9 Best Cities in Luxembourg & Best Time of Year to Visit

Luxembourg may be one of the smallest countries in Europe, but it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its fairytale castles, lush forests, and vibrant cities, Luxembourg offers a unique blend of attractions for travelers. Whether you're interested in exploring medieval architecture, enjoying local cuisine, or simply taking in the scenic landscapes, Luxembourg's cities provide a diverse range of experiences. Here are nine cities in Luxembourg that travelers absolutely love, each offering its own charm and a host of reasons to visit.

Luxembourg City

As the capital of the country, Luxembourg City is a must-visit for its stunning blend of old and new. The city's UNESCO-listed Old Quarter, with its ancient fortifications and grand ducal palace, is a history lover's dream. Don't miss the Bock Casemates, a network of underground tunnels, or the modern art at Mudam Luxembourg. The city is also known for its vibrant restaurant scene, offering everything from traditional Luxembourgish dishes to international cuisine. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Chemin de la Corniche, often referred to as "Europe's most beautiful balcony."

When to Visit: Spring and early fall are ideal times to visit Luxembourg City, as the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. The Printemps Musical festival in March and April is a great time for music enthusiasts to enjoy concerts in various venues around the city.

Travel Tip: The Grand Ducal Palace is a must-see for its Renaissance architecture and role as the official residence of the Grand Duke. Guided tours are available in the summer months, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Luxembourg's monarchy.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying at the luxurious Hotel Le Place d'Armes or the stylish Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal. For dining, try local favorites like Restaurant Clairefontaine or the cozy Brasserie Guillaume.

Echternach

Echternach is Luxembourg's oldest city, renowned for its cultural heritage and the Echternach Abbey, which was founded in the 7th century. The city's pedestrian zone is perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the market square is lined with cafes and shops. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Mullerthal Region, also known as "Little Switzerland," for its hiking trails and stunning landscapes. The Echternach Lake is another popular spot for outdoor activities.

When to Visit: Late spring to early autumn is the best time to explore Echternach, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities. The annual hopping procession of Echternach, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, takes place on Whit Tuesday and is a unique cultural experience.

Travel Tip: The Echternach Music Festival, held in the basilica during the summer, showcases classical music performances in a stunning setting.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Bel-Air Sport & Wellness offers a relaxing stay with spa facilities, while Restaurant La Grappe d'Or serves up delicious French and Luxembourgish cuisine.

Vianden

Vianden is famous for its majestic castle, which dates back to the 11th century and towers over the town. The castle has been beautifully restored and offers a glimpse into the region's feudal history. The town itself is picturesque, with cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The Victor Hugo Museum pays homage to the famous writer who lived in Vianden. For a bird's-eye view of the area, take the chairlift up the mountain for breathtaking vistas of the Our Valley.

When to Visit: Summer is a great time to visit Vianden, especially during the Vianden Medieval Festival in July and August, when the town comes alive with historical reenactments and festivities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to hike the trails around Vianden, which offer stunning views of the castle and surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay & Eat: Auberge de l'Our is a charming hotel with river views, and for dining, Café du Pont offers a selection of local dishes.

Esch-sur-Alzette

Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg's second-largest city, is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant arts scene. The National Museum of the Resistance is a poignant reminder of Luxembourg's WWII history. The city also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, such as the Gaalgebierg Park, which includes a zoo and playgrounds. Esch-sur-Alzette is also a gateway to the Red Rock region, characterized by its red-tinged soil and industrial heritage.

When to Visit: Visit in the spring or fall to avoid the peak summer crowds and to enjoy the city's parks in full bloom or with autumn colors. The Esch-sur-Alzette Carnival in February is a lively event with parades and festivities.

Travel Tip: The Rockhal is Luxembourg's premier concert venue, hosting international acts and local artists. Check their schedule for performances during your visit.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Seven Hotel offers a modern stay with panoramic views, while Restaurant La Lorraine serves up classic French and Luxembourgish fare.

Remich

Nestled along the banks of the Moselle River, Remich is known as the "Pearl of the Moselle" and is a hub for wine lovers. The city's promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk along the river, and boat tours are available for those wanting to see the sights from the water. The surrounding vineyards offer wine tastings and tours, providing insight into the local winemaking tradition. Remich also has a small but charming butterfly garden that delights visitors of all ages.

When to Visit: Late summer and early fall are ideal for visiting Remich, coinciding with the grape harvest and wine festivals. The Fête du Raisin et du Vin in September celebrates the region's viticulture with tastings and entertainment.

Travel Tip: Take a cruise on the Moselle River to enjoy the scenic views of the vineyard-covered hillsides and to experience the tranquility of the area.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Saint-Nicolas & Spa offers riverside accommodations and a wellness center, while Restaurant Pavillon serves gourmet dishes with a focus on local ingredients.

Clervaux

Clervaux, set in the heart of the Luxembourg Ardennes, is a peaceful town with a stunning Benedictine abbey and the iconic Clervaux Castle. The castle houses the famous "The Family of Man" photo exhibition, curated by Edward Steichen and recognized by UNESCO. The town is also a starting point for numerous hiking trails that wind through the lush forests and rolling hills of the Ardennes.

When to Visit: The best times to visit Clervaux are from May to October when the weather is mild and conducive to exploring the outdoors. The Clervaux Christmas Market in December is a festive event with local crafts and seasonal treats.

Travel Tip: The "The Family of Man" exhibition is a must-see for photography enthusiasts and provides a profound commentary on human life and experience.

Where to Stay & Eat: Le Clervaux Boutique & Design Hotel offers stylish accommodations, while Restaurant Da Lonati serves Italian cuisine with a Luxembourgish twist.

Grevenmacher

Grevenmacher is another gem along the Moselle River, known for its winemaking and the Butterfly Garden, where visitors can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies. The town's cultural center, Kulturhuef, includes a museum, cinema, and print shop, offering a variety of cultural experiences. Grevenmacher is also celebrated for its annual Grape and Wine Festival, which brings together wine lovers from all over the region.

When to Visit: September is a fantastic time to visit Grevenmacher for the Grape and Wine Festival, which features parades, wine tastings, and live music. The weather is also pleasant for exploring the town and surrounding vineyards.

Travel Tip: The Butterfly Garden is a unique attraction that allows you to get up close with a variety of butterfly species in a tropical environment.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Simon's Plaza offers modern comfort, and for a dining experience, try Restaurant Maus Kätti for local specialties with a contemporary twist.

Dudelange

Dudelange, located in the south of Luxembourg, is a city with a rich industrial past and a vibrant cultural present. The city is home to the National Audiovisual Centre, which showcases the country's film and photographic heritage. Dudelange also offers a range of outdoor activities, with the Haard Nature Reserve providing trails for hiking and mountain biking. The city's cultural calendar is packed with events, including the annual Dudelange on Wheels skateboarding festival.

When to Visit: Spring and early summer are great times to visit Dudelange, with pleasant weather for outdoor activities and fewer tourists. The Fête de la Musique in June is a celebration of music with free performances throughout the city.

Travel Tip: The National Audiovisual Centre often hosts exhibitions and screenings that provide insight into Luxembourg's cultural scene.

Where to Stay & Eat: Cottage Logis Hôtel offers a cozy stay, and for a memorable meal, try Giallo for its inventive Italian cuisine.

Mondorf-les-Bains

Mondorf-les-Bains is renowned for its thermal springs and wellness facilities, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Domaine Thermal is a wellness center offering a range of treatments and therapies. The town is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, including the Parc de Mondorf, which features meticulously landscaped grounds and a bandstand for concerts. Mondorf-les-Bains also has a casino for those feeling lucky.

When to Visit: Visit Mondorf-les-Bains in the spring or fall to take advantage of the spa facilities without the summer crowds. The town also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts and exhibitions.

Travel Tip: The Domaine Thermal's wellness center is not to be missed, offering a range of treatments that utilize the local thermal waters.

Where to Stay & Eat: Mondorf Parc Hôtel provides luxury accommodations with access to the spa facilities, and Restaurant De Jangeli offers fine dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Luxembourg's cities are diverse and full of character, each offering visitors a unique slice of the country's rich tapestry. From the historical grandeur of Luxembourg City to the tranquil vineyards of Remich, there's something for every traveler in this enchanting European nation.