Luxembourg City

Luxembourg City Travel Guide

Introduction

Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg, is a hidden gem in Western Europe. This guide will help you plan your trip to this beautiful city, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Luxembourg City is from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer months are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, while the spring and autumn seasons offer a comfortable temperature for sightseeing.

Places to Go

Historical Sites

  • Bock Casemates (Casemates du Bock): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these underground tunnels date back to the 17th century and offer a glimpse into Luxembourg’s military past.
  • Fort Thungen: Another historic fortification that played a significant role in the country’s defense during various wars.
  • National Museum of History and Art (Musée National d’Histoire et d’Art): Showcasing a vast collection of art and artifacts, this museum provides insight into Luxembourg’s rich cultural heritage.

Landmarks

  • Petrichor: A modern sculpture park featuring an impressive collection of contemporary art.
  • Place Guillaume II: The main square in the heart of the city, surrounded by beautiful buildings and vibrant street life.
  • Philharmonie Luxembourg: A stunning concert hall that hosts various music performances throughout the year.

Parks and Gardens

  • Parc de Clairefontaine: A large public park with plenty of green space for picnics or relaxation.
  • Cathedral Park (Parc du Cathédrale): A charming park adjacent to the Cathedral, featuring beautiful gardens and a tranquil atmosphere.
  • Kleekermillen: A picturesque area with walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking in the Ardennes: Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Ardennes forest, just outside Luxembourg City.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and ride through the city or explore the surrounding countryside.
  • Kayaking: Paddle along the Our River and enjoy the scenic views.

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit a Wine Cellar: Learn about Luxembourg’s wine-making tradition by visiting one of the many local wineries.
  • Attend a Music Festival: Luxembourg City hosts various music festivals throughout the year, such as the Grand Ducal Music Festival.
  • Take a Cooking Class: Discover the flavors and ingredients of Luxembourgish cuisine through a cooking class.

Where to Eat

Traditional Cuisine

  • Chez Fred: Enjoy traditional Luxembourgish dishes like Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans).
  • La Corniche: Treat yourself to authentic French-Luxembourg cuisine.
  • Schwartz & Weinstock: Savor local delicacies in a cozy, upscale atmosphere.

International Cuisine

  • Fleur d’Oranger: Experience modern European cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.
  • Baan Thai: Indulge in delicious Thai dishes in a cozy setting.
  • La Maison des Cols: Enjoy international cuisine in a charming restaurant.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Le Royal (5-star): Experience opulent luxury and elegant service.
  • Novotel Luxembourg Kirchberg (4-star): Modern amenities and excellent location.
  • Pullman Luxembourg (5-star): Comfortable accommodations in the heart of the city.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Ibis Luxembourg Centre (2-star): Affordable rates for a convenient stay.
  • Hotel du Parc (3-star): Cozy atmosphere and pleasant rooms at an affordable price.
  • Airbnb Apartments: Rent a charming apartment or house through Airbnb for a more authentic experience.

Transportation

Getting to Luxembourg City

  • By Car: Take the A13 highway from neighboring countries like France, Belgium, or Germany.
  • By Train: The SNCF (French Railways) and CFL (Luxembourg Railways) networks connect major cities in Europe to Luxembourg City’s main train station.

Within the City

  • Public Transportation: Use buses or trams to navigate the city; a single ticket costs around €2.
  • Taxi: Hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance for a convenient ride.
  • Bike Rental: Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels.

Tips

Language

  • French: The official language, but most Luxembourgers speak excellent English as well.
  • German: Widely spoken, especially among older generations.

Currency

  • Euro: The official currency in Luxembourg, used throughout the EU.

Tipping

  • Restaurants and Bars: Leave 5-10% for good service.

Shopping

  • Hours of Operation: Shops usually close between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM.
  • Sales Tax: A value-added tax (VAT) of around 17% applies to most purchases.

Other Things to Know

Safety

  • Crime Rate: Luxembourg City is a very safe city, with low crime rates compared to other European capitals.

Health and Medical Care

  • Hospitals: The main hospital in the city is the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg (CHL), offering high-quality medical care.
  • Pharmacies: Many pharmacies are open late or have 24-hour emergency services.

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: Call 113 for emergency assistance from the police.
  • Ambulance and Fire Services: Dial 112 for emergency assistance from ambulance or fire services.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the charms of Luxembourg City and make unforgettable memories.