Things to Do in Luxembourg: Tips from a Real Local

Tips and Info for a Trip to Luxembourg

Before we get into our interview, here’s the most important info you need before a city trip to Luxembourg.

Our Hotel Recommendations for Luxembourg

Interview with a Local: The Best Insider Tips for Luxembourg

Lena knows Luxembourg inside and out. She loves to get out and explore, whether with her camera for her blog or as a food tour guide. Read on and let her tips about beautiful Luxembourg — beyond the pomp and grandeur — inspire your next trip.

Who are you and why are you an expert on Luxembourg?

I’m Lena, originally from eastern Luxembourg, where I lived until I was 19. I always loved heading to the capital, especially for the beautiful old town!

I think Luxembourg City is truly one of the most beautiful yet most underrated cities in Europe. Right now I live in Berlin, studying for my master’s degree, and on the side I’m living out my passion for food as a food tour guide in Berlin’s Kreuzberg neighborhood.

If you had to describe Luxembourg in three words, what would they be?

Historic, multicultural, open.

Why should everyone visit Luxembourg at least once?

When people have heard of Luxembourg at all, it’s usually tied to a lot of stereotypes. Banks, wealthy people, finance — all of that is true, but in the process, the many other facets of this country get completely overlooked.

What does Luxembourg have that you won't find anywhere else?

Personally, I think Luxembourg has gotten really good at bridging the gap between old and new. The landmarks, especially the fortifications in Luxembourg City, are beautifully restored and showcased.

Sights and Activities in Luxembourg

Which sights in Luxembourg are absolute must-sees?

You definitely have to see the old town with its narrow alleyways and charming little houses. They make for a great photo subject, as does the Pfaffenthal — a peaceful retreat right in the middle of the city.

What can you do in Luxembourg when it rains?

Rainy days in Luxembourg are more likely than sunny ones! So you definitely need a Plan B.

I’d recommend picking out one or two museums — Luxembourg City has quite a few to choose from.

A fascinating alternative is exploring the city underground. Luxembourg was once a fortress city with an underground tunnel system known as the Casemates. You can explore them with several tour operators, which is a great way to make the most of a rainy day.

What can you do with kids in Luxembourg?

Within the city there are some great playgrounds, and the Casemates are incredibly exciting for kids too.

What I really recommend, though, is stepping just outside the city and heading to Bettembourg’s Fairy Tale Park. Even the adults have a blast! I loved it as a kid and still enjoy going there today.

In addition to the most beloved fairy tales, you’ll also find carousels and lots of animals. It’s definitely worth a day trip and is super easy to reach by public transit.

When you feel the urge to get out of the city, where do you go?

A great day trip destination is the small medieval village of Vianden in the northeastern part of the country.

A stunning castle towers over the town, which has kept its winding little streets and historic charm over the years. There I’d recommend the hotel and restaurant Beim Hunn — they make delicious steaks in a wonderfully cozy setting!

What place would you recommend for unwinding and just taking it easy?

Luxembourg itself isn’t a stressful little country. Things move at a relaxed pace here, so you can already unwind very nicely within the city.

But if you still feel like getting out of town, head to the eastern part of the country.

There you’ll find the gorgeous Moselle region, which is absolutely worth a visit. The Sauer River — which flows into the Moselle at Wasserbillig — is also a wonderful spot to switch off.

In Echternach, for example, there’s not only beautiful nature. You’ll also find a charming historic town center and an ancient abbey to admire.

I know this from experience — I went to school there! Not far from Echternach’s center, there’s a small lake where you can take a walk, ride a bike, or just lie in the sun.

Where is the most beautiful viewpoint in Luxembourg?

Oh, there are so many! My absolute favorite vantage point is near the Luxembourg courts, the “Cité judiciaire.”

From there you have a fantastic panorama over the old town and the Grund, a city quarter located below the historic center. It’s also a great spot for sunrises.

A hobby photographer asks you about cool spots to shoot in your city that they'd never find in a guidebook. Where do you send them?

That’s a tough one — Luxembourg is full of great spots. I’d still send them to the old town, the Grund, and the Pfaffenthal. There they’ll find medieval atmosphere and have plenty to work with photographically.

What's the craziest activity you can do in your city?

Luxembourg isn’t exactly known for wild activities. But something I find really charming is the digital scavenger hunt through the city with Escape Hunt. You learn a lot about the city while being challenged by puzzles along the way.

What's the best event of the year? What's worth coming to Luxembourg for?

Luxembourg normally has a lot of events to offer.

Luxemburgers are known for their many small celebrations. The most well-known is probably National Day, which falls on June 23rd every year.

The night before is celebrated in full swing — the city is buzzing with people talking and laughing, music all around. The highlights are the famous torchlight procession and the big fireworks show at midnight.

Is there a museum in Luxembourg you absolutely cannot miss?

I find the Museum of Modern Art and the Fortress Museum really impressive. Both are located in Kirchberg and offer a fantastic view over the city.

Which neighborhood do you love strolling through most, and why?

I love the narrow little alleyways of the old town in the Grund district. It just doesn’t feel like you’re in a city at all. Then when you head over to Kirchberg, the whole picture changes completely. I really love that contrast.

Food and Drink in Luxembourg

What culinary specialty do you absolutely have to try in Luxembourg?

Kniddelen! That’s THE specialty here. Some people like them with a cream sauce, others just with fried bacon. I always make mine with a cheese sauce. A total calorie bomb, but absolutely delicious.

What are your three favorite restaurants, and what should you definitely try there?

1. A little bit of 1920s Berlin in Luxembourg City: Paname is my favorite place when I’m home and missing my adopted city of Berlin. It’s pretty hipster, but incredibly cozy and very, very good! I’d recommend working your way through the whole menu.

2. Bistro le Duc is located near the nightlife strip in Clausen, but it’s not really the place for a hangover breakfast — it’s a bit too classy for that. That said, you should definitely try the cocktails and the Eggs Benedict! A dream. If they’d just serve slightly bigger portions, it would be perfect.

3. Grabbing a quick bite at the train station before your train comes usually sounds like a sad sandwich and a warm soda. But not at “Le Quai” in the main train station. When you’re in a hurry, grab a fresh dish as takeout; otherwise, you can make the wait enjoyable with a delicious meal in the restaurant area. Just looking at the photos makes my mouth water every time!

Where can you get the best burger in the city?

The best burger I’ve ever had was actually at Smuggler’s Inn in Diekirch. A little Irish pub at the campground. Sometimes it’s the small, simple things that make you happiest.

Where can you get the best ice cream in the city?

I’m honestly not the biggest ice cream expert. But something everyone should do is visit the Chocolate House across from the Grand Ducal Palace in the upper city. So much chocolate! And the cakes… a dream!

Where's the best place to have breakfast?

A great spot is Chique o Latte. They serve amazing bowls and great coffee, and the presentation is always so beautiful you almost don’t want to dig in! Definitely Instagram-worthy!

Heads up: Chique o Latte has unfortunately since closed.

Where's the best place to go out in the evening?

The first thing that comes to mind is the Clausen district! But to be honest, the whole city is one big night-out zone — though more for bar-hoppers than party people. Those looking to really party should head to Clausen. Worth knowing: going out in Luxembourg City, like most things there, is pretty expensive.

Hotels in Luxembourg

Which hotel do you recommend for visitors to Luxembourg?

Hotels, like bars and clubs, are an expensive affair. That said, the hostels are genuinely high quality, so I’d rather recommend going the hostel route. But if you do prefer a hotel, the three recommendations above are great options.