Experience the charm of Luxembourg with the top 10 must-visit places. Find essential info and photo inspiration!
Luxembourg, though small, is a charming country nestled in the heart of Europe, bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany. Known for its medieval old towns perched on sheer cliffs, Luxembourg is a blend of picturesque landscapes and contemporary city life. As an expat living in Luxembourg and having explored this gem, here's to the top 10 must-visit spots in this Grand Duchy. In this blog post, you will find the essential information and also some photo inspiration to make your trip even more memorable.
1.Notre Dame Cathedral
This early 17th-century cathedral features a mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic architecture. The cathedral contains tombs of royal family members and bishops in its impressive crypt.
Location:📍Rue Notre Dame, Luxembourg City
Accessibility: Easily accessible by foot from the city center
Visitor Information: Open daily; free entrance; guided tours available
2.Pfaffenthal Lift (The panoramic elevator)
The Pfaffenthal Lift, also known as the Panoramic Elevator of Pfaffenthal, is a modern glass elevator that connects the "Pescatore" park in the city center to the Pfaffenthal district at the bottom of the Alzette valley. It offers a stunning ride with sweeping views, reaching a height of 71 meters, and is free of charge for pedestrians and cyclists alike.
Location:📍 Montée du Pfaffenthal, 2329 Luxembourg City
Visitors information: Opening Hours: 05:45 - 01:00, closed every first Monday of the month for maintenance
3.Chemin de la Corniche ( Europe’s Most Beautiful Balcony)
This walkway, often called “the most beautiful balcony of Europe,” runs along the ramparts built by the Spaniards and the French in the 17th century, offering spectacular views of the Alzette valley, the city district of Grund, and the Rham Plateau.
The walkway is lined with remnants of old fortifications and loopholes, providing a glimpse into the city's defensive past. This place is perfect for a leisurely stroll, capturing panoramic photos, and enjoying the serene ambiance. You can also book your guided city walk tour experience with getyourguide which i highly recommend to explore the city centre and the old town. Bonus : you get to try Luxembourg wines during the tour.
Location: 📍Luxembourg City, near the Bock Promontory
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but especially picturesque in Spring and Summer
Accessibility: Easily accessible by foot
4.Grand Ducal Palace
The Grand Ducal palace is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, located in the heart of Luxembourg City. The palace is a stunning example of Flemish Renaissance style, with intricate facades and elegant details. It is situated in the Old Town and it’s surrounded by other historical sites and landmarks.
Location:📍 Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes, Luxembourg City
Accessibility: Easily accessible by foot from the city center
Nearby Attractions: Place Guillaume II, Notre Dame Cathedral
5.Constitution Square ( Place de la Constitution)
Place de la Constitution is the central square in Luxembourg City that provides a unique insight into the country’s history and culture.
It is home to the Gëlle Fra (Golden Lady) monument, which commemorates Luxembourgish soldiers who died during World War I. It serves as a symbol of national pride and remembrance.
The square is a popular spot for public gatherings, national celebrations, and events.
It offers excellent views of the city and its historical architecture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially during public events
Accessibility: Easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transport
Nearby Attractions: Adolphe Bridge
6.Adolphe bridge
Adolphe bridge is an iconic bridge in Luxembourg City that spans the Pétrusse Valley, connecting the Ville Haute and Gare neighborhoods. It is known for its large stone arch and it was once the largest stone arch bridge in the world. It offers picturesque views of the Pétrusse valley 138 feet below, making it a favorite spot for photography. Adolphe bridge is a symbol of Luxembourg’s independence.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but evening visits offer stunning sunset views
Accessibility: Accessible by foot, bike, or public transport
7. Visiting Grund and Alzette Valley
This region is known as the Grand Canyon of Luxembourg, the Alzette Valley divides the city into two areas, offering stunning views and a magnificent architectural landscape.
The valley offers picturesque views of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
It's a popular spot for photography and leisurely walks. The valley has historically served as a natural defence for the city. Its strategic location has been crucial in the development and protection of Luxembourg City throughout the centuries.
You can admire the stunning views of the Alzette River and the bock casemates as you explore this delightful neighborhood.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, but evening visits offer stunning sunset views
Accessibility: 📍Access the area by walking or by taking a lift ( Elevator Plateau St Esprit Lift)
Visitor Information: The Grund Neighborhood is open 24 hours, providing visitors with the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
8.Vianden Castle
Vianden Castle is a famous historical castle located in the village of Vianden. It
offers rich historical insights and stunning views of the surrounding area. You can explore the well-preserved interiors, including kitchens, chapels, and banquet halls. You can book your ticket here . The castle also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Vianden Castle was originally built between the 11th and 14th centuries. The castle has seen various periods of restoration and conservation and it played a significant role in the region’s medieval history and has been a symbol of power and prestige.
Location:📍 Montée du Château, Vianden
Best Time to Visit: Spring and Summer for the best weather and event
Accessibility: Accessible by car, bus, or train (plus a short walk)
Visitor Information: Open daily; guided tours available; tickets can be purchased onsite or online
9.Mullerthal
Mullerthal, also known as Luxembourg's Little Switzerland, offers visitors a unique blend of rocky formations, dense forests, caves, and streams that create an "Alpine Vibe" despite its low altitude .Schiessentumpel Cascade is one of the most iconic sites in Mullerthal, this picturesque waterfall is a must-see.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for the best weather
Tips: Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring a sweater with you.
Accessibility: Accessible by car or bus. But i would recommend renting a car or even better book a day trip. The guided audio tour comprises the visit of few castles in the surrounding such as Beaufort Castle entry ticket , Vianden Castle entry ticket, Mullerthal/Schiessentümpel waterfall and even the Echternach Old Town visit. Plus you have a driver and the driver audio guide to make your travel experience even better.
10. Bourscheid Castle
Visiting Bourscheid Castle is also one of the must-visit places in Luxembourg as it provides an opportunity to delve into its rich history. It is famous for being the largest castle in Luxembourg, with its triangular shape, an enclosure with 11 towers, and a hilltop location overlooking the Sûre by 150m. The castle houses a museum , providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about its history and view artifacts
You can Opt for an audio-guide to gain a deeper understanding of the castle's past. Additionally, be prepared for an enchanting experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, rivers, and greenery.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and Autumn for best weather
Tips: Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring a sweater with you.
Accessibility: Accessible by car .
Visitor Information: You can buy ticket on-site
Overall , Luxembourg City and many towns are walkable, allowing you to explore at a leisurely pace. The country is bike-friendly, with numerous cycling paths and rental options. Public transport is free so you can utilize the free buses, trams, and trains for efficient travel between attractions and the 10 Must-Visit Places to Explore in Luxembourg which are mentioned in this travel blog post
Other Practical Tips when visiting places in Luxembourg
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Languages: Lëtzebuergesch (national), English, French, and German
Best time to visit: May to September for the best weather. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage and a quieter atmosphere and winter is great for exploring indoor attractions and enjoying a cozy holiday season.
Public Transport: Luxembourg offers an efficient public transport system which is free since March 2020.
Accommodation: There are options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to youth hostels.
General Safety: Luxembourg is considered very safe. Standard precautions should be taken.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Luxembourg offers a unique blend of attractions that are sure to enrich your travel experience . This enchanting European gem has countless reasons why it is a must-visit destination.
For more tips on living in Luxembourg and to get a glimpse on life in Luxembourg, you can read my blog post on Life in Luxembourg
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