Welcome to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a small but charming country located in the heart of Europe! Despite its size, Luxembourg has a lot to offer visitors, from beautiful historical sites to picturesque natural landscapes. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the highlights of Luxembourg.

Getting to Luxembourg

Luxembourg is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. Luxembourg Airport is served by several airlines with direct flights from major European cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt. Alternatively, you can take a train from nearby cities such as Brussels, Paris, and Frankfurt. If you prefer to drive, Luxembourg is easily accessible by road from neighboring countries.

Here are some examples from Amsterdam, Rome, and New York.

Places to visit

Luxembourg City

Start your trip in Luxembourg City, the country’s capital and largest city. The city’s historic center, known as the Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to many beautiful buildings, including the Grand Ducal Palace, the Place d’Armes, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. You can also explore the casemates, a series of underground tunnels that were used for defense in the past.

Vianden Castle

Vianden Castle, located in the north of Luxembourg, is one of the most important castles in the country. It dates back to the 10th century and has undergone several renovations over the centuries. The castle is known for its well-preserved towers, walls, and interiors, making it one of the most important historical sites in Luxembourg. Today the castle is open to the public and visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, towers, and courtyards.

Vianden is located in the northeastern part of Luxembourg. You can reach Vianden Castle by:

• Car: It’s a scenic drive from Luxembourg City, taking around 1 hour. There are parking facilities near the castle.
• Public Transportation: Take a train or bus from Luxembourg City to Ettelbruck, and then a bus to Vianden. From Vianden town, it’s a short walk to the castle.

Entrance and Tickets: Purchase your tickets at the castle entrance. It’s around Euros €10 and €2 euros for the audio guide. There might be options for guided tours, which provide in-depth insights into the castle’s history. For all the information about the tickets, visit here.

Audio Guides: Consider using audio guides if available. They offer a detailed narration of the castle’s history and architecture as you explore.

The Mullerthal Region

The Mullerthal Region, also known as Little Switzerland, is a beautiful area of Luxembourg that is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The region is known for its rocky landscapes, dense forests, and picturesque villages. Be sure to visit the town of Echternach, which is the oldest town in Luxembourg.

Getting There:

• The Mullerthal Region is easily accessible from Luxembourg City, which is the main entry point for most travelers.
• The closest airport is Luxembourg Airport, and from there, you can rent a car or take a train/bus to the Mullerthal Region.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are vibrant.

Summer (July to August) can be popular but might also be crowded. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, but the region takes on a magical charm.

Must-See Attractions:

Mullerthal Trail: This network of well-marked hiking paths takes you through the region’s iconic rock formations, dense forests, and quaint villages. There are three main routes: Route 1, Route 2, and Route 3, each offering unique landscapes. For all these routes you can find more information on the official website of Mullterthal Trails here.

Echternach: The oldest town in Luxembourg, Echternach is famous for its Benedictine abbey, charming streets, and the beautiful Echternach Lake. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the impressive Dancing Procession of Echternach (held on Whit Tuesday).

Berdorf: A picturesque village known for its distinctive sandstone rocks and caves. It’s a paradise for rock climbers and photographers.

Wolfsschlucht: Translated as “Wolf’s Gorge,” this stunning natural canyon is a captivating spot for a hike. The trail through the gorge features wooden walkways and ladders.

Beaufort Castle: This medieval castle offers a glimpse into Luxembourg’s history and boasts panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Check for guided tours.

The Moselle Valley

The Moselle Valley is a wine region that stretches along the border between Luxembourg and Germany. The region is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and vineyards. Visitors can take a leisurely drive or bike ride along the river, stopping to taste some of the local wines along the way.

The Ardennes

The Ardennes is a forested region in the south of Luxembourg that is popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, or kayaking in the area. Be sure to visit the town of Clervaux, which is home to a beautiful castle and a museum dedicated to the Battle of the Bulge.

The Schengen Agreement Monument

The Schengen Agreement Monument is located in the town of Schengen, where the agreement was signed in 1985. The agreement allows for passport-free travel within most of the European Union, and the monument has become a symbol of European unity.

Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial

Located in the town of Hamm, the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II. The cemetery contains the graves of over 5,000 American soldiers who lost their lives during the war.

Enjoy Luxembourgish Cuisine

No trip to Luxembourg is complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisines. Luxembourg’s cuisine is a mix of German, French, and Belgian influences, and you’ll find plenty of delicious dishes to try. Some of the must-try dishes include Judd mat Gaardebounen, Kniddelen (potato dumplings), F’rell am Reisleck (trout with a Riesling sauce), and many options of Vegetarian food. Don’t forget to try some of the local wines, like the Riesling or the Pinot Noir.

Tips for Traveling in Luxembourg

Currency: Luxembourg uses the euro as its currency, so make sure to bring some cash or use your credit card.

Language: Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. English is also widely spoken, so language should not be a barrier.

Transportation: Luxembourg has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains. If you plan to explore the countryside, renting a car is also a good option.

Weather: Luxembourg has a temperate climate, with mild summers and cold winters. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel and pack accordingly.

Distance by train or vehicle from well-known cities in the vicinity of Luxembourg

From Luxembourg By Train:

To Paris: 2h 10m by high-speed train

To Brussels: 3 hours direct

To Frankfurt: 4 hours with 1 to 2 connections

To Strasbourg: 1.5-hour direct

From Luxembourg By Car:

To Paris: 375 km, 3.75 hours

To Brussels: 230 km, 2.5 hours

To Frankfurt: 272 km, 3.25 hours

To Strasbourg: 220 km, 2.25 hours

Final Thoughts

Luxembourg is a beautiful country that offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring charming old towns, hiking through forests and hills, or simply relaxing in the countryside, Luxembourg has something for everyone. See you in the next blog! Take Care!