Small but mighty, The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a key player in Europe with a rich history, cultural landmarks, and beautiful countryside. Bordered by Belgium, Germany, and France, what Luxembourg lacks in coastline, it makes up for with unspoiled rivers, mountains perfect for hiking, and lush green fields.
The capital, Luxembourg City, is built into a cliffside, with steep streets winding their way from the Grund—a picturesque area at river-level—to the historic old town on top of the hill, with its palaces, churches, and airy town squares. To save citizens and visitors the effort, a series of free elevators built into the rock run between these two areas, making a journey between the two levels take only a few minutes.
Extremely safe, spotlessly clean, and with free public transportation for all, a visit to this charming country is a must on any European itinerary. Pro tip: Invest in a Luxembourg card to enjoy free entry to museums and landmarks.
Explore a once-important underground defense system
One of the most important sights in Luxembourg, the Bock Casemates are a network of underground tunnels and galleries stretching for miles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tunnels were built by the Spanish in the 17th century. Explore the temperate subterranean wonder of engineering and enjoy views across the lower old town.
Visit a border town with a key role in European history
You can stand on the bridge spanning the River Moselle in the picturesque village of Schengen, place one foot in Germany, one in Luxembourg, and throw a stone toward France. Schengen’s unique position with proximity to three countries gives it an important part in European political history. In 1985, on board a boat moored on the border of the three countries, the Schengen Agreement was signed to create Europe’s borderless Schengen area. There are photographs and monuments marking the event, a lovely hotel with a fairytale turret, and a small museum. Feeling active? Explore the scenic cycle and hiking paths.
Walk through the old town & taste traditional dishes
Wander through the streets of Luxembourg city in the company of a trained guide who will take you through the old town, tasting traditional dishes as you admire the architecture and learn more about the history of this stunning city. Taste a pâté au Riesling—delicious meat in a delicate wine jelly wrapped in pastry. Pair ham with the country’s famous sparkling white wine and enjoy indulgent chocolates. Finish the tour in a traditional restaurant where you can taste local specialty kniddelen, floury dumplings served with a cream and bacon sauce. Vegetarians can be accommodated on the tour, too.
Enjoy Luxembourg’s vibrant art scene
With a wealth of museums and galleries, Luxembourg City is a great destination for art lovers. Perhaps two of the most unusual destinations are the Casino, built as a gaming house in the late 19th century, but now filled with modern and edgy moving artworks. Another historical building turned into an art museum is the sensitively renovated Villa Vauban, an eighteenth-century private house, now filled with important 18th- and 19th-century art collections. Fancy owning your own piece of Luxembourgish art? During the summer months, a superb weekly outdoor art fair takes place in the beautiful Grund area of the city. Browse a series of stalls featuring local artists and take home a masterpiece.
Explore the Moselle Valley’s stunning scenery & delicious wines
Famed for its elegant sparkling wines known as “crémant,” the Moselle region of Luxembourg is bordered by the broad river of the same name and its sloping hills bear rows of vines and several historic wineries are open to visitors. Check out the renowned Caves St. Martin, or the forward-looking and exciting Jeff Konsbrück winery. Want to enjoy the wines in the company of a designated driver? Take a day tour that will take you to and from your hotel, allowing you to sip freely. Prefer to admire the vineyards from a distance? Hop on a lovely riverboat and enjoy the scenery from the comfortable deck.
