A compact European nation with a medieval capital city. Home to EU institutions and historic fortifications. Bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany.
Luxembourg is a small European nation between France, Germany, and Belgium. In Luxembourg City, you can walk through the UNESCO-listed Old Quarter, explore the Bock Casemates underground tunnels, or visit the European Court of Justice. Outside the city, you'll find the rocky landscapes of the Mullerthal region, ancient castles like Vianden, and the vineyards of the Moselle Valley. Luxembourg's compact size allows you to experience its trilingual culture, taste local cuisine, and enjoy its free public transportation system within a short visit.
Luxembourg City's Old Quarter
Luxembourg City's historic core, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits on a cliff above the Alzette and Pétrusse valleys. You can walk through narrow cobblestone streets with medieval buildings. The Bock Casemates, tunnels carved into the cliff face, show the city's military past. For views of the lower town and countryside, visit the Chemin de la Corniche walkway.
European Institutions and Modern Architecture
As one of the European Union's capitals, Luxembourg City has several important EU institutions. The European Court of Justice, the EU's highest judicial authority, is in the Kirchberg district. This area also has contemporary buildings like the Philharmonie Luxembourg concert hall and the MUDAM (Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art).
Multilingual Culture and Education
Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. You'll see this in street signs and hear it in cafes. Students learn all three languages in school. This linguistic variety adds to Luxembourg's international atmosphere.
Landscapes and Outdoor Activities
Luxembourg has rocky areas, forests, hills, and river valleys. In the Mullerthal region, you can hike the 112-kilometer Mullerthal Trail through rock formations and along streams. The northern Oesling region has hills and small villages. In the southeast Moselle Valley, you can visit vineyards and try local wines like Riesling and Auxerrois.
Castles and Historical Sites
You'll find many medieval castles in Luxembourg's countryside. Vianden Castle overlooks the Our River and is one of the largest fortified castles west of the Rhine. Beaufort Castle has sections from different time periods. In Clervaux, you can see The Family of Man photography exhibition in a 12th-century castle.
Culinary Delights
Luxembourg's food combines influences from neighboring countries with local traditions. Try traditional dishes like Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork collar with broad beans) or Bouneschlupp (green bean soup). Luxembourg City has several Michelin-starred restaurants for fine dining. At local markets or restaurants, you can taste specialties like Quetschentaart (plum tart) or Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes).
Free Public Transportation
Since 2020, Luxembourg has offered free nationwide public transportation. As a visitor, you can use buses, trains, and trams at no cost. This system connects major cities and tourist sites, making it easy to travel around the country without a car.
