Things to see and do in Luxembourg

Built between 1613 and 1621, visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral is a must when visiting Luxembourg. Famous for its thin black spires and 19^th and 20^th century stained glass windows, the cathedral is a wonderful example of the country’s history and tradition.

Admission to the cathedral is free, although it’s important to note that it’s only accessible when no service is happening. The cathedral regularly hosts piano concerts, so check the schedule to see if you can squeeze in a visit.

One of the main attractions of the city centre, the Grand Ducal Palace is unquestionably beautiful. The town residence of the Grand Duke, the palace has a fascinating history and various sections have been rebuilt over the years.

During the summer months, the palace is open to the general public and offers guided tours in several different languages.

Designed by famous architect I.M. Pei, the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art invites the public to an exploration of contemporary art.

Artists and designers are given ‘carte blanche’ to access the museum and offer their own interpretations of its spaces (including the reception area, shop and café as well as the traditional exhibition areas) with original creations.

The Museum is also home to the Creators’ Market, where artists and creators come together to present their work to the public. Held biannually and around Christmas time, the Creators’ Market is the perfect opportunity to meet talented artists and possibly do a spot of shopping!

Bordering Germany, the beautiful town of Echternacht lies on the bank of the River Sûre and is known for its centuries-old dancing procession.

The famous Benedictine Abbey is known for its scripture and 11^th century illuminated manuscripts. While the abbey itself was dissolved during the French Revolution, the abbey museum is situated in the vaulted cellars.

Depicting the history of the monastery, the museum contains several facsimiles of its works of art including Codex Aureus Epternacensis or the Codex Aureus Escorialensis.

The high-quality exhibits combined with the beauty of the museum itself makes this a fantastic spot to visit and a great way to learn more about the history of Luxembourg. The museum has ten audio guides in a variety of languages, which are provided to visitors free of charge.

With its triangular shape, gothic vaulted cellar and eight towers, Château de Bourscheid is Luxembourg’s largest and most dramatic castle ruin.

Construction of the castle began in 1000 AD, and the inner walls and original belfry have survived and create a real sense of the past for visitors. Restoration of other parts of the castle are currently being undertaken, but it is still open for visitors.

Visitors to the castle are greeted with stunning views over the forest and river Sûre and the castle’s night illuminations create and incredible atmosphere, making this a worthwhile stop during your visit day or night.

The honeycomb of rock galleries and passages which make up Casemates Du Bock are a great place for kids (and adults) to stop and explore the passages.

The clifftop site once housed Count Sigefroi’s mighty fortress and was designed to protect his holdings. Each subsequent owner expanded and improved the strong holdings of the Bock. Most notably, the fortress’s casemates (fortified gun emplacements) had been developed so that by the mid-18^th century they were much more than canon perches and consisted of 14 miles of tunnels, stables, workshops, kitchens and a bakery, as well as barracks for 1200 soldiers.

Despite its destruction being ordered in 1867 in order to diffuse tension between France and Germany, the Bock casemates were used as a bomb shelter for 35,000 people during the Second World War and are still accessible to visitors today.

Forget ‘Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator’, the Pfaffenthal lift offers sweeping views of the route between the Pescatore park and the Pfaffenthal area at the bottom of the Alzette valley.

Not only is this a great way to see more of Luxembourg while on the move, but as the elevator is free of charge, it’s also a great way to keep costs low while travelling.

Discover a magical underwater world of freshwater fishes in the Aquarium Wasserbilig.

Great for younger children in particular, the Aquarium is compact and holds a variety of local sealife and fish from around the world.

Combine with a visit to the nearby butterfly garden, a trip to the playground or a stroll along the river for a fun and relaxing family day out.

Located on a vast tableland overlooking the valleys of the Black Ernz and 300 acres of forest, Berdorf is one of the main tourist centres in the Grand-Duchy.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the fairytale-like hiking trails which cover the area. All of them are well marked and offer the opportunity for you to relax and take in the amazing rock formations.

Take a walk along the Walls of the Corniche, otherwise known as the ‘most beautiful balcony of Europe’ and enjoy the panoramic views and the city below. While this promenade is stunning at any time of year, the cobblestone path and view of the Alzette Valley make this a stunning destination for a special Valentine's getaway.

If you love wildlife, look no further than the Escher Déi'renpark. An English style garden, complete with an artificial waterfall, rose garden and wildlife enclosure, visitors will have the chance to explore and unwind in the incredible scenery.

A stone’s throw from Gaalgebierg, the park holds a total of 150 animals including deer, goats and rabbits, as well as a variety of sculptures and two playparks for little ones to enjoy.