48 Hours in Luxembourg City: The Perfect Weekend Getaway
Welcome to the land of fairy tale castles and lush green valleys. The ever charming and picturesque Luxembourg, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Europe, is about to steal your hearts. Picture cobblestone streets, charming bridges and alleyways inviting you to wander. Grab your camera and curiosity, we’re ready to embark on a 48-hour sightseeing escapade!
Planning Your Trip
Luxembourg stands out for its seamless fusion of history, nature, and modernity. The city effortlessly combines a rich historical backdrop with a cosmopolitan vibe, offering a unique experience to visitors. Despite being a small country, Luxembourg emphasizes environmental conservation. It has an abundance of green spaces and parks, and its capital, Luxembourg City, is often referred to as the “Green Heart of Europe”. Luxembourg's compact size makes exploring its hidden corners is both feasible and rewarding.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of year to visit Luxembourg is the spring. This is because the weather is mild, the country comes alive with seasonal blooms, and you’ll enjoy much fewer crowds when compared to the summer season. I visited Luxembourg City in early May, and was fortunate to enjoy favorable temperatures and beautiful spring blooms. There was an endless abundance of tulips, magnolias, wisteria, and bluebell hyacinths.
Another great time to visit Luxembourg is the fall, for the foliage changes and limited crowds. The fall season is said to be ideal for photography enthusiasts looking to create captivating shots of the city's autumn beauty.
Transportation By Train
There are many ways to get to Luxembourg from the surrounding cities and countries. During my month abroad, I traveled from Brussels, Belgium to Luxembourg City, Luxembourg via train. Trains are a great way to get around Europe because of their convenience. This was the best options in my opinion because it is about a 3 hour train ride, and a scenic one at that. The trains are frequent, so you’ll have plenty of flexibility when scheduling your transportation. Be sure to book your ticket in advance to secure the best rates, and consider an early morning train to make the most out of your day in Luxembourg.
Getting Around
Getting around Luxembourg City is easy! The city is super walkable, and navigating public transportation is a breeze. One of my favorite bits about Luxembourg is the free transportation. It's so easy to hop on a bus or tram and roam around the city without having to worry about wasting money if you get off on the wrong stop.
If you really want a special Luxembourg experience, grab a city bike and explore. Luxembourg City has this fantastic bike rental system that's seamless to use. It's like your super convenient, eco-friendly ticket to exploring the charming streets and scenic routes. Bike through the many parks and up the endless hills and roadways—and don’t worry if biking up hill is difficult, most city-bikes have an electric pedal-assist system.
48 Hour Luxembourg City Itinerary
Day 1: Diving into The History and Charm
Morning: Train Journey Brussels to Luxembourg
Depart from Brussels early in the morning, because, despite not wanting to wake up early, we want to get ahead of the traffic and any potential crowds. Hop on the train and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Ardennes as you head to Luxembourg City. Be sure to grab a window seat and your camera; there are plenty of Instagrammable moments along this route!
11:00 AM: The Grund and Its Quaint Vibes
Stroll down to the Grund, the old quarter, where every step feels like a leap back in time. The blend of charming architecture and bubbling Alzette River will make your inner photographer do a happy dance. Snap those angles and reminisce about fairy tales.
2:30 PM: Luxembourg City History Museum
This one is for the history buffs and Instagram enthusiasts. Its time to immerse yourself in the Luxembourg City History Museum, where you’ll discover the city’s fascinating past. Take snaps of artifacts that tickle your historical fancy.
4:00 PM: St. John's Church & a nice view
Head to St. John's Church for a dose of culture and killer views of the city. Climb the tower if you dare, and capture panoramic shots of Luxembourg City. It’s worth every step!
6:00 PM: A Sunset to Remember at the Corniche
Catch the sunset at the famous Corniche, often called 'the most beautiful balcony in Europe.' The view of the Grund from here as the sun dips is nothing short of magical.
Day 2: Parks, Palaces, and a Bit of Indulgence
Morning: Breakfast with a View
Start your day with a picturesque breakfast at a café overlooking the Pétrusse Valley. Ah, the perfect start to a Luxembourgish day.
10:00 AM: Adolphe Bridge and City Views
Get ready to stand in awe at the Adolphe Bridge. Marvel at its architecture and take shots of the cityscape from here. Pro tip: early mornings often mean fewer people photobombing your perfect shot!
11:30 AM: A Taste of Royalty at the Grand Ducal Palace
Time to embrace some royalty at the Grand Ducal Palace. Though you can't take pictures inside, the exterior is a marvel of architectural splendor.
1:00 PM: Lunch and Chill at Parc de la Ville
Rent a bike, and take the scenic route to Parc de la Ville for a relaxing picnic surrounded by lush greenery. Capture the vibrant hues and enjoy some people watching with fellow park-goers.
3:00 PM: Contemporary Art at Casino Luxembourg
Art lovers, head to Casino Luxembourg, a contemporary art forum housed in an old concert hall to channel your inner artist and experience the unique exhibits.
5:00 PM: Souvenir Hunt in the Old Town
Now is your chance to shop for some special souvenirs in the Old Town. Whether it's handmade crafts or vintage trinkets, capture the essence of the market and perhaps find that perfect piece to take back home.
Conclusion: Take a Bit of Luxembourg with You
At last, your whirlwind Luxembourg adventure has come to an end. Pack up your camera, but leave a piece of your heart here. Luxembourg City, with its blend of history and nature, is a story waiting to be shared. Whether it was the quaint old town or the panoramic views, I'd love to hear your tale of Luxembourgish adventures. Drop a comment below, and let's keep the travel stories flowing. So, whether you're enchanted by the stunning architecture, eager to get lost in its charming alleys, or enticed by the lush greenery, Luxembourg City promises a memorable adventure.