Luxembourg Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Luxembourg? Main activities and attractions

Luxembourg City offers a striking contrast between old and new, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town set on dramatic cliffs and fortified walls. The Bock Casemates, a vast underground tunnel system used for centuries in defense, remains one of the most popular historical sites. The Grand Ducal Palace, residence of the Grand Duke, illustrates the country’s monarchical heritage. Art lovers will appreciate the National Museum of History and Art, which showcases artifacts from the Gallo-Roman period to modern art. Vianden Castle, perched above a picturesque town, offers a quintessential medieval experience in the north of the country.

Nature enthusiasts will find lush forests, river valleys, and hiking trails in the Mullerthal region, known as Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland. The Moselle Valley invites visitors to enjoy local wine tasting and scenic river cruises, with vineyards adorning the hillsides. For a unique escape, the Upper-Sûre Nature Park offers opportunities for swimming and kayaking in summer. Local cuisine is a delight, blending French finesse with hearty German flavors—don’t miss dishes like Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans). Combining gastronomy with landscapes turns a travel to Luxembourg into a serene yet enriching adventure.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Luxembourg

Beyond its pristine capital and famous castles, Luxembourg holds a trove of lesser-known places offering unique experiences for curious travelers. These off-the-beaten-track sites allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic facets of Luxembourg’s territory away from tourist crowds.

Start with the Schengen village in the Moselle Valley, where the famous EU agreement was signed. Its open-air museum and wine cellars make it a meaningful yet relaxing stop. In Esch-sur-Alzette, delve into contemporary culture at Belval’s blast furnaces turned cultural complex, a symbol of the country’s industrial past reinvented. For something truly singular, explore the Biodiversum Camille Gira in Remerschen—a futuristic museum rising from a nature reserve near the German border, ideal for eco-travelers.

Another gem is Clervaux’s Family of Man photography exhibition, housed in a fairytale castle and designated by UNESCO. Outdoor lovers should head to Gorges de l’Our near the northeastern border, providing breathtaking hikes along untouched gorges and rivers.

These hidden corners invite travelers to slow down, engage with locals, and uncover the subtle layers of Luxembourgish culture. Venturing off-path in this compact country is both easy and rewarding, making your travel to Luxembourg far more memorable.

When to visit Luxembourg? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Luxembourg

📋 Formalities and visa

EU citizens don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. The same applies to UK and US citizens with a valid passport. Travelers must present a passport or national ID card and show proof of funds or accommodation if requested. Luxembourg is part of the Schengen Area, allowing free movement for member states.

🚗 Driving rules

Vehicles in Luxembourg drive on the right-hand side. An EU or international driving license is accepted and required for rental. Speed limits are rigorously enforced. Seat belts are mandatory, and dipped headlights are recommended during the day.

🔌 Electricity

Luxembourg uses type C and F plugs with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from the UK and US will need an adapter. Most accommodations provide charging options for European devices.

📱 Mobile network and internet

The country has excellent 4G coverage, especially in urban zones. Main providers include POST Luxembourg, Tango, and Orange. EU roaming is free for EU tourists. Prepaid SIM cards are easy to obtain; expect about €10 for 5GB of data.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Luxembourg is one of Europe’s safest countries. Nevertheless, in larger towns, watch out for pickpockets in squares and transport hubs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It’s recommended to carry ID at all times.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

Smoking is banned in public buildings and transport. Drug use is prohibited. Importing meat or dairy products from non-EU countries is regulated. Hefty fines may apply for waste littering or public disturbances.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Punctuality and politeness are highly valued. A handshake is the standard greeting. Dress code is casual but neat, especially in restaurants and formal settings. Avoid overly loud conversations in public places.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Luxembourg is predominantly Christian (mostly Catholic). Most churches are open to respectful tourists. No strict dress code applies, but modest attire is appreciated. Main religious holidays affect opening hours of businesses.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Luxembourg, Luxembourg National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025