Luxembourg Travel Information | Trip to Luxembourg | Complete Luxembourg Guide

Luxembourg, otherwise called as the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is a small landlocked country in Western Europe. This country is steeped in history, while it remains the sole monarchy ruled by a Grand Duke today. The Romans once used this place to build a fortress against their enemies. Moreover, this place also served as a fortification site, for the Spanish, when they were at the height of their power in the 14th- 17th centuries. The official languages spoken here are French, German and Luxembourgish.

The birth of the city goes back to 963 AD, when the Count of the Ardennes built a castle called Lucilinburhuc, overlooking the River Alzette. Later, the French architect Vauban, gave Luxembourg a different look, whereby it earned its name as ‘Gibralter of the North’. The culture in Luxembourgh, is unique as the country lies in between Romanic Europe and Germanic Europe. This country although very rural in nature, retains a number of folk traditions. There is a lot of influence of the colonizers which can be seen even now, among the people. The natives here are mostly Celtic, with a mix of both French and German. Many immigrants from the nearby European countries, too settled here over the years, blending with the already existing population. Surveys reveal that on an average each year, around 10,000 immigrants arrive in Luxembourg.  This country has contributed much to the arts as can be seen in the art scene, with the works of painters like Joseph Kutter and Michael Majerus.  The country as a whole, has retained its distinction as the European Capital of Culture for the second time, only emphasizing its place in ancient and modern times.

Luxembourgh – There is much for a tourist to see and one of the best ways to begin is by visiting the underground tunnels, known as Casemates. These are a network of many levels of underground fortifications which date back to 1644. Other attractions in the city center include the recently renovated Palais Grand Ducal, which is the official residence of the Grand Duke, where visitors can observe the changing of the guards, which is an important formal ceremony. The 17th century Notre Dame Cathedral is also beautiful to see. There are many interesting museums, here which include the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of History and Art and the Museum of the City of Luxembourg. These museums will truly give you an insight into the city and its history. The Wenzel Walk, takes you through the old quarters, of the city. You can spot the Bock Promontory, the Castle Bridge, which was built in 1735 from red sandstone and the Church of St. Ulric, which is the city’s oldest parish church.

Müllerthal – This place is often called a Little Switzerland. This region is full of artefacts from the Mesolithic era and is important to archaeologists. There was even a 700-year-old church, which was excavated here along with a Roman camp. The Museum of Prehistory is worth a visit. The only castle here called the Beaufort Castle, was built in the 12th century. A tour around the grounds, is interesting as one will find swans on one hand and a torture chamber also. There is much to do for the adventurer in you- the valleys, high cliffs and waterfalls, make hiking, rock climbing and cycling a sheer joy. And while you are here, do not miss out on the flower village in Haller. Nearby the town of Echternach, is also worth visiting. The 7th century Benedectine Abbey attracts believers from all across the world.

Ardennes – The very word Ardennes, conjures up beautiful landscapes and scenery in the mind. The Vianden Castle , which was built in the Middle Ages, has many antique weapons, other armour, gobelin tapestry. The town itself is very pretty to see, as it has many medieval touches in the form of gothic churches and fortified towers. Also, do not miss out on the Victor Hugo House, which has been functioning as a museum since 1935. The valleys, and wooded hills here are the main attractions of Ardennes, and there is even a national park called the Upper Sûre National Park, which is worth a visit.

Clervaux – The main delight of Clervaux lies in the 12th century castle, which is today a World Heritage Site. The National Museum of Military History is worth a visit. The German-Luxembourgish is a natural park, located near a river. One can see many frescoes, sculptures and mosaics, in the churches and chapels.

Moselle Valley – Wine is the hallmark of this valley, which has been producing it for years. Dry white wines are the speciality of this region. There is even a Wine Museum, which records the events and importance of this place in the production of wine. While you are here, it may be a good idea to go for a small boat ride, from Schengen to Wasserbillig. If you are here during the Spring and fall season, do not forget to attend the Grape and Wine Festivals. The small village of Schengen, which has a beautiful castle that was painted by Victor Hugo, is worth visiting. The wine cellars of Grevenmacher and in the nearby towns of Remerschen, Remich and Wormeldange offer excellent wine tasting.

Luxembourg is not simply about such historic places. There are many other activities and outside sports that you can engage in too. The ‘Green heart of Europe’, as Luxembourg is called, comprises of one- third of the country being covered with forests. There are 171 official hiking routes, and 19 national footpaths also, which make hiking all the more enjoyable.  If its is golf that you are keen on trying, then the presence of six golf clubs all over the country, is reason enough to learn the game. The River Sure, in the national park, is a good place for swimming, sailing and windsurfing, although much of the river is dammed up.

There in lies the exotic nature of Luxembourg- its place in history and its unspoiled beauty.

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