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Do you ever stumble upon a destination whose memories you just can’t let go of? That’s what happened to me during my recent European escapades.
I started and ended the trip in two of Europe’s most iconic cities, Paris and London, and it was the lesser known that has stuck in my mind since my return home.
As cool as finally experiencing the endless terraces of Paris and the vast array of architectural wonders and traditional pubs of London, it was one of the continent’s smallest countries that left a lasting mark.
Sandwiched between France and Germany Luxembourgoften misrepresented as a hidden gem for only the most arrogant travelers with a budget bigger than the country itself.
As a recent visitor, I can confirm that hotels can be pricey if you don’t plan it right. However, the rest of the trip was no more expensive than anywhere else, especially since public transport is completely free!
Travel + Leisure has just published a new list of 25 travel recommendations for 2025. Luxembourg is not the most striking names in Europe, but the most surprising destination to visit next year.
There is no bad time to visit Luxembourg
Sometimes the frigid weather can deter travelers from visiting in winter, but Luxembourg turns into an even more magical winter wonderland.
Luxembourg City, the beautiful capital, is bursting with medieval charm. Travel + Leisure perfectly describes the city’s timeless streets as ‘hauntingly beautiful’.
The touristy side of the city is Old townwhere old-world charm oozes with classic pubs, terraces and even luxury retailers from well-known brands that live up to Luxembourg’s reputation of ‘medieval meets modern’.
There really is no bad time to visit, as long as you pack accordingly. Being so small, Luxembourg obviously doesn’t offer direct flights to the US, but it’s still easy to get to with their own airline Luxair connect to major European hubs, or you can try to score a cheap train from Paris.
I was lucky enough to visit this fall, where rustic foliage only enhanced this already radiant city, but winter can blanket the city like a blanket of snow. Quality mark movie setting.
Spring and summer bring a whole new atmosphere, much better for exploring winding cobblestone roads and quaint alleys.
Is Luxembourg as expensive as its reputation?
I kept up DoubleTree by Hilton Luxembourgwhich I highly recommend because it is only a block away from the bus stop to downtown and the airport.
Additionally, the friendly staff was 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 spend more than three figures on even the most basic accommodations, you won’t be bothered because other costs are relatively affordable – and you can’t beat free!
Luxembourg public transport is completely free across the country – no questions asked.
You don’t need any ticket or verification; You can easily hop on and off as you please, anywhere within the borders of Luxembourg, but I suggest you visit the picturesque Moselle Valley wine region or perhaps Vianden Castle, which looks straight out of a fairy tale.
There is also one free night bus runs on weekends when the city comes alive after sunset.
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) at.
To see? Not so bad, right?
Check out this page from the Luxembourg Tourist Office, which is dedicated to the capital’s many free attractions.
Travel tip: download the Mobiliteit.lu app for use in public transport. It is the best navigation tool.
Don’t miss Grund
Compared to Europe’s popular urban sprawl, Luxembourg is relatively small, yet full of nooks and crannies that are easy to miss.
Grund was a district I discovered on my last day there and it was the perfect way to end the biggest surprise of that trip.
Full disclosure: I’m not trying to be that guy who says, “I could definitely live here!” everywhere I go, but when I visited Grund those same words slipped out.
This charming historic district looks just like a postcard, with the babbling Alzette River setting the mood, local bars with the perfect ratio of crowds to open seating, and impeccable views of Luxembourg’s medieval charm.
Grund is hidden in the depths of Luxembourg City. When I look up at the city’s vast historic sights, it’s a snapshot I won’t let be forgotten.
Travel tip: Scott’s Pub is one of my favorite pubs I’ve ever been to. Be sure to grab one of the few patio chairs with a river view.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and 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 in the post.
