Luxembourg City is a picturesque city with a unique mix of historic architecture, modern amenities, and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by green hills, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city offers a diverse and delicious cuisine drawing inspiration from its French, German, and Belgian neighbors.
The locals are proud of their multicultural identity and visitors can explore the country’s natural beauty, from the rolling hills of the Ardennes to the picturesque vineyards of the Moselle Valley. With its rich history, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes, Luxembourg is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Day 1: Discovering the Old City
Morning: Historic Landmarks
Start your day at Place Guillaume II, a beautiful public square located in the heart of the city. Take a stroll through the charming pedestrian streets and admire the colorful buildings and historic landmarks, such as the Gothic Revival-style Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing fortress walls.
Afternoon: Grand Ducal Palace
Make your way to the Grand Ducal Palace, which is open to visitors from July to September. Guided tours take you through the opulent state rooms and give insight into the daily life of the Grand Duke and his family. Afterward, head to the National Museum of History and Art, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and art from Luxembourg’s prehistoric times to the present day.
Evening: Grund
Explore the trendy Grund neighborhood, located at the foot of the Old Town. The area is full of lively bars and restaurants, many of which offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of the Alzette River and the imposing fortress walls. Sample some local cuisine and indulge in a refreshing Luxembourgish beer or glass of wine while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a live music performance or cultural event.
Day 2: Exploring the Outdoors
Morning: Luxembourg’s “Little Switzerland”
Start your day early to make the most of your trip to Luxembourg’s “Little Switzerland”. The Mullerthal region is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including forests, streams, and rock formations. Take a hike through the Mullerthal Trail, which winds through the region and offers stunning views of the landscape. Don’t forget to bring your camera.
Afternoon: Château de Vianden
After your hike, make your way to the charming town of Vianden to visit the Château de Vianden. This impressive castle dates to the 10th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Europe. Take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Evening: Clausen
Clausen is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood in Luxembourg City, known for its lively atmosphere and wide selection of restaurants and bars. Wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems, such as cozy wine bars and hip cocktail lounges. For dinner, try traditional Luxembourgish dishes such as Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans) or Rieslingspaschtéit (Riesling wine pie). After dinner, head to a rooftop bar for a nightcap and enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline.
Day 3: Discovering Luxembourg’s Wine Country
Morning: Moselle Valley
Start your day early and drive to the Moselle Valley, which is about an hour away from Luxembourg City. This scenic region is known for its steep vineyards, picturesque villages, and excellent wines. There are several wineries in the area that offer tastings and tours, including Caves St. Martin and Domaines Vinsmoselle. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards or hike one of the many trails in the area.
Afternoon: Echternach
Basilica of St. Willibrord
Roman Villa Echternach
Museum of the Abbey
After your morning in the Moselle Valley, head to the historic town of Echternach, which is located about 30 minutes away from the valley. Echternach is the oldest town in Luxembourg and is home to many interesting sights, including the Basilica of St. Willibrord, the Roman Villa Echternach, and the Museum of the Abbey. Be sure to take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and visit the market square, which is surrounded by traditional half-timbered houses.
Evening: Dinner at Luxembourg City
Return to Luxembourg City and head to the trendy district of Belair for dinner. This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its gourmet restaurants and stylish bars. Some popular dining options include the Michelin-starred La Cristallerie, the Asian-inspired Mosconi, and the contemporary Italian eatery La Briscola. After dinner, you can explore the neighborhood’s vibrant nightlife or head back to your hotel for some rest and relaxation.
Day 4: Adventure in the Ardennes
Morning: Ardennes Region
Take a scenic drive to the Ardennes region and arrive at the charming town of Clervaux. Here, you can visit the historic castle and learn about the region’s rich history and culture. Alternatively, you can head to the nearby Parc Naturel des Deux Ourthes for a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
Afternoon: Castle of Bourscheid
Drive to the nearby town of Bourscheid and visit the Castle of Bourscheid, a stunning medieval castle that dates to the 10th century. Take a guided tour of the castle’s interior, including the impressive Great Hall, the armory, and the castle chapel. Afterward, stroll around the castle’s extensive grounds and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Evening: Traditional Dinner
Head to one of the nearby towns, such as Ettelbruck or Diekirch, for a delicious dinner at a traditional Luxembourgish restaurant. Sample some of the local specialties, such as Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork collar with broad beans) or Kachkéis (a creamy cheese spread). Finish off your meal with a glass of local wine or beer and soak up the charming atmosphere of these historic towns.
Day 5: Shopping and Sightseeing
Morning: Place d’Armes
Start your day at Place d’Armes, a popular public square surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes. From there, head to Rue des Capucins, a pedestrian street lined with a wide variety of stores and boutiques, from luxury brands to local designers. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to home decor and artisanal food products.
Afternoon: Cathedral of Notre Dame
After a morning of shopping, take a break and visit the stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame, located just a short walk from Place d’Armes. The cathedral is an impressive example of gothic architecture, with intricate stained-glass windows and impressive stone carvings. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s rich history and cultural significance.
Evening: Grund’s Nightlife
For your final evening in Luxembourg, head to the charming Grund neighborhood, located in the lower part of the city. This area is known for its picturesque location along the Alzette River, and its many trendy bars and restaurants. Relax and unwind over a delicious dinner at one of the cozy restaurants in the area, and soak in the atmosphere of this unique and beautiful city.