The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, or just Luxembourg, a small country landlocked by Belgium, France and Germany. The population of the country is just 650 000 inhabitants many of which are multilingual and speak French, German and Luxembourgish. Those three languages also are the official languages of the country. The currency used is Euro which makes is a very easy destination to combine with your trip to any of the neighbouring countries.
ACCESSIBILITY
Luxembourg has its national airline called Luxair with its hub at Luxembourg airport. There are also other airlines operating flights to and from the airport which results in great connectivity across the whole of Europe.
Due to its location, Luxembourg City has fantastic rail connections with its neighbors. There are direct international trains to Brussels in Belgium which is where I have reached Luxembourg from as a day trip and the train takes 3 hours.
You can reach Paris in under 3h taking a direct service, or in 2h30 min you can reach Koblenz in Germany where you are very close from Cologne and Düsseldorf.
If you are staying in Luxembourg City, the city is relatively small and very walk-able. The good news is that public transport in the city is free. Yes that’s right! No ticket is needed, you just jump on the bus or the tram and off you go. It’s needles to say that the public transport in the city is great. Not only it’s modern and reliable but also very frequent.
ACCOMMODATION
If you decide to stay the night or even longer in Luxembourg City, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation with brands like Sofitel, Mercure and Novotel available to be booked in the city. There is great availability of apartments if you prefer some more space and privacy than being in a hotel.
WHAT TO DO AND SEE
Casemates - Luxembourg was one of the most envied fortresses in Europe. The first casements were built in 1644 which from then on has been gradually expanding. During the two world wars the casements served as shelter in the event of an alert or bombardment. Today the network of underground galleries is the city’s prime attraction.
Palais Grand - Ducal is located in the old town and is the official residence of the grand ducal family. From July to September you can join exclusive guided tour organised by the Luxembourg City Tourist Office.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Luxembourg - a Roman Catholic Cathedral of Luxembourg City was built between 1613 and 1621. It is an example of a late Gothic style cathedral with many components inspired by renaissance style.
The Grund district - it is 14th century UNESCO world heritage site, one of the oldest areas of Luxembourg. The district is full of charm and history, many people refer to it a “village within a city” it is easily accessible form the city center, offers spectacular views of the area and allows you to transport yourself back in time.
When strolling around the city you will have plenty of options to grab a coffee at one of many coffee shops or choose one of many restaurants. The city will have you covered regardless of your food choices. Just in the main square itself (Place d’Armes) you will find places like McDonald’s or some more sophisticated options such as Brasserie Guillaume.
Luxembourg has a lot more to offer than just Luxembourg City, if you would like to venture out of the city then Vianden Castle would be my recommendation. Although it is possible to reach the castle by public transport it is a lot easier and quicker to drive. In 2019 the castle was listed by CNN as one of the 21 most beautiful castles in the world.