Things to Do in Luxembourg City and Beyond: My Recommendations for First-Time Visitors

Every year when I’m in Europe, I make a point to hang out with my cousin Santana in Cologne. Usually, we stick to her turf, but recently we decided it was time to branch out. That’s how I found myself in a family road trip convoy consisting of Santana, her son, and her brother Justus, all piled into a 2006 Fiat Doblò.

The catch? The Fiat had a massive rooftop tent bolted to it, which effectively turned the car into a paraglider the second we went anywhere near the speed limit.

White-knuckle driving aside, our floating Fiat eventually landed us in Luxembourg. Tucked between popular giants like France, Germany, and Belgium, it’s a place that is too often overlooked and skipped. But I have to say, that’s a massive mistake!

It is, without exaggeration, absolutely beautiful!

If you’re ready to explore a hidden gem that feels straight out of a movie or storybook, it’s time to start planning your next trip. Here are the best things to do in Luxembourg to help you get started…

How to Get to Luxembourg

Thanks to its location in the heart of Western Europe, close to many popular tourist destinations, making travel plans to visit Luxembourg is relatively easy. Here are a few options to consider, depending on your budget, timeframe, and preferred travel style:

By Car

If your trip starts outside of Luxembourg and you are renting a vehicle, the drive is incredibly straightforward. Many nearby countries are connected by major roads and motorways, and there are no tolls to worry about within the country. As part of the Schengen Area (which includes 29 European countries), travellers can cross from one country to another without stopping at the border for passport control.

That said, not all countries are included in the Schengen Area. For example, if you’re travelling to Ireland, they still have their own border rules you will need to follow. This is something you’ll need to research and cross-reference with your travel plans before heading out.

By Bus

The bus is sometimes an overlooked option for travel, but it’s great for budget-friendly travellers. Both FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus offer many routes into the country from cities all over Europe. It will take you a bit longer than the high-speed train or flying, but it’s a fun, low-cost way to travel over the border while enjoying the area’s incredible views.

By Train

For the classic European experience, catching a train into the grand Luxembourg Central Station (Gare de Luxembourg) is a great option. For example, if you’re coming from France, you can take the high-speed TGV Est for a quick trip from Paris to Luxembourg City (approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes).

To see the schedules and book your trip, use SNFC Connect for routes out of France, SNCB International for departures from Belgium, or Deutsche Bahn if you’re coming from Germany.

By Plane

If you’re looking for the quickest and easiest way to get started with your trip to Luxembourg, flying into Luxembourg Airport (LUX) may be your ideal solution. Located just 6 kms east of the capital, the airport is just 10 to 15 minutes away by taxi or rental car. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus or tram just outside the terminal to travel into the city.

Finding Your Ideal Luxembourg Accommodations

Every trip needs a home base. To find the perfect spot to lay your head, start by considering where you plan to spend most of your time. If you’re planning to center all your adventures around Luxembourg City, it would make sense to choose an accommodation within the city limits. However, if, like me, you want to see more of the country, there are many nearby places worth considering.

We stayed in an Airbnb in Mertert, a charming town that sits right on the Luxembourg-Germany border. It was a massive, beautiful house with multiple rooms, two patios, and a wooden table that could seat twelve. As for vibe, it was filled with incredible artwork, the kind of place that makes you want to stop travelling and start a new life as a border-town socialite.

If you prefer a more traditional accommodation, you may wish to check out the many Luxembourg hotels. For those looking for a more luxurious stay, I recommend properties like the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa, Parc Hotel Alvisse or the Hostellerie du Grünewald. Searching for a more budget-friendly hotel without compromising comfort and cleanliness? B&B HOTEL Luxembourg Centre Cloche D’Or might be more your style.

Getting Around Luxembourg

One thing you’ll love when you visit Luxembourg is the fact that public transit is free. Yes, actually free! Trains, trams, and buses cost $0. It’s like the city is apologizing for the price of coffee (more on that later). Regardless of the reason, having free transit options makes the destination even more tourist-friendly.

Public transit isn’t the only way to navigate the area. If you prefer driving and don’t have a cousin with a Fiat, I recommend checking out DiscoverCars for rates.

Of course, with cars comes parking. Parking in the city center is at a premium, and if you’re in a “paragliding” van like we were, indoor parking is a gamble you’ll likely lose. Luckily, a local filled me in on the solution: download the Indigo Neo App. It’s the standard here for finding and paying for spots, especially if you need outdoor clearance.

Another logistical note: Before you land, grab an Airalo eSIM. Connectivity is essential in today’s society, and you don’t want to be fumbling trying to figure it out. With your eSIM in place, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running without spending a fortune.

A Quick Word on the Wallet…

One thing I learned very quickly after arriving is that Luxembourg is expensive. We stopped at Fischer for a sandwich, and it was nearly 20 euros! The sandwich was delicious, but it was an eye-opener. It may have been that we were on a typical European pedestrian walkway, and the pricing reflected the fact that it was a touristy area. But generally speaking, keep your wallet ready for a workout.

The Best Things to Do in Luxembourg City

What I love most about the city is its dramatic, gravity-defying geography. It is literally built on multiple levels, divided into an upper town, a lower town, and deep limestone casemates. It’s a really unique experience.

The old town, Grund, is located in a sort of valley, surrounded by cliffs, with the newer parts of the city perched atop. Bridges travel from one end of the valley to the other, driving over the old town. On the corner of the cliffside, an ancient fort overlooks the Grund, once standing there to protect the valley below from invaders. Today, it’s a popular landmark, reminding visitors of the city’s history.

It’s a city that is designed for wandering, so pack your favourite walking shoes.

The Bock Casemates & Rocher du Bock

These fortifications along the massive limestone rockfaces and cliffs offered an incredible level of defence for the north-eastern corner of Luxembourg. The earliest fortifications here may date back to Roman times. In 963, Count Siegfried built the Castle of Lucilinburhuc, laying the foundations of what would eventually become Luxembourg City. The tunnels were so effective that they earned the city the nickname “Gibraltar of the North.”

Today, the 23-km network of underground tunnels has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the must-see Luxembourg tourist attractions for any history buffs visiting the city! You can tour the tunnels, taking in the views from the old cannon gun ports and seeing firsthand the tunnels that once served as safe bomb shelters during the First and Second World Wars, protecting up to 35,000 local citizens.

Pro Tip: Book your tickets through GetYourGuide to make sure you secure your desired time slots. You can also check out bundled tour options in the city.

The Grund (The Lower Town)

I absolutely love the old town. You can’t talk about what to see in Luxembourg and forget to mention the Grund. Located down in the valley, it almost feels like its own world, surrounded by the cliffs and the newer city above. It’s such a unique experience and well worth checking out.

This historic neighbourhood is home to an active nightlife scene and also one of the best restaurants in Luxembourg, a Micheline restaurant called Mosconi. There are also many little shops to explore and shop for that perfect souvenir.

A few must-see attractions in the Grund include:

• Ascenseur Panoramique du Pfaffenthal (Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator): This glass elevator will take you from the city center at Pescatore park to the Pfaffenthal district in the valley. But its functionality isn’t the main reason to check it out… The elevator’s glass walls offer stunning views of the area! The best part? It’s free for use, running every day from 5:45 am until 1 am.

• Béinchen Bréck: This stone footbridge was built in 1684. It originally served as part of the city’s fortifications, connecting the valley to the Vauban Towers. It was converted into a public pedestrian bridge in 1867.

• Tours Vauban (Vauban Towers): These medieval stone towers stand where the Eich Gte and Bons Malades Gate once stood. Recognizing that these areas were weak points during the French siege, the fortress was reinforced, closing off the area with a protective wall. Today, a small cinema on-site shows a documentary sharing the history of the area.

• Pont du Stierchen (Stierchen Bridge): Another beautiful historic stone bridge, it was built as part of the Wenzell wall, connecting the Rham Plateau and Grund with the city of Luxembourg. This is definitely one of the area’s most Instagrammable spots.  

Chemin de la Corniche

This beautiful scenic pathway will take you along the walls of the upper city, offering views of the Alzette Valley, the Rham Plateau, and the Grund old town below. Signage along the walk will help you identify which Luxembourg attractions and structures you can see in the distance.  In fact, the views from this spot are so stunning that local journalist Batty Weber called it “the most beautiful balcony of Europe,” a title that has stuck with the area to this day.

Cathedral Notre-Dame

This beautiful Catholic cathedral was first constructed in 1613 and served as a Jesuit church. It is a stunning example of the area’s historic architecture, making it well worth the neck strain (yes, you’ll have to look WAY up to take it all in). The stained glass and large columns all around the church are breathtaking. Don’t be surprised if you lose track of time as you try to take in all the ornate details. I did.

In addition to the historical importance of the cathedral itself, the accompanying cemetery is the final resting place of several notable people throughout the city’s history, including the King of Bohemia, the Count of Luxembourg, and members of the Grand Ducal Family (Luxembourg’s royal family). 

Palais Grand-Ducal

Speaking of the royal family, the Palais Grand-Ducal (Grand Ducal Palace) is another place worth visiting. The official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg is definitely a beautiful example of local architecture in its own right. You can take in the beauty of the palace from the outside or, if you’re interested in seeing more, there are periods throughout the year when tours can be booked. For summer 2026, you can tour the palace between Saturday, July 18^th and Sunday, August 30^th.

During my visit, I learned an important lesson about visiting the palace. I watched a palace guard absolutely lose it on a woman who got too close for a photo. He yelled, she jumped, we all jumped. Take the picture, but respect their personal space, folks!

Chocolate House Nathalie Bonn

If you’re a regular visitor to my site, then you know that I have a serious sweet tooth. It’s something that comes up in almost all my travels, and Luxembourg is no exception. Right across from the Palace, I was happy to discover Chocolate House Nathalie Bonn, a beautiful medieval building that holds some of the best Belgian and French chocolates you will ever taste.

I love their “chocolate on a spoon” concept. You stir it into hot milk, and they have every flavour imaginable. Fudge, cakes, you name it. The whole place smells like raw chocolate heaven!

National Museum of Archaeology, History & Art (MNAHA)

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the city beyond what a Luxembourg travel guide like this can offer, the National Museum of Archaeology, History & Art is a must-see. Here, you’ll find exhibits showcasing everything from Roman artifacts to contemporary art, painting a clear picture of the culture and art that have shaped this unique, beautiful corner of the world.

There are four curated self-guided tours through the museum to choose from:

• A for Archaeology
• B for Cabinet of Medals
• C for Decorative and Popular Arts
• D for Fine Arts

If you’re travelling with the whole family, the museum also has a “Luxembourg for Kids” tour you can explore that is geared to children aged 6 and up. This 12-stop tour will take you through Luxembourg’s history in a fun and playful way, making it more interesting (and understandable) for younger travellers.

Fischer

If you’re searching for a quick spot to grab your morning coffee or a quick bite to eat at lunch, Fischer is a great spot. This is the perfect place for those who love fresh-baked bread and pastries. This is where I grabbed the infamous 20-euro sandwich during my trip, and I’m not going to lie, it was delicious!

They have a total of 67 bakery locations across Luxembourg, ensuring there’s a convenient place to fuel up for a full day of adventures wherever you happen to be in the city.

Philharmonie Luxembourg

Are you more of a music lover? If so, you’re in luck! The Luxembourg Philharmonic has been performing for over 90 years, sharing an incredible level of musical skill and a true love of the art form. Currently, it includes 99 musicians from more than 20 nations, bringing together an incredible sound that will blow you away! You can check out the ongoing schedule, including their “Kids’ Phil” for younger music lovers, on their website to plan your visit accordingly.

Even if you don’t catch a show when you visit Luxembourg, the architecture of the building is a must-see. The concert hall features 823 white steel columns, creating a mesmerizing display.

The “Upper” Experience (Ville Haute)

Just as The Grund feels like its own world, so too does the upper city. High above the rest of the capital, this part of Luxembourg, known as Ville Haute, is perched on limestone cliffs, offering an incredible view. Here you’ll find everything from beautiful historic monuments and 17^th-century architecture to upscale shopping experiences. It’s a unique blend of the past and current urban energy.

During your visit to this area, make sure you check out Pont Adolphe, also referred to as the “New Bridge.” However, it’s not all that new; it’s just new compared to the amazing history all around you. Built between 1900 and 1903, the bridge stands 42 meters above the Pétrusse Valley, creating a one-of-a-kind view. Make sure you have your camera on hand.

Additionally, as a history lover, there is another Ville Haute location on my list of what to see in Luxembourg: Place de la Constitution, or Constitution Square. This public square is built on top of an ancient fortification wall called the Beck Bastion. It’s also the location of the Gëlle Fra (Golden Lady) memorial, a tribute to the Luxembourgish soldiers who perished during the First World War.

Mosconi

This Michelin Guide Restaurant first opened its doors in 1986. Mosconi is one of the best-known Luxembourg restaurants, and for good reason. Their menu showcases a love of traditional Italian cuisine, but their pasta dishes are infamous. It’s not just about the food, either. They pay careful attention to every detail of your experience, from the beautifully set tables to the upscale décor. If you are searching for a high-end fine dining experience to celebrate an anniversary, birthday, or another special occasion, this is the perfect place.

Mudam (Museum of Modern Art)

For the art lovers among us, Mudam is well worth the visit. Built on the historic site of Fort Thüngen, the museum today is home to more than 200 works by more than 100 artists in its permanent collection. They also build upon this already impressive experience with temporary expositions, workshops, and themed guided tours.

The building itself is a masterpiece in its own right! Designed by I.M. Pei (the Louvre pyramid guy). It cost $100M to build! Its sleek, modern design brings the magic of light and glass together in such a creative way. You have to check it out.

Places to Visit in Luxembourg Beyond the City Limits

While Luxembourg City has much to offer, there are many more incredible tourist attractions and destinations to explore if you step outside the city limits. During my visit, we took a road trip to Vianden to explore some nearby attractions, and it was well worth the drive.

Vianden Castle

This large, beautiful castle was built between the 11^th and 14^th centuries. Once the home base for the Counts of Vianden, it was sold off piece by piece in 1820. This change of ownership and uncertainty allowed the castle’s upkeep to fall through the cracks. In 1977, the once impressive castle was transferred to the state, and restoration began.  

I was geeking out from the moment Vianden Castle came into view, but Santana and Justus were… let’s say, unimpressed. Let’s call it “Castle Fatigue.” They let her son run wild while they politely waited for me to finish staring at the masonry. When you grow up in Europe on a steady diet of school trips to fortresses, “seen one castle, seen ‘em all” becomes a very real condition.

Auberge De L’Our

We stopped at this cute, medieval-esque spot right on the water for lunch. It was a great way to fuel up for the day ahead while taking in the views, including the castles looming in the distance, traditional stone bridges, and fountains along the water beside you. I enjoyed spaghetti (which was ok but a great place to chill) and a cold beer, relaxing for a moment before we continued onto the next attraction.

Our Uferpromenade

Speaking of the beautiful views, we followed up our lunch with a stroll along this riverside walkway, which runs along the Our River. It really gives that “I’m definitely in a postcard” feeling! The town has recently invested significantly in the promenade, creating an easy access opportunity for tourists and locals to visit all that Vianden has to offer. There are benches along the pathway if you’re looking for a place to relax and take it all in.

Lose Yourself in the Cliffs and Casemates of Luxembourg

I truly believe that Luxembourg is proof that the best travel destinations don’t have to be the biggest or the most popular. In fact, there is magic in exploring a hidden gem with so much culture and history.

It might give your wallet a bit of a workout, but between the free transit and priceless views, it’s a destination that gives back tenfold! If you’ve been on the fence about visiting, I hope this guide, filled with incredible things to do in Luxembourg, inspires your next trip.

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