Welcome to Luxembourg!
Culturally diverse, effortlessly photogenic and striking the perfect balance between being historically rich whilst also offering everything a modern day traveller might look for, it’s a wonder that Luxembourg is not more popular with UK holidaymakers.
Luxembourg as a country is only 57km wide and 82km long (its 47 times smaller than New York!), so it’s no surprise that its capital city, also called Luxembourg, is just as compact and perfect for a weekend getaway.
Here are some of my favourite things and top reasons to pay this gorgeous little city a visit…
First Impressions
It’s incredibly beautiful.
There is an undeniable and immediate ‘wow’ factor when you first catch a glimpse of the historic Grund neighbourhood from the upper part of Luxembourg city. My boyfriend likened the view to a model village and I to a fairytale town you see in a Disney movie.
Similarly the ‘upper’ part of town offers equally characterful views (think Genovia from Princess Diaries!). But more on that later!
Grund
The borough of Grund is situated in the ‘lower’ part of town and is an immaculately preserved historic site, comprising of delicate winding streets, cobbled pathways, romantic-looking restaurants and stunning 14th century buildings.
Outside of the National Museum of Natural History, I have to admit there isn’t LOADS to do here, but I would 100% recommend exploring the area for the sheer joy of experiencing the old quarters in all their beauty. It is honestly like stepping back in time and there are endless photo ops to be had.
Some of my favourite eating and drinking spots are located here too… check out my Luxembourg drink and dine blog post for more details!
I’m going to pass on some wisdom here in terms of getting to and from the historic village without having to sweat it out and hike your way up and then back down some incredibly steep roads. Look out for the Saint Esprit lift to get you down to Grund from the main city centre. The lifts are free, well maintained, have security, offer toilet facilities and are in constant use day and night. Alternatively you can get the 20 or 23 bus, but I believe these are infrequent.
Did you know that Luxembourg’s capital city is also called Luxembourg?
Le Chemin De La Corniche
Le Chemin De La Corniche is often referred to as the most beautiful balcony in Europe and it’s pretty much impossible to disagree with this statement!
The promenade runs along the length of the Alzette valley and showcases impressive panoramic views of the Grund district. Selfie sticks at the ready!
Bock Casemates
It would be impossible to visit a city as historic as Luxembourg and not briefly mention its past. What is now referred to as the Bock Casemates is what remains of the old network of tunnels from the original fortifications of Luxembourg built in 963 and demolished in the late 19th century.
‘Bock’ refers to the fortress built in the 10th century while the fortress’s ‘casemates’ refer to the openings in the fortress where guns could be fired. I have read that the tunnels were opened up for public use in the 1930s and subsequently used as bomb shelters during the Second World War!
This UNESCO World Heritage site cost less than 10 euros per person to enter and explore, although it must be said that due to the nature of the structure it is not recommended for those with limited mobility as there are a lot of low ceilings, uneven surfaces and stairs to climb!
Ascenseur panoramique du Pfaffenthal
Translated to ‘panoramic elevator’, the ascenseur panoramique can be found in the upper part of the capital and offers a scenic and speedy route into the Pfaffenthal area in the valley it overlooks. The elevator offers incredible panoramic views complete with glass walkway and is open from 6am in the morning to 1am at night.
Address: Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal, 1, Montée du Pfaffenthal, 2329 Luxembourg
Ville Haute Shopping
Whether you’re looking to splash your cash or just fancy a spot of window shopping, there is no better place to explore than the Ville Haute neighbourhood.
When it comes to shopping, this is the place to be for luxury shopping, independent stores, craft items, jewellery and more!
The pedestrian area here is also a must-see for its quaint little squares, Palais Grand-Ducal and many other gorgeous historic buildings.
Adolphe Bridge
An iconic landmark of the city, the Adolphe bridge acts as a link between the Gare and Ville Haute quarters. The bridge is used by automobiles and pedestrians alike and boasts incredible views of the old town. The bridge can also be admired from the Place de la Constitution area in the Old Town.
Address: Uewerstad, 1212 Luxembourg
Cathédrale Notre-Dame & Five Face Fountains
Luxembourg’s Notre-Dame cathedral was built in the 17 century as a Jesuit church and can be instantly recognised by its long, black spires.
I couldn’t find any further information on the Five Face Fountain other than that it is located on the grounds of the Cathedral, but I do know it makes for a fun photo opportunity!
Place de la Constitution
The memorial city square of Place de la Constitution features a monument dedicated to Luxembourgers who lost their lives in the First World War. The area is located opposite Notre Dame Cathedral and showcases gorgeous views over the Pétrusse Valley and Adolphe Bridge.
At the time we visited, there was what appeared to be a pop-up beach bar, so I can only assume the space is occupied by other events throughout the year.
Day Trip to Arlon, Belgium
We were pleasantly surprised to discover that a return trip from Luxembourg to Arlon costs less than 10 euros each and would only take about 20 mins so we jumped at the chance of spending a few hours in another country on a quiet day.
Arlon is a pretty small town, is the capital of Luxembourg province and is probably best known for its rolling countryside and church viewpoint. Also, keep an eye out for its flea/flower market on every first Sunday of the month between April and November.
I would not recommend visiting on a Sunday, however, as the town of Arlon pretty much shuts down, aside from the odd restaurant.
Park De Trois Glands (The Three Acorns Park)
Unwind by taking a walk/gentle hike through Park De Trois Glands, affectionately referred to as The Three Acorns Park, situated in the Kirchberg district.
The area has been re-developed to best showcase the history of the area with the surrounding panoramic views of the old town.
Our Hotel – Sofitel Le Grand Ducal
We stayed at the Sofitel Le Grand Ducal. It was ideally located, just 10 minutes from Luxembourg Central train station and within walking distance of local bus stops, which make getting to and from the airport and old town straightforward.
Better still, the hotel overlooks the Vallée de la Pétrusse, which means you get some impressive views when you wake up each morning (we were in room 603 for reference!).
Did you know that Luxembourg is one of the top 10 richest countries in the world?
Currency
Luxembourg’s official currency is the Euro. The city centre has plenty of ATMs to use should you need to withdraw cash at any point and card payments are widely accepted.
I would note that the city is a little more on the pricey side when it comes to eating out and getting a taxi etc. Just something to consider.
Transportation
From the airport…
As with so many European cities, getting from the airport to your accommodation is pretty easy in Luxembourg. The number 16, 29 and 117 busses run at regular intervals and will take you to the city centre in good time for a couple euros per person. Alternatively you can also grab a taxi which can cost up to 50 euros to get to the city centre.
Out and about…
I say this about pretty much every city I visit (it is that much more prevalent with Luxembourg as it is so small) but honestly getting around and seeing the sights is so easy and enjoyable on foot. All of the must-see places of interest are located a short walk from one another so all you’ll need is Google maps and some trainers and you are good to go! Bikes are also a very popular method of seeing the city and can be rented for a day or half a day in numerous locations around the city.
Should you wish to see more outside of the capital, then renting a car is definitely the way forward. From my own research getting to and from some of the other points of interest throughout the country can be difficult as public transportation is unreliable or infrequent.
There you have it!
My little guide to Luxembourg is complete!
I hope you guys found my experience inspirational and intriguing enough to want to put Luxembourg on your list of countries to visit in 2020. I would love to hear your thoughts on this remarkable and underrated city break destination, so be sure to drop me a comment if you have ever been or are planning to visit in the near future.
Until next time…
Lica xoxo
