What Are Your Top 16 Must-See Places in Luxembourg?

Luxembourg is a small country in Europe that often gets overlooked by travelers, but it has a lot to offer. It has a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a lively culture. This guide will help you discover the top 16 attractions you should visit in Luxembourg.

1. Luxembourg City

Old Town: The Old Town of Luxembourg City is a UNESCO World Heritage site with historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets. Walking through the medieval alleys will give you a sense of the city’s long history. A highlight is the Corniche, often called “the most beautiful balcony in Europe,” where you can enjoy great views of the Alzette River and the city below. It’s a great place to start exploring Luxembourg City.

Grand Ducal Palace: The Grand Ducal Palace is the official home of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. It’s an impressive building and an important part of the city’s history. In the summer, you can take a guided tour to see the grand rooms and learn about the Grand Duke’s family. It’s a great way to understand Luxembourg’s royal heritage.

Casemates du Bock: The Casemates du Bock are underground tunnels carved into the cliffs of Luxembourg City. They were part of the city’s defense system and are now a fascinating part of Luxembourg’s military history. You can explore the tunnels and get great views of the city from different spots.

2. Vianden Castle

Vianden Castle is located in the town of Vianden. It’s one of the largest and most beautiful castles in Europe. The castle is on a hill overlooking the Our River, offering stunning views of the countryside. It’s well-preserved and provides a look into medieval history. The castle also hosts events and medieval festivals throughout the year, making it a lively destination.

3. Echternach

Abbey of Echternach: Echternach is the oldest town in Luxembourg and is known for its Benedictine Abbey. Founded in the 7th century by St. Willibrord, the Abbey is an important historical site. It has a museum and a beautiful basilica. One of the most interesting events here is the Dancing Procession, held every Whit Tuesday. This unique event attracts visitors from all over and is a highlight of the town’s calendar.

Echternach Lake: Echternach Lake is a great spot for outdoor activities. You can walk, cycle, or paddle boat on the lake. The area around the lake also hosts music festivals and events, so there’s always something going on. It’s a lovely place to relax and enjoy Luxembourg’s natural beauty.

4. Mullerthal Region (Little Switzerland)

The Mullerthal Region, also known as Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland, is perfect for nature lovers. It has dense forests, rocky landscapes, and beautiful trails. It’s ideal for hiking and exploring.

Mullerthal Trail: The Mullerthal Trail is a popular hiking route with scenic views and unique rock formations. One highlight is the Schiessentümpel waterfall. The trail has different routes for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. It’s a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Hohllay Cave: Hohllay Cave has prehistoric carvings and inscriptions. It gives a glimpse into the ancient history of the Mullerthal Region. Guided tours offer insights into the cave’s geology and history, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

5. Clervaux Castle

Clervaux Castle, in the Ardennes region, is home to the Family of Man exhibition. This famous photographic display, curated by Edward Steichen, features powerful images celebrating human life and culture. The castle itself is striking with its white walls and dramatic setting, making it a beautiful destination that blends history and art.

6. Bourscheid Castle

Bourscheid Castle is a medieval fortress overlooking the Sûre River. Its location offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle is well-preserved, and exploring its ruins is enjoyable. It’s particularly enchanting at sunset, when the views are stunning.

7. Moselle Valley

The Moselle Valley is known for its rolling vineyards and charming villages, making it a great destination for wine lovers. You can drive along the Moselle River, visit local wineries, and taste Luxembourg’s finest wines. The region also has scenic cycling routes and river cruises, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the local culture and scenery.

8. Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial

Located in Hamm, near Luxembourg City, this memorial honors American soldiers from World War II. It’s the final resting place for over 5,000 servicemen, including General George S. Patton. The cemetery is beautifully maintained and offers a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made during the war. It’s a place for reflection and respect.

9. Beaufort Castle

Beaufort Castle combines a medieval fortress with a Renaissance château. It offers a fascinating look into Luxembourg’s history. The castle is surrounded by lush forests, making it a peaceful spot for a walk. In winter, there’s an ice skating rink nearby, adding to the area’s charm and providing a fun activity for visitors.

10. Differdange and the Fond-de-Gras

Differdange is home to Fond-de-Gras, a former mining and steelworking site turned into an open-air museum. The museum explores Luxembourg’s industrial heritage and includes a historic train ride through Minett Park. The site also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively place to visit.

11. National Museum of History and Art (MNHA)

Located in Luxembourg City, the MNHA showcases the country’s rich history and artistic heritage. The museum has a large collection of archaeological artifacts, fine art, and decorative objects. Its interactive exhibits and engaging displays make it a great destination for visitors of all ages.

12. The Bock Casemates

The Bock Casemates are an extensive network of underground tunnels and galleries carved into the cliffs of Luxembourg City. Originally built for defense, they now offer a fascinating look at Luxembourg’s military history. Guided tours provide insights into the engineering and strategic importance of the casemates.

13. Remich

Known as the “Pearl of the Moselle,” Remich is a charming town on the Moselle River. You can walk along the promenade, take a boat cruise, and visit local wineries to taste Luxembourg’s famous wines. The town’s lively market and annual wine festivals add to its appeal, making it a great place to visit.

14. Wiltz

Wiltz, in the Ardennes region, is known for its beautiful landscapes and cultural heritage.

Wiltz Castle: The castle overlooks the town and is a must-visit. The annual Wiltz Festival, featuring music and theater performances, takes place in the castle’s gardens and attracts artists and audiences from around the world.

National Brewery Museum: This museum explores Luxembourg’s brewing traditions and includes a beer tasting session. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s beer culture.

15. Schengen

Schengen is a small village with historical importance. It’s known for the Schengen Agreement, which created Europe’s borderless Schengen Area. You can visit the European Museum Schengen to learn about the agreement’s history and impact. The nearby Schengen Castle and vineyards add to the village’s charm, making it a pleasant stop.

16. Kirchberg District

The Kirchberg District in Luxembourg City is a modern area for finance, business, and culture.

Philharmonie Luxembourg: This concert hall hosts various performances, from classical to contemporary music. Its unique architecture and excellent acoustics make it a must-visit for music lovers.

Mudam (Museum of Modern Art): Mudam showcases contemporary art from Luxembourg and around the world. Its innovative exhibitions and striking design make it a cultural highlight in the city.

Tips for Traveling in Luxembourg

Getting Around

• Public Transport: Luxembourg has a good public transportation system with trains, buses, and trams. It’s free for everyone, so it’s easy to get around without spending much.
• Car Rental: Renting a car is useful for exploring rural areas or small towns. The roads are well-maintained and easy to drive on.
• Cycling: Luxembourg is great for cycling, with many bike paths and rental points. It’s a relaxed way to explore both the city and countryside.

Currency and Budgeting

• Currency: The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for small purchases and in rural areas.
• Prices: Luxembourg has options for all budgets. Cities can be more expensive, but smaller towns often offer more affordable places to stay and eat.

Safety and Health

• Safety: Luxembourg is very safe with low crime rates. Just take normal precautions and watch your belongings.
• Health: The tap water is safe to drink, and the healthcare system is excellent. Travel insurance with medical coverage is recommended.

Local Customs and Etiquette

• Languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German are the official languages. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
• Food: Try local specialties like waffles, chocolate, beer, and fries. Luxembourg’s food scene is diverse and reflects its multicultural influences.
• Tipping: Tipping is not required but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is a nice gesture.

Conclusion

Luxembourg may be small, but it’s full of attractions and experiences. From the historic streets of Luxembourg City to the natural beauty of the Mullerthal Region, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just a relaxing getaway, Luxembourg is a hidden gem worth discovering.