Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Luxembourg (Plus, Itineraries)
Summary: If you're thinking about relocating to Luxembourg but haven't decided on a particular city or town yet, taking a discovery trip to explore several sought-after expat locales can offer valuable perspectives. Check out these recommended destinations for your exploratory journey in Luxembourg.
Embarking on a Look-See trip to Luxembourg is a crucial step for anyone considering relocation. This exploratory visit allows potential expats, retirees, and digital nomads to immerse themselves in the local culture, assess the living conditions, and explore various neighborhoods. It's an opportunity to gather firsthand information about the amenities, transportation, and community vibe, which can significantly influence the decision-making process when choosing a new home abroad.
Recommended Itineraries
For a comprehensive Look-See trip in Luxembourg, it's advisable to tailor your itinerary based on the duration of your stay. A 10-day trip could focus on the capital and its surrounding areas, while a 20-day journey allows for a deeper exploration of the country's diverse regions. For the shorter trip, consider starting in Luxembourg City, then moving on to Esch-sur-Alzette, Echternach, and Grevenmacher. If you have 20 days, add visits to the northern towns of Wiltz and Clervaux, and the Moselle wine region, including towns like Remich and Schengen.
Luxembourg City
Luxembourg City, the heart of the country, is a vibrant hub with a population of over 120,000. It offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it popular among expats and digital nomads. The city boasts a high standard of living, with plenty of green spaces and a well-connected public transport system. The Kirchberg district is particularly attractive for professionals, hosting numerous EU institutions and financial services companies.
Travel Tip: While in Luxembourg City, don't miss the chance to dine at Restaurant Clairefontaine, known for its exquisite French cuisine, and visit the Grand Ducal Palace, a stunning piece of architecture and history.
Esch-sur-Alzette
Esch-sur-Alzette, the second-largest city in Luxembourg, is known for its industrial past and cultural revival. With a population of around 35,000, it offers a more affordable cost of living compared to the capital. The city is becoming increasingly popular with the creative and academic communities, thanks to the University of Luxembourg's Belval Campus and the vibrant cultural scene.
Travel Tip: Check out the Rockhal, Luxembourg's premier music venue, and enjoy a meal at La Maison du Savoir, which offers a panoramic view of the Belval area.
Echternach
Echternach is a picturesque town near the German border, renowned for its medieval architecture and the annual hopping procession, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. With a population of about 5,000, it's a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is surrounded by nature, with the Müllerthal region, also known as Little Switzerland, offering stunning hiking trails.
Travel Tip: Visit the Echternach Abbey and enjoy a meal at Restaurant de la Sûre, which serves local and seasonal specialties.
Grevenmacher
Grevenmacher is a small town along the Moselle River, with a population of around 4,800. It's an ideal spot for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a slower pace of life. The cost of living is reasonable, and the town is known for its vineyards and wine festivals. Grevenmacher is also family-friendly, with good schools and a tight-knit community feel.
Travel Tip: Explore the Caves Bernard-Massard for a wine-tasting experience and visit the Butterfly Garden to enjoy a tranquil afternoon among exotic plants and butterflies.
Wiltz
Wiltz, nestled in the Luxembourg Ardennes, offers a serene environment with a population of about 7,000. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous trails and the stunning Wiltz Castle. The cost of living is lower here than in the capital, and the town hosts an annual music and art festival that attracts a diverse crowd.
Travel Tip: Attend a performance at the open-air theater during the Festival de Wiltz and dine at Restaurant Jardin de Wiltz, which offers a fusion of local and international cuisine.
Clervaux
Clervaux is a small town in the north of Luxembourg, known for its historical charm and the majestic Clervaux Castle. With a population of just over 5,000, it's a quiet place to live, offering a relaxed lifestyle and a strong sense of community. The town is also a cultural hotspot, with the Family of Man photographic exhibition, a UNESCO Memory of the World register.
Travel Tip: Visit the Clervaux Castle and its museums, and enjoy a meal at the renowned Restaurant du Château, which offers a fine dining experience with local influences.
Moselle Wine Region
The Moselle wine region is a must-visit for those considering a move to Luxembourg. Towns like Remich and Schengen are nestled along the river, offering beautiful landscapes and a laid-back lifestyle. The region is famous for its wine production, particularly the crisp white wines. The cost of living is moderate, and the area is popular among retirees and those seeking a quieter life.
Travel Tip: Take a wine tour at Domaine Henri Ruppert in Schengen and enjoy a riverside meal at Pavillon Desom in Remich, known for its local cuisine and stunning views.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Luxembourg Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Luxembourg
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Luxembourg
- Best Places to Live in Luxembourg
- Real Estate in Luxembourg
- Guide to Real Estate in Luxembourg
- Pros & Cons of Living in Luxembourg
- Cost of Living in Luxembourg
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Luxembourg
- Top Hospitals in Luxembourg by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Luxembourg (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving to Luxembourg with a Pet
- 2024 Guide to Living in Luxembourg
- Pros and Cons of Living in Luxembourg 2024