Luxembourg Attractions - Top 10 Most Popular Sites

It is not uncommon for tourists to overlook the tiny Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in favor of its larger neighbors, France or Belgium. However, those who do visit will find themselves in a multicultural metropolis full of history, culture, and attractions that exceed all expectations.

Here we have summarized the 10 most beautiful attractions in Luxembourg.

Choosing the most beautiful attraction in Luxembourg is easy: very little can compete with the fascination of the Bock Casemates. The ring walls with the rock-hewn caves were once part of Luxembourg's fortress. They date back to the 17th century and originally included a much larger cave system. Today, there are still 17 km of casemates preserved, extending over several levels.

In the summer months, the casemates can be visited for just a few euros. Visitors can independently explore the winding corridors and vast staircases. You might find yourself in a seemingly endless corridor that leads down into the rocks or a dark hallway. But don't worry; there are windows carved into the rocks at intervals that let in light and offer views over the city.

The Chemin de la Corniche viewpoint is also part of the Bock Casemates. From here, you overlook Luxembourg's old town and the Barrio Grund district located deep in the valley. Where else can you feel so deep underground and yet high above the city at the same time?

Address: 10 Montée de Clausen 1343 Luxembourg

Luxembourg's old town comprises narrow, winding streets interspersed with bustling squares featuring cozy cafes. Take a break in one of them and watch the colorful hustle and bustle of the city. Then, explore the many souvenir shops on Place d'Armes for the perfect keepsake. From here, you can reach Knuedler Square, the seat of the town hall, via a passage.

The romantic alleys and well-preserved historical buildings have earned Luxembourg's old town its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can almost forget the modern age and feel transported back to the Middle Ages-at least until you reach Groussgaass, the pedestrian street and main shopping thoroughfare of Luxembourg. Here, the numerous shops with their diverse offerings quickly bring you back to the present.

The Grand Ducal Palace was once the residence of the Grand Duke and is still used for state receptions. Uniformed guards patrol in front of the building. During the summer months, even ordinary tourists can enjoy a visit, albeit without a personal greeting from the Grand Duke. The impressive interior of this magnificent building quickly makes up for that.

Originally, the town hall of Luxembourg stood at the site of today's palace until it was destroyed by a gunpowder explosion in 1554. It was rebuilt and expanded in the 18th century with the former city scales and a century later with the addition of the Chamber of Deputies. Since 1890, the main building has been used as the Grand Ducal Palace.

Address: 17 Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes 1728 Luxembourg

The Petrusse Valley is a large park area filled with trees amidst Luxembourg. In this natural oasis, you can escape the city's hustle and bustle for a while. A hiking path runs through the valley along the small Petrusse River, leading to the Alzette Valley.

During your walk, you will pass beneath the impressive Adolphe Bridge. This hundred-year-old structure was the largest stone arch bridge in the world when it was constructed in the early 20th century. While it may have lost that title, the bridge, which spans the Petrusse Valley at a height of 52 meters, remains magnificent.

When it comes to medieval charm, the Barrio Grund district by the Alzette River gives nothing away to the old town. Characterized by picturesque houses and cobblestone streets, you can simply absorb the atmosphere of this city while strolling through Barrio Grund. Moreover, fewer tourists venture here, making the district even more authentic.

In Barrio Grund, you will find a variety of small markets selling local handicrafts. If you are looking for an unusual souvenir, you are sure to find something here. Additionally, numerous cute cafes and pubs invite you to linger.

Fort Thüngen, together with the nearby Fort Obergrünenwald, constitutes the remnants of the Luxembourg Fortress-both are even connected by a 169-meter-long underground gallery. Fort Thüngen dates back to the 18th century and has been reinforced and expanded several times over the years. Today, only the three round throat towers of the réduit remain, known in Luxembourg as the 'Three Acorns', along with the foundations.

Today, the réduit houses the Musée Dräi Echelen, named after the Luxembourgish name for Fort Thüngen. On the envelope, the museum for modern art is noted, which we will come to in the next section of this article.

Tip: Take your time to enjoy the fantastic view from Fort Thüngen. Here you overlook all of Luxembourg City.

Address: 5 Park Drai Eechelen 1499 Luxembourg

The Luxembourg Museum of Modern Art is located in a modern glass building within the ruins of Fort Thüngen. It features contemporary Luxembourgish art over three floors. More than 100 different artists exhibit over 200 works here.

In keeping with its modern character, the museum allows artists to interpret the exhibition spaces freely. This can extend to the reception area, the museum shop, or the café. Artists can propose original works at any time to design and interpret new areas of the museum according to their ideas. A deep experience where you can truly immerse yourself in the art.

Address: 3 Park Drai Eechelen 1499 Luxembourg

At the southern end of the old town lies the Place de la Constitution. Here stands the Notre Dame Cathedral, the most significant sacred building in Luxembourg. It dates back to the early 17th century and was built by Jesuits in late Gothic style.

By the way, there is another little highlight on the Place de la Constitution: the Monument de Souvenir. The small bronze statue, known by locals as the Gëlle Frau, is meant to commemorate the First World War.

Address: Rue Notre Dame 2240 Luxembourg

This ranking is for music lovers. The home of the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg stands out particularly due to its tear-shaped architecture. It is located at Place de l'Europe, not far from the EU institutions. Since its opening in 2005, it has been visited annually by over 150,000 music enthusiasts.

Architect Christian de Portzamparc was selected through an international architecture competition to design the Philharmonie. 823 white columns frame the elliptical foyer and the three very different auditoriums, all of which share excellent acoustics.

Address: 1 Place de l'Europe 1499 Luxembourg

The medieval fortress is about an hour's drive from Luxembourg City, making it an ideal destination for a day trip to the countryside. The imposing structure stands out from afar. A tour of the castle takes about an hour and leads you through various rooms, towers, halls, and chambers. The interior is lovingly and accurately restored.

The history of Vianden Castle dates back to the 11th century. For a long time, it was the residence of the Count of Vianden until it passed to the powerful Principality of Nassau in the 15th century. In 1820, the castle was sold and subsequently dismantled until only a ruin remained. It was not until the castle came under state ownership in 1977 that it was extensively restored and rebuilt.

Address: Montée du Château 9408 Vianden

For such a small city, Luxembourg has a lot to offer. The former fortress structures, the atmospheric old town with its medieval flair, and the many green spaces for extensive relaxation-boredom is certainly not an option during a city trip to Luxembourg.