Luxembourg, nestled in the center of Europe, is a small, vibrant, landlocked country bordered by France, Belgium, and Germany. Despite being small, it’s a developed country rich in history, art, culture, and lush landscape. It blends the old-world charm and modernism seamlessly. No matter your interests, Luxembourg can easily take care of your holiday preferences. Prepare to be captivated by its medieval castles, breathtaking natural landscapes, and romantic settings. If you wish to explore this beautiful country, try these 15 things to do in Luxembourg.
1. Visit the Old Quarter of Luxembourg City
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Quarter of Luxembourg City is popular for its medieval structures and quaint cobblestone streets. One of the main attractions in this area is the Grand Ducal Palace, the Grand Duke’s official residence. Take a guided tour and explore this palace. Other prominent landmarks to explore are the Bock Casemates and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Roman-era fortifications give the city a unique look, which states how Luxembourg has remained a strategically important city since that time.
2. Visit Vianden Castle
Counted as one among the 21 beautiful castles in the world, Vianden Castle is the largest fortified castle. It’s so beautiful that no traveler to Luxembourg should miss it. Built in Romanesque style on a hilltop from the 11th to the 14th centuries, the castle offers a clear view of the Vianden town. When you explore the castle, you will feel like being transported into the medieval period. With exquisite restoration, the well-maintained castle has been turned into a museum featuring medieval artifacts and antiques. If you are traveling here in August, you can enjoy the annual medieval festival, which features traditional crafts, medieval music, and knight’s tournaments.
3. Wander Through the Mullerthal Region
If you are a hiking enthusiast and want to enjoy a Switzerland-like landscape, visit the Mullerthal Region. Acknowledged as “Little Switzerland,” this place features dense forests, stunning waterfalls, and exclusive natural structures. The 112-kilometer-long hiking trail draws thousands of visitors every year. The trail is separated into three main routes and numerous extra trails, allowing visitors to tailor their experience as per their interests. Some of the few not-to-miss attractions are the Hohllay Cave, the Schiessentümpel waterfall, and the Berdorf rock formations.
4. Explore the Luxembourg American Cemetery Memorial
While no one would like to include a cemetery memorial in their itinerary, you shouldn’t miss visiting the Luxembourg America Cemetery Memorial. This is where 5,000 American soldiers who lost their lives in World War II are laid to rest. Visiting this site will evoke mixed emotions, as you immerse yourself in its beautifully maintained grounds and contemplate the causes of war. The renowned commander of World War II, General George S. Patton, is buried here. The site also features a chapel and a visitor center that display exhibits tracing the history of the Battle of the Bulge.
5. Enjoy the Philharmonie Luxembourg
If you love music and enjoy concerts and live performances, visit the Philharmonie Luxembourg. This popular concert hall in Luxembourg holds a variety of concerts, musical, and cultural events. Christian de Portzamparc designed this beautiful modern architecture. The white columns of this building add to its overall appeal, which resembles the straight cords used in musical instruments. The venue hosts a range of performances by well-known artists and orchestras. You can listen to classical, jazz, or contemporary music here.
6. Enjoy a Boat Ride on the Moselle River
The Moselle Valley is where Luxembourg’s best wine is produced. This place also features nature at
its best. You will love to sip the wine sitting on the riverbank terraces while soaking in the nature.
The combination of the scenic beauty and exclusive wine will certainly give you the high. It is one of
the romantic places in Luxembourg where you can also take a leisurely boat ride and explore the
entire wine region from the water. Several guided tours of the Moselle Valley are offered that
includes sampling Riesling wines, boat rides, and exploring Remich and Grevenmacher, both of which
are captivating riverside towns.
7. Explore the Ardennes
The region of Ardennes is characterized by abundant forests, undulating hills, and picturesque villages. Ardennes features two nature parks and the largest lake in Luxembourg. The fine conifer forests of Ardennes are a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and camping enthusiasts. This area is also seeped in rich history that can be witnessed exploring the numerous castles, museums, and war memorials. Explore the ground-breaking photo exhibition popularly known as “The Family of Man.” Visit the top of the Bastogne War Museum and take in captivating views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Visit the National Museum of History and Art
The National Museum of History and Art in Luxembourg is the best venue to take a glimpse of
Luxembourg’s history. Explore the museum and see ancient and modern artifacts. You can also view
coins, sculpture, art, and armour of the Gallo-Roman era. The museum also has archaeological
collections that include objects of daily use belonging to the early Stone Age and Middle Ages. There
is also a section of Italian paintings dating back to the 13 th and 15 th centuries.
9. Experience the Echternach Dancing Procession
Apart from UNESCO Sites, Luxembourg also features UNESCO-recognized event, which takes places
in June. The Echternach Dancing Procession is something that no one should miss. This unique
religious traditional procession is taken through the Echternach streets in which participants dance
in unique style. The procession is in honor of St. Willibrord and is connected to the Middle Ages.
Participants wear white shirts, dark trousers, or skirts and dance in a unique hopping style as the
brass bands play traditional music.
10. Stroll Through Parc Merveilleux
Parc Merveilleux is one of the family entertainment centers in Bettembourg. It contains a zoo, children’s play areas, and lovely gardens and can be an excellent place to visit with kids. There are many animals in the park. like monkeys, lemurs, and several species of birds. It also features uniquely themed gazebos and playgrounds, a mini-golf court, and a miniature train that wind it way through the park. Special attractions are added during the summer, including performances that make the experience even more enjoyable.
11. Visit the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art (Mudam)
Mudam is Luxembourg’s premier modern art museum, featuring modern art by artists from around the world. The museum building is an architectural marvel, constructed by the famous architect I. M. Pei. You can admire here beautiful paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works, characterized by a variety of styles and trends. Besides, there are some temporary exhibitions, artists’ presentations, and workshops for visitors to learn about contemporary art.
12. Explore the Underground Tunnels of Bock Casemates
The Bock Casemates are corridors of rooms that extend from the Bökleberg down to the Confluence and are said to have been completed in 1648. They have been deployed for defensive purposes and give an interesting view of the military history of Luxembourg. These casemates are in the Bock promontory, stretching to over 17 kilometers with the structures such as rooms, galleries, and stairs. Educational tours are available for the Bolschmitt-Tunnels; it is interesting to know the technique of the construction and the military functions for the fortress of Luxembourg in different wars.
13. Enjoy the Luxembourg City History Museum
This museum gives the visitors a deep insight into the historical background of Luxembourg City and its evolution. The multimedia displays and interactive exhibits deliver an engaging experience to visitors. It is a place of interest for an age group because of the use of modern technology in making exhibits interesting. The major attractions include a city architectural model, a re-constructed street of the 19th century, and exhibits depicting the region’s industrial and cultural history.
14. Relax in the Pétrusse Valley
Pétrusse Valley is one of the scenic sites and a perfect place for a leisurely walk. Take a pleasant
stroll along the beautiful nature trails, pack a lunch, and enjoy a picnic here for the day or just soak
in the environment. A picturesque valley with lawn, paths, and benches is built in the lower part of
the historical defensive walls of the ancient city. This is a place that is often frequented by the
people both the residents of the city and the guests of the city.
15. Discover the Romantic Places in Luxembourg
It can be said that Luxembourg offers numerous romantic places for couples. What is more, if it
comes to tourism, there are many places for a romantic getaway such as park zones, green zones,
and the ancient district of the city known as the Old Quarter. For more information on romantic
places in Luxembourg, there is no harm in checking out some of the lesser-known gems and scenic
spots in the city. One of the most beautiful areas of Grund district with bridges and cozy cafes by the
river is best to enjoy at sunset.
European destination will surely charm you. Whether you want to enjoy history, nature, local culture, or romantic places, Luxembourg will make your trip unforgettable. So, get ready to enjoy this delightful country.
FAQs:
1. What are the top attractions to visit the Old Quarter of Luxembourg City?
The Grand Ducal Palace, the Bock Casemates, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral are the top attractions
that you must visit. The Roman-era fortifications give the city a historical appearance.
2. Why is Vianden Castle so popular in Luxembourg?
Vianden Castle is the largest fortified castle in Luxembourg and one of the most beautiful castles in the world. Built in between the 11th and 14th centuries, it is renovated exclusively and turned into a museum that displays medieval artifacts and holds an annual medieval fair in August.
3. What makes the Mullerthal Region popular among hikers?
Dense forests, stunning waterfalls, and rocky formations are the features that make Mullerthal Regions popular among hikers. This region is a paradise for hikers and offers picturesque trails. It stretches up to 112 km and includes numerous trails. A few of the region’s highlights are the Hohllay Cave, the Schiessentümpel Waterfall, and the Berdorf Rock formations.
4. Why is the Luxembourg American Cemetery Memorial is must visit?
Luxembourg American Cemetery Memorial is where five thousand American soldiers that sacrificed their lives in World War II are buried. The site also has the mortal remains of General George S. Patton. There is a chapel on the site and a museum that highlights the Battle of the Bulge through exclusive exhibits.
5. What can I expect from a boat ride in the Moselle Valley?
The Moselle Valley is famous for beautiful views and wine making, and boat outings. Guided tours
are offered that include sampling Riesling wines, a boat ride, and visits to the nearby villages.
6. What is the requirement for obtaining a Luxembourg visa for tourists?
Foreign visitors who may wish to visit Luxembourg for tourism require a Schengen visa which permits a stay of up to 90 days within 180 days. Some necessary Luxembourg visa requirements include a passport, proof of residence, insurance, and a ticket out of the country of visit.
7. Why is Parc Merveilleux family friendly?
Parc Merveilleux in Bettembourg is one of the best places for families with kids to visit. This place also has a zoo with monkeys and lemurs, beautiful gardens, mini golf, playgrounds, and a toy train ride. It also has special summer performances to make it more entertaining for children and adults in the park.
8. Why is taking a boat tour on the Moselle River important?
One of the best ways to explore the beautiful wine-growing area of the Moselle River in Luxembourg is by boat. Visitors can marvel at the beautiful wine-producing vineyards by the river’s edge, and visit lovely riverside towns such as Remich and Grevenmacher. Visitors can also take guided wine-tasting tours to taste the delicious wines of the Riesling.
9. What can you see in the National Museum of History and Art?
The National Museum of History and Art in Luxembourg provides an insight into the history and art of the country. It also has archaeological collections and artifacts from the early Stone Age and the Middle Ages. The museum gives an overall picture of Luxembourg.