Best of Luxembourg

At just 2,586 square kilometres in size and with a population slightly more than half a million people, Luxembourg is among the smallest nations in Europe. Located in the centre of the multi-nation continent, and surrounded by Germany to the east, France to the south and Belgium to the west and north, Luxembourg is the only Grand Dutchy in the world, with a constitutional monarch as its head of state. Despite its tiny size, the country has the second highest gross producer of products in the world, after Qatar, and has long and rich culture and traditions, which visitors can experience on their Luxembourg holidays.

Luxembourg City is the capital of the country, located in the south, and a great place to base yourself for your stay. It’s a natural choice as the only international airport, Luxembourg Findel Airport, is located just 6km away. There’s lots of sights and culture to enjoy in the capital. Altogether there are 12 cities in Luxembourg, and they include Diekirch in the northeast, lying on the banks of the Sauer river; Grevenmacher in the east and near to the border with Germany; and Esch-sur-Alzette in the southwest, 15km from the capital. The picturesque town of Petange in the southwest is also a good choice of place to stay for your Luxembourg holidays.

The climate in Luxembourg is temperate, meaning there’s no extremes in the weather. Summers are cool, averaging highs of around 17C, and winters are mild.

As you’re in what’s officially called the Grand Dutchy of Luxembourg, a good way to start off your Luxembourg holidays is to have a look at where the grand duke lives – at Grand-Ducal Palace in Luxembourg City. This large and imposing building started life as the country’s first city hall, all the way back in 1572. Guided tours of the interior are available, but only during the summer months.

Also in the capital is the splendid sight of Notre-Dame Cathedral. This large Roman Catholic church features Gothic architecture and dates back to 1613. In its cemetery is a version of the famous sculpture The Political Prisoner, by the late Luxembourgish sculptor Lucien Wercollier.

The entirety of Luxembourgian history is represented and on display at the National Museum of History and Art in the capital, and is certainly worth a visit. For more history and culture, visit Neumunster Abbey in Luxembourg City, which has a cultural centre.

Walking tours and hiking are a popular way to experience the verdant countryside. There are dozens of walks and trails all over the country, such as the 1944-1945 Remembrance Walk, the Barefoot Path – done without shoes, or socks, to get a feel of the earth beneath you – as well as many more.

Fort Thüngen in Luxembourg City is an impressive sight and is located in Drai Eechelen Park. Much of it was demolished in the 1800s but was reconstructed in the 1990s. It’s known locally as the Three Acorns, due to the presence of acorns atop the fort’s three towers.

Luxembourg produces some excellent wines, mainly from vineyards in the southern regions. Try some, along with the country’s delicious dishes.