The Best Things to Do in Luxembourg

The 25 Best Things to Do in Luxembourg

Petite Luxembourg sits at the crossroads of Western Europe, where the cultures, histories, and cuisines of Germany, France, and Belgium intersect and merge into one. Luxembourg is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations, but this small nation remains largely unknown in the shadow of its larger neighbors. 

Start your journey in Luxembourg City, which is not only the nation’s capital but is often considered to be the capital of the European Union. Visit the Grand Ducal Palace, explore the Casemates du Bock, and visit the National Museum of History and Art. 

To the east of Luxembourg City, you can tour through the vineyards of the Moselle Valley. To the south, the spa town of Mondorf-Les-Bains awaits you, while to the west, there’s the Valley of the Seven Castles, and to the north, the history-filled forests of the Ardennes!

With so many exciting things to see and do, you might not know where to start. To help you out, we’ve decided to compile our list of the absolute best things to do in Luxembourg for you. Give these fun and unique Luxembourg bucket list recommendations a try, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous part of Europe!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to Do in Luxembourg

25 Fun and Unique Things to do in Luxembourg

1. Stroll along the ‘most beautiful balcony of Europe’

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Le Chemin de la Corniche

A stroll along Le Chemin de la Corniche is one of the best things to do in all of Europe. This wonderful walkway is short but dramatic, and in centuries past it, captured the imaginations of writers so much that it was named the “most beautiful balcony of Europe.”

Le Chemin de la Corniche is elevated well above Luxembourg City, and the walkway is a pedestrianized route that follows the walls of the fortress that looms over the capital. The walls and ramparts were built by the Spanish and French in the 17th century before being mostly demolished in the 19th century when Luxembourg became a neutral country. 

You’ll see the remains of these walls and ramparts as you walk Le Chemin de la Corniche, and you’ll also have sweeping views of the Alzette Valley and the Alzette River, which are waiting below. 

The river is lined with trees and townhouses, offering a visual mix of the urban and nature as you take in the fresh air. The route is no longer than 600 or so meters in total length, but take a stroll and see if you also believe this to be the most “beautiful balcony of Europe.” We think you’ll agree that it is!


2. Explore the underground passageways of the Casemates du Bock

Must do things in Luxembourg: Casemates du Bock

Luxembourg City grew in the protected shadow of The Bock, a large, rocky outcrop that still dominates the Ville Haute (the Old Town) in Luxembourg City to this day. The Bock is a natural defensive position, so in the year 963 AD, Count Siegfried built the first castle and, in the process, laid the foundations for Luxembourg City.

Over many centuries, The Bock was transformed into a super fortress, although that never stopped it from being besieged and destroyed on countless occasions during Europe’s endless wars. In 1867, after yet another brutal European conflict, it was decided that the Fortress of Luxembourg should simply be destroyed and that Luxembourg would become a neutral nation at the crossroads of Western Europe. 

This was the foundation of the modern nation, and the vast ramparts and towers that had dominated The Bock were demolished. But not everything was destroyed. Centuries of warfare had left The Bock with a mammoth network of underground passageways, lookouts, and casemates, which you can still visit on your tour of Luxembourg.

The Casemates du Bock are open to the public, and a tour of these hidden vaults and passageways is one of the top things to do in Luxembourg City. You start at the top of The Bock, where you’ll stand on the ruins of the fortress before descending down into the rock itself through the labyrinth of tunnels below. You’ll emerge at points into bright sunlight, where you’ll be treated to supreme views over the Alzette Valley and the Ville Haute.

Book a Luxembourg City E-Bike Tour


3. Join a walking tour of Luxembourg City

Luxembourg Things to do: Walking Tour

We love walking tours, and with its cobblestone streets, narrow lanes, and beautiful public squares, we think this is the best way to explore Luxembourg City!

Luxembourg City’s Old Town is perfect for walking, and you’ll love hearing about the city’s history as you’re guided through the heritage-laden streets. There are several walking tours you could choose from, but one of our favorites is the Free Walking Tour. You don’t pay anything upfront, but if you’ve enjoyed the tour, you simply pay what you feel at the end of it. 

This tour departs daily at 11 am, starting by Jan Palach Square, which you’ll find opposite the Town Hall in the center of the Old Town. You’ll have a comprehensive tour of the city, including sights like the Grand Ducal Palace, Casemates du Bock, and Notre Dame Cathedral. 

Book a Walking Tour with Wine Tastings


4. Enjoy panoramic views from the Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator

Luxembourg City is best described as a city of many levels, and you’ll find that the Ville Haute and tourist sites such as The Bock are located above much of the city’s surrounding suburbs in the lower reaches of the Alzette Valley.

The city has built an array of public elevators and funiculars to help you travel from one level to the next with ease. One of the latest additions to this elevated transport network is the Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator, which opened in 2016. The Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator offers wonderful views from its glass windows as you rise or fall above the valley, reaching a top height of 60 meters during the journey. 

In any other city in the world, this beautiful panoramic elevator with its gorgeous views of the Alzette Valley would be an expensive tourist attraction. Not here in Luxembourg, though, where it’s used daily by commuters and tourists alike to travel up and down from the Ville Haute on the cheap.

Book a Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tour


5. Marvel at the Grand Ducal Palace

Luxembourg Bucket List: Grand Ducal Palace

One of the most famous Luxembourg sightseeing attractions is the Grand Ducal Palace, a magnificent royal residence in the heart of Luxembourg City.

If you’ve done your pre-trip research, then you might know that officially, Luxembourg’s name is the “Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.” That is because the country is theoretically ruled over by a Grand Duke, who is the head of state and a hereditary monarch. The current Grand Duke of Luxembourg is simply known as Henri, and his place of residence alongside the Grand Duchess Maria Teresa is the Grand Ducal Palace.

The pomp and pageant are very real, and while you can’t go inside the Grand Ducal Palace (this is where Luxembourg’s royalty live and work, after all), you can marvel at the impressive residence from the outside. 

The building dates back to the 16th century when it was originally built to serve as the Town Hall. It later served as the government’s office, and then in 1890, it was refurbished to become the royal palace. Outside the Grand Ducal Palace, you’ll spot the military standing guard. Despite their ceremonial uniforms, they are all active, serving members of the Luxembourg Military, of which there are only 900 soldiers in the entire country!

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6. Visit Luxembourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral

Must do things in Luxembourg: Notre Dame Cathedral

You don’t need to travel to Paris to see Notre Dame, because Luxembourg also has its very own Notre Dame Cathedral to visit!

This grand place of Christian worship is located in Luxembourg City’s Old Town, where it’s held a position of importance since construction began in 1613. Notre Dame Cathedral is today dedicated to Catholicism, but it was founded in the 17th century by Jesuit monks from Spain who wanted to establish a college and church.

The Jesuits constructed a grand church in the Gothic style that was popular at the time, and these Gothic elements are still well preserved today. You’ll also notice the Renaissance style designs added later, as well as modern extensions that were added even more recently in the 20th century. 

Notre Dame Cathedral is today a Catholic church after it was consecrated by the Pope in 1870. The cathedral holds huge importance for Luxembourg as a nation being home to sacred images of the country’s patron saint. 

It’s also home to a moving memorial known as the National Monument to the Resistance and to the Deportation, a monument that commemorates those who gave their lives or were deported during the German occupation of Luxembourg in World War II. 

Book a Self-Guided Tour of the Notre Dame


7. Delve back in time at the National Museum of History and Art

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: National Museum of History and Art

If you’d love to learn more about this small country’s unique history while also perusing a few historic European works of art, then one of the best places to visit in Luxembourg is the National Museum of History and Art.

Better known as the MNHA, this is Luxembourg’s premier museum. If you only have time to visit one museum, then this is the one to choose. You’ll find the MNHA is conveniently located in the Ville Haute in Luxembourg City, in a historic part of the old town known as the Fishmarket. The museum itself is found inside a modern building, but the artifacts within date back centuries, and in some cases, millennia.

The MNHA is home to a number of significant collections, with the museum divided into several major sections. In the archeology section, you’ll find objects that tell the tale of early Luxembourg from a time long before national boundaries had been drawn across Europe. 

The Fine Arts department is where you can explore the museum’s collection of artwork and paintings, while there’s also a section dedicated to handicrafts and folk art. Finally, there’s an exceptional coin collection, which contains countless coins and currencies from Luxembourg’s history. 

Book a Sightseeing Train & 7 Museums Entry


8. Explore the capital’s history at the Luxembourg City History Museum

Fun Things to do in Luxembourg: City History Museum

If you’d love to learn more about the capital’s fascinating past, then why not take a trip to the Luxembourg City History Museum?

Perfectly positioned in the middle of Luxembourg City’s Old Town, this intriguing museum will take you back over a thousand years in time as you explore the wealth of exhibits on display here. 

The Luxembourg City History Museum was first founded in 1996, but it tells the long tale of the city’s history, going back to the capital’s “official” founding in the 10th century AD. 

Visit the museum, and you’ll learn how Luxembourg City sits on an important crossroads that was guarded as long ago as the Roman era. The Romans built watchtowers and forts here, but it wasn’t until 963 AD that Siegfried I founded a castle on the Bock, around which the city would grow. 

You’ll also learn how from that moment onwards, Luxembourg would become one of Europe’s most prized possessions. The city would change hands and allegiances over the centuries until finally, the Duchy of Luxembourg was granted independence on the condition of neutrality in the 19th century. 

Luxembourg City’s history tells of the endless wars that have rocked Europe since time immemorial, but you’ll also see how the city developed its own unique culture and politics at the crossroads of the continent. Quite appropriately, you’ll also enjoy the museum’s location within restored townhouses that date back to the 17th century, and you’ll be walking among history itself as you browse through the exhibits!

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9. Explore contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art

What to do in Luxembourg: Museum of Modern Art

You’ll find Luxembourg’s Museum of Modern Art (or the MUDAM, as the locals call it) in a stand-out building on top of the Kirchberg Plateau in Luxembourg City.

Officially named the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art (after it was opened by the then-Duke Jean in 2006), inside this modernist gallery, you’ll find an array of works from Warhol to Nauman.

The building itself is a wonderful example of modern architecture, and you’ll love how it was built to regenerate and repurpose an old fort that had once defended the city from the plateau. Inside, there are three floors to explore, all of which are packed with modern and contemporary works collected from around the world.


10. Enjoy an escape to the Ardennes

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Ardennes

The Ardennes is the northernmost region of Luxembourg, a beautiful area of forests, rivers, and valleys that are the last remnants of an ancient forest that once covered much of Western Europe. 

This is a place for nature lovers and romantics, and you’ll love exploring the hiking and cycling trails that meander through the forests and low-lying hills. You can base yourself in the small town of Clervaux for a rustic stay in the heart of the Ardennes or in the historic town of Wiltz for a heritage-filled vacation among castles and cobblestone streets.

But while the Ardennes is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and a wonderful place for a romantic getaway at a spa hotel, you’ll also find that the region is always busy with military history buffs – particularly American military buffs!

The Ardennes was the scene of one of World War II’s most notorious battles when the Germans tried to break through the American lines in the winter of 1944. General Patton is even buried in the south, at the Luxembourg American Cemetery outside of Luxembourg City, while there are many sights of interest in the north. 

Cross over the border to Belgium, and you can visit the town of Bastogne, which was immortalized in American military history when the German army surrounded and besieged it during the war. 

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11. Pay your respects at the Luxembourg American Cemetery

Luxembourg Bucket List: Luxembourg American Cemetery

The Luxembourg American Cemetery is a somber addition to our list of things to do in Luxembourg, but for many tourists (especially those from the United States), it’s an important and moving stop on their itineraries. 

This is one of the most important memorials to American soldiers who gave their lives fighting against Nazi Germany during World War II. General Patton, the American General who battled across Europe only to tragically die in an accident after the war had ended, is buried here, as are 5,070 other members of the armed forces who also never made it home. 

The cemetery was founded during the war when Luxembourg became the scene of fierce fighting during the Battle of the Bulge. American troops valiantly defended the region, with the most infamous battles taking place in the Ardennes as the Germans attempted to break through and reverse the direction of the war in December 1944.

You’ll find the Luxembourg American Cemetery on the outskirts of Luxembourg City (it’s located close to Luxembourg’s international airport). Today, the cemetery is a peaceful place to visit, with 17 acres of perfectly landscaped lawns lined with white headstones marking the graves of American soldiers. 

The lawn is surrounded by tall, green trees, while a memorial chapel marks the entrance to the cemetery. At the entrance, you’ll be able to chart the Battle of the Bulge on memorial maps that show the importance of the battle that was fought in Luxembourg. 

Book a Battle of the Bulge Remembrance Tour


12. Stay in the romantic town of Wiltz

Must do things in Luxembourg: Wiltz

Wiltz is a small town in the northwest of Luxembourg that’s big on romance. Situated on the picturesque banks of the River Wiltz, the town is home to a fairytale-esque castle, rustic homestays, excellent restaurants, and beautiful countryside. 

It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway, but even if you’re traveling solo, you’ll quickly fall in love with the town’s enduring charm and endless heritage. Start your trip with a visit to the castle, a wondrous work of Renaissance-era architecture that dates back to the 16th century. 

Inside Wiltz Castle, you can learn all about the Lords of Wiltz, who have played a pivotal role in Luxembourgish history. You can also visit the castle’s Tanning Museum, which pays homage to the tanning industry for which the town was famed for centuries. Beer drinkers will love the castle, too, because it’s also home to the National Museum of Brewing. 

Wiltz is a great base from which to explore the Ardennes, within which the town is perfectly situated. You can spend days hiking trails into the forests, along the river, and through the valleys. Military history buffs will also know that Wiltz is home to the Museum of the Battle of the Bulge, commemorating the battle that took place in the Ardennes during World War II. 

Wiltz is just an hour’s drive north of Luxembourg City. While you can make the journey there and back on an easy day trip from the capital, we highly recommend booking a guesthouse in Wiltz and spending the night in this romantic town in the Ardennes!

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13. Explore the beautiful nature of Upper Sure Natural Park

Luxembourg Things to do: Upper Sure Lake

Despite its small size, Luxembourg is brimming with natural beauty. One of the best places to explore Luxembourg’s great outdoors is the Upper Sure Nature Park, where you’ll find a vast lake in the center of a nature preserve!

This was Luxembourg’s first “Natural Park,” and the Upper Sure Lake has since become a firm favorite among water sports fans. The lake is actually a water reservoir, and it supplies 70 percent of Luxembourg’s homes with fresh water on a daily basis. 

You can go sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the Upper Sure Lake, or you can lace up your hiking boots and tackle the trails that lead you around the reservoir. It’s a beautiful place to escape the rest of the world, and you’ll find campsites and guesthouses in and around the nature preserve offering you rustic accommodation after a full day of outdoor activities. 


14. Visit the historic Abbey of Echternach

Cool Things to do in Luxembourg: Abbey of Echternach

We highly recommend traveling to eastern Luxembourg, where just a few miles from the German border, you’ll find the quaint town of Echternach.

A visit to Echternach is a chance to step away from the internationally-minded capital and see a more local side of Luxembourg. It’s also an opportunity to visit a rare piece of history dating back to the 7th century AD.

The Abbey of Echternach is an impressive piece of Luxembourgish heritage, and you’ll be awed by the sight of its centuries-old facade and the religious relics found inside. The abbey was founded by Benedictine monks, although the site they chose was originally a Roman villa which by the 7th century was already ancient itself.

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Abbey of Echternach

The fortunes of the Benedictine monks rose and fell with the fortunes of Western Europe’s kings and empires. When the Benedictines were in favor, the abbey was expanded, new sections were added, and more relics found their way to the vaults. When the Benedictines fell out of favor, the abbey suffered too, and it often fell into periods of disrepair or semi-abandonment. 

The history of the Abbey of Echternach is one of ups and downs, but you’ll love delving back into the past as you explore its stone corridors and vaulted chambers. Visit on Whitsunday, and you’ll be in for a cultural treat. This holy day is when the monks host a unique dancing procession, and it’s joined by tens of thousands of pilgrims and visitors. 

Book a Hop On Hop Off Castles & Nature Day Tour


15. Admire the ruins of Beaufort Castle

Fun Things to do in Luxembourg: Beaufort Castle

Close to the German border, just a half-hour drive northeast of Luxembourg City, you can visit the ruins of one of Luxembourg’s most impressive medieval castles. 

We say ruins, but you’ll be surprised at just how well preserved Beaufort Castle is, considering it dates back to the 11th century AD. Just like the mighty fortifications of Luxembourg City, which were built on the Bock, Beaufort Castle was also constructed on top of a large rock that allowed for control of the surrounding valley.

A simple stone tower evolved into an impressive series of keeps, walls, and fortifications that still stand today, albeit with a few missing windows, walls, and ceilings that adds a sense of romantic decay to the ruins. 

You can take a tour through the castle to learn more about its history, and at the same time, you’ll be interested to also learn that Beaufort Castle is home to a unique “medieval distillery.” Join a tasting tour of the distillery, and you’ll have the opportunity to taste fruity natural liqueurs that are inspired by local drinks of old. 

Beaufort Castle is the centerpiece of Beaufort, a charming rural village with a population of just 3,000. The village is located on the Mullerthal Trail, a long-distance hiking route that offers plenty of opportunities for active, outdoor sightseeing in the region.

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16. Hike the long-distance Mullerthal Trail

Luxembourg Things to do: Mullerthal Trail

If you’re an avid hiker, then you’ve chosen one of the best destinations for a vacation. Despite its petite size, Luxembourg is home to an extensive network of hiking trails, and they are accessible, easy to follow, and absolutely stunning!

You’ll find one of the best trails in eastern Luxembourg, where the epic Mullerthal Trail offers 70 miles of breathtaking scenery in the Mullerthal Region. The entire trail can be hiked in just a few days, while it’s also conveniently broken up into three major sections, which could each be traversed on a separate weekend. 

The Mullerthal Trail is designed to take you through the outdoor highlights of an area that has the nickname Little Switzerland, so as well as rugged scenery, you can expect to find some elevation to tackle. The Mullerthal Trail is waymarked the entire way, making this an excellent way to introduce yourself to Luxembourg’s best outdoor spots! 


17. Visit Vianden Castle

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Vianden Castle

Overlooking the banks of the River Our on the northeastern border with Germany, Vianden Castle has stood guard over Luxembourg since it was first established in the 11th century AD. 

Vianden Castle has medieval roots, but the castle you’ll see would be more at home in a Disney film than it would be in a bloody battle between knights. That’s because the fairytale towers and spires were added in the 17th century when the medieval castle walls were out of date, and the glamorous Renaissance style was firmly in favor in Europe.

In its heyday, Vianden Castle was the largest fortification in the region. The castle was built on a rocky outcrop (like most castles in Luxembourg!), and you’ll see it rising some 300 meters above the River Our. 

The castle was damaged during World War II when a fierce battle was fought here between the Germans and the Luxembourg Resistance. The resistance prevailed, marking a pivotal moment for Luxembourg during the war. 

Vianden Castle has since been wonderfully restored to its Renaissance glory, and we think you’ll agree that it’s one of the most beautiful castles in Luxembourg!

Book a Vianden Castle Entry Ticket


18. Admire the photographs at the Family of Man exhibition 

Fun Things to do in Luxembourg: 12th-century Clervaux Castle

Travel to the town of Clervaux, and within Clervaux Chateaux you’ll find one of the world’s most fascinating photographic exhibitions and one of the best Luxembourg attractions. The 12th-century castle is home to the “Family of Man,” an exhibition that contains 503 photographs taken by 273 different photographers across 68 countries. 

The exhibition was first displayed in New York in 1955. It was developed by Edward Steichen and was intended to explore the concept of peace in the post-war world. The exhibition touched on human themes such as love and friendship, as well as their opposites, such as war. The exhibition toured the world and in 1994 found a permanent home at Clervaux Castle, where you can visit it today. 

The Family of Man Exhibition contains photographs by famous photographers such as Robert Capa and August Sander. You can explore the photography exhibition, then see what else there is to do in Clervaux. 

The town has a rich history and heritage, and you can visit Clervaux Abbey before learning about the region’s World War II history at the Museum of the Ardennes Counteroffensive. As you’re in the heart of the Ardennes region, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling!

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19. Take in the views from Bourscheid Castle

Must do things in Luxembourg: Bourscheid Castle

Luxembourg truly is a country of castles, and one of our favorites is found in Bourscheid, a 40-minute drive north of Luxembourg City. 

Bourscheid Castle overlooks the River Sure from a vantage point some 150 meters above the waterline. Surrounded by tall trees in a dense forest that stretches along the riverbanks, the picturesque setting is best viewed from the high ramparts and towers of the castle itself. 

Luxembourg Bucket List: Bourscheid Castle

Travel to the castle early in the morning, and you might be lucky enough to see the surrounding hills covered in an eerie blanket of fog. In winter, the trees are thick with snow, while in autumn, the rich colors of the falling foliage have to be seen to be believed. 

Bourscheid Castle dates back to the 11th century AD and has no less than 11 separate watchtowers offering spectacular panoramic views of the area!


20. Take a thermal bath in Mondorf-les-Bains 

Cool Things to do in Luxembourg: Mondorf-les-Bains
Images courtesy of Mondorf Domaine Thermal

If you’re looking for a relaxing retreat, a visit to Mondorf-les-Bains is easily one of the best things to do in Luxembourg.

This lovely spa town is located in southern Luxembourg, and thermal waters were uncovered here in the 1840s when salt miners accidentally dug too deep. As well as being home to the most extensive selection of spas and thermal baths in the country, Mondorf-les-Bains is also home to Luxembourg’s only casino. The town is just meters away from the French border, so it’s certainly a popular tourist spot!

Best Things to do in Luxembourg: Mondorf-les-Bains

You’ll have plenty of spas to choose from, as well as great restaurants and high-end spa resorts. The most famous spa is the Mondorf Domaine Thermal, where you’ll find whirlpools, hot tubs, hammams, and much more.


21. Dine out at a Michelin-starred restaurant

The dining scene in Luxembourg is fantastic! Considering the small size of the country, that often comes as a surprise to visitors, but not when you consider that Luxembourg is home to the second-highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the world.

Japan is the only country that has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than Luxembourg, while Luxembourg City has the highest number of any city (per capita) in the world. 

The great culinary traditions of Luxembourg await you, and you’ll love how the local food is a wonderful blend of French, German, and Belgian cuisine. The country draws inspiration from its location at the crossroads of Europe, and you’ll enjoy French-style patisseries for breakfast, and German-influenced sauerkraut, alongside meats and dumplings, for lunch.  

There are at least 13 Michelin-starred restaurants in Luxembourg, although this may change year on year. Some of the best include La Cristallerie, Guillou Champagne, and Les Jardins d’Anais. Book your table well in advance because these prestigious restaurants are some of the most popular in Europe. 

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Luxembourg and you appreciate a good meal, you’ll love sampling the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants! 

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22. Explore the Valley of the Seven Castles

Must do things in Luxembourg: Valley of the Seven Castles
Image courtesy of Oliver Kerner

Head to the Valley of the Seven Castles, and you can explore no less than seven castles in one day. You’ll find the Äischdall Valley just to the north of Luxembourg City, and it’s home to the highest density of castles in Luxembourg. 

The Valley of the Seven Castles begins in the town of Mersch, where you’ll find a medieval castle dating back to the 13th century. From Mersch, you can choose to drive through the valley or follow the 22-mile walking and cycling route that traverses the region. 

Next up is Schoenfels Castle (which dates to the 12th century), followed by Hollenfels Castle (which is home to a useful Youth Hostel if you’re hiking), then Old Ansembourg Castle and New Ansembourg Castle, and then Septfontaines Castle.

The Valley of the Seven Castles ends in Koerich, where you can visit the 12th-century ruins of Koerich Castle, not far from the Belgian border. 


23. Tour the wineries in the Moselle Valley

Luxembourg Things to do: Moselle Valley

The Moselle River forms the border with Germany, and the wide Moselle Valley is highly regarded as one of Europe’s premier wine-growing regions. But most tourists will visit the vineyards on the German side of the valley, with the Luxembourgish wineries remaining firmly off the beaten track. 

A tour of the Moselle Valley wineries is one of the most fun things to do in Luxembourg, and you’ll love spending the day sampling wines, walking through vineyards, and learning about the local production processes. 

The region is just a short journey east of Luxembourg City, so it makes for a great day trip from the capital. Likewise, you might find it refreshing to spend a night or two in rustic accommodation overlooking the Moselle Valley, especially after a few bottles of Luxembourg’s best wine!

Book a Moselle Minibus Day Trip


24. Revel in the Fuesent carnival celebrations

Luxembourgers love to celebrate, but there’s one annual event that tops them all. One of the most fun carnivals in Europe takes place in Luxembourg in February, as the locals celebrate the age-old tradition known as Fuesent. 

Fuesent takes place between Candlemas Day (February 2) and Ash Wednesday (which marks the start of Lent in the Christian tradition). Fuesent celebrations occur all over Luxembourg, as towns and villages across the country stage elaborate parades, masked balls, and feasts. 

Historically, the idea of carnival was to enjoy the last of the winter stores before the fasting of Lent and to celebrate the end of winter and the approach of spring. The traditions continue today and often end with the burning of a straw man to symbolize the excesses of carnival!

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25. Join in the Christmas festivities at the Winterlights Festival

Luxembourg City continues the great tradition of European Christmas markets with its fantastic Winterlights Festival.

If you’re visiting Europe between the end of November and the start of January, then this festive festival is a must-see. You’ll be escaping the tourist crowds, too, because unlike the big and touristy markets in neighboring Germany, Luxembourg isn’t exactly at the top of those Christmas Market lists.

But that doesn’t mean this isn’t one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. The Winterlights Festival is divided into four major markets in the city, all of which are dazzlingly lit up with an extravagant display of Christmas lights. 

You’ll find an eclectic mix of light displays, fun fair rides, market stalls, and traditional Luxembourgish Christmas cuisine at the markets, which are spread across the Place d’Armes, the Place de la Constitution, Park Kinnekswiss, and Place de Paris!

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Luxembourg. What’s your favorite thing to do in Luxembourg?


Planning a trip to Luxembourg? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!


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About the Author:

  • Richard Collett

    Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities.

    Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot).

    When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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