Ever stumble upon a certain destination you just can’t let go of the memories? That’s what happened to me during my recent European escapades.
Beginning and ending the trip in two of Europe’s most iconic cities, Paris and London, it was the lesser-known that remains in my mind’s eye since returning back home.
As cool as finally experiencing Paris’ endless sidewalk cafes and London’s vast array of architectural marvels and traditional pubs, it was one of the continent’s smallest countries that left a lasting mark.
Sandwiched between France and Germany lies Luxembourg, often misrepresented as a hidden gem for only the most uppity of travelers with budgets larger than the country itself.
As a recent visitor, I can attest that hotels can be pricey if you don’t time it right. However, the rest of the trip was no more expensive than anywhere else, especially since public transit is absolutely free!
Travel +Leisure just published a new list of 25 travel recommendations for 2025. Rather than feature Europe’s most notable names, Luxembourg stands out as the most surprising destination to check out next year.
There’s No Bad Time To Visit Luxembourg
Sometimes, frigid weather can turn away travelers from visiting during wintertime, but Luxembourg transforms into an even more magical winter wonderland.
Luxembourg City, the stunning capital, is teeming with medieval charm. Travel + Leisure perfectly describes the city’s timeless streets as ‘hauntingly beautiful.
The touristy side of the city is Old Town, oozing old-world charm with classic pubs, sidewalk cafes, and even name-brand luxury retailers living up to Luxembourg’s ‘medieval meets modern’ reputation.
There’s truly no bad time to visit as long as you pack accordingly. Being such a small country, Luxembourg obviously doesn’t offer nonstop flights to the U.S., but it’s still easy to reach with their very own airline Luxair connecting to major European hubs, or you can try to score a cheap train from Paris.
I had the fortune to visit during fall, where rustic foliage only enhanced this already radiating city, but winter can blanket the city in snow like a Hallmark movie setting.
Spring and summer bring on whole new vibes, much better for exploring winding cobbled roads and quaint alleyways.
Is Luxembourg As Costly As It’s Ritzy Reputation?
I stayed at DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourg, which I highly recommend as it’s just a block from the bus stop into downtown and the airport.
Plus, the gracious staff were kind enough to provide welcome drinks and a free upgrade to a spacious suite.
I definitely got my money’s worth in a city where scoring hotels under $100 is a tough task. While it may seem pricey to fork over 3 digits for even the most basic of accommodations, you won’t feel the sting in your bottom line since other costs are relatively affordable – and you can’t beat free!
Luxembourg’s public transit is absolutely free of charge throughout the country – no questions asked.
You don’t need any sort of ticket or verification; simply hop on and hop off as you please anywhere within Luxembourg’s borders, but I suggest checking out the scenic Moselle Valley wine region or perhaps Vianden Castle, seemingly straight from a fairytale.
There’s also a free late-night bus running on weekends when the city comes alive after sundown.
You can easily score $3 cappuccinos, $5 beers, $5 bratwursts, and other entrees for under $10. I really enjoyed the National Art and History Museum (free admission) too.
See? Not so bad, right?
Check out this page from Luxembourg’s Tourist Office, which is dedicated to the capital’s many free attractions.
Travel tip: download the Mobiliteit.lu app for public transit use. It’s the best navigation tool.
Don’t Skip Grund
Compared to Europe’s popular urban sprawls, Luxembourg is relatively small yet full of nooks and crannies that are easy to miss.
Grund was a district I found on my last day there and was the perfect way to cap off said trip’s biggest surprise.
Full disclosure: I try not to be that guy who says, “I could definitely live here!” everywhere I go, but when I visited Grund, those very words slipped out.
This charming historic quarter is right out of a postcard, with the trickling Alzette River to set the ambiance, local bars with the perfect ratio of crowds to open seating, and immaculate views of Luxembourg’s medieval charm.
Grund is nestled in the depths of Luxembourg City. Looking up at the city’s expansive historic landmarks is a snapshot my mind won’t let me forget.
Travel tip: Scott’s Pub is one of my favorite pubs I’ve ever been to. Make sure to grab one of the few patio seats overlooking the river.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
