MileHacker Logo
Public Transportation

Public Transportation

Luxembourg

Free Nationwide Transit Overview

Since March 1, 2020, public transportation throughout the entire Grand Duchy of Luxembourg has been free for everyone, including residents and visitors. This policy applies to all modes of public transport: buses, trams, and trains. This makes exploring the city and surrounding areas very cost-effective.

Public transport services operate with good frequency, notably during peak hours. Buses generally run from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around midnight), with some night services on weekends. Trams operate from early morning until midnight or 1:00 AM, with high frequency (every 3-6 minutes during peak times). Trains operate from early morning until late evening, with regular services on main routes.

Modes of Transport

  • Buses: Operated mainly by AVL for city routes, with regional buses covering the country.
  • Tram: Operated by Luxtram, the modern tram line connects major hubs like Central Station to the city center and Kirchberg.
  • Trains: Operated by CFL (Chemins de Fer Luxembourgeois), connecting Luxembourg City to towns and regions throughout the country.
  • No tickets required for standard second-class travel on all modes. First-class train travel needs a paid upgrade ticket.

Route Maps & Hubs

City's public transport network is well-organized with several hubs. Hamilius (central bus/tram hub), Gare Centrale (main train station, bus/tram hub), and Royal (central bus stop) are points.

Mobilitéit.lu App

The official Mobilitéit.lu app or website delivers the most up-to-date maps and route planning, including real-time schedules and delay information. This resource greatly aids efficient navigation.

Accessibility

Luxembourg's public transportation system maintains high accessibility standards. Most modern buses and trams feature low floors and ramps. Train stations generally include accessibility features like ramps and elevators.

Tips for Efficient Navigation

Leveraging Digital Tools
  • Use the Mobilitéit.lu App/Website for real-time schedules and route planning.
  • Familiarize yourself with Hamilius and Gare Centrale, central transfer points.
  • Plan ahead for late nights, as frequencies reduce.
Ticketing & Benefits
  • No tickets required for standard second-class travel.
  • The Luxembourg Card offers free entry to over 60 attractions nationwide, in addition to free public transport.
  • Check Mobilitéit.lu or tourist info for specific accessibility details.

Public Transport at a Glance

Cost

Free Nationwide

Modes

Buses, Trams, Trains

App

Mobilitéit.lu

Accessibility

Largely Accessible

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

For direct point-to-point travel, taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenience, especially outside public transport hours or for carrying luggage.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Typically beige or black, with a clear taxi sign on the roof, meter, and license display.
  • Hailing: Possible on the street, but less common outside the city center. Find taxis at designated stands (Gare Centrale, Hamilius, LUX Airport).
  • Booking: Booking by phone or a taxi app is a common and reliable method.
  • Fares: Regulated and metered. Short city rides approx. €15-€30; airport to city €30-€50.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Uber: Available in Luxembourg City, but not as prevalent as in larger metros. Prices may be higher than local taxis.
  • Local Taxi Apps: Some local companies offer their own apps for booking.
  • Safety (Licensed Taxis): Generally safe and regulated with professional drivers.
  • Safety (Ride-Sharing): Apps offer traceability (driver/vehicle info). Always confirm match before entering.

Payment Methods

  • Taxis generally accept both cash and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard).
  • Confirm payment options with the driver before beginning your ride.
  • This practice avoids any surprises at the destination.
  • Ride-sharing apps typically handle payment within the application.
  • Digital receipts are common for ride-sharing services.
  • Ensure your payment method is set up correctly in the app.

Taxi & Ride-Share Facts

Cost

Higher than public transport, especially for long distances.

Availability

Readily available at designated stands or via booking.

Convenience

Point-to-point travel, useful for luggage or late nights.

Rental Options

Luxembourg City offers various rental choices for cars and bicycles, allowing travelers flexibility in their exploration.

Car Rental Information

  • Valid national driving license required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is good practice if your license is not in English, French, or German.
  • Minimum age for rental is typically 21, sometimes 23 or 25, with young driver surcharges possible.
  • A major credit card in the driver's name is usually necessary for the security deposit.
  • Major international companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise) have desks at LUX Airport and city locations. For comparisons, use DiscoverCars.com.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Standard European driving rules apply; drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Hands-free phone use is a requirement while driving. Headlights are mandatory at all times.
  • Roads are in excellent condition. No toll roads exist in Luxembourg.
  • City center parking is challenging and expensive. Park & Ride (P+R) facilities on the outskirts offer free parking and public transport into the city.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists compared to southern Europe. Some specialized shops may offer them.

Not a main tourist transport mode.

Vel'oh! Bike Sharing

Luxembourg City operates "Vel'oh!" public bike-sharing. Numerous stations across the city. Registration and subscription (daily/weekly/yearly) are necessary.

Good for short city rides.

Private Bicycle Rentals

Several private shops in Luxembourg City offer daily or multi-day bicycle rentals. These often include e-bikes, suitable for hills or countryside exploration.

Wider range of bike types.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • Luxembourg City is highly walkable, especially the historic old town (Ville Haute) and lower town (Grund, Pfaffenthal).
  • Chemin de la Corniche: A pedestrian promenade offering panoramic views of the Grund and Alzette Valley.
  • Pétrusse Valley: Paths along the river for walking and cycling.
Walking Tour Options
  • Guided tours: Offered by Luxembourg City Tourist Office, focusing on history or themes.
  • Self-guided tours: Maps and routes available from tourist office. A Good guidebook aids self-exploration.
  • Bicycle infrastructure: Growing network of cycle paths. Wear a Helmet.

Safety Considerations

  • No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists exist.
  • Standard urban precautions apply, especially late at night in less frequented areas or near the train station.
  • Maintain awareness of traffic, specifically outside dedicated cycle paths.
  • City's hills present a challenge for cyclists but offer rewarding descents.
  • Remain vigilant in crowded areas.
  • Avoid displaying expensive electronics prominently.
  • Consider well-lit routes if walking alone after dark.
  • Overall, the city is generally safe.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Luxembourg City offers a few unique ways to navigate its distinct levels and see its sights.

Unique City Transport

  • Pfaffenthal Panoramic Elevator: Free public elevator connecting Ville Haute to Pfaffenthal. Offers panoramic views.
  • Clausen-Grund Elevator: Another free elevator linking Clausen district to plateau Saint-Esprit.
  • These elevators function as both practical transport and tourist attractions.
  • The hilly terrain inspired these unique solutions for connecting city levels.

Sightseeing Services

  • Luxembourg City Hop On Hop Off Bus: A convenient way to see major sights at your own pace.
  • The bus follows a predefined route, stopping at attractions and providing commentary on city history.
  • Passengers can get off at any stop to explore and then board the next bus.
  • No boat taxis or significant water transportation options for public use in the city.

Elevator Convenience

The public elevators connect different levels of the city, saving walking time and providing unique views.

Hop-on Bus Value

The Hop On Hop Off bus streamlines sightseeing for attractions with informative commentary.

Accessibility Focus

Luxembourg's commitment to accessibility extends to public transport, with modern vehicles and facilities designed for mobility needs.

Accessibility and Water Transport

Commitment to Accessibility
  • Modern buses and trams are largely accessible.
  • Information on accessible routes is available on Mobilitéit.lu or via city accessibility services.
  • New or renovated buildings and attractions often include ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Water Transport Summary
  • Luxembourg City has no boat taxis or substantial water transportation for public use.
  • The Alzette and Pétrusse rivers are not navigable for large vessels.
  • Moselle River cruises cater to leisure and sightseeing within the wine region, separate from city transport.

Navigating with Ease

Luxembourg City's unique topography and free public transport options simplify movement. Utilize the elevators and the Hop On Hop Off bus for convenient exploration.

← Previous
Air Travel
← Back to Luxembourg City
Next →
Accommodation Guide

Next Up: Accommodation Guide

Continue to Accommodation Guide