I had been meaning to visit this neighboring country for ages, and this week, I finally made it! With temperatures soaring to almost 35°C, I grabbed my bag and set off on a road trip to Luxembourg. Given its small size, it seemed like the perfect weekend getaway—I figured I could get a good grasp of the city in just a few hours.
Nestled between Belgium, France, and Germany, Luxembourg is a fascinating mix of cultures and history. While I planned to explore the city, I was also eager to escape into nature for the weekend. Several rivers flow through the country, including the Moselle River, which forms the natural border with Germany. Beyond its scenic beauty, Luxembourg is also known as a major hub for international finance, giving it a unique blend of old-world charm and modern prosperity.
Little did I know, there were far more things to see and explore than I had expected!
I’ll be honest—I arrived in Luxembourg without knowing much about it at all. But as someone who loves the countryside and mountains, I was instantly captivated. Luxembourg City is uniquely built around a ravine, creating breathtaking cliffside scenery. The city center, on the other hand, is filled with grand architecture, from palaces and cathedrals to charming pastel-colored buildings. Wandering through its medieval streets felt like stepping back in time, making for a truly magical experience.
The Grand Ducal Palace 🏰✨
Located in the city center near Place Guillaume II, the Grand Ducal Palace is a stunning architectural gem. Visitors can admire the intricate artwork and explore its long, elegant corridors. Dating back to the 16th century, this palace has a long and fascinating history. It was originally destroyed by a gunpowder explosion in 1554 but was rebuilt two decades later. Over time, extensions were added, including the City Scales in the 18th century and the Parliament annex in 1859.
Since 1890, the palace has been the official residence of the Grand Dukes, currently home to Grand Duke Henry. A major restoration took place between 1992 and 1995, preserving its beauty and historical significance.
One of the best things? During the summer months, visitors can take a rare glimpse behind the scenes, making it a must-visit spot in the heart of Luxembourg City.
The Old Town quickly became my favorite spot in Luxembourg. With its charming alleys, historic cobblestones, and a relaxed atmosphere, it was the perfect place to sit down with a cuppa, soak in the summer sun, and watch the world go by. Almost every stone beneath my feet seemed to hold a story, and every few steps led to another fascinating historical site. The blend of medieval architecture, baroque facades, and ancient city walls made wandering through the city feel like stepping into a storybook. ✨🏰
After my tea break, I set off to explore the castle ruins at La Rochette. The view was breathtaking! These impressive ruins date back to the 11th century, though much of the castle was destroyed in the 16th century. Despite its ruined state, it still holds a majestic charm, standing proudly above the landscape. One of the best ways to experience it is by walking the loop trail that surrounds the castle—it’s free to the public and offers some truly spectacular views.
Day Two: A Fairytale Escape to Vianden & Echternach
On my second day, I set off on a ride to Vianden to visit its magnificent castle. Towering high above the town, this stunning fortress looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Perched on a mountaintop (well, at least for me! 😆), it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Beyond its beauty, the castle has a fascinating history—it has ties to the King of the Netherlands, who also holds the title Count of Vianden. While you're here, don’t just stop at the castle—take a stroll through the village and treat yourself to some local specialties in one of the charming cafés. 🏰✨
Off the Beaten Track: Echternach & Its Roman Legacy
After visiting Vianden Castle, I decided to venture off the beaten path and explore Echternach, a small yet historically rich town. My first stop was the site of a large Roman villa, where real Roman ruins still stand. The layout is preserved so well that it’s easy to picture how the villa once looked. I was particularly fascinated by the Bath House, with its underfloor heating system, as well as the beautiful Roman columns. Some of the walls have been reconstructed to give visitors a clearer impression of the original structure, making it even more immersive.
Beyond its Roman past, Echternach is an enchanting medieval town, built around the ancient walls of an abbey founded in 698. It lies along the River Sûre, right on the German border. Wandering through the narrow medieval streets, I found remnants of the old city walls, adding to the town’s historic charm.
Whether you choose to relax by the scenic lakeside, explore its rich heritage, or join the lively local festivals of music, theater, and folklore, Echternach is a hidden gem worth discovering
I truly enjoyed my long weekend in this beautiful country! There’s so much to see, and every corner holds something special. I’ll definitely be back—hopefully when the weather isn’t nearly killing me! 😅 The charm of Luxembourg, from its historic towns to scenic landscapes, is something I’ll want to experience again, just maybe when it’s a bit cooler!
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