building itself is a stunning mix of the old and new, combining a number of old homes dating from the 17th and 19th centuries, some with even older medieval sections, such as recently discovered vaulted cellars. These contrast impressively with the museum's striking modern extensions.

Exhibits deal with the early settlement's first inhabitants and its growth and development through the centuries right up to the present day. In addition to its many fine exhibits and displays, the museum is home to a huge elevator and viewing area, which offers wonderful views over the city's historic Grund district. English language guided tours and workshops are also available.

If you're planning on doing some museum-hopping during your stay, be sure to also visit the National Museum of Natural History (Nationalmusée fir Naturgeschicht). This popular Luxembourg City attraction features exhibits dealing with the natural world, both locally and globally.

Address: 14 Rue du St Esprit, 2090 Luxembourg City

Official site: http://citymuseum.lu/en/

The village of Bourscheid stands high on a plateau and is bordered by the rivers Sûre and Wark. Here, you'll find excellent views and many pleasant hikes to other quaint villages, including Michelau in the Sûre Valley, Welscheid in the Wark Valley, and Kehmen on the plateau. For sun bathers, there are two river beaches at Bourscheid-Plage and Dirbach.

This region of the Ardennes is very much dominated by the ruins of the Bourscheid Castle. This fairy-tale-like fortress dominates the surrounding countryside, and looks down from a rocky peak 137 meters above the Sûre. Dating from the 10th century, the castle has been largely restored and is accessible to visitors. Self-guided audio tours are available, and English language guided tours are also available upon request.

If you are looking for something interesting to do at night, view the castle in the evening when it's lit up. One of the top free things to do in Luxembourg, it's a truly memorable experience, particularly when viewed from the village.

Address: 1 Schlasswee, L-9140 Bourscheid, Luxembourg

Official site: www.castle-bourscheid.lu/wp5/en/

The Moselle region of Luxembourg occupies much of the eastern part of the country and features slopes flanking the majestic Moselle River. The many picturesque villages tucked along the banks of the Moselle recall an ancient charm and are fun to explore and renowned for their varied cuisine produced from locally grown products.

It was also an area much favored by the Romans. As a result, many Roman archaeological remains can be found dispersed throughout the region.

One must-visit in the region is Mondorf-les-Bains, a small town famous for its thermal springs. One of the top tourist attractions here is Mondorf le Domaine Thermal , a large spa complex that houses a health center, sports and leisure club, and hotel. The complex's thermal installations are fed by springs supplying a mineral water of 24 degrees Celsius that is well known for its medicinal qualities.

Afterwards, stroll through Mondorf Park with its large collection of trees, shrubs, and flowerbeds. Other highlights include 18th-century St. Michael's Church , with its furniture and frescoes; the Castel , a little Roman fortress transformed into a hermitage during the Middle Ages; and the Art Nouveau houses.

Address: Avenue des Bains L-5601 Mondorf-les-Bains, Luxembourg

Official site: www.mondorf.lu/?___store=en

Beautiful Upper Sûre Natural Park (Naturpark Öewersauer) consists of plateaus, narrow valleys with wooded slopes, and the lake of the Upper Sûre dam. It's a popular destination for its leisure activities and water sports, as well as for its wildlife and ecotourism.

Numerous walking tours , including guided and self-guided options, include everything from pleasant circular tours to more arduous treks around the lake. A fun sculpture trail has also been added, as have excellent solar-powered boat tours across the large reservoir. Other fun things to do in Upper Sûre Natural Park include fishing, swimming, sailing, and diving.

The area also possesses a rich cultural heritage. The Nature Park Centre , located in an old cloth mill, includes a museum with interesting artifacts and exhibits relating to both the park and the local area. A number of regular events also take place here, the largest being the biennial Water Art Festival , which attracts more than 200 musicians under a theme of "Rock meets Classic."

A must-visit nearby is Esch-sur-Sûre . This spectacular small village set in the mountains and skirted by the river Sûre and widely regarded as one of the most outstanding sites in the country. The village is dominated by its ruined manor house, built in AD 927 and by the cliffs looking down to the river. The mansion is open year-round with free admission.

Address: Nature Park Centre, 15, Rue de Lultzhausen L-9650 Esch-sur-Sûre, Luxembourg

Official site: www.naturpark-sure.lu/en/

Walferdange Castle (Château de Walferdange), the Grand Ducal residence until the end of the 19th century, lies at the entrance to the Grunewald Wood. Located on one of Luxembourg's principal tourist routes and now a part of the University of Luxembourg, it makes for a great day trip as it's just a short distance from Luxembourg City .

The village of Walferdange itself boasts picturesque scenery due to its location at the junction of the Alzette Valley with its lovely wooded heights. In addition to its great views, the village is well known for its rose gardens. There's also a large archeological site worth visiting that includes a Roman villa and an underground aqueduct.

Walferdange is also become a popular shopping destination, too, since the opening of the Walfer Shopping Center .

Address: 28 Route de Diekirch, 7220 Helmsange, Luxembourg

The Roman Catholic Notre-Dame Cathedral (Kathedral Notre-Dame) in Luxembourg City was built in the early 17th century in late Gothic style, with a number of attractive Renaissance features added later. Notable features of what is the country's only cathedral include the two original choir bays, dating from 1621, along with its three distinctive towers, one of which, the west tower, dates from the same period.

Also of interest are the intricate sculpted Baroque angels around the organ tribune, also dating back to the early 1600s. There's also a sobering monument dedicated to the country's WW2 resistance movement and victims of deportation located in the cathedral cemetery.

Visiting Catholics will want to consider attending the cathedral's Sunday evening mass. This regular service usually includes the involvement of the Archbishop of Paris.

Address: Rue Notre Dame, 2240 Luxembourg City

Larochette is a quaint old market town that lies in a narrow, rocky valley surrounded by woods. The town is dominated by two old and partially rebuilt castles that stand on a crag high above the valley of the White Ernz.

The town boasts a superb medieval square as well as a free museum of industry that offers a fascinating look at the area's past as an important textile base and which is open year-round. There are also a number of historical monuments dotted along its many old streets. Be sure to pop into the Neo-Roman church for its Art Nouveau frescoes.

The village is a hiker's haven, with walks for all abilities heading through the woods and countryside. Most lead to notable viewpoints such as the castles of Meysembourg and Nommerlayen, with the remains of a Roman camp at Aalburg. In addition to its fine old hotels and inns, there are also numerous campsites that are welcoming to backpackers.

Berdorf is one of the main tourist areas in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and lies on a vast tableland overlooking the valleys of the Black Ernz, the Sûre, and the Aesbach rivers.

Numerous well-kept footpaths and hiking trails crisscross the valleys and chasms , where you'll find tall rocky hills with fine views and more than 300 acres of forest. One of the most popular is the 112-kilometer-long Mullerthal Trail, which connects the Berdorf to the picturesque village of Echternach.

Berdorf is also a tremendously popular area for rock climbers, hiking enthusiasts, and campers.

Beaufort lies on a plateau in the Mullerthal region and is well known for its near perfectly dimensioned 12th-century castle, as well as a Neo-Gothic church. Although much of Beaufort Castle (Buerg Beaufort) is now in ruins, it is still wonderful to explore.

Be sure to bring your walking shoes with you. There are a number of footpaths leading through the wooded hills to great views of the surrounding countryside, through spectacular rock formations and the gorges of the Hallerbach and the Saueracht towards Grundhof and Dillingen in the Sûre valley.

Address: 24 Rue du Château, 6310 Beaufort, Luxembourg

Official site: https://beaufortcastles.com

Vianden is an extremely picturesque town straddling both banks of the River Our. Its fine feudal manor , Vianden Castle (Buerg Veianen), dates back to the ninth century and is unrivaled in the Ardennes and Eifel for its architectural significance. Also of note is the medieval outer wall encircling the town with many impressive guard towers.

If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with the annual Vianden Medieval Festival . Held the first weekend of August, this popular family-friendly event is well-known for its jousting and sword fighting tournaments, its market, and knights' camp.

Also worth seeing is the parish church with its two naves. Built in Gothic style in 1248, it has since been completely restored. The former Trinitarian cloister, dating from 1250, houses a lapidary museum that traces the history of the region's once important stone- and gem trades. There's also a small art museum in a former mansion has a number of notable works from 18th- and 19th-century painters.

The house where author Victor Hugo lived during his exile in 1871 now houses a collection of souvenirs of his various visits to Vianden. A large network of walking paths, well maintained and signposted, offers access to the beautiful countryside of the Our Valley, and a chairlift climbs to a height of 440 meters where visitors can enjoy splendid views.

Address: Montée du Château, 9408 Vianden, Luxembourg

Official site: https://castle-vianden.lu/gb/

Located in the picturesque town of Bettembourg, just six miles from the capital city and three miles from the French border, Parc Merveilleux attracts thousands of visitors each year.

This amusement center, with its fairy-tale themed attractions and rides, features a game enclosure, playground, mini-train, pony express, mini-golf, restaurants, and concerts, all of them fun for all ages (but especially the kids).

There's also an interesting zoo component that houses a large collection of exotic birds, reptiles, and numerous cute and cuddly mammals.

Address: Rte de Mondorf, 3260 Bettembourg, Luxembourg

More on Luxembourg

• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top 20 Things to See and Do in Luxembourg City

For a small capital, Luxembourg City is crammed with exciting things to see and do. Here’s what you can’t miss when in this beautiful city.

Luxembourg City is a charming combination of ancient and modern, local and global, simplicity and luxury. With many companies choosing Luxembourg to host their offices, the capital offers a real multicultural perspective, complete with an intriguing blend of history, culture, art and natural landscapes. These are the best things to see and do to capture the city’s character.

1. Luxembourg Old Town

Historical Landmark

The Old Town of Luxembourg is an amazing place to wander around, with its narrow, winding alleyways and historic buildings. It’s also a great area to enjoy spectacular views of its stone bridges across the river and the former fortress of Luxembourg’s original city walls. The old town features on the Luxembourg city walking tour.

2. Casemates du Bock

Archaeological site

Casemates du Bock is a 17-kilometre-long (11-mile-long) tunnel, easily accessible beneath the former castle at Montée de Clausen. Initially carved out of the rock by the Spanish beginning in 1644, this underground tunnel acted as a shelter for more than 35,000 residents and thousands of soldiers during World War II. Comprising atmospheric passages, different levels and impressive rock stairways, the historic tunnel of Casemates is now a Unesco World Heritage site. The Bock Cliff features on the Luxembourg’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local tour.

3. Grand Ducal Palace

4. Lëtzebuerg City Museum

5. Château de Vianden

6. Notre-Dame Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

Built between 1613 and 1621 by the Jesuit religious order, Luxembourg’s Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must-see, with the most memorable part of this imposing building being the Baroque-inspired north gate. Inside, the cathedral is embellished with luxurious stained glass dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, modern sculptures and a tiny Madonna and Child statue above the altar. The graves of the royal family can be found in the crypt, safeguarded by two lions designed by Auguste Trémont.

7. Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra

Concert Hall

The concert hall of the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra represents the multicultural character of the city; this outstanding piece of contemporary architecture hosts great conductors, soloists and orchestras from all over the world. The remarkable quality of its acoustics and close collaboration with significant musical personalities have made it one of the best concert halls in Europe.

8. Passerelle

This historic Passerelle (the Luxembourg Viaduct) offers visitors picturesque, panoramic views of Luxembourg City. Built between 1859 and 1861 by the Waring Brothers (a British company), the Passarelle connected the city centre with the new railway station. Also known as the Old Bridge, the Passerelle is well worth a visit when you’re in the city – even if just for the fantastic photo opportunities.

9. Abbey Museum

Monastery, Museum

10. Kirchberg

The Most Impressive Buildings in Luxembourg City

11. european court of justice.

The European Court of Justice is the highest court in the European Union and is located in the Kirchberg Plateau, just east of Luxembourg City . Originally constructed in 1973, the building has undergone a number of facelifts and additions. The architect of the fourth extension, Dominique Perrault , explained his thought process behind the use of such a striking gold colour on the twin towers: “I thought the sky over Luxembourg is often so sad that it would be nice, somehow, to catch the sun and bring it here”. Recommended by Lindsay Drake

12. Galeries Lafayette

One of Luxembourg’s most impressive buildings isn’t, like so many others, an official government building or financial headquarter, but an homage to the art of shopping: Foster + Partners’ Galeries Lafayette department store. Located in the centre of Luxembourg, at the end of Grand Rue and Rue Aldringen, it’s the first building in a major mixed-used development by the architects. The building is meant to be ‘timeless yet contemporary’, and its undulating glass facade is an attention-drawing addition to the city’s town centre. Luxembourg’s newest department store also features a sky garden, complete with rooftop restaurant and bar. Recommended by Lindsay Drake

13. Luxembourg City Hall

Luxembourg City Hall (Hôtel de Ville de Luxembourg) was built in the 1830s by French architect Justin Rémont and made using materials from a deconstructed 13th-century Franciscan monastery, which stood in its place centuries before. The City Hall, located on Place Guillaume II, now serves as the centre of local government and is used as the private office of the Mayor of Luxembourg City . Its Neoclassical style has aged well, and the elegant building is still a worthy symbol of political power in the Grand Duchy’s capital. Recommended by Lindsay Drake

14. Banque et Caisse d'Epargne de l’Etat

This beautiful building, designed by architect Jean-Pierre Koenig and constructed in 1913, serves as the headquarters of the Luxembourg Savings Bank BCEE (Spuerkeess). The original building was too small, so an annex was added, followed by a second mounting in 1933. This impressive structure is located on Place de Metz and overlooks the famous Adolphe Bridge. Though it was built in the 20th century, the Savings Bank was designed in the Neo-Renaissance style that evokes the Renaissance period . Recommended by Lindsay Drake

15. European Investment Bank

In 2002, the European Investment Bank held an anonymous international competition for architects and designers who pitched their ideas for the bank’s east building. The competition was won by German architect Christoph Ingenhoven, whose design encompassed EIB’s philosophy of transparency and environmental stewardship. It was the first building in continental Europe, and one of the first in the world, to be awarded the UK’s BREEAM Bespoke ‘high environmental quality’ certification with a ‘very good’ rating. Recommended by Lindsay Drake

16. Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art

Located in the Kirchberg district, this impressive structure was erected in 2006 atop the ruins of an abandoned fortress and beside another. The museum, also known as MUDAM, was designed by Ieoh Ming Pei, the Chinese-American architect behind the glass pyramid at the Louvre. The building caused a great deal of controversy and strife within the Grand Duchy, due to its strikingly modern appearance. Although it is called a modern art museum, the budget did not allow for acquiring a modernist collection. Instead, MUDAM is home to contemporary art pieces by 100 artists, including Andy Warhol , Bruce Nauman and Julian Schnabel. Recommended by Lindsay Drake

The Best Historic Monuments to See in Luxembourg City

17. the monument of remembrance.

18. Equestrian Statue of William II

19. goethe memorial.

20. Lambert Redoubt

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Must-see attractions in Luxembourg City

Musée d'Histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg

Luxembourg City

Hidden within a series of 17th- to 19th-century houses, including a former ‘holiday home’ of the Bishop of Orval, the city's history museum is engrossing…

Bock Casemates

Beneath the Montée de Clausen, the clifftop site of Count Sigefroi’s once-mighty fort, the Bock Casemates are an atmospheric honeycomb of rock galleries…

Groundbreaking exhibitions of modern, installation and experiential art take place in this airy architectural icon designed by Pritzker-winning architect…

Chemin de la Corniche

Hailed as 'Europe's most beautiful balcony', this pedestrian promenade winds along the course of the 17th-century city ramparts with views across the…

Palais Grand-Ducal

Luxembourg's turreted palace was built in 1572 and has been greatly extended over the years. It now houses the Grand Duke’s office, with parliament using…

Abbaye de Neumünster

Dominating the Grund riverbank, this 17th-century Benedictine abbey has been transformed into a cultural centre. Around the cloister are bronze sculptures…

US Military Cemetery

In a beautifully maintained graveyard 6km east of the city near the airport, lie 5075 US WWII war dead, including the general of the US Third Army George…

Startlingly modern for its Old Town setting, the national art and history museum starts deep in an excavated rocky basement with exhibits of Neolithic…

Musée-Mémorial de la Déportation

Prior to WWII, Luxembourg had a Jewish community of approximately 3500 people. Of them, some 2500 fled, most to France, before emigration was halted in…

Cathédrale Notre-Dame

Built between 1613 and 1621, and enlarged between 1935 and 1938, Luxembourg's cathedral is most memorable for its distinctively elongated black spires,…

Deep beneath the Spuerkeess bank is a permanent exhibition on photographer Edward Steichen, who put together Clervaux’ Unesco-listed Family of Man…

Musée de la Banque

Where better than the financial hub of Luxembourg to spend an hour browsing through a bank museum? It's housed in the dramatic, century-old, castle-style…

Fort Thüngen

A 1730 twin-towered extension of the plateau's vast complex of Vauban fortifications, Fort Thüngen has an intruiging museum about Luxembourg's historic…

Casino Luxembourg

Hungarian composer-virtuoso Franz Liszt gave his last concert at this grand one-time society mansion. Today, the building hosts regularly changing…

Originally installed on Place de la Constitution in 1923 by Luxembourg sculptor Claus Cito, this 21m-high grantie obelisk topped by a wreath-bearing…

Natur Musée

Ranging over 10 exhibition halls, this family-oriented, interactive museum covers all the natural history bases with stuffed animals, preserved insects…

Hôtel de Ville

Completed in 1838, the city's neoclassical town hall was largely constructed from the stones of a Franciscan monastery that previously occupied the site…

Place de la Constitution

Towering above this leafy triangular ‘square’ is a WWI memorial, Gëlle Fra. Beyond, the valley falls away to the Pétrusse River.

Home » Europe » Luxembourg » 17 Fun Things to Do in Luxembourg City

17 Fun Things to Do in Luxembourg City

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 29, 2023

Luxembourg is one of Europe’s smallest countries. Despite its prime location between Belgium, Germany, and France, it sometimes gets overlooked in favor of its bigger neighbors. But people who make that mistake—ourselves included—miss out on the beauty, culture, and fun things to do in Luxembourg City and beyond.

Luxembourg City is a fascinating city of contrasts. It is ancient and contemporary, local and global. The physical city even exists on two different levels—the upper part of the city on the ancient Bock rocky promontory and the lower part in the Alzette River gorge. Its layout gives it perhaps the most dramatic landscape of any European capital.

In addition to its lush surroundings, the city offers unique history and culture influenced by its neighboring countries and their citizens who still flood in for work every weekday, doubling its population.

Luxembourg City is compact and highly walkable, making it easy to cover a lot of area quickly. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend trip from almost anywhere in Europe. Here’s a look at some of the fun things to do in Luxembourg City that we’ve enjoyed during several visits.

Visit the Grund

See casemates du bock, visit the national museum of archaeology, history and art, go wine tasting along the moselle river, take a walking tour of old town, have a taste of france at ladurée, visit the golden lady, attend a festival or outdoor event, tour the grand duchal palace, take a break at a cafe, visit notre-dame cathedral, see the view from chemin de la corniche, relax in place guillaume ii, visit museum dräi eechelen, try luxembourgish food, explore by bike, visit the christmas markets.

The lower part of the city—the Grund—has a distinctly different atmosphere from the modern city above. Along the banks of the Alzette River, the Grund is at the base of the former fortress surrounding the city. This charming area feels more like a quiet European village than part of the busy capital.

The relaxed pace of the Grund doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do there. On the contrary—it’s one of the main areas for nightlife in the city. You can café hop, shop, or check out some of the finest restaurants. Neumunster Abbey , one of the oldest buildings in the Grund, also hosts many concerts, exhibits, lectures, and other cultural events throughout the year.

The Grund is easy to reach by walking downhill from the city center or you can take the elevator.

Casemates du Bock is one of the most historical Luxembourg City attractions and an important part of its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Built into the rock beneath the city’s ancient castle, this series of passages and fortifications contributed to Luxembourg’s defense over centuries of invasions. They included not only artillery slots and soldiers’ barracks but also served as workshops, bakeries, and even a bomb shelter during World War II.

Although the castle is now in ruins, visitors can tour a section of the cool 10-mile-long honeycomb of tunnels. The views from the Casemates over the valley are also pretty spectacular.

Interested in seeing the country? Check out more places to visit in Luxembourg .

The National Museum of Archaeology, History and Art (NMAHA) combines aspects of history and art from Neolithic to modern times, covering every era of Luxembourg’s past in its massive collection. Its underground galleries house archaeological artifacts in rooms that are (fittingly) carved out of rock.

Elsewhere in the museum, you’ll find medieval objects, fine art, and an extensive collection of coins and currency from ancient times through the Euro. We particularly love the Roman mosaic from Vichten showing the Nine Muses that dates from 240 AD.

The museum’s permanent collection is free to visit, but there is a minimal cost for temporary exhibits.

Luxembourg is bordered by France and Germany, two of the best wine-producing countries in the world . But did you know Luxembourg has vineyards, too?

Just over a half-hour by car or bus from downtown is the Moselle River valley where 16 million bottles of wine are produced every year. There’s lots of sparkling wine and other familiar varietals like Riesling and Chardonnay.

Many of the wineries in the Moselle River valley welcome visitors and offer tastings and tours where you can learn about the wine industry and its history in Luxembourg and try some varietals you may not have had before. Two of my favorite experiences were visiting the 100-year-old caves where the wine is aged at Caves St Martin and enjoying a glass on the terrace overlooking the river at Bernard Massard .

This is a small country with a complex history and unique culture. Who better to explain it than a local? Stop by the tourism office to join one of the dozens of Luxembourg sightseeing tours offered.

Whether you want to know about the UNESCO sites, a specialized architecture tour, or even a look at the city by Segway, there are lots of options. We chose a tour of the Old Town with a great overview of the history and the major sites and learned plenty of interesting things we wouldn’t have discovered on our own.

There is lots of international influence in Luxembourg, which takes many different forms. One of the tastiest is the renowned French bakery Ladurée , which has a location in the city center .

Famous for its macarons, Ladurée also has a wide variety of pastries plus coffee, hot chocolate, and more. It’s a lovely place to stop for an afternoon nibble, or you can take away some of their treats.

Soaring above Constitution Square, the Golden Lady (also known as Gëlle Fra or the Monument of Remembrance) is a symbol of the freedom and resistance of the Luxembourgish people and one of the country’s most famous landmarks.

She was initially erected in 1923 in honor of those who fought in World War I, but after being dismantled by the Nazis and later restored, her purpose was broadened. She is now a moving memorial to Luxembourgers who fought in both World Wars and Korea. Just behind her, don’t miss the sweeping views of the valley and Pont Adolphe.

The city is a great place for festivals and outdoor events. Throughout the year, you can find fun things going on nearly every weekend covering a variety of interests.

In the spring, there are fairs and festivals related to Easter and other religious holidays. The summer brings free concerts, street art festivals, outdoor movies, and wine events. Winter has light festivals, car shows, and more. No matter when you visit Luxembourg City, there are plenty of special things to see and do.

The Grand Duchal Palace, which dates back to 1573, has a prominent place in the middle of the city. The magnificent palace with its balconies and small turrets is still used today as the city residence of the royal family and the Grand Duke.

From mid-July through early September, the palace is open for guided tours . If you need a break after your visit, pop into the Chocolate House right next door for some of the best hot chocolate in the city.

Luxembourg City has a thriving cafe culture and happy hour atmosphere. During the day (and often well into the evening), you can enjoy coffee, snacks, and hanging out or working remotely at many cafes throughout the city.

Around 5:00pm, the environment changes when professionals fill the lively sidewalk cafes for drink specials and evening events like trivia and live music. Some enjoyable spots, like my favorite Kaale Kaffi , combine coffee and cocktails with a fun atmosphere filled with art and vintage furniture.

Notre-Dame Cathedral is the country’s only cathedral. A mixture of Late Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the cathedral is renowned for its stained glass and sculpted alabaster choir.

At over 400 years old, Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most historic places to see in Luxembourg City and its crypt is the resting place of some members of the royal family, with remains going as far back as the 1300s.

Thanks to its layout above and below the rocky outcropping of the Bock, the city has some amazing views. If you like photography or just looking out over pretty scenery, the Chemin de la Corniche is a must visit. From what’s been called the most beautiful balcony in Europe, you get a great view of the Grund from above as well as ancient city fortifications and bridges.

Place Guillaume II is a social center in the city. This lovely square named for Grand Duke William II (the French version of his name) features a statue of the Duke himself on horseback at the center. It’s ringed by restaurants with sidewalk cafes and hosts a twice-weekly market with flowers and fresh produce. In the summer, there are concerts, and it often hosts fairs and other special events. It’s a great place to spend some time people watching in the center of town.

Outside of Old Town in the Kirchberg District, the Museum Dräi Eechelen is housed inside the renovated Fort Thüngen that dates from the 1730s. The museum’s permanent exhibition features more than 600 objects and documents within the old fort’s tunnels. They tell the story of the fortress of Luxembourg (the former fortifications of the city) from 1443 to 1903, offering an interesting look at this city on a rock. The first floor features rotating contemporary exhibits.

Perhaps the most unique thing about Luxembourg is just how international it is. There are many places (countries like Albania and Ecuador come to mind) where finding something other than traditional cuisine takes some work. But that’s not the case here.

Of course, you should try Luxembourg food because you’re in Luxembourg, after all. The cuisine has experienced a renaissance, so there are many places to indulge in excellent local dishes such as Friture de la Moselle (small fried fish from the Moselle River), Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork neck with broad beans), or many other options. But if you’re looking to mix it up, a quick walk will take you to Nepalese cafes, Mexican restaurants, French patisseries, and more.

Luxembourg City—and, indeed, the whole country—is an ideal place for exploring by bicycle. The Grand Duchy has a network of over 370 miles of cycle paths. In the City, there are over 100 vel’oh kiosks where you can rent a bike to explore as long as you want. It’s an ideal way to see the sites and get some exercise at the same time.

In December, the center of Luxembourg City feels like one giant Christmas market . In just five minutes from Place de la Constitution to Place d’Armes, you can visit three different festive areas.

The Christmas markets are a fun place to hang out. There are lots of things to eat like flammkuchen, tartiflette, sausages, and more, and plenty of drinks to help keep you warm. There’s also lots of shopping, rides, and great people watching. If you get really cold, you can park yourself right in front of the open fires.

The Luxembourg Christmas markets are some of our favorites we’ve visited in our travels across Europe. Because of Luxembourg’s location, the markets have French and Belgian influence, and they reminded us a lot of markets we’ve visited in Germany . Don’t miss them.

Where to Stay Hotel Simoncini : In the heart of Luxembourg City, Hotel Simoncini is the perfect home base for exploring the old town. It is comfortable, has a great breakfast, and is steps from the main attractions. Park Inn : Steps from the central train station, the Park Inn by Radisson offers modern accommodations at a budget-friendly price. Visitors appreciate the comfortable beds and friendly service. Hotel Le Royal : The 5-star Hotel Le Royal is one of the top hotels. With multiple restaurants, a spa, and a salon, this is the place if you’re looking for convenience and luxury.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Jamie Pietropaolo

Friday 21st of October 2022

What a lovely article! This makes me want to visit as soon as possible, the little country I heard about from a college friend who is from Luxembourg (hi, Michel!) and that I, very likely, otherwise would have overlooked.

Thursday 14th of October 2021

Please I wish to go there for studies ( masters program). Is there employment opportunities for external student in the country ?

Laura Longwell

Sorry, I'm not familiar with work requirements.

John Russel

Tuesday 13th of August 2019

Just came back from a trip to Luxembourg, your recommendations were great! Thank you :)

Thursday 9th of August 2018

Nice introduction to Luxembourg for someone who plans to visit this wonderful place

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Best Things To Do In Luxembourg City And Beyond: Full Itinerary

Adventure Travel , Europe , Luxembourg , Travel | July 3, 2018

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It’s often overlooked by people planning a European city break, but I recently discovered that Luxembourg’s minuscule size makes it an appealing destination for people who want to pack a lot into a long weekend.

The best things to do in Luxembourg City are easy to cram into one day thanks to the city’s compact layout, and the rest of the country is generously scattered with magical castles, wineries and hiking routes for keen explorers.

It’s not hard to fill up an itinerary for Luxembourg!

I was hosted in the city on a press trip with Visit Luxembourg , so I thought I’d share all of my Luxembourg travel tips and the best places to see in Luxembourg City and its surrounds in this three-day travel itinerary.

If you’re planning a trip but aren’t sure how long you’ll need, I’d say that three days is enough to see Luxembourg’s top attractions – but there’s plenty to see and do so you can always stretch this three-day Luxembourg itinerary out a bit, and add more sights!

What to do in Luxembourg City (and the rest of the country) in three days

Watch my full Luxembourg travel vlog on Youtube

Before we dive into Luxembourg’s top attractions, here’s a money-saving tip.

I recommend picking up a Luxembourg Card if you’re there for the weekend.

It’s a useful hack for saving money during your stay because it gets you into more than 60 museums and Luxembourg tourist attractions for free and means you can use public transport at no extra cost.

Use my Travel Resources page to find the best companies to book your Luxembourg trip with

DAY 1: Top things to do in Luxembourg City in one day

Whether you’re in Luxembourg for a longer trip or you’re just doing a day trip to Luxembourg City and want to see the main sights in the time you have, use this one-day itinerary to help you decide what to see and do in the capital in 24 hours.

Short on time or don’t feel like walking? The hop on hop off bus is an easy way to get around Luxembourg’s tourist attractions.

Find out where to eat breakfast in Luxembourg City

Start your day in Luxembourg City at the best breakfast spot in town:  Chocolate House by Nathalie Bonn . Their famous hot chocolate creations are basically a Luxembourg attraction in their own right.

They’re served as a cup of hot milk, along with your pick of 50 different flavours of hot chocolate spoon. You plunge the chocolate spoon into your hot milk and drink it as it melts.

Terribly indulgent and completely worth the calories! They also serve regular dishes if you don’t have a sweet tooth.

Cost: 4.25 Euros

Visit Grand Ducal Palace

Chocolate House is located directly opposite the Grand Ducal Palace , so you can sit outside and watch the guards in front of the elegant Flemish Renaissance facade as you sip one of their signature hot chocolates.

This building is a Luxembourg must-see. I actually saw the Duke come back to the palace when I was there!

Once your sugar rush kicks in, you can do a guided tour of the palace (from mid-July till end of August).

Walk Luxembourg City’s Museumsmile

Art and culture lovers, rejoice. There are seven museums within a one mile radius of each other in Luxembourg’s city centre. If you connect them all on a map, it draws the shape of a smile, so they’ve nicknamed it, rather aptly, ‘Museumsmile’.

This stretch offers culture-hungry travellers plenty of inspiration for their Luxembourg to do list.

Spend some time working your way around  Villa Vauban ,  Lëtzebuerg City Museum ,  National Museum of History and Art ,  National Museum of Natural History ,  Museum Dräi Echelon and  Museum of Modern Art Grand-Duc Jean .

The last stop should be  Casino Luxembourg , a contemporary art museum, because you can eat lunch at their fabulous restaurant.

Free with Luxembourg card

Lunch like a Lady in Luxembourg City

Ca(fé)sino   at  Casino Luxembourg is an elegant brasserie where meals are served buffet-style. The food is delicious, especially considering it’s self-service, and on a warm day you can eat on the terrace.

The dining room is a rather special setting as it’s housed in the old restored Saint-Hubert salons, with original 18th-century walls illuminated by contemporary neon lighting.

Cost: 26.50 Euros for brunch

Take a walking tour of Luxembourg City’s sights

In the afternoon of your first day in Luxembourg City, take a walk to see more of the city’s highlights, like  Notre-Dame Cathedral ,  Place Guillaume II and  The Chamber of Deputies (parliament building).

This is one of the best free things to do in Luxembourg.

If you prefer seeing a city on wheels, book a bike tour of Luxembourg City instead.

Enjoy the best view in Luxembourg City

No trip to Luxembourg City is complete without a pause to take in the views from ‘Europe’s most beautiful balcony’, Chemin de la Corniche .

This was my favourite moment from the weekend in Luxembourg. Nobody should visit the city without seeing this.

The promenade wraps around the 17th-century city ramparts and offers stunning views over the river and The  Grund below. Do you agree this is the best viewpoint in Luxembourg?

Take a walk along the river

You can also see the  Alzette up close with a walk along its banks. During my stroll, I was tricked by a mermaid sculpture. For a moment I thought she was a real, living woman!

Her name is Melusina and she has quite the story to tell – it’s written on a plaque so you can read it for yourself.

It’s a lovely thing to do in Luxembourg for families with young kids who believe in fairytales!

Explore Luxembourg’s ancient tunnels

From there, visit the Bock Casemates , a complex network of underground tunnels first built in 1644 as a defence system. They give Luxembourg its nickname as Gibraltar of the North.

Entry is only 6 Euros and it’s one of the more unique activities in Luxembourg City.

Eat dinner at a Luxembourg restaurant

I recommend Brasserie Mansfeld   for dinner in the city. There’s a decently priced set menu (49 Euros) and the restaurant decor feels sumptuous and modern.

If you’re looking for the best places to go for nightlife in Luxembourg City, start at  Dipso for wine or Urban   for a busy atmosphere on weekends, when the crowd spills out onto the cobblestones. 

Want to stay out later? Luxembourg’s nightlife is centred in Grund and Clausen, so you’re bound to find a party in those areas.

DAY 2: Castles and easy hikes in Luxembourg

If you’re staying in Luxembourg for two or three days, it’s worth hiring a car to get out of the city and explore some of the best attractions around Luxembourg City.

There are loads of different day trips you can do from Luxembourg City and while public transport is efficient, you’ll always have more freedom if you have a car. On your second day in Luxembourg, go explore the country!

Find Luxembourg’s most picturesque castle

There are over 100 castles packed into Luxembourg’s 2,586 square kilometres, so go find them!

Some are basically just stately homes but others will give you serious princess vibes and are known as the most famous places in Luxembourg.

If you rent a car to get around Luxembourg, drive to Vianden to see what I think is the most magical castle in the country.

The tiny town, which is located in the north-east of Luxembourg (29 miles from Luxembourg City), is reigned over by a fairytale castle in the hills.

During the summer months, you can ride the chairlift for panoramic views over the castle and the Our River snaking through the town below. This is also free with the Luxembourg Card!

For a different perspective of Vianden Castle, there’s a viewpoint opposite Hotel Belvedere.

Another of the most picturesque castles in Luxembourg is in Larochette . I sadly wasn’t able to visit its ruins because of road closures (I was there on Luxembourg’s National Day).

There’s also  Grand Castle Ansembourg , whose splendid gardens are open to the public.

Explore Little Switzerland

Continue your Luxembourg road trip and discover the  Mullerthal region , aka Luxembourg’s ‘Little Switzerland’, which hides some of the best places to visit in Luxembourg.

First stop should be charming  Echternach , the oldest city in Luxembourg.

Echternach has a grand Abbey with a gorgeous Orangerie , a Roman villa archeological site, a lake with pedal boats and plenty of medieval streets to wander.

The Market Square, crowned by the Column of Judgement, is a good place to eat lunch.

Check Echternach hotel prices and availability

Chase Luxembourg’s famous waterfall

I’m a big believer in chasing waterfalls. If you are too, make a stop at  The Schiessentümpel on Little Switzerland’s Black Ernz river.

This is Luxembourg’s most famous waterfall and is one of the best photography spots in Luxembourg.

You can get there either from the Touristcenter Heringer Millen over local hiking trails (W6 & W7) after approx. 1 km, or from the nearby larger parking situated between the village of Mullerthal and the crossroads at the Breidweiler bridge on the street called CR121.

Discover Luxembourg’s best hikes

If you’re planning to hike in Luxembourg, the Mullerthal region is the place for it. I visited right after a storm so many of the multiple-day hiking trails were closed, but we were able to do a 4km hike on the C2 route.

This is a unique hiking experience because part of it involves passing through some seriously imposing rock formations, with narrow passages sometimes blocked from the sunlight overhead. It isn’t a hike for the claustrophobic!

Check Mullerthal hotel prices and availability

After a long day exploring the best spots around Luxembourg, head back to Luxembourg City and have a casual dinner at Brasserie Siegfried .

I didn’t actually eat here but the other people on my trip did and they got to try local Luxembourgish dishes like  Bouchée à la Reine  – creamy chicken and mushroom with pastry. It’s a heavy dish, so you’ll want to crawl straight into bed afterwards!

DAY 3: More of the best things to do on day trips from Luxembourg City

If you have three days in Luxembourg, there’s still plenty to do outside of Luxembourg City. Day three of my itinerary covers some of the more off the beaten path, unusual things to do in Luxembourg.

Visit a photography exhibition

We went to an incredibly moving photography collection called Family of Man in the Clervaux Castle .

First exhibited in 1955, there are 503 photographs by 273 artists from all over the world, and they’re grouped together to depict how life, death, birth and the like are celebrated around the world.

It highlights how alike we all are in our humanity, and I thought it was worth the drive out of the city.

Learn more about Luxembourg’s castles

There’s also a collection of models of Luxembourg’s fortified castles here, Museum of Models of Luxembourg Castles ,  which will be particularly interesting if you came to Luxembourg to see its famous castles. Also free with the Luxembourg Card!

If you’re hungry after this, you can eat lunch in Clervaux Castle’s café-restaurant Au Vieux Chateau , which is housed in the old watchman’s tower.

Find out where to drink wine in Luxembourg

Next stop for your final afternoon in Luxembourg should be the wine region, the valley of the Moselle.

Surrounded by hilly vineyards, this area produces nine different varieties of grape: Riesling, Pinot noir, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Gewürztraminer, Auxerrois, Rivaner, Elbling and Chardonnay.

I loved the sparkling wines and crémants particularly.

Head to  Grevenmacher and visit either Caves Bernard-Massard or Caves Grenmacher wineries for a guided tour and tasting.

There’s a lovely wine bar on the banks of the Moselle river called Bistro Quai . We ordered some (reasonably priced, delicious) sharing platters and a few glasses of crémant, and spent a relaxed afternoon looking over the water to Germany.

You can also take a river cruise on the Moselle for views of Luxembourg on one side and Germany on the other.

Check Grevenmacher hotel prices and availability

Where to stay in Luxembourg

If you’re looking for budget accommodation in Luxembourg, Hotel Parc Belle-Vue is a good basic option.  The accommodation itself is nothing to write home about, but its grounds have an incredible view over the city and the location is decent.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience in Luxembourg, the best five-star hotels in the city are Hotel Le Royal ,  Hotel Le Place d’Armes and Sofitel .

Check all Luxembourg City hotel prices and availability

How to get to Luxembourg

You can fly to Luxembourg from various airports. If you’re planning your trip now, I recommend you check flight prices on Skyscanner and set up an email alert that will let you know when the price has dropped.

From Luxembourg Airport, you can get the number 16 bus into the city.

Alternatively, you can get to Luxembourg via train from its neighbouring companies. Check out Interrail passes to save money on multiple journeys within Europe.

How much do things cost in Luxembourg?

Let’s start with the most important thing (for me, anyway): how much does alcohol cost in Luxembourg? A glass of the local crémant costs around 6 Euros, with G&Ts at around 13 Euros in the main nightlife area.

Average meal prices in Luxembourg City are around the 15 Euros mark, but you’ll obviously pay more in posh restaurants.

Luxembourg city’s taxis are expensive and operate on a fixed rate of approximately 34 Euro per 10km.

Buses are free with the Luxembourg Card, so it’s definitely worth investing in if you’re in Luxembourg for two or three days because you’ll also save on all the tourist attractions.

Healthcare is expensive in Luxembourg. Make sure you have good travel insurance before your trip. Travellers tend to agree that World Nomads offers the most comprehensive protection. Use the box below to get a quote!

What to eat in Luxembourg

There’s a lot of French and Italian cuisine in Luxembourg, but there are also some common Luxembourgish dishes you could try (yes, people from Luxembourg are called Luxembourgish).

I was only in Luxembourg for a few days so obviously didn’t get to try everything, but some of the local favourites are ‘Bouneschlupp’: a green bean soup, ‘Judd mat Gaardebounen’: smoked neck of pork with broad beans, F’rell Am Rèisleck:) trout in Riesling and cream sauce and Gromperekichelcher: potato fritters.

Luxembourg also has some delicious ham and cheeses!

You might like to watch my Luxembourg travel vlog on YouTube for more inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe!

See my top European city break destinations

Thank you for reading my Luxembourg itinerary! I hope I’ve given you lots of ideas for the best things to do in Luxembourg City and beyond but as I was only in Luxembourg for a long weekend, I’d love any comments with more recommendations for things to see and do there.

Please leave your feedback in a comment and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and Pinterest for more travel inspiration.

Sam | North East Family Fun Travel Blog says

July 3, 2018 at 4:46 pm

Luxemburg looks like a fantastic weekend break destination – would you recommend for kids? I know my three would spend FOREVER deciding what type of hot chocolate to order if they had a choice of 50! What a treat.

Love the idea of a museum smile and that everything is so close to each other 🙂

rachaelstray says

July 4, 2018 at 9:36 am

It looks so pretty I’ve never been before but this has certainly whet my appetite!

Shivani says

July 8, 2018 at 8:42 am

Luxemburg caught my eye a few years ago, I wish to see it soon. I’d love to visit the chocolate house and Ducal Palace looks stunning. The little Switzerland is awesome too, never heard of it. Thanks for sharing.

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Things to do in Luxembourg City: 10+ of The Best Activities, Attractions, and Adventures

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Luxembourg city, look no further! This small country is packed with adventure and excitement. From exploring the old city of Luxembourg to visiting the Palais Grand-Ducal, there’s something for everyone. We spent about 24 hours in Luxembourg living so close and we’ll definitely be back to add more to this list. This small city is very walkable and easy to get around including FREE public transportation.

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Things to do in Luxembourg City: The Best Activities, Attractions, and Adventures

The city in Luxembourg has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The old city is full of beautiful architecture and there are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore. This small city is quite walkable with a rich history.

Important facts about Luxembourg City are that Luxembourg is a city with its own language called Luxembourgish. However, the city is also bilingual in French and German. The city has a lot of charm with a mix of languages and cultures. Since the country is surrounded by French and German-speaking countries, it’s no wonder these 2 languages are included. They eventually move to other languages like Spanish and Italian.

Check out some of Luxembourg’s places to visit below.

Luxembourg Tourist Attractions

Whether you are looking for things to do in Luxembourg with kids or friends, this post has got you covered. Some of the top tourist attractions and activities in Luxembourg include the Vianden Castle, Grand Ducal Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Bock Casemates. Luxembourg is the only country ruled by a Grand Duke making it an interesting country to visit.

The Grand Ducal Palace is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg and is open to the public for tours . The Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral with stunning stained glass windows. The Bock Casemates are a series of underground tunnels that were once part of the city’s fortifications. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Luxembourg.

You can easily spend a day in Luxembourg and these are some of the popular things on what to see in Luxembourg city in one day.

Explore the Old City of Luxembourg

The Old City of Luxembourg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful places in the country. Wander through the winding streets, past grand buildings and picturesque squares. These include the passage du palais which takes you through an old passage within what the old city looked like.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Named after the cathedral in Paris, the Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful modern cathedral with stunning stained glass windows. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior. One of the towers was burned down and repaired. They also made an addition to the church to expand it so that it could actually have the title of a cathedral.

Place Guillame II

This is one of the most beautiful squares in Luxembourg City and also one of the busiest. The square is full of fountains, sculptures, and flower beds. It’s a great place to people-watch or just relax in the park. There you will see the equestrian statue of Grand Duke William II, it was a copper statue that has turned green due to age. Grand Duke William II is the one who brought independence to the country of Luxembourg.

Palais Grand-Ducal

While this is the main palace, the Duke technically does not live here, but he does work here. However, it is guarded by guards that do a formal change of guards like in London. Sometimes where the balcony is, people will gather around when special events at the palace when the family makes a formal introduction to the people.

The palace is open to the public for tours , and you can explore the opulent rooms, learn about the history of the country, and see some incredible art. You can do some of the tours of this beautiful palace during the summer months when the Grand Duke is on vacation. This is probably one of the top things to visit in Luxembourg.

The Bock Casemates

The Bock Casemates are a series of tunnels and underground passages that were once used as storage and living quarters. Consisting of 23 kilometers (14 miles) of tunnels delving as deep as 40 meters (130 feet) below the fortress above, they included not only 25 artillery slots but also stables, storehouses, workshops, kitchens, bakeries, slaughterhouses, and barracks for 1200 soldiers.

The tunnels are now open to the public and make for an interesting visit. This is probably one of Luxembourg’s top sights and one of the free things to do in Luxembourg city.

The Monument of Remembrance

The Monument of Remembrance is a war memorial located on the Place de la Constitution. The monument is in the form of an obelisk and is made of black granite. It is inscribed with the names of those who died in World War I, World War II, and the Luxembourgish resistance movement during World War II.

The woman on the top is covered in gold leaf also known as the golden lady. She is holding a crown to place among the head of the people which represents peace and peace to come.

Things to do in Luxembourg in Winter

Just because Luxembourg is a small country doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do in the winter! If you’re looking for things to do in Luxembourg in winter, why not go skiing at one of the many ski resorts located nearby?

Or, if you’re not a fan of cold weather, you can always visit one of the many museums or art galleries located in the city. There’s also a variety of shops and restaurants to keep you busy, so you won’t be bored for a minute!

Luxembourg is a great place to visit any time of year, but there’s something special about the winter months. So if you’re looking for things to do in Luxembourg in winter, make sure to check out some of the activities listed above! You won’t be disappointed!

Museums in Luxembourg City

Luxembourg City is home to a number of museums, including the National Museum of History and Art and the Luxembourg City History Museum. There’s something for everyone at these museums!

The National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Luxembourg City. This museum is home to a wide variety of animals, including some that are native to Luxembourg. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, so you can learn about the natural world while having fun!

The Luxembourg City History Museum

The Luxembourg City History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of this city. This museum is home to a wide variety of artifacts, including some that date back to the Roman occupation of Luxembourg. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, so you can learn about the history of this city while having fun!

Luxembourg Tours

If you’re looking for a guided tour of the city, there are plenty of options to choose from. There are walking tours, bus tours, and even boat tours! No matter what your interest, there’s sure to be a tour that’s perfect for you.

• The Best of Luxembourg City: Guided E-Bike Tour
• Luxembourg: Guided City Walking Tour with Wine Tastings
• Luxembourg: Pétrusse Express Train Ticket

Public Transportation: Getting around Luxembourg

It is free, easy, and efficient, thanks to the city’s public transportation system. The bus network covers the entire city, and there are also trams and trains that connect Luxembourg City with the surrounding suburbs. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll probably find that walking is the best way to get around. But if you’re planning on doing some exploring outside of the city, then you’ll need to take advantage of the public transportation system.

Parking in Luxembourg City

If you’re planning on renting a car, be aware that parking can be difficult to find and some can be quite expensive. The best option is to park your car at one of the Park & Ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city and take public transportation into the center.

The city, however, is quite walkable so if you prefer to park within the city, I suggest parking at Le Royal Hotel .

Where to eat in Luxembourg City

There are a lot of places to eat in Luxembourg, but many of them are tourist traps and quite expensive. There were a few that our tour guide recommended we try and eat at so I’m going to list these locations. These would be the best restaurants Luxembourg city has to offer. Many of them may require a reservation, especially on busy weekends. Only one of the restaurants serves some of Luxembourg’s specialties .

• Les Copains d’Abord – One of the Romantic things to do in Luxembourg
• Restaurant Pizzeria Bacchus

These are just a few of the many things to do in Luxembourg. With its rich history and culture, Luxembourg is a country that should not be missed.

Bars in Luxembourg City

There are a few good bars in Luxembourg City. If you are looking for a place to have a drink and relax, then I would recommend the following bars.

• Bar des Capucins
• Ënnert de Steiler

Where to stay in Luxembourg City

There are a number of hotels in Luxembourg City, but many of them are quite expensive. If you’re on a budget , I suggest staying at one of the hostels or guesthouses.

5 Star Hotels in Luxembourg

• Hotel Le Royal
• Park Inn by Radisson, Luxembourg
• Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal
• Melia Luxembourg Hotel

Hostels in Luxembourg City

• Youth Hostel Luxembourg City

THings to do in Luxembourg City Map

Day Trips from Luxembourg City

Finished with your things to do in Luxembourg City? Well, here are some day trips you can easily take from Luxembourg City.

• Heidelberg, Germany
• Brussels, Belgium
• Strasbourg, France
• Paris, France – You can easily take the train from Paris to Luxembourg city or vice versa

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Hey, I'm NieNie, also known as Stephanie – a California native of hapa heritage (an American with a mix of Korean and German) with an enduring love for travel. Transitioning from my expat life in South Korea to embracing the experience of living in Germany, while also frequenting visits to my family in the Philippines, I'm documenting my adventure as a plus-size woman immersing herself in diverse cultures. Join me on Adventures with NieNie for travel tips, cultural insights, and inspiring stories from South Korea, the Philippines, and Germany. Let's embark on this adventure together!

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Luxembourg City Tourist Office

Where? 30, place Guillaume II, 1648 Luxembourg City

Visit the City of Luxembourg and discover these tourist attractions steeped in history but nevertheless with a contemporary touch.

Live a unique experience with more than 40 guided tours and 80 sites to discover!

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"World War II" Circular Walk

• guided tour with official guide

Walk the art

Schuman Tour

City Promenade for kids

City Promenade

The life and legends of women in Luxembourg

Promenade UNESCO

Vauban Circular Walk with personal guide

Wenzel Circular Walk

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Places to see

Boutique Delicatessen Léa Linster

Cessange Park

Petrusse Casemates

Parc Ban de Gasperich

Adolphe Bridge

National Museum of Archaeology, History and Art

Museum-Memorial of Deportation

The Three Acorns Park