Luxembourg: sights, info and flights
Luxembourg, capital of the Grand Duchy of the same name, is a small city but dense in history and contrasts. People travel here for its medieval old town, declared a World Heritage Site, and for being a European financial and political center that coexists with neighborhoods of a calm and green atmosphere.
What to see: fortifications and palace
The obligatory starting point is the old town, a rocky promontory surrounded by the valleys of the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers. Here are concentrated the main monuments, such as the Grand Ducal Palace, official residence of the Grand Duke, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, in late Gothic style. A few minutes away, the Bock Casemates are a network of tunnels excavated in the rock that served as refuge and military barracks; they are the most characteristic visit of the city.
Districts and how to get around
The center can be perfectly walked through in a morning, but it is worth going down to the Grund district, at the foot of the old town. This neighborhood, with colorful houses and the Alzette river, is the most picturesque and preserves a village atmosphere within the city. To go up or down, you can use the public lift of Pfaffenthal or simply walk along the stairs and cobblestone slopes. The rest of the city, more modern and with offices of European institutions, extends to the west and north, but has no monumental interest for the traveler with little time.
Eating and nightlife
The gastronomic offer is varied, with restaurants mixing French, German cuisine and local dishes like judd mat gaardebounen (smoked pork neck with broad beans). To eat well without excesses, the Grund neighborhood and the streets around Place d’Armes concentrate the largest offer. Nightlife is modest: there are cocktail bars and pubs in the center, and some lively terraces in summer. It is not a party destination, but one for quiet dinners and night walks through illuminated streets.
When to go
The best season is from May to September, when temperatures are mild and terraces are open. In winter, the city is cold and gray, although the Christmas market in Place de la Constitution and the festive atmosphere compensate for the visit. Spring and autumn are ideal to avoid crowds, which are notable in summer in the old town.
- Bock Casemates: historical tunnels and bunkers excavated in the rock, with views of the valley.
- Grand Ducal Palace: official residence of the Grand Duke, with Renaissance facade and guard at the door.
- Old Town: pedestrian zone with cobblestone streets, shops and Guillaume II square.
- Grund District: lower neighborhood next to the river, with old houses and a calm atmosphere.
- Place d’Armes: central square with terraces and restaurants, social heart of the city.
Frequently asked questions
How much time is needed to see the essentials?
A full day is enough to walk through the old town, the Casemates and go down to Grund. If you want to visit a museum, such as the National Museum of History and Art, it is advisable to add half a day more.
Is it expensive to eat and stay in Luxembourg?
Yes, it is one of the most expensive capitals in Europe. A daily menu in a central restaurant costs high prices, and hotel accommodation is also costly. To save money, you can eat in bakeries or brasseries outside the most touristy areas.