MileHacker Logo
Luxembourg City Itineraries

Luxembourg City Itineraries

Luxembourg City Luxembourg Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Major mobile providers include Post Luxembourg, Orange, and Tango. Purchase local SIM cards at official stores or larger shops. You may show your passport for registration. An Unlocked mobile phone is generally needed.

Connectivity Options

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Free Wi-Fi spreads widely in Luxembourg City in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas. The "Hot City" network offers public Wi-Fi in the city center.

Staying Connected

  • Hotels and many establishments provide complimentary Wi-Fi.
  • Look for the "Hot City" network for free public access.
  • Connectivity remains reliable in most urban areas.

Language Barriers & Translation

Luxembourg has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. English widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger generations.

Translation Tools

Postal Services

Post Luxembourg, the national postal service, operates post offices across the city. You can send postcards or packages from these locations.

Mail & Logistics

  • Post offices are clearly visible.
  • Stamps and mailing supplies are available.
  • Services cater to both domestic and international shipping.

Important Phrases with Pronunciation

Greetings & Thanks

  • Hello: Moien (Moy-en), Bonjour (Bon-zhoor), Guten Tag (Goo-ten Tahg)
  • Thank you: Merci (Mer-see), Danke (Dank-uh)
  • Please: Wannechgelieft (Vahn-ek-gay-leeft), S'il vous plaît (Seel voo play), Bitte (Bit-tuh)
  • Yes: Jo (Yaw), Oui (Wee), Ja (Yah)

Polite Responses & Questions

  • No: Nee (Nay), Non (Nohn), Nein (Nyn)
  • Excuse me/Pardon: Pardon (Par-don)
  • Do you speak English?: Schwätzt Dir Englesch?, Parlez-vous anglais?
  • Using formal address ("vous" or "Sie") is appropriate initially.

Communication Tips

Most service establishments have English speakers. A few phrases in Luxembourgish, French, or German often receive a warm reception.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shops

Monday-Saturday, typically 9:00 AM/10:00 AM to 6:00 PM/7:00 PM. Many smaller shops close on Sundays (except bakeries/convenience stores).

Banks

Generally open Monday-Friday, from approximately 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM.

Post Offices

Typically operate Monday-Friday, from around 8:00 AM/9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Museums

Museum hours vary, generally opening around 10:00 AM and closing at 6:00 PM. Many museums close on Mondays.

Visiting Tips

  • Always check specific museum websites for exact times.
  • Verify holiday hours beforehand.
  • Some offer late-night openings on specific days.

Restaurants

Restaurants typically have distinct lunch (noon-2:30 PM) and dinner (from 6:00 PM/7:00 PM) services. Many close between meals.

Dining Advice

  • Reservations are often wise, especially on weekends.
  • Late evening dining options might be more limited.
  • Many cafes serve lighter meals all day.

Banking & Public Holidays

Banking Hours & ATMs

  • Bank branches observe standard weekday hours.
  • ATMs ("Geldautomat" or "Bancomat") are widespread.
  • Find ATMs outside banks, in shopping centers, and at the train station.

Religious & Public Holidays

  • Most businesses and public services close on these days.
  • Public transport may operate on reduced schedules.
  • Plan activities accordingly to avoid closures.

Seasonal Considerations

Some smaller attractions or family-run businesses may keep reduced hours or close in the low season (e.g., January and February). Verify specific establishments' schedules ahead of your visit.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Luxembourgish culture combines Germanic and Latin influences, creating unique norms.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is common for formal greetings. "Moien" (Luxembourgish for hello) draws appreciation. "Bonjour" (French) or "Guten Tag" (German) are also common.

Formal Address

  • Use "vous" (French) or "Sie" (German) for strangers.
  • Await invitation to use informal "tu" or "du."
  • Politeness is valued in all interactions.

Appropriate Attire

Casual and neat attire suits daily wear. Luxembourgers generally dress well. Smart casual or business casual suits higher-end settings. Dress modestly for religious sites.

Dress Code Guidance

  • Avoid overly sloppy or revealing clothing.
  • Cover shoulders and knees at churches.
  • Business casual for formal meetings.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Reservations for dinner, especially on weekends, are wise. Await seating in restaurants. Tipping is not mandatory, service charges are included.

Dining hints

  • Rounding up the bill or a small (5-10%) amount.
  • This practice shows appreciation but is not expected.
  • Politely acknowledge good service.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Taking photos in public spaces is generally acceptable. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Some venues prohibit flash photography or all photography.

Photo Ethics

  • Look for signs indicating restrictions at sites.
  • Respect privacy; do not take photos without consent.
  • Do not interrupt local life or ceremonies for photos.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid These

  • Do not discuss personal finances or salaries.
  • Avoid detailed political conversations unless well-acquainted.
  • Keep discussions light and respectful.

Social Acceptance

  • Gender equality holds strong recognition.
  • LGBTQ+ rights are well-established and accepted.
  • Luxembourg City is an inclusive destination.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Considerations

  • City terrain has significant hills and cobblestone streets.
  • Infrastructure for mobility challenges shows ongoing improvements.
  • New and renovated buildings are often wheelchair-friendly.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

  • Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator and others connect city levels.
  • Modern public transport (buses, trams) is generally accessible.
  • Many major museums and cultural institutions cater to accessibility.

Support Resources

For detailed accessibility information, contact the Luxembourg City Tourist Office or consult local disability organizations for up-to-date resources and guidance.

Time-Based Itineraries

Itinerary suggestions tailored to different lengths of stay, from a quick layover to an in-depth exploration.

-Hour Layover Highlights

Focus on the city's core historical and scenic areas for a short visit.

Suggested Flow

  • Morning: Arrive, use free transport to city, Place d'Armes, Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Lunch, Chemin de la Corniche, Grund, Neumünster Abbey.
  • Evening: Dinner in Grund or Ville Haute, stroll, depart.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

A weekend allows for a more relaxed pace and city exploration.

Extended Exploration

  • Day 1: Arrive, upper city: Grand Ducal Palace, Place d'Armes, Casemates du Bock.
  • Day 2: Lower city: Pétrusse Valley, Grund, Clausen, museums.
  • Day 3: Day trip (Vianden/Mullerthal) or more city exploration, then depart.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience

A week has ample time to explore Luxembourg City in depth and venture into surrounding regions.

Detailed Itinerary

  • Days 1-3: City attractions, like the weekend itinerary.
  • Day 4: Mullerthal Trail adventure (Echternach/Berdorf).
  • Day 5: Moselle Wine Region exploration (Remich/Grevenmacher).
  • Day 6: Ardennes castles and history (Vianden/Bourscheid/Wiltz/Clervaux).
  • Day 7: Flexible exploration, last-minute shopping, departure.

Two-Week & Long-Term Exploration

Extended stays allow comprehensive exploration and multi-day excursions to neighboring countries.

Journeys

  • Combine with multi-day Benelux tour (Brussels, Amsterdam).
  • Day trips to Paris (TGV), Strasbourg, Metz.
  • For long-term, apartment rentals in Limpertsberg/Belair.
  • Consider language classes for engagement.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to specific interests, focusing on what matters most to you.

Historical Focus

Grand Ducal Palace, Casemates du Bock, MNHA, Vianden, Bourscheid castles.

Culinary Experience

Food tours, Grund/Clausen dining, traditional dishes, Moselle wine tasting.

Outdoor Activities

Mullerthal Trail, Chemin de la Corniche, cycling, nature parks.

Tailored Travel

Whether for history, food, or adventure, Luxembourg offers tailored experiences for diverse interests, making each visit unique.

Budget-Based Plans

Tailor your trip to fit your financial preferences, from minimal spending to luxurious experiences.

Backpacker's Guide

Minimize spending while experiencing the city.

Budget Strategies

  • Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses.
  • Utilize the free nationwide public transport.
  • Self-cater from supermarkets, pack picnics.
  • Focus on free attractions like Chemin de la Corniche and the Grund.
Many churches are free to enter.

Mid-range Traveler's Itinerary

Balance comfort and cost for a satisfying trip.

Comfortable Choices

  • Stay in comfortable mid-range hotels (3-star) or charming guesthouses.
  • Enjoy a mix of casual dining and mid-range restaurants.
  • Include a guided tour for added insights.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium services and comfort during your visit.

Premium Accommodations

  • Opt for 4-star or 5-star hotels.
  • Consider properties with spa facilities.
  • Enjoy top-tier service and amenities.

Exclusive Experiences

  • Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Use private transfers or rent a luxury car.
  • Explore high-end shopping opportunities.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Combine aspects of budget and mid-range plans for smart travel.

Smart Choices

  • Prioritize the Luxembourg Card for good value on paid attractions.
  • Balance restaurant meals with self-catering or cheaper options.
  • Fully utilize the free public transport to save on mobility costs.
  • Free outdoor activities and city walks.

Seasonal Specialties

Plan your visit to coincide with specific seasonal highlights or events.

Seasonal Highlights

  • Summer (June-August): Outdoor concerts, long daylight, al fresco dining.
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Magical Christmas Markets (late Nov-Dec), festive decorations.
  • National Day (June 23): Major celebrations, parades, fireworks.
  • Schueberfouer (late Aug/early Sep): Annual funfair with rides, food, entertainment.

Off-Season Exploration

Off-Season Benefits

Lower prices for accommodation and flights. Fewer crowds at popular attractions (excluding Christmas period).

Preparation

Dress warmly for winter. Be aware some smaller outdoor attractions or businesses might keep reduced hours.

Smart Spending

Planning your budget and knowing seasonal niceties maximizes your Luxembourg City experience, ensuring enjoyment across all financial plans.