Luxembourg holidays

How to reach Luxembourg City

• Flight time: Direct flights to Luxembourg City from Dublin take around 1 hour 45 minutes. You may also find flights with one stop via London, Amsterdam or Frankfurt, which usually take between 4 to 6 hours in total depending on the route and layover duration.

• Transfer time: Luxembourg Airport is just 6km from the city centre. You can get there in about 30 minutes by bus or in 20 minutes by taxi, depending on traffic.

• Price: Public transport is free throughout Luxembourg, so the bus from the airport won’t cost you a cent. Taxis to the city centre typically cost between €30–€35.

Best time to visit Luxembourg

Planning when to take your holidays to Luxembourg City depends on what kind of experience you’re after – whether it’s sightseeing in the sun or soaking up festive winter charm.

• April to June is a brilliant time to visit, with milder temperatures (10°C to 20°C), blossoming parks and plenty of outdoor events. It’s ideal for relaxed sightseeing before the summer crowds arrive.

• July to August is peak season, with warm days reaching up to 25°C. Expect bustling squares, festivals, and long sunny evenings spent on café terraces. Accommodation can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is wise.

• September to November is a quieter period with cooler temperatures (10°C to 18°C) and a colourful display of autumn leaves. It’s also harvest season in the nearby Moselle wine region, which is worth a day trip.

• December to March offers a wintry escape with festive markets, cosy restaurants and fewer tourists. Expect temperatures between -1°C and 8°C. There’s a good chance of rain, and occasionally snow, but the atmosphere is magical, especially in December.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Luxembourg has three official languages – Luxembourgish, French and German. English is also widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas, restaurants and hotels.

• Local habits and customs: Locals are polite and reserved. A handshake is the typical greeting. Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafés – rounding up the bill or adding 5–10% is standard.

• Health and safety: Luxembourg is very safe with a low crime rate. Pharmacies are reliable and well stocked. Emergency services are excellent and speak English. Irish travellers should ensure they have travel insurance for medical coverage.

• Currency: The euro (€) is used. ATMs are easy to find and credit/debit cards are accepted everywhere, though it’s handy to carry small change for markets and tips.

• Getting around: Luxembourg’s public transport – including buses, trains and trams – is free for everyone, including tourists. The city centre is walkable, and bikes can be rented through bike-sharing stations. For trips further afield, the train and bus network is extensive and reliable.

• Electricity and plug types: Luxembourg uses European-style two-pin plugs (types C and F), with 230V voltage. Travellers from Ireland will need a plug adapter.

• Time zone: Luxembourg follows Central European Time (GMT+1) and observes daylight saving time in summer.

Best things to do in Luxembourg City

Luxembourg might be one of Europe's smallest countries, but its capital has a diverse range of attractions and a charming atmosphere. Here's a guide to the best things to do on Luxembourg City holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Chemin de la Corniche: Dubbed "Europe's most beautiful balcony," this scenic walkway offers stunning views of the Alzette River and the old city fortifications.

• Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator: This modern glass elevator takes you from the Pescatore Foundation to the Pfaffenthal area, providing breathtaking city views along the way.

The best districts

• Grund: Nestled in a valley below the city centre, Grund is known for its charming cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife and historic architecture.

• Old Town: The historic heart of Luxembourg City up on the plateau, La Vieille Ville is home to grand squares, beautiful buildings, the impressive Musée d'Histoire and an art museum, and the lavish Grand Ducal Palace.

Historical monuments

• Vianden Castle: This picturesque castle, spectacularly located above the town, is one of Luxembourg's most significant historical sites, offering tours and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Casemates du Bock: Explore the underground network of tunnels and fortifications beneath the site of Luxembourg's first castle, which played a crucial role in its military history.

• Palais Grand-Ducal: Formerly the town hall and now a royal residence for the Grand Duke, this is one of the city's most attractive buildings. Inside, the interior is lavishly decorated and equipped. During the summer months, the tourist office runs guided tours.

Day trips in the area

• Echternach: Luxembourg's oldest town is home to the stunning Basilique St-Willibrord and offers excellent hiking opportunities in the nearby Mullerthal region.

• Mullerthal Trail: Known as Luxembourg's "Little Switzerland", this area offers picturesque hiking trails through rocky landscapes and dense forests.

• Moselle Valley: Explore Luxembourg's wine region along the Moselle River, with charming villages, vineyards and opportunities for wine-tasting.

Activities for families in Luxembourg City

Luxembourg offers a variety of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained:

• Parks and gardens: Families will love Parc de Merl with its expansive green spaces, playgrounds and picnic spots. Located just outside the city, the fairy-tale-like Parc Merveilleux combines a zoo, botanical gardens and playgrounds and is another must-visit.

• Interactive museums: The National Museum of Natural History offers engaging exhibits for kids, including interactive displays about Luxembourg's natural environment. The Luxembourg Science Center provides hands-on activities and experiments for all ages.

• Historical sites: Kids will enjoy exploring the winding tunnels and secret passages of Casemates du Bock, while Vianden Castle offers a step back in time with its medieval architecture and artefacts.

Free things to do in Luxembourg City

Luxembourg has plenty of activities that won't cost you a penny:

• Free events: Throughout the year, Luxembourg City hosts free cultural events, parades, open-air concerts and traditional celebrations such as the Christmas markets.

• Free museums: Some of Luxembourg's museums offer free entry on certain days, including International Museum Day in May, when 40 museums are free. The permanent exhibits at the National Museum of History and Art are free to visit at any time, and there's also no charge to see the temporary exhibitions on Thursday evenings, as is the case at the MUDAM art museum on Wednesday evenings.

• Explore by public transport: Take advantage of Luxembourg's free public transport system to explore different parts of the city and beyond. The efficient bus and train networks make it easy to get around without spending anything.

Wellness in Luxembourg City

• Spas and thermal baths: Discover the luxurious thermal baths at Domaine Thermal in Mondorf-les-Bains, where you can unwind in warm, mineral-rich waters from an underground spring in indoor and outdoor pools alongside nine themed saunas.

• Traditional body care: Experience a traditional hammam or indulge in a massage using local products like Luxembourgish honey and herbs. An hour from the city in the north of the country, NUXE Spa at Chateau Urspelt offers two hammams alongside other regular features and a very special swimming pool in a cave-like setting.

Nature and outdoor activities

The natural beauty hidden away in this tiny state is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and forests are ideal for hiking or cycling, while many rivers, lakes and gorges are perfect for canoeing, kayaking or taking a cruise.

• Hiking in national parks: The Mullerthal Trail offers some of the best hiking in the region, with routes that wind through rocky landscapes and dense forests. For a more relaxed stroll, visit the Upper Sûre Natural Park, known for its serene lake and diverse wildlife.

• Cycling: Luxembourg's extensive network of cycle paths makes it easy to explore the countryside on two wheels. The Echternach to Luxembourg City route is particularly scenic.

• Watersports: The Upper Sûre Lake is perfect for kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing and sailing. Equipment rentals are available, making it easy to enjoy a day on the water.

• Adventure activities: Thrill-seekers can try paragliding over the Moselle Valley or ziplining through the treetops at Parc Le'h Adventures.

Local dishes in Luxembourg

Luxembourg's cuisine owes much to its neighbours across the border in Germany and France, as well as some traditional Luxembourgish dishes, all of which are excellent. Here are some dishes to look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Judd mat Gaardebounen: Smoked pork collar with broad beans, considered Luxembourg's national dish.

• Bouneschlupp: A hearty green bean soup often cooked with potatoes, carrots and bacon.

• Kuddelfleck: Tripe served in a creamy white wine sauce, a traditional Luxembourgish comfort food.

Meat dishes

• Gromperekichelcher: These crispy potato fritters, often served with apple sauce, can be found at markets and fairs.

• Huesenziwwi: Stewed hare cooked slowly in a rich sauce with onions and red wine.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Friture de la Moselle: Small fried fish from the Moselle River, typically served with lemon and parsley.

• Hiecht mat Kraiderzooss: Pike in a herb sauce, another staple along the river areas.

Sweets and desserts

Luxembourg's sweets and desserts offer a delightful end to any meal. Look out for the following:

• Quetschentaart: A delicious plum tart that's a local favourite

• Bamkuch: A layered cake traditionally made for special occasions.

• Boxemännchen: small brioche men, which make a charming treat during the festive season.

Local drinks

• Vins de la Moselle: The Moselle Valley produces excellent white wines, including Riesling and Pinot Gris.

• Crémant de Luxembourg: This sparkling wine is often compared to champagne and is a must-try.

• Diekirch Beer: One of the most popular local beers, known for its refreshing taste.