Luxembourg is a small European country that indeed has a very large amount of charm- of history, culture, and scenic beauty. It is surrounded by France, Belgium and Germany, which also, at the same time, works for it as a little-known fact and hence a gem. As the world’s only Grand Duchy, it has a very distinct identity, and 2 days in the capital city will take in all that is great about this country.
At the start of your first day, we invite you to breakfast or a cup of coffee at Chocolate House Nathalie, which is known for its chocolate spoons that melt in hot milk or coffee. It is right across from the Grand Ducal Palace, which is the perfect place to begin your exploration. Also, take some time to see the palace, which is the Grand Duke’s official residence, and if you are here in the summer, do not miss the ceremonial guards, which are a sight to see.
Next, at the Panoramic Elevator in Pfaffenthal, which is free and public and which gives you great views of the Alzette Valley. From there, head over to the charming Grund district, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and made up of picture-perfect streets, riverside cafes, and historic structures. Walking through this quiet neighbourhood is like stepping into a traditional European village.
Return to the Upper Old Town for lunch at Um Dierfgen, which is a very popular place that serves up great Luxembourgish food, including options for the vegetarian crowd, which does traditional dishes like Kniddelen (Luxembourg dumplings). In the afternoon, we visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, which is a grand Gothic church noted for its beautiful stained glass and large-scale architecture.
As you continue your tour, take a walk along the Chemin de la Corniche, which is also referred to as “Europe’s most beautiful balcony”. This scenic promenade, which is a part of the city’s great circle, takes you to see the Grund, the Alzette River and the surrounding valleys, which in turn make it one of the best places in the city for some great photography. Also, if you are visiting between spring and summer, do not miss out on a visit to the Bock Casemates, a great network of underground tunnels that are a part of the old fort, which is a very interesting point of the city.
On the second day, in fact, we suggest you enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then head over to La Passerelle (The Old Bridge), a very symbolic viaduct which, in turn, gives you another great view of Luxembourg City. The bridge’s arches and the surrounding scenery present great photo opportunities in the morning.
After which, go to Kaale Kaffi, a very cosy spot which also has a great art theme, vintage decor and great coffee. Spend the rest of your time walking through the quiet streets of the Upper Old Town, shop at local stores, or, in general, take in the city’s easy-going atmosphere before you head to the airport.
Luxembourg has a reputation for high prices, but many of its top sites are in fact free. We have free public transport, which includes buses, trams and trains and which is available throughout the country, thus eliminating the stress of extra costs. Although restaurant food is quite costly, what we put forward is a wide range of free attractions, easy walkable routes and very good public transport, which in turn make Luxembourg a great option for a weekend getaway.
In two days in Luxembourg City, we have what it takes to see and do it all. From the medieval quarters to the top of the valley for that which is picture-postcard, and from trying local specialities to that which is purely a culinary experience, this small capital does more than is expected in a European city break.
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