Europe’s Charming Capital
Luxembourg City, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is a fascinating blend of ancient fortifications and modern European institutions. Perched dramatically on steep cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers visitors a unique mix of historical charm, international flair, and natural beauty. From its old town’s winding cobblestone streets to the sleek buildings of the Kirchberg quarter, Luxembourg City is a compact yet diverse destination that punches well above its weight.
Essential Luxembourg City Information
- Languages: Luxembourgish, French, German (English widely spoken)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET) UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Visas: Part of the Schengen Area (allowing border-free travel in 26 European countries)
- Tipping: Service is usually included in bills. Additional tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Where to Stay in Luxembourg City: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Ville Haute (Old Town)
The heart of Luxembourg City, Ville Haute is home to the Grand Ducal Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Place d’Armes. This pedestrian-friendly area offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, with numerous restaurants and shops lining its charming streets.
Grund
Nestled in the valley along the Alzette River, Grund is a picturesque lower town known for its medieval architecture and tranquil atmosphere. It’s connected to the upper town by elevators and footpaths, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to the city center.
Kirchberg
Home to EU institutions and numerous banks, Kirchberg is Luxembourg’s modern face. This district boasts contemporary architecture, upscale hotels, and cultural attractions like the Philharmonie and MUDAM (Museum of Modern Art). It’s well-connected to the city center by tram and bus.
Clausen
Once home to Luxembourg’s breweries, Clausen has transformed into a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it popular among young locals and visitors alike.
Pfaffenthal
Another of Luxembourg’s lower towns, Pfaffenthal offers a glimpse into the city’s industrial past. Recently revitalized, it features historic buildings, pleasant walking paths along the Alzette River, and the impressive Pfaffenthal Lift connecting it to the upper town.
Must-See Sights in Luxembourg City
- Bock Casemates: A vast network of underground tunnels and fortifications carved into the city’s cliffs.
- Grand Ducal Palace: The official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, offering guided tours in summer.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: A beautiful example of late Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements.
- MUDAM: Luxembourg’s Museum of Modern Art, housed in a striking building designed by I.M. Pei.
- Adolphe Bridge: An iconic double-decked arch bridge offering panoramic views of the Pétrusse Valley.
- Place Guillaume II: A lively square in the heart of the old town, home to the City Hall and a statue of William II.
Discover Luxembourg City’s Hidden Gems
- Wenzel Walk: A scenic 5.5 km circular walk offering stunning views of the city’s fortifications and valleys.
- Villa Vauban: A small but exquisite art museum set in beautiful gardens.
- Pétrusse Express: A miniature train that takes you through the picturesque Pétrusse Valley.
- National Museum of Natural History: An interactive museum perfect for families, showcasing Luxembourg’s natural heritage.
- Schueberfouer: If visiting in late August/early September, don’t miss this traditional funfair dating back to the 14th century.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Luxembourgish Dishes
- Judd mat Gaardebounen: Smoked pork collar served with broad beans, a national favorite.
- Bouneschlupp: A hearty green bean soup often including potatoes and bacon.
- Gromperekichelcher: Crispy potato pancakes served with apple sauce.
- Quetschentaart: A traditional plum tart popular in late summer.
- Crémant de Luxembourg: The local sparkling wine, perfect for toasting your visit to the Grand Duchy.
7 Essential Tips for Visiting Luxembourg City
- Luxembourg Card: Consider purchasing this card for free public transport and entry to over 60 attractions.
- City Promenade Tour: Join the guided walking tour from the Tourist Office to get oriented with the city’s layout and history.
- Use Public Transport: Luxembourg offers free public transport nationwide, including buses, trams, and trains.
- Visit the Grund at Night: Experience the magical atmosphere of the lower town illuminated in the evening.
- Sunday Markets: Explore the bustling markets in the city center on Sunday mornings for local produce and crafts.
- Take the Pfaffenthal Lift: Enjoy panoramic views of the city while connecting the upper and lower towns for free.
- Day Trips: Use Luxembourg City as a base to explore nearby castles like Vianden or the Moselle wine region.
How to Get to Luxembourg City
By Air: Luxembourg is served by one main airport:
- Luxembourg Airport (LUX): Located just 6 km east of the city center, it handles both domestic and international flights. The airport is well-connected to the city by bus and taxi services.
By Rail: Luxembourg City is well-connected to the European rail network:
- Luxembourg Central Station (Gare de Luxembourg): The main railway station, offering direct connections to major European cities like Paris, Brussels, and Trier. High-speed TGV trains connect Luxembourg to Paris in about 2 hours.
For a wider range of international flights, travelers can also consider flying into nearby major airports such as Frankfurt (Germany), Brussels (Belgium), or Paris (France), and then taking a train to Luxembourg City.
