Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Luxembourg

Luxembourg is recognized as one of the smallest nations globally, encompassing an area of merely 1,650 square kilometers. With a population of approximately 500,000 inhabitants, it resembles a sizable town more than a sovereign state; nonetheless, its diminutive size renders it an excellent destination, as many of the prominent attractions are conveniently situated in close proximity. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosting several key landmarks.

However, it is essential not to confine your exploration solely to the city center. A brief journey beyond the urban area reveals a multitude of charming towns and villages, with much of the picturesque countryside easily accessible by train. In addition to idyllic settings, visitors can discover ancient fortresses and magnificent castles. It is straightforward to reach Luxembourg by crossing the borders from the Netherlands or Belgium.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Luxembourg…

1. Wander around the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter in Luxembourg City is an ideal starting point for a journey through this enchanting country, boasting UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

The center would have been encircled by elegant ancient fortifications, once dubbed the Gibraltar of the North, although these were dismantled in 1883. Presently, visitors can enjoy tree-lined cobblestone streets along with lush parks and gardens.

As you stroll around, take the opportunity to view scenic bridges and meandering alleyways; my best recommendation is to explore the areas that capture your interest.

2. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral was constructed in the 17th century by Jesuit priests and continues to stand as a proud symbol of architectural heritage.

One of the defining features is the north gate, which exhibits baroque style and is adorned with exquisite stained glass from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Alongside traditional architecture, visitors can encounter contemporary sculptures and a renowned miniature statue of the Madonna and Jesus positioned over the altar.

Additionally, the cathedral is significant for its crypt, which houses the graves of members of the Luxembourg royal family, guarded by two lion statues.

3. Admire the National Museum of History and Art

Despite its small footprint, Luxembourg is renowned for its diverse and engaging museums.

The National Museum of History and Art, situated in the Fish Market area of the old town, stands out among these institutions.

Visitors can discover a vast array of artifacts including tools, coins, weaponry, historical documents, and photographs.

Much of the artwork pertains to the Gallo-Roman era and narrates the social and religious history of Luxembourg’s inhabitants.

Art enthusiasts interested in modern works will also find satisfaction, as the museum showcases the pieces of various 20th-century artists.

4. Stroll around Parc Merveilleux

Parc Merveilleux is located in the town of Bettembourg, just 6 miles from Luxembourg City and a mere 3 miles from the French border, making it an accessible destination.

In addition to serving as an animal park, it also functions as an amusement center, featuring arcades, playgrounds, and even a train that circulates throughout the park.

5. Explore the Bock and the City Casements

The Bock Cliff in Luxembourg is famed for its cannons and formidable fortifications, providing an opportunity to explore the Casemates, a series of underground tunnels.

These remarkable passages constitute an exceptional engineering achievement, extending for 21 kilometers through solid rock cliffs.

Originally designed to conceal soldiers and store horses and supplies, many tunnels are open for exploration. At the summit of the plateau, the remnants of a former castle, unearthed as recently as 1963, can be found.

6. Visit the Echternach Benedictine Abbey

A visit to the town of Echternach would be incomplete without a tour of the Benedictine Abbey, which dates back to the seventh century and features an adjoining museum.

This remarkable structure consists of four buildings surrounding a central courtyard, with the basilica here holding immense religious significance in Luxembourg.

Notably, it contains a crypt featuring the sarcophagus of St. Willibrord, formed of white marble, with the vaults adorned with vibrant frescoes dating from the 10th century.

7. Explore Berdorf

Berdorf is renowned as one of Luxembourg’s popular tourist destinations, perched upon wind-swept table lands overlooking the valleys of the Black Ernz, Sûre, and Aesbach rivers.

These scenic valleys are interlaced with footpaths that allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of Luxembourg’s landscapes, with over 3,000 acres of forest calling this area home.

If rock climbing piques your interest, the hills here offer excellent opportunities.

8. Visit the town of Echternach

The charming town of Echternach lies along the banks of the picturesque River Sûre, which also demarcates the border with Germany.

The town is well-known for its various festivals, including an international music festival that takes place from May to June, and a dancing procession that has a centuries-long tradition on Whit Tuesday.

Within the town, visitors can admire quaint old houses, winding streets, and medieval architecture that invokes a sense of history.

9. Explore the Palais Grand-Ducal

The Palais Grand-Ducal serves as the official residence of the Grand Duke and the royal family of Luxembourg, celebrated as a stunning example of architectural brilliance in Luxembourg City.

This structure, which dates back to the 16th century, showcases a fusion of various architectural styles, including romantic, medieval, and gothic elements.

10. Climb along the Walls of the Corniche

In Luxembourg City, visitors will find the Walls of the Corniche, which overlook the city and the valley below.

This location is also home to the Gate of the Grund, constructed in 1632, alongside various houses and intriguing landmarks such as St. Michael’s Church and the Abbey of Neumünster, notable for its famous pipe organ and a 14th-century statue of a ‘black virgin.’

11. Stop by Place Guillaume

Place Guillaume is characterized by its spacious open areas, which formerly housed a Franciscan convent.

This area is now entirely pedestrianized, showcasing a famous statue of William II on horseback, who was the King of Holland and the Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

Nearby landmarks include the Town Hall, the Spanish Turret, and a former cavalry barracks.

12. Enjoy the culture at the Museum of Modern Art

While many perceive Luxembourg as a bastion of ancient artifacts, it also features an array of avant-garde museums such as the Museum of Modern Art, commonly referred to as MUDAM. Spanning over 4,500 square meters, the museum boasts a distinctive design, set upon the remnants of the former Fort Thungen established in 1732. Its diverse collection encompasses photographs, sculptures, textiles, and even digital media.

The complete museum complex resides within Parc Drai Eechelen, which features various sculptural artworks and breathtaking vistas of the old town area of Luxembourg.

13. Travel to the town of Vianden

The town of Vianden is heralded as one of the most picturesque locations in Luxembourg, located near the banks of the Our River.

This charming destination features an attractive feudal manor constructed in the ninth century and is enclosed by a medieval outer wall, complete with fortified towers.

Moreover, it is noteworthy for being the residence of Victor Hugo during his exile; his former home is now a public museum showcasing memorabilia from that period.

For those who enjoy hiking, there are numerous trails radiating from Vianden into the Our Valley, while those desiring a more leisurely experience can take advantage of a chairlift that ascends to 440 meters, offering magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

14. Explore Bourscheid Castle

The village of Bourscheid is situated on a plateau flanked by the Wark and Sûre rivers.

This locale is host to numerous outdoor activities, including hiking trails and various pursuits; however, the main attraction remains Bourscheid Castle, which dominates the village from an elevation of 137 meters.

Initially erected in the 10th century, the castle has been meticulously preserved, and visitors can either partake in guided tours or audio tours to delve into its history.

If you visit in the evening, the castle’s illumination presents a breathtaking sight, particularly when viewed from the village.

15. Have a spa at Mondorf-les-Bains

Situated in the Moselle region of Luxembourg, Mondorf-les-Bains is famous for possessing some of the most renowned thermal springs in Europe.

The prominent Mondorf le Domaine Thermal spa complex includes a wellness center, gym, and hotel facilities.

The spa draws from geothermal springs pumped from underground at a refreshing temperature of 24 degrees Celsius, reputed for their curative properties that address a variety of ailments.

Therefore, if you seek a rejuvenating experience in Luxembourg, this destination is highly recommended.

16. Enjoy Walferdange and its castle

The historical Walferdange Castle served as the Grand Ducal residence until the late 19th century and is adjacent to Grunewald Wood.

This village is part of a principal visitor route in Luxembourg, near the picturesque Alzette Valley, renowned for its lush forests and stunning scenery.

Additionally, the village is distinguished for its floriculture, particularly its fragrant roses.

For archaeology enthusiasts, there is a Roman villa here, accompanied by an aqueduct leading underground.

17. Take to the Upper-Sûre Lake

Located near Esch-sur-Sûre in the Upper-Sûre Natural Park, this area is home to the renowned Upper-Sûre Lake.

The lake is recognized as one of Luxembourg’s prime leisure destinations, drawing visitors for water sports during the warmer months, including swimming, canoeing, and sailing.

Adventurous individuals may also attempt diving or windsurfing, and there is a unique solar-powered boat available to navigate the waters.

18. Take in a concert at the Philharmonic of Luxembourg

Though Luxembourg is small in size, the Philharmonic of Luxembourg is recognized as one of Europe’s premier concert venues.

Home to the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg, this venue attracts renowned artists and orchestras from around the globe, including notable conductors.

The building is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, making it an ideal location to experience high-quality musical performances.

19. Admire Beaufort Castle

Beaufort is situated on a plateau within the Mullerthal region of Luxembourg, featuring a castle originating from the 12th century.

While much of the castle remains in a state of disrepair and lacks the preservation of many others in the region, it offers an intriguing rustic experience. Surrounding the castle are numerous footpaths that weave through beautiful woodlands and remarkable rock formations.

20. Take in the views from Passerelle Viaduc

Passerelle Viaduc stands as one of Luxembourg’s most historically significant bridges, completed in 1861. Constructed by a British company known as the Waring Brothers, the viaduct was initially designed to connect the city center; despite its innovative design at the time, it is now commonly referred to as the Old Bridge.

The bridge is primarily visited for its breathtaking views overlooking Luxembourg City.

21. Take in the nature at Biodiversum – Nature Reserve Haff Reimech

The Haff Reimech Nature Reserve is situated at the base of the Schengen and Remich wine slopes, serving as a destination for observing a diverse range of flora and fauna in Luxembourg.

The Biodiversum, located on an artificial island, allows exploration of a well-preserved nature reserve, along with an underwater exhibit featuring galleries and educational materials.

The focus here is to educate visitors on sustainability practices and foster environmental stewardship.

22. Visit Minett Park

Minett Park, located in Fond-de-Gras, was once a vital center of industry.

A charming aspect of the area is the ability to travel via Train 1900, a traditional steam locomotive that transports visitors to Fond-de-Gras.

Here you will find an open-air museum alongside a walking tour around various wooden buildings on display.

Highlights include a historic grocery store and the Paul Wurt electric power station.

23. Enjoy Larochette

Larochette is a picturesque market town nestled within a rugged valley, encircled by scenic woodlands.

The town is celebrated for its two castles, which overlook the White Ernz river running through the valley.

Additional features include a medieval square, an intriguing Museum of Industry, and a Neo-Roman church adorned with remarkable Art Nouveau frescoes.

24. Make your way to Wiltz

Wiltz consists of two distinct areas: the upper and lower town.

The region boasts several attractions, such as the Battle of the Bulge Museum located within Wiltz Castle.

Additionally, it hosts an exciting music festival during the summer months and offers an outdoor theater where visitors can enjoy concerts under the night sky.

25. Explore the Valley of the Seven Castles

Located in the Guttland region of Luxembourg, the Valley of the Seven Castles spans 24 kilometers.

One of the delights of this area is the opportunity to journey back to the medieval era while navigating a trail that connects multiple castles.

The castles included in this scenic route are Mersch, Schoenfels, Koerich, Hollenfels, Septfontaines, and the two Asembourg castles.