Luxembourg City is one of the smallest capitals in Europe, but it has a history that dates back more than a thousand years. It was founded in 983 around a medieval fortress, and it quickly became an important defensive stronghold. It’s sometimes even referred to as the “Gibraltar of the North”. Luxembourg has been ruled by various European powers over the centuries, including the Spanish, French, Prussians, and Austrians. Today, visitors can see traces of each of these powers, and there are a lot of things to do in Luxembourg City that centre around its history.
Despite being one of the wealthiest nations in the world, Luxembourg is still a very underrated travel destination. Many tourists opt to visit larger capitals like Paris, Amsterdam, or Brussels, and completely bypass Luxembourg City. In my opinion, this is a big mistake. Luxembourg City isn’t the cheapest place to visit, but you’ll be rewarded with a relaxed atmosphere, plenty of incredible viewpoints, and picturesque neighbourhoods. It’s one city that should make it onto any European travel itinerary.
Getting around Luxembourg
Fun fact: Transportation in Luxembourg is completely free. This means that trams, buses, and standard-class trains across the country are free to use, so it’s very easy and affordable to explore Luxembourg City and beyond. Within the city, you can easily reach the main attractions in just minutes, regardless of where you’re based. The tram line is very useful if you want to get to places such as the Kirchberg district or the airport, too.
Luxembourg City is very walkable, though there are some hills to climb. We spent much of our time on foot, but we did take advantage of the buses a couple of times. If you’re looking to make the most of your time here, the transport network is one of the best in Europe.
Best things to do in Luxembourg City
1. Adolphe Bridge
One of the best things to do in Luxembourg City is to walk across the Adolphe Bridge. It was completed in 1903 and is now one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. When it was built, the stone arch was one of the largest in the world and stood as a symbol of Luxembourg’s growing independence. It spans the Petrusse Valley and connects the old town to the train station district.
Even if you don’t plan to walk across the bridge, you should still visit the area for the incredible views. My favourite view is from the Nation Square Observation Deck, which isn’t overly crowded and offers a good angle for photos. Below the observation deck, you can also look at a beautiful garden space or take the path down to stroll below the bridge.
2. Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is the only cathedral in Luxembourg City. It was built in the 17th century by Jesuit priests, and until the 19th century, it was used as a Jesuit institution. Inside you’ll find elegant stained-glass windows as well as a revered statue of the Virgin Mary. Visitors can also venture down into the crypt that serves as the resting place of some of Luxembourg’s royal family.
Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the best free things to do in Luxembourg City, and its location in Ville Haute (the old town) makes it very convenient to add to any itinerary. It’s also just a short walk from Place Guillaume II and the “Golden Lady”.
3. Find the “Golden Lady”
The Monument of Remembrance, also known as the “Golden Lady”, is located at the top of an obelisk in Place de la Constitution. The monument commemorates the people from Luxembourg who fought with the Allied forces in WWI. If you look closely, you’ll see that the bronze statue at the top is the Greek goddess of victory, Nike. During WWII, the Nazis actually dismantled the monument, but it was later restored.
Today, this square is popular for its panoramic views of the Adolphe Bridge and the valley below. You can also find the LOOK 360 Panorama observation deck here, as well as the entrance for the Petrusse Casemates, which are two of the top things to do in Luxembourg City.
4. Place Guillaume II
There are numerous impressive squares to admire throughout Ville Haute. One of the most important public squares in the city is Place Guillaume II, named after King William II of the Netherlands and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. In the centre of the square, you’ll find a statue of the king on horseback. Before this space was turned into a public square, it was the site of a Franciscan monastery, but today you’ll find the area full of cafes and restaurants.
At one end of Place Guillaume II is the City Hall, and nearby streets are lined with local shops and even more places to eat in Luxembourg City. This is also where part of the Luxembourg Christmas Markets is located, which is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about Christmas markets in Europe.
5. Grand Ducal Palace
The Grand Ducal Palace is the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, making it one of the city’s most important landmarks. It was originally built in 1572 and used as the city hall, but during different periods of foreign rule, it served different functions. In the 19th century, it officially became the residence of the Grand Ducal family. The palace is open to the public for parts of the year, so if you want to go inside during your trip to Luxembourg, it’s a good idea to check the official website for details beforehand.
One of the best things to do in Luxembourg City for history enthusiasts is to tour the palace. But if you happen to visit the city when it’s not open to the public, you can still admire it from the outside. Since it’s located in the heart of the old town, you’ll find it close to many other key attractions in Luxembourg City as well.
6. Visit some museums in Luxembourg
If museums interest you, Luxembourg City is home to quite a few impressive collections. The Luxembourg City History Museum, for example, provides visitors with a look at how the city’s transformed through interactive displays and engaging exhibitions. Or, the National Museum of History and Art is where you’ll find fine art and archaeological artifacts. MUDAM also shouldn’t be missed by anyone with an interest in art.
The best way to experience all of the incredible museums in Luxembourg City without paying a small fortune is by purchasing the LuxembourgPass. This will give you access to some of the best things to do in Luxembourg for no extra cost, and plenty of discounts for restaurants and cafes, too. We were very happy to have the pass with us during our time in the city. The LuxembourgPass is also valid throughout the country, so you can visit several of the top castles in Luxembourg for free.
7. Take in the view from Chemin de la Corniche
Luxembourg City isn’t short of viewpoints, and one that can’t be missed is Chemin de la Corniche. The walkway dates back to the 17th century when the fortifications of Luxembourg City were expanded under French and Spanish rule. It’s often called “Europe’s most beautiful balcony”, with its scenic promenade reaching out along the city’s defensive walls.
From the promenade, you can enjoy breathtaking views across the Alzette Valley, looking down into the Grund district. This part of the city is particularly nice to walk around, so once you’re done taking in the views, I’d recommend walking down into the Grund district if you have the time.
8. Walk along the Alzette River
Walking along the Alzette River is easily one of the best free things to do in Luxembourg City. In the past, the river played a key role in powering mills and supporting various industries in the surrounding districts. Today, the river offers a tranquil setting with picture-perfect walking routes. As you make your way along the river, don’t forget to be on the lookout for the city’s pink mermaid!
9. Bock Casemates
If you’re spending a day or more in Luxembourg City, make sure you add Bock Casemates to your list. Bock Casemates are among the top attractions in Luxembourg, and part of the reason why Ville Haute was given UNESCO World Heritage status. These underground tunnels were constructed in the 17th century and formed part of a fortress system that made Luxembourg City one of the strongest fortified cities in Europe.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to go inside the tunnels, but from what I’ve seen online, they look similar to the tunnels in Gibraltar, though they were used for different purposes. The entrance to Bock Casemates is close to Chemin de la Corniche. From the famous viewpoint, there’s a great angle of what remains of the fortress walls.
10. Explore the Grund district
Below Ville Haute is where you’ll find the Grund district, nestled in a picturesque valley. Walking around this neighbourhood is one of the most popular things to do in Luxembourg City, and after visiting it, I can understand why.
This neighbourhood was once home to craftsmen and workers who relied on the nearby river for their livelihood. Today, the area has been transformed and is now home to restaurants, cafes, and historic buildings, such as Neumunster Abbey. Take your time walking around the Grund district because there are many beautiful places to take photos of. It’s recommended to visit here in the evening too, when the bridges and streets are illuminated.
11. Jacob Tower
Before leaving the Grund district, don’t miss Jaccob Tower. This is one of the most underrated things to do in Luxembourg City, but it offers an interesting insight into the city’s past. The tower once formed part of the defensive walls that were built to protect the city, and it also helped control access between the different parts of the fortress. Today, you can climb up the tower and enjoy a beautiful view of the historic centre of Luxembourg City. There’s a bus stop nearby if you don’t want to climb up the hill, too.
12. Make a stop at Chocolate House
Many online recommendations put stopping at the Chocolate House as one of the top things to do in Luxembourg City. This popular family-run cafe sits across from the Grand Ducal Palace, and it’s known for its signature hot chocolates as well as a huge selection of handmade chocolates. If you’re visiting Luxembourg on a budget, though, you may want to skip the Chocolate Shop. The price for a single block of chocolate was very high when we visited, so we didn’t end up buying anything. It may be worth sitting outside with a nice hot chocolate, though, if you really want to try something from here.
13. Find unique street art
Luxembourg City is associated with grand monuments and historic attractions, but its street art scene should get some attention, too. Many of the larger pieces are located outside of the old town, but you may still see a few installations and murals in Ville Haute. One of my favourite murals is located next to the entrance of the Luxembourg City History Museum. Keep an eye out while wandering through the streets of the city, because you never know what will pop up.
14. Place de Clairefontaine
Behind the Grand Ducal Palace is a beautiful square called Place de Clairefontaine. This is one of the city’s most elegant squares, and its name comes from a monastery that once stood on this site. In the centre of the square is a statue of one of Luxembourg’s historical figures, the Grand Duchess Charlotte. This is a much quieter space than Place Guillaume II, so it’s a nice spot to sit and take in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s also located within easy walking distance of many of the top things to do in Luxembourg City, such as Notre Dame Cathedral.
15. Get lost in the streets of Ville Haute
The historic heart of the capital, Ville Haute, forms the upper town of the city. It’s where most of the main attractions can be found, but its side streets are worth exploring in your spare time, too. The district developed around the medieval fortress, and there are still remnants of its original layout in its narrow lanes, squares, and well-preserved buildings. Ville Haute is small enough to explore on foot without feeling overwhelmed, and there are more than enough hidden gems and inviting cafes here to enjoy during your time in Luxembourg City.
Where to eat in Luxembourg City
Bistro de la Presse
One of the best things to do in Luxembourg City is to eat Luxembourgish food. Bistro de la Presse is located opposite the Grand Ducal Palace, right next to the Chocolate Shop. It has a prime location to people watch and enjoy the atmosphere of Ville Haute from the outdoor terrace. The menu focuses on local and French-inspired cuisine, so there’s plenty of good European comfort food available. If you can’t decide what to order, I’d highly recommend the dumplings with bacon pieces – they’re filling but delicious!
Nam Cà Phê
Have you ever tried egg coffee? Nam Cà Phê brings the taste of Vietnam to the heart of Luxembourg City, with a menu centred around traditional recipes and authentic Vietnamese street food. It’s a great place to come for lunch, but they’re also open for breakfast if you’re looking for a coffee and a pastry.
Their banh mi sandwiches are phenomenal, served on freshly baked bread and bursting with flavour. If rice paper rolls are more your thing, they have a good selection of those, too. Nam Cà Phê has a very relaxed atmosphere, and it’s still a hidden gem in Luxembourg City, despite being surrounded by popular shopping streets and major attractions.
Cannoleria Luxembourg
A short drive south of the old town will bring you to Cannoleria Luxembourg, located in the Bonnevoie district. This family-run Italian restaurant in Luxembourg City uses high-quality ingredients imported from Italy to create incredible traditional recipes. It’s a popular spot for locals, and its welcoming atmosphere has made it attractive for visitors looking for something beyond the usual touristy restaurants.
There are a lot of great pasta dishes to choose from, including authentic carbonara, as well as pinsas, which are perfect for sharing. You shouldn’t leave without trying one of their signature cannoli, either, or their homemade tiramisu. If you’re looking for a nice Italian restaurant in Luxembourg City to dine at, Cannoleria Luxembourg is very hard to beat.
Sara’s Brunch
Sara’s Brunch is a locally run cafe located a short walk from Ville Haute, in a more residential part of the city. It’s quickly earned a reputation for its breakfast and brunch dishes, with the menu featuring everything from avocado toast to smoothie bowls, salads, and specialty coffees. We ordered a few dishes to share, among which the Greek Salad was a big highlight for me. It was very refreshing and full of fresh ingredients, and the presentation was excellent. If the weather’s nice when you visit, there’s an outdoor terrace at the back of the cafe with a lovely view of the park.
Cinnamood
A fairly new addition to the food scene in Luxembourg City is Cinnamood. It would be hard to walk past Cinnamood without stopping, because their enormous gourmet cinnamon rolls are right on display in the window. They have everything from classic cinnamon and cream cheese rolls to more unique combinations such as Oreo, raspberry, and Kinder. It’s a great place for a snack and something to drink in the middle of the day. If you’re planning to take them on the go, I’d recommend going earlier in the morning when the rolls are nice and fresh.
Urban Bar & Restaurant
We stumbled upon Urban Bar & Restaurant by chance while looking for smash burgers in Luxembourg City. It’s a modern restaurant in the centre of the old town, with a menu mostly based around burgers. They do have other choices, though, like wraps, salads, and loaded fries. Their specialty cocktails are supposed to be quite good as well, but since we were trying to explore the city on a budget, we opted not to order any. It’s a convenient place to eat in Ville Haute, but it definitely wasn’t the best food we ate in Luxembourg.
Dolce Gelateria
After a long day of exploring all the incredible things to do in Luxembourg City, you might want to treat yourself to a gelato. Although the Google reviews for Dolce Gelateria aren’t the best, the gelato is actually very good. They have a mixture of traditional and seasonal flavours, and they focus on using high-quality ingredients as well as traditional Italian techniques. There did seem to be a lot of confusion among customers when ordering, though, because you need to pay before you choose your flavours, rather than the other way around.
Where to stay in Luxembourg City
When choosing where to stay in Luxembourg City, you have a diverse range of accommodation options at your disposal. Many of the city’s boutique hotels are situated inside historic buildings, but they still offer modern comforts that reflect Luxembourg’s rich history. Staying in the city centre can be expensive, but if it’s convenience you’re after, then this is where you’ll want to be based. Melia Luxembourg, Grand Hotel Cravat, and Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa are all popular options.
Alternatively, you can save money by staying outside of Luxembourg City. We stayed in the village of Larochette, which is around 40 minutes by car from Ville Haute, at hu Birkelt Village. On top of traditional camping areas, this 5-star campsite offers glamping and cabin options, too. We stayed in a 2-bedroom cabin with a fully equipped kitchen, private bathrooms, and an outdoor terrace. All guests also have access to an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, restaurants, a mini-market, and entertainment as well. We didn’t spend a lot of time at the campsite, but it was a great budget-friendly alternative to staying in Luxembourg City.
Is Luxembourg City worth visiting?
Luxembourg City may be small compared to other European capitals, but it’s definitely worth visiting. The city’s mix of culture, history, and scenery will be enough to keep you busy for a full day, if not more. Wandering the picturesque streets of Ville Haute and the Grund, visiting museums, and exploring the city’s diverse food scene are just some of the many fantastic things to do in Luxembourg City. There are also lots of castles in Luxembourg to discover if you plan to stay in the country for more than a day. It may not be the cheapest city in Europe, but it’s worth adding to any travel itinerary.
If you have any questions about visiting Luxembourg, such as things to do in Luxembourg City, where to eat, or even what time of the year to visit, feel free to get in touch. You can reach out via email or through my contact form. Don’t forget to follow my travels on Instagram and TikTok as well, where you’ll come across more travel tips and inspiration.
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