Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Luxembourg City

It is easy to overlook the small, landlocked country of Luxembourg.  However, there are many reasons to include this charming destination in your tour of Western Europe.  Situated right on the cultural divide between the Romance and Germanic nations, Luxembourg features a unique fusion of customs and traditions.  There are many fantastic hotels in Luxembourg City, the country’s capital.  Try the opulent Hilton Luxembourg or the more accessible Campanile Hotel Luxembourg-Aéroport.  Either makes a great home base from which to tour these popular attractions.

Chateau of the Counts of Luxembourg

Dating all the way back to the year 963, this incredible castle has since been drastically transformed.  The original structure was severely damaged by a horrific fire in 1459.  The scorched ruins were later incorporated into a new system of fortifications at the Bock, the jutting promontory on which the castle stands.  In 1993, an archaeological excavation uncovered several elements of the original architecture.  Tour the Chateau of the Counts of Luxembourg today, and you can trace the history of the castle—and of the city itself.

The Casemates

One of Luxembourg’s most famous features is undoubtedly its intimidating military legacy.  While most elements are obviously off-limits to tourists, visitors can explore one of the capital’s most impressive wartime inventions: The Casements, an underground network of defensive passageways that originally stretched 23 kilometers long and reached down as far as 40 meters below ground. Today, 17km of the casements are still in good condition—and they have been open to the public since 1933.

Grand Ducal Palace

A perfect example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, the Grand Ducal Palace was built between 1572 and 1574.  After years as the Prefecture and seat of the government, the palace was beautifully converted in 1890.  Today, it serves as the official seat of the Grand Duke, who famously broadcasts a message from the Yellow Room each year on Christmas Eve.  Throughout the year, you can also watch the renowned Luxembourg military perform ceremonial duties on the grounds.  From July 15^th to September 2^nd, parts of the interior are open to the public.

Market at Place Guillaume

Take a break from the somber fortresses and battlegrounds of Luxembourg, and spend an afternoon embracing the more festive side of local culture!  Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Market at Place Guillaume comes alive in a burst of color and sound.  Inviting market stalls spill over with fresh fruits and vegetables, beautiful flowers, handmade crafts and other things to buy.  Take your time, shopping—and bargaining!—just like Luxembourg’s locals.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Probably the most important religious site in Luxembourg, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must-see tourist attraction.  The magnificent Gothic structure was built between 1613 and 1621, and it houses the royal family vault among other things.  The sacred sarcophagus of John the Blind and the treasury are also located here.  What’s more, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is the site of the annual Octave of Our Lady of Luxembourg.  The annual event takes place right after Easter, and is known to draw thousands of pilgrims from around the world.