Wasserbillig

Wasserbillig sits at Luxembourg’s eastern edge, where the Moselle and Sauer rivers meet Germany. With 3,485 residents, this town reveals its Roman past through bridge foundations from the ancient harbor of Biliacum, uncovered during 1950s construction. Cross into Germany using the ferry or bridges, cycle riverside paths, or explore a freshwater aquarium displaying local fish species. Direct trains reach Luxembourg City in under 40 minutes, making it a convenient base for Moselle Valley trips. At 132 meters above sea level, the lowest point in Luxembourg, Wasserbillig combines historical elements with current river trade and cross-border activity.

Roman History and Modern Connections

Wasserbillig began as a Roman settlement around 100 AD called Biliacum. During construction of the Sauer River bridge in 1952, workers found stone pillars from an ancient Roman bridge, now displayed near the modern crossing. The town’s name reflects its origins, merging the German word for water with the Latin root. Jacques Santer, born here in 1937, later led Luxembourg as Prime Minister and headed the European Commission. Follow the 17-stop cultural trail to learn about Roman trade routes, medieval developments, and 20th-century political shifts.

River Mergers and Cross-Border Access

The Moselle and Sauer rivers form natural borders with Germany, connected by a car ferry to Oberbillig and a bridge to Wasserbilligerbrück. A mosaic panel marks the exact spot where the two rivers join, illustrating Luxembourg’s geographical layout. The ferry runs daily, taking five minutes to cross with views of cargo ships and vineyards on the slopes. Cyclists can ride east toward Trier on the Moselle Trail or west into Luxembourg’s wine regions. This junction of rivers and transport routes turned Wasserbillig into a logistics hub, a role it’s held since Roman times.

Hiking Paths and Cycling Routes

Start a 9.9-km hiking loop at the community hall, passing Roman artifacts before ascending to the Kloop viewpoint for panoramas of the Moselle and Sauer valleys. Shorter walks, like the 3.3-km village route, take you past the Municipal Park aquarium, which holds 90,000 liters of water and native pike and carp. Check local hunting schedules from October to February if planning woodland hikes. Rent bikes at the train station to follow the Sauer River toward Echternach or join the cross-border Moselle Cycling Path. Clear trail markers and riverside picnic spots make these routes accessible for all fitness levels.

Aquarium Visits and Daily Routines

The town’s freshwater aquarium displays 12 tanks replicating habitats of Moselle and Sauer species like catfish and perch. Situated in a park near the Sauer bridge, the site includes walking paths and benches overlooking the water. Pair your aquarium visit with the weekly market on Grand-Rue, where vendors sell smoked fish from the rivers and regional wines. Free parking near the Moselle waterfront simplifies access to shops and cafes. Year-round bike rentals include child seats and e-bikes for longer journeys along the riverbanks.

Train Connections and Nearby Destinations

Trains from Wasserbillig Station reach Luxembourg City in 29–37 minutes, winding through the forested Alzette Valley. The same line extends east to Trier, Germany, in 20 minutes, placing Roman sites like the Porta Nigra gate within day-trip range. Ample parking near the ferry terminal and train station accommodates cars, bikes, and mobility devices. Regional bus day passes let you explore Moselle Valley towns such as Grevenmacher and Schengen. For independent exploration, pick up a detailed Michelin map at the tourist office close to the Sauer bridge.