Discover hidden gems in Luxembourg with beautiful town squares, fun shopping, quiet cobblestone streets, lush greenery and historical architecture and fortifications that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Embark on our Europe's Rivers & Castles, Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle and Rhine & Moselle Splendors itineraries and explore the wonders of Luxembourg.
A Cultural Mélange
The world’s only remaining grand duchy, Luxembourg was also once one of Europe’s most strategic and greatest fortified sites. Luxembourg City, the duchy’s capital, is also the first city to have been twice named ‘European Capital of Culture,’ as designated by the European Union. A blend of French, Belgian, Austrian, Spanish, Italian, Dutch and Prussian architecture, the city reflects its multi-national heritage – having been under rule and influence of many of its neighbors throughout its history. A modern city, high-tech buildings now stand near the historic ones in a stunning melting pot of the times.
Bustling City Squares
The Place Guillaume II (often called Knuedler among Luxembourgish) ranks among Luxembourg City’s top spots and is a bustling town square in the heart of the historic Ville Haute Quarter. Dedicated to William II of the Netherlands – and one-time Grand Duke of Luxembourg (1792-1849) – a grand equestrian statue of the Duke stands in the center. Find Luxembourg City Hall on the western side. The square is also sometimes used as an open-air music venue and is home to the annual Rock um Knuedler concert.
The Place d’Armes is another popular destination for locals and tourists alike with a variety of restaurants and cafés. At various times, live performers, bands and street artists can be found as well. Once used as a parade route in the 17th century, it was paved with flagstones and bordered with lime trees under French Sun King Louis XIV. The beautiful Palais Municipal (aka Cercle Municipal), which was once used for administrative purposes, now hosts celebrations and cultural events. Nearby, the Dicks-Lentz monument honors two native Luxembourg writers, Edmond de la Fontaine (whose pen name was Dicks) and Michel Lentz, can also be found here. Michel Lentz wrote Ons Hémécht, the Luxembourg national anthem.
Honoring the Ultimate Sacrifice
The American Cemetery and Memorial are here as well for visitors to honor American soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice during WWII’s significant Battle of the Bulge. Fought extensively during the winter months of 1944-1945 in Belgium, Luxembourg and northeastern France, it was the last large-scale Nazi offensive against the Allies – and the largest and bloodiest battle waged by the United States. 610,000 Americans fought in this battle, with 5,076 soldiers buried in Luxembourg and a memorial to 371 other soldiers whose remains were never recovered or identified. General George S. Patton Jr., who helped lead the Allies to their victory, is buried here as well per his request – despite dying the following year in a car accident.
Cultural Sites in Luxembourg
There are also numerous museums nearby, in addition to two grand theaters and its own famous Notre-Dame Cathedral (a noteworthy example of Gothic Revival). Despite its size, the city also has a number of four Michelin starred restaurants and numerous shops and boutiques.
Witness the beauty of Luxembourg and more European countries with our Europe's Rivers & Castles, Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle and Rhine & Moselle Splendors itineraries.