Luxembourg City might be small, but it packs a royal punch. One minute you’re strolling cobbled streets, next you’re gazing at cliff-top views, then—boom—you’re in a Michelin-star restaurant. It’s like someone took fairy tale Europe and made it bite-sized. Fancy a chill but charming city break? Luxembourg’s calling.
Luxembourg City is the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. It’s a pint-sized powerhouse, sitting at the crossroads of France, Belgium and Germany, which means its culture is like a buffet of European goodness. This place has serious history chops. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built on dramatic cliffs and defended by fortresses that once made Luxembourg “the Gibraltar of the North.” Medieval tunnels? Got ‘em. Royal palace? Yep. Super fancy banks and chocolate shops? Also yes. But it’s not all old stuff—Luxembourg City has a modern soul too, with art galleries, slick public transport, and a population that speaks at least three languages without breaking a sweat. It’s clean, classy, compact, and criminally underrated. If you’ve never been, now’s the time!
Booking Tips
Fly into Luxembourg Airport (LUX), just 15 minutes from the city centre—yes, seriously. From the UK, flights take under 1.5 hours, and with free public transport, getting to your hotel is a breeze. We recommend booking with TUI or On the Beach—you’ll get great prices, flights + hotel deals, and ATOL protection for peace of mind. Easy, secure, and perfect for your stress-free city break. Just how we like it.
Luxembourg Holidays, OnTheBeach
What’s There to Do?
Start in the Old Town—you’ll feel like you fell into a storybook. Winding alleys, pastel houses, and towers galore. Walk along the Chemin de la Corniche, aka “Europe’s most beautiful balcony.” It’s a jaw-dropper with views across the valley and fortress walls.
Casemates du Bock is next. These are underground tunnels built into the cliffs—used in wars, sieges, and now for creeping out tourists in the best way possible.
Stop for a lazy coffee in Place d’Armes, the city’s main square. Street performers, fancy cakes, and people-watching levels over 9000. If you’re feeling cultured, pop into the Luxembourg City History Museum—it’s weirdly fun, with glass elevators that give cliff views and centuries-old rooms under your feet.
Now, walk (or float on that free tram!) over to Grund. It’s a dreamy neighbourhood tucked in the valley, full of pubs, riverside cafes and old stone bridges. It looks like a postcard from every angle. If you fancy a pint, Scott’s Pub is the perfect cheeky riverside stop.
Still got energy? Time to get royal. Visit the Grand Ducal Palace—it’s where the Grand Duke does his Grand Duke-ing. You can take a tour in summer if you want to peek behind the velvet ropes.
Hungry yet? Time to feast. Try traditional Judd mat Gaardebounen (pork and beans) or go bougie with one of Luxembourg’s many Michelin-starred restaurants. It’s the only country where your dumplings might come with wine pairings and gold flakes.
Art lovers? Head to the Mudam (Museum of Modern Art). It’s set in a sleek glass palace built on ancient fortifications. Old meets new, brain meets beauty.
Feeling wild? Hop on a free train to Vianden or Echternach—tiny towns full of castles, cobbles, and cuteness. And you’ll be back in time for dinner.
Thinking of Popping Over the Border?
Luxembourg’s public transport inside the country is gloriously free (yes, really), but if you’re heading off on a little border-hopping adventure to France, Germany, or Belgium—you’ll need a ticket. They’re cheap though, and trust us, don’t skip it—fines can hit the thousands, and that’s not the kind of holiday souvenir you want.
Getting to nearby border cities is super easy by train. For example:
- France: Grab a second-class ticket to Thionville for just €4—it takes half an hour! Paris will cost you €65- €70 and take 2.5 hours, but Strasbourg is a steal at €20.
- Germany: Fancy a bratwurst? Trier’s your nearest option at around €5 and just an hour away. Frankfurt and Stuttgart are longer (4–4.5 hours) and pricier (€60–€100).
- Belgium: Arlon is a 20-minute hop for around €5, Brussels will take 3.5 hours and costs around €35, while Antwerp is around €45 and 4.5 hours away.
Handy Tips
Don’t Uber—it’s free! Public transport in the whole country is free. Trams, trains, buses—jump on, ride off.
Pack for layers. Weather changes its mood like a soap opera. Be ready.
Try Gromperekichelcher. (Potato cakes) Can’t pronounce it, but trust me, just eat it.
Don’t blink, you’ll miss it. The city is small—so plan slow, stroll lots.
Visit during the week. Many restaurants close on Sundays—Lux knows how to chill.
Go cliff-walking. You’ll get the best photo shots from the Chemin de la Corniche.
Learn a “Moien.” It’s the Luxembourgish ‘hello’—locals love when you try!
Book Trips in Advance. Check out Viator & GetYourGuide to see what trips Luxembourg has on offer.
Luxembourg City is that chic, low-key European gem you didn’t know you needed. It’s got castles, cobbles and culture—with none of the tourist chaos. Whether you’re into museums or munchies, this place delivers. Book the trip, pack light, and get ready to casually fall in love. You’re welcome.
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