Let’s Do Luxembourg – The Seven Most Amazing Sights in the Country

Luxembourg may be a small country but it has cities and towns that are so picturesque, they look like they came straight out of medieval paintings.

While most people associate Luxembourg with the finest things in life, and rightfully so, it has a lot to offer to a wide range of tourists. 

Of course, its renowned medieval and renaissance buildings are the main draws. But its attractions are not limited to architecture marvels. It’s also abundant in art, history, and even adventure that are worth seeing and experiencing for yourself. 

Here are the top seven things to see in Luxembourg.

The Sights

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral

This magnificent church is from the early 17^th century, having been built by the Jesuit order from 1613 to 1621. Today, it’s a must-see for all coming to Luxembourg City.

The cathedral has a Baroque gate found on the northern side and astonishing stained-glass mosaics on the inside that date back to the 1800s and 1900s vintage. Also found inside are several beautifully crafted sculptures, including a statue of Madonna with a Child.

The only cathedral in Luxembourg, it also has two choir bays and three towers. And the latter makes the cathedral recognizable even from a great distance.

You will also find the graves of those from the ruling family of Luxembourg down in the crypt. Once there, you’ll likely spot a pair of lions standing guard over the crypt. It’s the work of the famous sculptor Auguste Tremont.

2. National Museum of History and Art

If you decide to take a stroll around Luxembourg Old Town, make sure to visit the National Museum of History and Art. Found in the Fish Market district of the old town, it’s among the finest of its kind in the whole of Europe. 

The museum has a large collection of items in the country’s history – from coins, tools, and arms, to name a few. You’ll also find a massive collection of documents that shaped Luxembourg’s history.

Additionally, the museum has a dedicated area for items belonging to the Gallo-Roman era. The exhibited items showcase a lot about the people’s social and religious lives during that ear.

But if you want to see something more recent, head on to the museum’s contemporary art display. You’ll find a selection of works from some of the most prominent artists of the last century.

3. Parc Merveilleux

If you want to take a break from historical landmarks and museums, you should visit Parc Merveilleux. It’s a splendid amusement park near the Luxembourg capital, some 6 miles (10km) away from the city and 3 miles (5km) from the French border.

The park has an assortment of arcades and games if you want an active break. You can also take a stroll or a train ride if you prefer to relax.

If you have kids in tow, they can ride ponies in the park. Parc Merveilleux also has a fantastic mini-golf course, which is challenging and amusing at the same time.

Even if you stay all day at the park, you won’t go hungry because it has several restaurants and cafes for you to choose from.

4. Mudam Luxembourg Museum of Modern Art

Luxembourg also boasts one of Europe’s best museums of modern art. The Mudam Luxembourg Museum of Modern Art may have only started in 2006, but it’s already amassed quite an impressive collection.

You’ll find here some of the most significant works of contemporary artists like Andy Warhol, Julian Schnabel, and more. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see one of the special temporary displays that the museum organizes throughout the year.

You can also take one of the many workshops and classes available at the museum. And some of their workshops even cater specifically to kids. Old and young alike can learn a thing or two about art here.

But if you’re content with just visiting, listen to a self-guided tour in English to enhance your experience.

5. Grand Ducal Palace

What are the top Luxembourg City attractions? 

You’ll get different responses to that. But one thing is for sure – among those they’ll mention is the Grand Ducal Palace found in the heart of Luxembourg City.

First erected in the 1500s, the palace boasts a combination of Medieval Gothic and Romantic designs. It was only in 1890 when the royal family moved it, but they have lived here since then.

If you visit the city from mid-July to early September, you can take a guided tour of the palace. There are nine tours done per day and they’re available in English.

Do note that you have to get your tickets at the city’s tourist office if you want to visit the palace. Buy them in advance if you must, but don’t miss this unique sight.

6. The Luxembourg Ardennes

Luxembourg is not a big country, but it has a diverse landscape. And while it’s mostly flat, it has a small mountainous region called the Luxembourg Ardennes.

Needless to say, the Luxembourg Ardennes has some of the country’s most beautiful vistas. The region has forested hills, sheer cliffs, and crystal clear rivers and brooks. You’ll also find numerous forts, castles, and even fortified farms here.

Interestingly, the Ardennes is also where Hitler conducted his last major military campaign. If you go to Wiltz Castle, you’ll find the Battle of the Bulge Museum. The town of Ettelbruck, on the other hand, has the General Patton Museum.

Don’t forget to drop by Clairvaux near the Clerve River if you can. It’s a charming village and a great place to rest and recharge after physically-demanding activities like hiking, for instance.

7. Echternach Town

Echternach is a gorgeous little town on the German border. It’s the perfect place to experience a medieval town in the 21^st century. The town has narrow, winding streets, colorful medieval facades, and that Disney movie charm not found anywhere else.

And if you visit in May or June, you can go to one of the several music festivals that take place in Echternach. Don’t miss out on the dancing procession that happens in town on Whit Tuesday.

The Biggest Small Country in Europe

You’ll never run out of things to see in Luxembourg, that’s for sure. 

The Grand Ducal Palace is a must-see if you’re coming for a summer vacation. And it wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

If you love medieval history, the array of forts and palaces are at your disposal. The abundance of museums here will surely satisfy even the pickiest art enthusiast.

And if you’re bringing the kids with you, you’ve got to take them to the Parc Merveilleux for an unforgettable experience.

No matter where you go, there’s always a sight to behold in Luxembourg.