Your Essential Travel Guide to Luxembourg
Discover Luxembourg
Sandwiched between Germany, Belgium and France, Luxembourg represents Europe’s charm at its finest. Despite its population of just 650,000 people, this country is steeped in history and enjoys a rich cultural heritage. The national motto is ‘Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn’ (we want to remain what we are), a hymn to independence and pride.
Built on a UNESCO-listed medieval fortress, the capital, Luxembourg City, stretches over lush greenery and fairytale-like cobbled alleys. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque destination, we have you covered. Explore the best things to do, seasonal events and where to stay and eat for a memorable stay.
A brief history of Luxembourg
Although Luxembourg's history started with the Romanian conquest in 53 BC, its proper establishment occurred in 963 when it became independent.
Here are some must-know facts:
- In 963, Siegfried, Count de Ardennes, exchanged his lands for a castle along the Alzette River.
- Over the following centuries, the House of Luxembourg became powerful due to various treaties, marriages, and inheritances.
- After the Eight Years’ War, the country lost its independence and became part of the Southern Netherlands.
- The Vienna Congress in 1815 made Luxembourg a Grand Duchy with the Netherlands and partitioned its territories.
- The country’s formal independence was confirmed after the Luxembourg Crisis in 1867.
- After WWII, Luxembourg became one of the world’s wealthiest countries, home to many European institutions and central banks.
Things to do in Luxembourg
Historic and charming, Luxembourg has plenty to offer its visitors. Find some of the best things to do in and around the capital below or check out the unique experiences available on GetYourGuide.
- Explore Luxembourg Old Town
A visit to Luxembourg Old Town is the best way to soak up its unique atmosphere. Wander through its alleys and historic buildings while enjoying sweeping views of the city’s original walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. - Stroll around Kirchberg
Luxembourg has a special way of blending old and new, and Kirchberg is the perfect example. Connected to the Old Town through the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, it’s home to the European Investment Bank, Luxembourg Philharmonie and the Museum of Modern Art (MUDAM). - Château de Vianden
An hour’s drive from Luxembourg, the Château de Vianden is Europe’s largest remaining feudal residence of the Gothic era, built between the 11th and 14th centuries. Highlights include the chapel and the Renaissance dining room.
Restaurants in Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s culinary scene is second to none. Here are our top picks for the best restaurants:
- Grand Café (£££).
Next door to the Place d’Armes, the Grand Café has been serving traditional French recipes since 1894. The menu includes everything from carpaccio and tartare to burgers, seafood, and meat-based dishes. - Brasserie Guillaume (£££).
Brasserie Guillaume focuses on seafood platters and carpaccio, bringing together a fusion of traditional and culinary innovation. The restaurant also has an on-site fishmonger, so if you want to cook at home, you can enjoy fresh produce delivered to your door. - Restaurant Clairefontaine (££££).
Enjoy a luxury dining experience at Restaurant Clairefontaine. The fixed-price menu offers authentic French delicacies, from scallop carpaccio to roasted duck fillet.
Where to stay in Luxembourg
These are some of the best hotels in Luxembourg for a comfortable and relaxing stay:
- Domus Hotel (★★★).
Overlooking Edith Klein Park, Domus Hotel enjoys proximity to Luxembourg’s main attractions. Opt for a standard studio if you’re travelling on a budget or treat yourself to a one-bedroom apartment for maximum comfort. - INNSiDE by Meliá Luxembourg (★★★★).
Stylish and sustainable, this 4-star hotel on Luxembourg’s northern outskirts provides guests with a 24/7 fitness centre, meeting rooms and open dining spaces. - Hotel Sofitel Luxembourg Europe (★★★★★).
A stone’s throw from Luxembourg Philharmonie, this 5-star hotel is perfect for leisure and business trips. It has a fitness centre, a bar, a gourmet restaurant and seven spacious meeting rooms.
Seasonal events in Luxembourg
Luxembourg takes French and German traditions and adds a local twist to make them extra special. These are some of the best events taking place throughout the year:
- Buergbrennen (Bonfire Day)
When: February
Luxembourg’s version of Bonfire Night involves locals burning wood or old Christmas trees in a pagan ritual to celebrate the spring solstice. The pile is usually in the shape of a cross, with the aim of bringing people together to bid goodbye to winter. - Éimaischen
When: Easter Monday
Easter Monday welcomes one of Luxembourg’s most beloved traditions: Éimaischen. Traditional pottery markets showcase their small bird-shaped terracotta whistles, the Péckvillercher. The festival dates back to 1827 and involves exciting folklore activities for all ages. - Schueberfouer
When: August - September
The Schueberfouer is Luxembourg’s annual funfair, occurring yearly on Saint Barthélemy’s Eve. First held in 1340, the festival hosts food stands, rides and roller coasters, making it a fun day out for everyone.
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