Located in southern Luxembourg, this industrial city of 30,000 residents has evolved from its mining past into a tech hub, hosting companies like Microsoft and Amazon.
Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg's second-largest city, lies 15 kilometers from the capital along the French border. Walk through preserved blast furnaces turned into public spaces, attend concerts at the 6,500-capacity Rockhal, or explore the University of Luxembourg's modern campus. You can shop along Luxembourg's longest pedestrian street, watch a play at the municipal theater, or ice skate in Galgebierg Park during winter months.
Getting to Esch-sur-Alzette
Regular trains connect Luxembourg City to Esch-sur-Alzette in 24 minutes, with 68 daily departures. The city has an extensive bus network with ten lines operated by T.I.C.E. A new rapid tram system will reduce travel time to Luxembourg City to 26 minutes when completed in 2028.
Shopping and Urban Life
Rue de l'Alzette, Luxembourg's longest shopping street, runs through the city center. You'll find over 100 retail stores, cafes, and restaurants along this pedestrian zone. Local vendors sell fresh produce, flowers, and crafts at the weekly market every Tuesday and Friday.
The Belval District
The Belval district incorporates two 80-meter-high blast furnaces into its modern design. These industrial monuments, which produced steel until 1997, now stand next to the University of Luxembourg campus, scientific research centers, and the national archives. You can watch movies at the 7-screen Kinepolis cinema or browse through the shopping center with 30 stores.
Cultural Venues
The Rockhal hosts around 150 concerts annually, from rock and pop to electronic music. The municipal theater presents plays and dance performances from September to May. Every July, the three-day Francofolies music festival brings 30+ artists to Parc du Galgebierg. In 2022, Esch-sur-Alzette's European Capital of Culture program included 130 projects focused on sustainable development.
Parks and Recreation
Parc du Galgebierg includes 2 kilometers of walking paths, playgrounds, and sports facilities. From December to February, you can ice skate on the park's natural rink when temperatures drop below freezing. The park's elevated position gives you views across the city and surrounding valley.
