Luxembourg

Perhaps an unusual choice of destination, but Luxembourg packs quite a punch for a country of only half a million. So what do you think of when someone mentions Luxembourg?

Fairytale castle at Vianden

We had no preconceptions when we visited a couple of years ago, and to be honest we went there en route to Germany rather than as a specific trip. However, there were plenty of things there that surprised us and kept us entertained.


Luxembourg City, the capital is a relatively compact place but still has the feel of a European capital. It's easy to navigate by public transport, bike or even on foot. It's history dates back hundreds of years including a spell under Roman influence. Highlights include the castle and the old quarter and the fortifications. The city is surprisingly hilly and leafy giving plenty of opportunities to climb out and look down. There is also an incredibly well-kept American  war cemetery.

Wendy in Luxembourg City

Away from the capital, Luxembourg has a reputation for fairytale castles and forests. We visited Echternach and Vianden to scratch that particular itch, and also the Chateau de Bourscheid. Walking and cycling opportunities are in abundance here although we did find the cycling a bit challenging at times, both due to the hills and to the slightly impatient drivers!

The Moselle passes through Luxembourg and constitutes part of the wine-making territories perhaps more associated with Germany. There is a wine route in the Remich region giving you the opportunity to sample and buy.

Luxembourg City

In terms of food and drink in general, one of Luxembourg's attractions are the low taxes they put on things like alcohol, cigarettes and fuel. All of this leads to a bit of 'duty free' type tourism with some people making a specific trip through the country to stock up. It remains one of the cheapest places in Western Europe for diesel!