Which Are the Best Things To Do In Luxembourg?

Luxembourg is a small European nation landlocked by Belgium, France, and Germany. It is predominantly rural and features the lush Ardennes forest and nature parks in the north, the rocky gorges of the Mullerthal region in the east, and the picturesque Moselle River valley in the southeast. The country is a significant financial center with a rich historical legacy, highlighted by its UNESCO-listed Old Town and the Bock Casemates. Luxembourg is known for its multilingual population, as many languages are spoken in the country including Luxembourgish, French, and German. It also boasts a high standard of living, a vibrant cultural scene, and exceptional wines. Here are the 12 best things to do in Luxembourg.

12 Things To Do In Luxembourg

If you are planning your trip to Luxembourg, you can find the list of things to do mentioned below:?

• Discover Vianden Castle
• Take a scenic boat tour on the Moselle River
• Checkout the Luxembourg City Museum
• Explore the Bock Casemates
• Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
• Try traditional Luxembourgish cuisine (Judd mat Gaardebounen)
• Visit the Grand Ducal Palace
• Walk Through Chemin de Corniche
• Hike Through the Mullerthal trail
• Explore the Grund District
• Kirchberg District
• Luxembourg Philharmonie Orchestra

1) Discover Vianden Castle

Vianden Castle is one of the most beautiful castles and CNN ranked it among the 21 most stunning castles in the world. It is located in the town of Vianden in northern Luxembourg. The castle is famous for its architecture and rich history. The construction of? Vianden castle started in the 11th and was completed in the 14th century on the remains of a Roman fort and a Carolingian refuge. This is among the largest remaining feudal residences of the Gothic period in Europe.

In 1977, the family of the Grand Duke transferred the castle’s ownership to the state and since then it has undergone extensive restoration, returning it to its former glory. It is now a major tourist attraction due to its architectural beauty. The architecture of the Vianden Castle is a mixture of Romanesque features added between the 11th and 14th centuries and Gothic parts added at the end of the 14th century, with sections of Renaissance architecture added in the 17th century. The castle overlooks the River Our, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape of the town of Vianden. The most stunning part of the castle is the chapel and the large and small palaces that were constructed between the end of the 12th century and the start of the 13th century.

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2) Take a scenic boat tour on the Moselle River

The Moselle River begins in the Vosges mountains and runs through northeastern France and Luxembourg before reaching western Germany. A scenic boat tour on the Moselle River is one of the best things to do in Luxembourg as it provides views of lush vineyards, charming villages, and rolling hills that showcase the natural beauty of the Moselle region.

Moreover, many boat tours stop at attractive towns where you can explore local shops, taste wines, and try traditional cuisines. The combination of stunning views and cultural experiences make a boat tour on the Moselle River an unforgettable memory and is one of the best ways to discover the heart of Luxembourg.

3) Checkout the Luxembourg City Museum

The Luxembourg City History Museum known as L?tzebuerg City Museum was founded on 22 June 1996 and was designed by the architect Conny Lentz and Repérages. The museum is situated at 14 Rue du Saint-Esprit, right in the heart of Luxembourg City’s Old Town.

The museum showcases Luxembourg City’s thousand-year rich history through a mix of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The museum occupies four beautifully restored historic buildings that date back to the 17th and 19th centuries, with some even resting on medieval foundations. The architecture is a captivating blend of the old and the new, featuring a stunning glass fa?ade. A panoramic elevator enhances the visitor experience as it connects each floor.

4)? Explore the Bock Casemates

Bock Casemates is one of the must-see attractions in Luxembourg due to its significance as it is a part of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortifications. It is a 17-kilometer-long underground tunnel that acted as a shelter for 35,000 residents and thousands of soldiers during World War II. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.?

The extensive network of underground tunnels and chambers showcases the brilliance of military engineering. These were first dug out during Spanish rule and were expanded twice afterward. In addition to artillery slots and soldiers’ barracks, they also functioned as workshops and bakeries, showcasing the multifaceted use of the space. The casemates are closed during winter and open in summer. The Bock Cliff features Luxembourg’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local tour. Exploring this fascinating site offers a unique glimpse into the city’s storied past.

5) Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is located in the southern part of Luxembourg and was originally built as a Jesuit Church. It is a stunning Gothic masterpiece that reflects Luxembourg’s deep religious heritage and architectural magnificence. Cathédrale Notre-Dame is a remarkable example of Gothic design, showcasing the beauty and intricacy of this style.

As the one and only Roman Catholic Cathedral located in the southern part of Luxembourg, it holds a special place in the cultural and religious heritage of the nation. It is mostly featured in national events and celebrations. Inside the cathedral, you’ll find exquisite stained glass windows from the 19th and 20th centuries, along with contemporary sculptures and a small Madonna and Child statue above the altar. The crypt houses the graves of the royal family, protected by two lions crafted by Auguste Trémont.

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6) Try traditional Luxembourgish cuisine (Judd mat Gaardebounen)

Judd mat Gaardebounen is the most famous and widely recognized national cuisine of Luxembourg. The origins of this dish date back to an era when preserving food was crucial for survival.

Judd mat Gaardebounen is made of smoked pork collar known as “Judd” and a special Luxembourg bean known as “Broad Beans” in a creamy sauce. The dish is most often served with boiled potatoes and mustard sauce. One of the local restaurants that is known for this dish is Um Scheierhaff.

7) Visit the Grand Ducal Palace

The palace was established in the 16th century as a town hall and was later transformed into a residence for the ruling Grand Duke. It provides a glimpse of the daily life of the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess as it is the official residence of the Grand Ducal family. The palace is located in the center of the small town and the chamber of deputies was established on the right side of the palace in 1890.?

The palace opens for guided tours during the summer from July to September. The guide provides insights into the palace’s stunning interior and Luxembourg’s monarchy. The palace boasts a captivating blend of Romantic and Medieval Gothic styles, enhanced by contemporary lighting designs from renowned German industrial designer Ingo Maurer. It is a highlight of Luxembourg City’s walking and wine-tasting tour, offering visitors a unique glimpse into its rich architectural character.

8) Walk Through Chemin de Corniche

Chemin de Corniche is an old city wall, also called “the most beautiful Balcony in Europe.” It was once part of the city’s fortification, and now it is a spot for tourists to take in the stunning views of the landscape. This stunning corridor runs along the ramparts that were built in the 17th century by Spanish and French forces, and it overlooks the Grund, the Alzette Valley, and the Rham Plateau.

A corniche is a path carved into the side of a cliff or mountain, with a steep drop on one side and a rise on the other. Strolling along this elevated walkway, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Alzette River below and the charming architecture of the historic old town of the city.

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9) Hike Through the Mullerthal trail

Mullerthal trail also known as Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland is a 112-km hiking route passing through picturesque rock formations, woods & the city of Echternach. Mullerthal is located around 40 minutes from the city of Luxembourg.

The Mullerthal trail is divided into three routes that are all connected but can also be hiked separately. The first route is famous for the beautiful meadows and forests, the second route is a challenging one and it features rock formations, and the third route features romantic castles and stunning landscapes. The hike through the Mullerthal trail thus provides an unforgettable memory and experience for everyone.

10) Explore the Grund District

One of the best things to do when you visit Luxembourg is to discover the Grund District which is a lower part of the city. The district is located at the bottom of tall cliffs and is a neighborhood that provides a peaceful and calm village vibe in the heart of Luxembourg City. Grund was established as a trading spot around the Alzette River. The Grund area feels more like a calm and peaceful European village than a bustling capital. You can take a self-guided 5.5km Wenzel Walk around the district to explore all the historical sites.?

One of the oldest spots in the Grund is Neumunster Abbey which hosts different concerts, lectures, and other cultural events throughout the year. Its cobblestone streets, vibrant houses, and the river create a beautiful backdrop for exploration. The cozy cafes, art galleries, and the local atmosphere make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the charm of Luxembourg.

11) Kirchberg District

One of the must-visit locations in Luxembourg is exploring the Kirchberg District which provides a modern contrast to the historic charm of the city and is a center of contemporary culture and architecture. It is the hub of the European Investment Bank and the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce. The evolution of this district began when Luxembourg aspired to become a global financial center in the mid-20th century.

The district Kirchberg is also a hub for bars, restaurants, and stylish and modern shops making it an ideal place to enjoy an evening soaking in the atmosphere of Luxembourg. The skyline is a captivating mix of sleek glass buildings and lush green spaces that highlight the district’s modern design and innovation.

12) Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra

Luxembourg’s Philharmonie Orchestra also known as the “Grande-Duchesse Joséphine-Charlotte Concert Hall” was designed by Christian de Portzamparc. The concert hall is considered the most innovative and modern concert hall in Europe. It hosts more than 500 performances annually, ranging from classical symphonies to contemporary jazz, making it a center point for music lovers.

One of the stunning aspects of this concert hall is 823 white pillars that form a transparent shell around the structure. Inside the building, you will find a Grand Auditorium that comprises 1,500 seats, a beautiful Chamber Music hall that has 300 seats, and an electro-acoustic hall that accommodates 120 guests.

Conclusion

In Conclusion, Luxembourg is a beautiful combination of history, luxury, and simplicity. It is ranked as one of the safest places and has a unique cultural identity due to the French, Roman, and German influences. The city is a must-visit for people who want to experience stunning landscapes and ancient castles. Moreover, people who enjoy outdoor activities should visit Luxembourg as they can enjoy hiking and cycling through beautiful views.