A place steeped in medieval history and filled with museums and sights, Luxembourg is a fascinating city to visit. There's plenty to explore here; from discovering its vast complex of underground tunnels, marvelling at Roman mosaics in its National Museum or hiking through the green and pleasant Petrusse Valley. There's a wide range of accomodation in the city and our collection of the best places to stay in Luxembourg City has something for everone, from boutiques to luxury hotels.
Founded in 963, the city was built between deep gorges fashioned by the Azlette and Petrusse rivers. By the 16th century, the fortress, built atop a great rock, was considered to be one of the most impregnable in Europe and by the 17th century, engineers had created a 23km series of underground tunnels where citizens would take refuge in times of war. Both of these sights are UNESCO-listed and are open to the public, even in spite of the castle's dismantling in the 19th century.
In terms of museums, visitors are truly spoilt for choice. The Luxembourg City History Museum boasts a fantastic detailing of the city's history, while the National Museum of History and Art boasts arguably the most impressive Roman mosaic north of the Alps; as for art, check out the Casino Luxembourg Forum of Contemporary Art.
The pedestrianised areas of the Old City are ideally suited to shopping sprees as they teem with high-end boutiques and antique shops; the streets themselves are old, and medieval houses seamlessly blend with the newer avant-garde architecture. Buildings like the Notre Dame cathedral stand stark and beautiful against the skyline, while the gorgeous medieval facades of buildings like the Grand Duke's Residence shine brightly.
Luxembourg City is a truly international place for more reasons than one. With a population with over 170 nationalities, it is also the beating heart of the European Union, being home to the European Court of Justice, the European Investment Bank and the General Secretariat of the European Parliament.
What not to miss
- Head out of the city towards the Petrusse Valley and drink in the clean country air and majestic green scenery.
- Check out the Luxembourg City History Museum to immerse yourself in the city's rich and varied history.
- Take a guided tour of the underground medieval tunnels, the Casemates.
- Visit the fortress and marvel at the superior workmanship.
- Stand awestruck at the beautiful Flemish Renaissance facade of the Grand Duke's Residence.
- For some art viewing, check out the Casino Luxembourg Forum of Contemporary Art.
This is a fabulous city to visit, particularly if you're keen on history. Browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Luxembourg City to start planning your trip.