Luxembourg

Located in the heart of Western Europe, Sandwiched between Belgium and Germany with France below, it is pretty well landlocked. Luxembourg is famously one of the smallest countries in the world. However, quite interestingly, despite being such a small country, it has three official languages, Luxembourgish, French and German. English and Portuguese are also commonly spoken.

I’d always been quite intrigued to visit. I was fascinated by the fact that it is such a small country. I booked to stay for two nights and three days with a feeling that this would be enough time to explore this small country.

To get from the airport to the city centre I took a bus, which was about 25 minutes. And, it was a good way to see a lot of the city. A bonus was that it was completely free! As, all modes of public transport have been free to travel on since 2020.

I booked to stay at Hotel Francis through Booking.com. The hotel was right in the centre and over looked the square. So, I had a great view from my hotel window as well as being perfectly located. The room was comfy with all mod cons and breakfast was included in the price. There was also a café/restaurant, Café Francis, as a choice to eat in the evening.

All checked in and heavy bag out of the way, I wrapped up warm and went for a stroll and to explore the city centre. It wasn’t long before I realised why it is described as enchanting and picturesque. As well as being one of the smallest countries, Luxembourg is also known for being one of the most expensive countries. To break it down for you on my trip, bearing in mind that I visited Luxembourg in 2020 just before the coronavirus pandemic. I spent 90 euros per night for a double room for the hotel, this included breakfast and all taxes. £175 on flights from Amsterdam. The bus to and from the hotel and around the city was free. And, approximately 90-100 euros per day during my trip for food, coffee, wine and souvenirs.

A Catholic cathedral built between 1613 and 1621 by the Jesuits. The only cathedral in Luxembourg. It is in the heart of the city and is free to go inside. It is very beautiful, so I’d recommend popping in to take a look.

Also called ‘the most beautiful balcony in Europe.’ Built by the French and Spanish in the 17th century. It offers fabulous views of the Alzette River valley. It offers a scenic walkway through the historic part of the city.

Constructed between the 11th and 14th centuries on the foundations of a Roman castle, Vianden Castle is an impressive medieval castle perched on the wooded hillside looking down at the town below. Entrance to the castle is free with a Luxembourg Card, except when there is a festival on. Or around 13 euros for entry without the card. You can fly over the castle via a chairlift, however, I opted for a terrace view from one of the local cafés!

Totally gorgeous and picturesque! The Grund is a quarter in the Southern part of Luxembourg City. It is located in the valley below the city. It is full of breathtaking views and picture-perfect backdrops. I only wish I’d opted to visit in Spring or Summer rather than February!

A beautiful palace building located in the centre of the old town. It can be viewed inside by the public during the summer months.

The Holy Ghost Citadel provides a majestic fortress that overlooks the city. It offers spectacular views and plenty of photo opportunities! I was in awe, it was just so beautiful and picturesque.

That view though! The Adolphe Bridge is a double-arched bridge that provides a one-way route for road traffic across the Petrusse from Boulevard Royal to Avenue de la Liberte. It was constructed in 1900 and spans more than 85 metres across the Petrusse valley with a height of 42 metres.

Also known as the famous square with the golden statue. The monument represents an angel of peace holding a laurel wreath in her hands. It was erected in 1923 in memory of the soldiers who died in World War I.

If you’re an avid coffee and cake lover like myself, then I highly recommend you try out Laduree. Delicious French pastries and coffee.

If I were to visit Luxembourg again I would add Casemates du Bock to my itinerary. Although I explored the architecture from the outside, I would have also liked to have explored the network of tunnels. I would also take a hike along the Mullerthal Trail and the Gorges Du Loup.