Visiting Luxembourg City
Editor's note, updated March 5, 2025
A compact capital at the center of Europe, Luxembourg balances historic fortifications, major European institutions, and vast green spaces. Its old town sits perched atop dramatic cliffs, and the city’s blend of UNESCO-listed heritage and a diverse, international population makes it a compelling choice for a quick trip.
The Old Town and its fortifications
Luxembourg's historic center is a maze of cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture. Place Guillaume II, dominated by the City Hall, serves as the natural starting point for any visit. A short walk away, the Palais grand-ducal serves as the official residence of the Grand Duke, drawing visitors with its Flemish Renaissance facade and summer guided tours.
The city's most impressive feature remains the casemates du Bock. This network of underground tunnels carved directly into the rock face offers sweeping views over the Alzette valley.
The European quarter
Luxembourg acts as a key political hub, hosting several major European institutions. The quartier de Kirchberg feels worlds away from the old town, defined by modern glass and steel structures. This area houses the Court of Justice of the European Union and the Musée d'Art moderne Grand-Duc Jean (MUDAM), which displays contemporary works inside a building designed by architect Ieoh Ming Pei.
Valleys and green spaces
Despite its role as a capital, the city stays remarkably green. The vallée de la Pétrusse cuts through the city and serves as a favorite local walking route. Further out, the Parc de Merl provides a quiet spot for a break. For those looking to hike, the réserve naturelle du Mullerthal, often called Little Switzerland, is accessible in about an hour by car.
A deep cultural scene
Luxembourg hosts several high-quality museums, including the Musée national d'histoire et d'art, which holds collections spanning from antiquity to modern art. Music lovers should look for shows at the Philharmonie de Luxembourg, a striking architectural landmark located in Kirchberg.
Cuisine influenced by its neighbors
Luxembourgish food draws heavily from French, German, and Belgian traditions. Local staples include judd mat gaardebounen, a dish of smoked pork collar served with fava beans, and bouneschlupp, a hearty green bean soup. When it comes to drinks, the local crémant de Luxembourg holds its own against top-tier French sparkling wines, while local beers remain a staple of daily life.
Where to eat?
- Le Bouquet Garni (Center): Refined cuisine blending local and French traditions.
- Am Tiirmschen (Center): Traditional local specialties in a historic setting.
- Scott's Pub (Grund): A casual bar and restaurant located right on the riverbank.
Where to stay?
- Hotel Le Place d'Armes (Center): A boutique hotel housed in a historic building.
- Novotel Kirchberg (Kirchberg): A functional choice for those needing proximity to the European institutions.
- Youth Hostel Luxembourg (Grund): A budget-friendly option featuring panoramic views of the city.
When to go?
The best time to visit is during the spring or summer, when the weather is mild and the parks are in full bloom. In December, the Christmas markets bring a festive atmosphere to the old town.
How to get there?
Luxembourg is a 2 hour and 15 minute train ride from Paris via the TGV Est (tickets from about 50 EUR / $55). The Luxembourg-Findel international airport offers connections to a wide range of European cities.
How to get around?
Public transportation is free across the entire country, making it incredibly easy to navigate by bus and tram. The old town is best explored on foot, and the city utilizes a system of public elevators to connect its different elevation levels.
Luxembourg City is a very beautiful city that deserves to be better known. The historic center is very pretty and quite lively. I recommend taking the walk that goes along the ramparts, as it offers a magnificent view of the whole city. You can get to the upper town using a completely free panoramic elevator.