LUXEMBOURG

Luxembourg, a small but mighty European nation, is a captivating blend of historic fortresses, picturesque valleys, and a vibrant, modern capital. Its unique position at the crossroads of European cultures has forged a rich heritage, evident in its multilingual society and impressive architecture.

Region: Western Europe

Capital: Luxembourg City

Official Languages: Luxembourgish, French, German. English is also widely spoken, especially in business and tourism.

Level of Travel Safety: Luxembourg is very safe. Exercise normal safety precautions. Petty crime is rare, but be mindful of your belongings in crowded tourist areas.

A map of Europe with the country of Luxembourg highlighted in red.

Why Visit Luxembourg?

Fairytale Castles: Explore Vianden Castle, perched above the Our River, and the mighty Bourscheid Castle.

Compact and Easy to Explore: Tiny size means major sights are all within 1–2 hours by car or train.

Multilingual Culture: Most locals speak at least three languages—Luxembourgish, French, and German.

A panoramic view of a town with a river running through it and buildings clustered on the hillsides.

UNESCO-listed Capital: Luxembourg City’s Old Quarters and ancient fortifications are full of charm and history.

Gorgeous Nature: The Ardennes hills and Mullerthal’s sandstone gorges offer pristine hiking.

Gastronomy & Wine: Sip crisp Moselle whites and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants in a country obsessed with quality.

A scenic view of a calm lake surrounded by lush green hills.

Essential Trip Information

Luxembourg is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visa-free travel for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days) for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the EU.

Check specific visa requirements by nationality via the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local embassy.

Passports must be valid at least three months beyond your stay and issued in the last ten years.

Border officers may request proof of onward travel and sufficient funds (around €100/day recommended).

The Euro (€) is used. Common notes: €5, €10, €20, €50. Coins range from €2 to 1 cent.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount; ATMs offer better rates than airport kiosks.

  • During Your Trip: Use bank ATMs (BCEE, BGL BNP Paribas). Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted nearly everywhere. Keep €20–50 in cash for small cafés and rural areas.

  • What to Avoid: Airport exchange booths and “dynamic currency conversion” (always opt for charge in EUR).

Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish (spoken), French (legal), and German (media).

English is widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist settings.

Helpful Phrases

  • “Moien” – Hello

  • “Wéi geet et?” – How are you?

  • “Merci” – Thank you

  • “Wou ass…?” – Where is…?

Luxembourg is extremely safe with very low crime rates.

Exercise standard precautions in train stations or crowded markets.

Emergency Number: 112

No special vaccinations are needed.

Tap water is safe.

Pharmacies are plentiful—look for the green cross sign.

Bring travel insurance—medical care is high quality but expensive for non-EU travelers.

Public transport is free nationwide—a rarity in Europe.

Trains: Fast and reliable, connect all major towns.

Buses/Trams: Frequent and clean. Luxembourg City has a new tram line.

Cycling/Walking: Popular in scenic regions like Mullerthal and Moselle Valley.

Driving: Renting a car is ideal for castle-hopping or visiting wine villages.

Luxembourg is moderately expensive, especially in the capital.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels/small guesthouses (US$60–100/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$120–180/night)

  • Luxury: Upscale stays (US$250+/night)

Food

  • Quick eats: Bakeries, cafés (US$10–15)

  • Casual dining: Local bistros (US$20–35/person)

  • Fine dining: US$60+/person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$4–8 (local craft is popular)

  • Wine: US$6–10/glass (try Moselle Riesling)

Transportation

  • Free public transit across the country

  • Taxi: US$15–30 within the city

  • Car rentals: US$60–100/day

Money-Saving Tips

  • Use free trains and buses throughout the country

  • Visit free-entry castles and hiking trails

  • Eat prix fixe lunch menus (often under US$20)

Explore Luxembourg

The historic heart with fortified walls, quaint streets, and the Grand Ducal Palace.

Contemporary art museum set in a striking modern building in Luxembourg City.

A majestic medieval castle perched above the town of Vianden in northern Luxembourg.

Charming town known for its abbey and vibrant annual dancing procession.

Scenic wine region along the Moselle River with picturesque vineyards and riverside villages.

A lively nightlife and dining area in Luxembourg City, rich in history and atmosphere.

Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures in the Ardennes region.

Ruins of a medieval fortress with a Renaissance-style castle nearby in eastern Luxembourg.

Quaint village famous for its traditional timber-framed houses and local festivals.

Renowned concert hall hosting classical and contemporary music events.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Crowds

  • Authentic Local Vibe

  • Cozy Atmosphere Main

Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures (average 30-40ºF / -1-4ºC)

  • Shorter Days

  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)

  • Some closures

Key Regions:

  • Luxembourg City: Enjoy Christmas markets (if applicable) and a vibrant indoor cultural scene.

  • Ardennes: Experience the snowy landscapes and charming small towns.

  • Mullerthal (Little Switzerland): Explore the unique rock formations with fewer visitors, though hiking might be challenging depending on snow/ice.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather (Spring average 45-60ºF / 7-16ºC, Autumn average 45-55ºF / 7-13ºC)

  • Manageable Crowds

  • Reasonable Prices (e.g., a mid-range hotel might cost US$120-180 per night)

  • Festivals & Events (e.g., Éislécker Ham, Spring Beer Festival)

  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn) Main

Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn)

  • Some regional variation in temperatures

  • Popular events can still draw crowds

Key Regions:

  • Luxembourg City: Pleasant temperatures for exploring the Old Town, Bock Casemates, and museums.

  • Moselle Valley: Perfect for wine tasting as vineyards are active, and boat tours are available.

  • Mullerthal (Little Switzerland): Ideal for hiking and exploring the scenic trails.

  • Ardennes: Enjoy outdoor activities like cycling and exploring castles before the colder months.

  • Mid-Summer (June-August): Expect hotel prices to range from US$180-300+ per night.

  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period

  • Popular Festivals (e.g., Schueberfouer in August/September)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid political commentary, especially about the EU—Luxembourg is a founding member and takes European politics seriously.

Tipping: Service charge is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% at restaurants is appreciated.

Dress Code: Smart-casual is standard in cities; more relaxed attire is fine in rural areas.

Quiet Spaces: Speak softly in churches and museums—many are historical and still active places of worship.

Public Behavior: Luxembourgers value politeness and discretion—avoid loud conversations in public.

Free Attractions: Some museums offer free entry on Wednesdays after 6 PM—a great local tip!

Accommodation: Hostels (US$35–60), hotels (US$110–250), luxury (US$350+).

Food: Bistros and bakeries (US$10–20), brasseries (US$25–40), fine dining (US$70+).

Transport: Public buses/trams are free nationwide; taxis from US$15 within city.

Activities: Many historical sites and scenic parks are free; guided tours (US$20–50).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$70–100 (hostels, bakeries, free transport).

  • Mid-range: US$150–250 (3-star hotels, restaurants, museum tickets).

  • Luxury: US$350+ (high-end hotels, gourmet meals, private tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Available at hotels, cafes, shopping centers, and most public buses/trams.

SIM Cards: Post Luxembourg, Orange, and Tango sell prepaid plans (US$15–35 for 10–20GB).

eSIMs: Supported—Airalo and Holafly offer convenient digital options.

Recommended for: Medical emergencies, delays (especially during winter fog or rail strikes).

Healthcare: Public hospitals are excellent, but non-EU travelers should have coverage.

Adventure Activities: Check for exclusions if planning cycling or hiking in the Ardennes region.

From old-world charm to contemporary stays, Luxembourg offers a mix of city and countryside options.

Luxury:

  • City elegance: Hotel Le Place d’Armes (Luxembourg City), Sofitel Le Grand Ducal.
  • Countryside castles: Château d’Urspelt (Clervaux), Château de Bourglinster.

Mid-range:

  • Modern comfort: Mama Shelter, Parc Hotel Alvisse.
  • Charming inns: Hotel Simoncini (City Center), Hotel des Ardennes (Hoscheid).

Budget:

  • Guesthouses: US$50–80/night in Echternach, Esch-sur-Alzette.
  • Hostels: Youth Hostel Luxembourg City, Lultzhausen Youth Hostel.

Unique Stays:

  • Castle stays: Boutique rooms in restored fortresses near Vianden.
  • Eco-lodges: Cabins in Müllerthal region (ideal for hikers).

Tip: Book early during spring (Apr–Jun) and European summer holidays (Jul–Aug).

Luxembourg has one of the most accessible and forward-thinking transport systems in Europe.

Public Transport (Free Nationwide):

  • Buses & Trams: All domestic public transport is completely free—no tickets needed!

  • LuxTram: Runs through Luxembourg City, modern and frequent.

Trains:

  • CFL (Chemins de Fer Luxembourgeois): Free for all standard routes within Luxembourg.

  • Day trips: Easy rail access to Vianden, Echternach, and Clervaux.

  • Cross-border: Tickets required for trains to Belgium, France, and Germany (US$5–20).

Car Rental:

  • Ideal for exploring rural areas like the Moselle Valley or the Ardennes.

  • Note: Roads are well-maintained; signage in French and German. Parking in Luxembourg City can be limited.

Taxis/Ride-Sharing:

  • Taxis are pricey—US$25+ for short city rides. Consider Webtaxi or Taxi.lu apps.

  • Uber is not available; ride-hailing is regulated and limited.

Bikes & Walking:

  • Luxembourg City is hilly, but walkable.

  • Vel’oh! bike-share system (free for 30 minutes) is great for getting around flat districts.

Handy Tips

Luxembourg uses the Euro (€). Bills come in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500; coins include 1¢, 2¢, 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, €1, and €2.

  • Exchanging Currency: Skip airport kiosks (poor rates). Use ATMs or banks in the city center for better exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) are widely accepted. Contactless payments are common. Carry a few small bills or coins for local bakeries or markets.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

    • Restaurants/Bars: Round up the bill or tip ~5–10% for excellent service.

    • Taxis/Rideshares: Round up or add 5%.

    • Hotel Staff: €1–2 per bag for porters; €2–3 per night for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: €5–10 per person for small-group tours.

Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. English is widely spoken in the capital and tourist areas.

Useful phrases:

  • “Où est la gare la plus proche ?” – Where is the nearest train station? (French)
  • “Wie viel kostet das?” – How much is this? (German)
  • “Sprecht ihr Englisch?” – Do you speak English?

Pro Tip: Most menus and signs are multilingual. Greet with “Bonjour” or “Moien” to make a great impression.

Luxembourg is very safe—crime rates are low. Still, stay alert in touristy areas (e.g., Place d’Armes) and on public transit.

  • 112: All emergencies (police, fire, medical)

  • 113: Police only

  • Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and embassy contact.

Luxembourg uses 230V/50Hz power and Type C/E plugs (two round pins).

  • Travel Adapter: Needed if you’re coming from the US (Type A/B).

  • Converters are rarely necessary for modern electronics (phones, laptops).

Tap water is clean and safe to drink across Luxembourg. No need to buy bottled unless preferred.

  • At restaurants, you can ask: “De l’eau du robinet, s’il vous plaît” (tap water, please).

  • Public fountains are rare, so carry a reusable bottle.

Most businesses, banks, and museums close on public holidays:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • Easter Monday (varies by year)

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 9 May: Europe Day

  • 23 Jun: Grand Duke’s Official Birthday (national day; parades + fireworks)

  • 15 Aug: Assumption Day

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day

  • 25–26 Dec: Christmas + St. Stephen’s Day

Note: Museums and public transport may operate on reduced hours.

Shops: Typically open 10:00–18:00 Mon–Sat. Closed Sundays, except during Christmas markets.

Supermarkets: Some open till 20:00.

Pharmacies: Generally 08:30–18:30; emergency ones rotate coverage.

Markets: Local food & flower markets happen Wednesdays and Saturdays in Place Guillaume II.

Judd mat Gaardebounen – Smoked pork neck with broad beans (national dish).

Gromperekichelcher – Crispy spiced potato cakes, often sold at markets.

Bouneschlupp – Green bean soup with potatoes and bacon.

Rieslingspaschtéit – Meat pie made with Riesling wine jelly.

F’rell am Rèisleck – Trout cooked in Riesling sauce.

Quetschentaart – Plum tart, a local dessert favorite.

Kniddelen – Soft dumplings, served with lardons or cream.

Kachkéis – Melted cheese served warm, often with bread.

Paschtéit – Puff pastry filled with creamy chicken and mushroom ragout.

Luxembourgish baguette sandwiches – Fresh bread filled with ham, cheese, or liver pâté—perfect for a quick lunch.

Alcoholic:

  • Crémant de Luxembourg – Sparkling wine rivaling Champagne; crisp and celebratory.

  • Riesling – Dry and floral white wine grown in Moselle Valley.

  • Pinot Gris – Elegant local white wine.

  • Elbling – One of Europe’s oldest grape varieties; light and citrusy.

  • Auxerrois – Smooth and fruity white wine unique to the region.

  • Bofferding – Luxembourg’s flagship lager—refreshing and everywhere.

  • Battin – A local beer with more robust flavor; try Battin Gambrinus.

  • Diekirch – Clean, easy-drinking beer from a historic brewery.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Rivella – Herbal soft drink popular in the region.
  • Fresh apple juice – Especially from local farms near the Moselle.

Grand Ducal Palace – Summer tours offer insights into the royal residence.

Luxembourg City Old Town – UNESCO World Heritage with cobbled lanes and fortified walls.

Bock Casemates – Underground tunnels with panoramic views.

Notre-Dame Cathedral – Imposing Gothic-style cathedral with royal crypt.

National Museum of History and Art (MNHA) – Impressive archaeology and painting collection.

Museum Dräi Eechelen – Military history inside a 1732 fortress.

Grund district – Scenic riverside area with medieval charm.

Vianden Castle – Fairytale hilltop castle in northern Luxembourg.

MUDAM – Modern art museum in a striking contemporary building.

Schengen Museum – Celebrate EU border freedom in the village that inspired it.

Philharmonie Luxembourg – World-class concerts in an architectural gem.

Open-air cinema – Summer screenings under the stars at Kinnekswiss Park.

Alzette River Walks – Peaceful trails around Grund and Pfaffenthal.

Théâtre des Capucins – Local drama and contemporary plays.

City Promenade Tour – A great intro walking tour through historic quarters.

Bike Rentals – Explore city parks and riverbanks by bike (try Vel’oh! bikes).

Luxembourg Jazz Festival – November event attracting global artists.

Rockhal – Live music arena in Esch-Belval for big concerts.

Winery visits – Moselle Valley tastings (e.g., Domaines Vinsmoselle).

Spa day – Try Mondorf-les-Bains for thermal wellness.

Place d’Armes cafés – Ideal for people-watching over a glass of wine.

Konrad Café & Bar – Cozy hangout with excellent cocktails.

De Gudde Wëllen – Eclectic bar with live DJ sets and a cool rooftop.

Urban Bar – Popular for craft cocktails and stylish ambiance.

Zanzen – Sleek bar/lounge for late-night drinks and small bites.

Exit07 – Alternative music venue with a packed indie schedule.

Bouneweger Stuff – Chill bar with a local vibe and hearty snacks.

Octans – Sophisticated cocktails in the city center.

Brasserie Schuman – Fine dining and drinks in the cultural heart of the city.

Rocas – Underground bar with comedy nights, art shows, and gigs.