Luxembourg City is a small yet charming European capital that offers plenty of things to see and do. This picturesque destination in the heart of Europe offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
In this ultimate guide for visiting Luxembourg City, we will share with you the things you need to know before visiting Luxembourg and the top things to do there.
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Things you need to know before visiting Luxembourg City
- Language: The official languages of Luxembourg are Luxembourgish, German, and French. English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism industry.
- Currency: The currency used in Luxembourg is the Euro (EUR). It’s recommended to have cash and credit card available.
- Transportation: Luxembourg City has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trams, and it is FREE for everyone!
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Luxembourg depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your trip. Luxembourg City has a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cold winters.
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. December can also be a good time to visit Luxembourg City to enjoy its vibrant Christmas Markets! However, the weather is very cold and the days are short, so you’ll have less daylight to explore the city. We also visited Luxembourg City in October, the weather was mild and the city’s parks and gardens were amazingly filled with colorful fall foliage.
Best things to do in Luxembourg City
The Old Town
One of the top things to see in Luxembourg City is the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features beautiful cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and impressive fortifications. It is also known as “Vieux Luxembourg.” This area is home to many of the city’s most historic buildings, including the Grand Ducal Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Saint-Michel Church. Another popular attraction in Luxembourg City is the Bock Casemates, a network of underground tunnels and fortifications built in the 17th century and used as bomb shelters during WWII.
The Grand Ducal Palace
The Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg City is the official residence of the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg. The palace was originally built in the 16th century as a townhouse for a wealthy merchant. It has undergone multiple renovations and expansions over the centuries, and the current palace is a blend of architectural styles including Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical. The palace has been the official residence of the Grand Ducal family since 1890, when Grand Duke Adolphe and Grand Duchess Adelaide moved in.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral, also known as Luxembourg Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church built in the Gothic style between 1613 and 1621, and it is the only Gothic church in Luxembourg City. The cathedral contains many works of art, including several statues and a painting by the famous Luxembourg artist, Michel Engels.
Saint Michel Church
Saint Michel Church is also a Roman Catholic church and it was built in the Baroque style between 1726 and 1733. The church is dedicated to Saint Michael, the archangel and patron saint of Luxembourg.
Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal
The Panoramic Elevator of the Pfaffenthal connects the city center of Luxembourg with the Pfaffenthal neighborhood, which is located on the banks of the Alzette river. The elevator is a glass-walled elevator so it is a great way to enjoy panoramic views of the city. It takes only about a minute to travel the full distance of the elevator and it is FREE for everyone.
Adolphe Bridge
If you’re planning a trip to Luxembourg City, make sure to add the Adolphe Bridge to your list of must-see sights. This iconic bridge, also known as the New Bridge, was built between 1900 and 1903, and it was considered as a major engineering feat of its time. The bridge spans the Pétrusse Valley and connects the city center with the Grund neighborhood. It was named after Grand Duke Adolphe of Luxembourg, who ruled the country from 1890 to 1905. From the bridge, you can take in stunning views of the city, the fortress and the valley of the Pétrusse river.
Shopping and Dining in Luxembourg City
If you’re looking for good shopping and dining, the city has several shopping districts and many options for dining. The city center is particularly well-known for its high-end fashion stores, while the Grund neighborhood is known for its quaint boutiques and local shops. The city is also home to a diverse selection of restaurants, serving everything from traditional Luxembourgish cuisine to international favorites.
All in all Luxembourg City is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a relaxing getaway. With its charming Old Town, beautiful parks, and rich cultural heritage, Luxembourg City is definitely worth a visit.
Have you been to Luxembourg City? What are your favorite things to do there? Let us know in the comments below!