Luxembourg: More than a financial hub
Luxembourg, often dismissed as a dull financial center, is actually a hidden gem according to local content creator Pauline Weis. With a population of just 699,000, the country is Europe's seventh-smallest, but it boasts lush forests, medieval castles, and quiet hiking trails. Weis, who speaks nine languages and has traveled the world, says the country is misunderstood. 'There’s a misconception about Luxembourg that everyone is rich and drives a Porsche. I don’t have a Porsche, I know my father certainly doesn’t have a Porsche!' she told Metro.
Free transport and diverse culture
Since March 2020, Luxembourg has offered free public transport nationwide, making it easy for visitors to explore. The capital, Luxembourg City, is built on a rocky plateau with dramatic gorges and the UNESCO-listed Bock Casemates. Over 70% of the city's 120,000 residents are non-Luxembourgers, representing 170 nationalities. This diversity fuels a vibrant food scene, from traditional Kniddelen dumplings to Lebanese dishes at Chiche!, a restaurant that employs 70 refugees and migrants.
Top attractions: Mullerthal Trail and Vianden Castle
Weis recommends the Mullerthal Trail, a 112km trek through 'Little Switzerland' with waterfalls and dinosaur-era rock formations. Vianden Castle, voted one of the world's most beautiful by CNN Travel, offers cycling trails and romantic landscapes. Fond-de-Gras, a preserved industrial site, features a vintage steam train through old mining areas. Both Mullerthal and Fond-de-Gras have microclimates that keep them cool in summer.
Nightlife and dining in the capital
Evenings in Luxembourg City start with a stroll through the Grund, the oldest district, followed by a local beer at Liquid bar overlooking the Alzette River. The Rives de Clausen neighborhood, a former 12th-century brewery, now hosts entertainment venues. For dinner, Weis suggests Beim Siggy, Um Dierfgen, or Chiche!, with cocktails at Hotel Cravat and a night out at Rock Box.
Getting there and where to stay
Ryanair flies direct from London Stansted to Luxembourg, with return fares from £38 in August. Accommodation ranges from budget options like Hotel Ibis Budget Luxembourg Airport (from £50) to luxury stays at Hotel Villa Petrusse (from £200). Outside the capital, Hotel BelAir in Berdorf and Chateau d’Urspelt offer scenic stays.
