Luxembourg

Overview of Luxembourg

It's easy to overlook the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg when planning a tour of Europe, dwarfed as it is by its neighbours France, Germany, and Belgium. In the global imagination, Luxembourg features as a country known for important banking institutions and European Union bureaucrats.

However, this little country is located at the crossroads of several major European highways, and if you have reason to travel through it, don't hesitate to stop awhile and probe behind the glass office blocks and official buildings to find a land of fascinating medieval fortresses, rolling woodlands, sun-drenched castles, and quaint villages.

The entire country is only 51 miles (85km) long and 32 miles (52km) wide, but there is a lot in this small package. The Ardennes region is hilly, densely forested and dotted with medieval castles, best known for being the site of the World War II Battle of the Bulge.

The Mullerthal area is great for hiking, with a landscape of curious sandstone rock formations, waterfalls and forest. The Moselle wine-growing region is picturesque and famed for its white wines while Luxembourg City has grown up around an ancient fortified citadel in a setting that's unique and strangely beautiful.

The Grand Duchy also has a booming fine-dining scene, including a number of prestigious Michelin-starred restaurants. Luxembourg's long history is concerned mainly with warding off and withstanding invasion, occupation and siege, which is perhaps why its people seem a little more conservative than their neighbours.

This is no more evident in the national motto that reads: 'We want to remain what we are'. For travellers, the advantage of this stoic traditionalism is the country's dedication to preserving history and culture, and the many traditional parades and festivals to attend.

map of Luxembourg


Key Facts

Language:
The official language in Luxembourg is Luxembourgish, a conglomerate German/French dialect. French and German are commonly used, and English is widely spoken.
Passport/Visa:

The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, passengers not having visible means of support, and those who are suspected of being a danger to public security, tranquillity or order may be refused entry to Luxembourg. Moreover, it is advised that non-EEA passengers hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as refusal of entry upon arrival can lead to serious difficulties and costs for passengers and transporting airlines.

NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Currency:

The currency in Luxembourg is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at all Luxembourg banks and bureaux de change, as well as the airport and post office. Major hotels will also exchange currency, though rates are high. Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Electricity:
230 volts, 50Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are used.

Travel to Luxembourg

Health Notes when travelling to Luxembourg

No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Luxembourg, and there are no health risks associated with travel to the country. Medical facilities are of a high standard in cities but may be limited outside of urban areas.

British citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in order to qualify for free emergency medical treatment. Travellers should have medical insurance when going to Luxembourg.

If you require certain medications during your trip, it's best to bring them with you in their original packaging with a signed and dated letter from your doctor detailing what the medication is and why you need it.

Safety Notes when travelling to Luxembourg

Travel to and around Luxembourg is very safe and the country has low crime rates. Visitors should take normal precautions against pick-pockets and petty theft, but trips are likely to be trouble free.

Customs in Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a proud and stable country, with a culture surprisingly closed off to foreign influences and marked by formal, even ceremonial, social interactions. European visitors will find Luxembourg's social milieu to be very similar to that of France or Germany, although perhaps slightly more conservative.

Be sure not to put your feet up on tables or chairs, or to point your finger when referring to someone, as this is rude. Body language is quite muted in Luxembourg, and it's considered impolite to inquire about someone's private affairs unless you know them well.

Duty Free in Luxembourg

Travellers over 17 years arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco, or a proportional mix of these; 1 litre spirits with alcohol content higher than 22%, 2 litres of spirits with alcohol content below 22%, 4 litres of wine, 16 litres of beer, or a proportional mix of these.

Other goods allowed include gift items and souvenirs to the value of €430 per adult travelling by sea or air, €300 per adult travelling overland, and €150 for children below 15 years. Providing goods are bought for personal use, there are no restrictions on carrying tobacco and alcohol between the 15 original countries of the EU (including the UK).

Doing Business in Luxembourg

French is the language of business in Luxembourg, though some German and English is also used. Translators are readily available but some effort at speaking French will be appreciated. Business exchanges are quite formal, beginning with a handshake and an exchange of business cards.

Punctuality is essential and dress is formal, with a suit and tie the norm. Surnames and titles are usually used. Luxembourgers are polite and cautious, and it's important to build personal relationships. Business hours are usually 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, often closing for an hour at lunch.

Communication in Luxembourg

The country code for Luxembourg is +352. Free wifi is widely available at hotels, cafes and restaurants in tourist areas.

Tipping in Luxembourg

Hotel and restaurant bills generally include a service charge in Luxembourg. Porters and doormen in upmarket hotels appreciate small tips and taxi drivers expect a tip of around 10 percent.

Passport/Visa Note

The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries. Additionally, passengers not having visible means of support, and those who are suspected of being a danger to public security, tranquillity or order may be refused entry to Luxembourg. Moreover, it is advised that non-EEA passengers hold return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as refusal of entry upon arrival can lead to serious difficulties and costs for passengers and transporting airlines.

NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans:

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.

Entry requirements for Canadians:

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.

Entry requirements for UK nationals:

British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, only need to be valid for period of intended stay in Luxembourg. All other endorsements require at least three months validity beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg.

A visa is not required for passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180 day period for holders of passports with any other endorsement.

Holders of identity cards issued by Gibraltar authories, and endorsed 'Validated for EU travel purposes under the authority of the United Kingdom', do not require a visa to visit Luxembourg.

Entry requirements for Australians:

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals:

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon their arrival in Luxembourg. No visa is required.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders:

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.

Entry requirements for South Africans:

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay in Luxembourg. A visa is required.

Tourist Offices

Luxembourg Tourism Website: http://www.ont.lu

Luxembourg Embassies

In the United States:

Luxembourg Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Canada): +1 202 265 4171.

In the United Kingdom:

Luxembourg Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7235 6963.

In Australia:

Netherlands Embassy (responsible for representing Luxembourg), Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6220 9400.

In Ireland:

Honourary Consulate of Luxembourg, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 286 7285.

In South Africa:

Honorary Consulate of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Johannesburg, South Africa: +27 (0)11 463 1744.

Foreign Embassies in Luxembourg

American Embassy

United States Embassy, Luxembourg: +352 460 123.

Canadian Embassy

Canadian Embassy, Brussels (also responsible for Luxembourg): +32 (0)2 741 0611.

British Embassy

British Embassy, Luxembourg: +352 229 864.

Australian Embassy

Australian Embassy, Brussels (also responsible for Luxembourg): +32 (0)2 286 0500.

Irish Embassy

Irish Embassy, Luxembourg: +352 450 6101.

New Zealand Embassy

New Zealand Embassy, Brussels, Belgium (also responsible for Luxembourg): +32 (0)2 512 1040.

South African Embassy

South African Embassy, Brussels (also responsible for Luxembourg): +32 (0)2 285 4492/64/53.

Travel Advisories

Health Information for Travelers to Luxembourg

Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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Vaccines and Medicines

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.

 

  Find Out Why Protect Yourself

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

get_vaccinated hygiene

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Luxembourg, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Rabies

Rabies is present in bats in Luxembourg. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
  • People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
get_vaccinated animals

All travelers

You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.

get_vaccinated hygiene
Routine vaccines

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Some travelers

Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.

get_vaccinated eat_drink
Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Luxembourg, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.

get_vaccinated avoid_body_fluids avoid-non-sterile-equipment
Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

get_vaccinated animals
Rabies

Rabies is present in bats in Luxembourg. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
  • People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Key
  • Get vaccinated
  • Eat and drink safely
  • Keep away from animals
  • Reduce your exposure to germs
  • Avoid sharing body fluids
  • Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment

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Stay Healthy and Safe

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Luxembourg, so your behaviors are important.

 

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards in Luxembourg are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.

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Prevent bug bites

Although Luxembourg is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?
  • Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
  • Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
  • Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
  • FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
    • DEET
    • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
    • IR3535
  • Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
  • Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
  • Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.

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Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Luxembourg include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

  • Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
  • Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
  • Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
    • If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
  • Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
  • Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
  • Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
  • Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
  • Do not dive into shallow water.
  • Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
  • Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
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Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

  • Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
  • Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
  • Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
  • Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
  • If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

  • Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
  • Go to a doctor right away.
  • Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
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Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

  • Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
  • If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
  • Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
  • Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
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Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

  • Use latex condoms correctly.
  • Do not inject drugs.
  • Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
  • Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
  • If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
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Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

  • Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
  • Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
  • Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
  • Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
  • Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Luxembourg’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
  • Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).

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Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Walking

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

  • Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
  • Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

  • Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
  • Make sure there are seatbelts.
  • Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
  • Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
  • Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
  • Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

  • Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
  • Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
  • Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

  • Wear a seatbelt at all times.
  • Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
  • When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
  • Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
  • Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
  • If you choose to drive a vehicle in Luxembourg, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
  • Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
  • Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
  • Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
  • If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
  • Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

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Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave
  • Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
  • Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
  • Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
  • Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
  • Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
  • Follow all local laws and social customs.
  • Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
  • Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
  • If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
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Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Luxembourg for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

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Travel Health Notices

Be aware of current health issues in Luxembourg. Learn how to protect yourself.

 

Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions

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After Your Trip

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.

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Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Currency

The currency in Luxembourg is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at all Luxembourg banks and bureaux de change, as well as the airport and post office. Major hotels will also exchange currency, though rates are high. Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro
1.12 BMD
Bermudan Dollar
1.12 USD
U.S. Dollar
0.77 GBP
U.K. Pound Sterling
121.65 JPY
Japanese Yen
1.46 CAD
Canadian Dollar
1.10 CHF
Swiss Franc
1.54 AUD
Australian Dollar
28.05 UAH
Ukrainian Hryvnia
377.26 KZT
Kazakhstani Tenge
1,682.21 LBP
Lebanese Pound
0.80 LYD
Libyan Dinar
7.66 BOB
Bolivian Boliviano
120.52 NPR
Nepalese Rupee
0.43 OMR
Omani Rial
4.07 QAR
Qatari Rial
1.54 SGD
Singapore Dollar
9.26 SEK
Swedish Krona
7.41 TTD
Trinidad Tobago Dollar
11.15 VEF
Venezuelan Bolivar
51.20 DOP
Dominican Peso
7.51 HRK
Croatian Kuna
20.82 MXN
Mexican Peso
654.97 XOF
West African CFA Franc
3.54 PGK
Papua New Guinean kina
1.12 BSD
Bahamian Dollar
2.36 FJD
Fiji Dollar
25.29 HNL
Honduran Lempira
123.47 DZD
Algerian Dinar
1,330.84 MMK
Myanma Kyat
12.50 BWP
Botswana Pula
3.76 PEN
Peruvian Nuevo Sol
774.75 CLP
Chilean Peso
534.10 AMD
Armenia Dram
27.00 CZK
Czech Koruna
22.32 MDL
Moldova Lei
138.84 ISK
Icelandic Krona
3,282.94 UZS
Uzbekistan Sum
4.31 ILS
Israeli New Sheqel
0.79 JOD
Jordanian Dinar
0.34 KWD
Kuwaiti Dinar
35.02 UYU
Uruguayan Peso
39.68 MUR
Mauritian Rupee
31.85 NIO
Nicaraguan Córdoba
9.32 NOK
Norwegian Krone
4.38 PLN
Polish Zloty
4.19 SAR
Saudi Riyal
163.12 LKR
Sri Lanka Rupee
39.79 THB
Thai Baht
4.10 AED
U.A.E Dirham
4.02 BRL
Brazilian Real
4.52 RON
Romanian New Leu
8.68 HKD
Hong Kong Dollar
656.46 XAF
Central African CFA Franc
25,106.99 VND
Vietnamese Dong
15.58 ARS
Argentine Peso
3.01 XCD
East Caribbean Dollar
8.75 GTQ
Guatemalan Quetzal
10.92 MAD
Moroccan Dirham
0.42 BHD
Bahrain Dinar
1.12 PAB
Panamanian Balboa
1.67 AZN
Azerbaijan Manat
3,482.98 COP
Colombian Peso
76.30 KGS
Kyrgyzstan Som
312.53 HUF
Hungarian Forint
8.79 TJS
Tajikistan Ruble
15,285.70 IDR
Indonesian Rupiah
9.92 EGP
Egyptian Pound
1,330.60 KRW
South Korean Won
6,333.44 PYG
Paraguayan Guaraní
4.65 MYR
Malaysian Ringgit
601.85 CRC
Costa Rican Colón
1.64 NZD
New Zealand Dollar
117.01 PKR
Pakistani Rupee
74.62 RUB
Russian Rouble
17.43 ZAR
South African Rand
2.37 TND
Tunisian Dinar
2.23 BBD
Barbadian Dollar
1.96 BGN
Bulgarian Lev
3.30 TRY
Turkish Lira
52.08 PHP
Philippine Peso
36.44 TWD
New Taiwan Dollar
219.51 NGN
Nigerian Naira
119.70 XPF
CFP Franc
4.37 GHS
Ghanaian Cedi
139.55 JMD
Jamaican Dollar
2.01 ANG
Neth. Antillean Guilder
1.54 BND
Brunei Dollar
123.51 RSD
Serbian Dinar
7.35 CNY
Chinese Yuan
22,229.06 BYR
Belarussian Ruble
7.43 DKK
Danish Krone
3.84 TMT
New Turkmenistan Manat
75.14 INR
Indian Rupee
     
Exchange Rate for
U.S. Dollar to Euro

1 USD = 0.90 EUR

Exchange Rate for
Canadian Dollar to Euro

1 CAD = 0.68 EUR

Exchange Rate for
U.K. Pound Sterling to Euro

1 GBP = 1.29 EUR

Exchange Rate for
Australian Dollar to Euro

1 AUD = 0.65 EUR

Exchange Rate for
New Zealand Dollar to Euro

1 NZD = 0.61 EUR

Exchange Rate for
South African Rand to Euro

1 ZAR = 0.06 EUR

Luxembourg Airport (LUX)
Luxembourg Airport
http://www.lux-airport.lu

Location: Luxembourg-Ville The airport is located four miles (6km) east of Luxembourg city.

map of Luxembourg Airport

Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).

Contacts: Tel: +352 24 64 1. Flight Information: +352 4798 5050.

Getting to the city: Bus routes 29, 16 and 117 connect the airport to the city centre. There's no rail connection but a station is currently under construction to link the airport to the city.

Car rental: Car hire firms Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Europcar and Sixt are represented at the airport.

Airport Taxis: Taxis are available from the airport.

Facilities: Airport facilities include information desks, ATMs, banks and foreign exchanges, VIP services, meeting rooms and business lounges, nurseries, disabled facilities, smoking areas, a lost and found, a photobooth, and a variety of shopping and dining options.

Parking: Parking is free for the first 15 minutes, except for the underground lots, which charges €2. Parking is then charged at €1.50-€2.50 per additional 15 mins, €15-€65 for the first day, and €5-€65 per additional day.

Overview of the Attractions in Luxembourg

The Fortress
Luxembourg-Ville

The mighty fortress established by Count Siegfried atop the Rock of Bock in 963 eventually became a citadel with three girdles of battlements, the inner one fortified with bastions, and the other two containing a total of 24 forts along their length.

As the centuries passed, the stone cliff foundations underneath the castle were excavated to form a network of 14 miles (23km) of underground tunnels, called casemates, where thousands of soldiers could shelter and workshops for artillery and arms, kitchens, bakeries and slaughter-houses could be housed.

In 1867, the Treaty of London declared that it be demolished after centuries of sieges and battles. Despite this, several sections of the fortress still remain, and the subterranean casements are open for viewing. Visitors can also enjoy a sound and light tour on the history of the castle.

The best way to view the remaining parts of the fortifications is on foot, strolling through the cobbled streets of the old town. Visitors can get a map from the tourist office (on the Place d'Armes). Although the casements officially open in March, they sometimes open later in the year without any warning. Visitors should check whether they are open before visiting.

map of The Fortress

Grand Ducal Palace
Luxembourg-Ville

The city residence of the Grand Ducal family is right in the heart of the old town, and is surprisingly unpretentious, recognisable more by the fact that there are sentry boxes and determined looking guards outside, than for any other feature.

The building is, however, quite aesthetically pleasing with its Italian Renaissance facade. Built of ochre yellow stones, it overlooks a paved pedestrian square and features spires and railings. It was originally the site of a medieval town hall that was destroyed by a gunpowder explosion in 1554, and rebuilt 20 years later.

Those with an eye for architecture will be able to tell that the palace was built over various periods. Much of the structure dates back to the 16th century, although an annex to the building, constructed in 1859, is now the seat of the Chamber of Deputies.

Guided tours are usually available in the peak summer months, by arrangement with the Luxembourg City Tourist Office. But for the majority of the year, visitors can't explore the castle and it's simply an interesting landmark to pass by and photograph.

map of Grand Ducal Palace

Address: 17, rue du Marché-aux-Herbes

The National Museum for History and Art
Luxembourg-Ville

The National Museum for History and Art was recently substantially refurbished and contains some major archaeological finds from Luxembourg which include artefacts from the Gallo-Roman period and the Middle Ages, displayed in underground galleries.

The collection covers the history of Luxembourg since the first evidence of human habitation, and it is vast, covering a wide array of topics. Exhibitions of fine arts, modern art, medieval artefacts, coins, medals and arms are all on display.

The collection also includes exhibits on local culture and folklore, and interesting photographs demonstrating how the city has changed through the decades. The museum regularly hosts workshops and temporary exhibitions covering a wide range of topics.

There is a cafe at the museum for refreshments and during summer it has a sunny terrace for guests to enjoy. There is also a small gift shop for mementoes and souvenirs.

map of The National Museum for History and Art

Website: http://www.mnha.lu/en/MNHA

Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial
Luxembourg-Ville

In a silent forest clearing near the village of Hamm, a few miles east of Luxembourg City, lie the graves of more than 5,000 American soldiers killed during World War II, when the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg became a battleground in the Allies' last bid for victory on the Western Front.

One of the graves is that of the legendary commander, General George Patton, who died in a traffic accident just after the war. There is a striking central monument to the dead, and some maps detailing the Allied progress through Europe. There are also lists of those who went missing during the war and never found.

The cemetery has become a place of pilgrimage and homage, maintained immaculately by members of the American Battle Monuments' Commission. The lines of white crosses are a sobering and moving sight and the cemetery will be of interest to patriotic Americans and anybody with an appreciation for military history.

Unlike many cemeteries the world over, the Luxembourg American Cemetery closes each day at 5pm. Not far away, at the village of Sandwieler, is a German war cemetery with some 10,000 graves. While the American Cemetery glorifies the sacrifice of its soldiers, the German equivalent gives more of a sense of the horror and futility of war.

map of Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial

Vianden
Luxembourg-Ville

The picturesque village of Vianden, situated on the banks of the Our River and guarded by a magnificent restored medieval castle, makes a pleasant day trip as it is conveniently only 25 miles (40km) north of the city of Luxembourg.

The castle dates back to the 9th century and was originally the home of the counts of Vianden, powerful nobles until the 13th century. The ruined castle was restored in the 1980s and now houses a museum that recaptures life in the Middle Ages and recounts the area's troubled history.

In the small town below, visitors can sip tangy Moselle wines beside the stream while enjoying the views of the green hills. The village has been delighting tourists for more than a century, and strolling around the narrow cobbled streets beneath towers and medieval ramparts feels like stepping back through time.

The surroundings of the town are magnificent and there are many pretty walking trails to be explored using Vianden as a base. Indian Forest also offers fun and thrilling high rope and zip-line courses for the whole family, which allow visitors to traverse the forest canopies. There is plenty of quality accommodation and some lovely restaurants to enjoy in town.

map of Vianden

Website: http://www.tourist-info-vianden.lu

Clervaux
Luxembourg-Ville

A 12th-century castle overlooks the village of Clervaux, located in the heart of the Ardennes Mountain region 30 miles (50km) north of Luxembourg City. A Romanesque church with twin spires and a large Benedictine monastery completes this idyllic setting.

The castle houses three small museums, including one that features a collection of World War II memorabilia from the Battle of the Bulge. Another room is dedicated to the Luxembourg Holocaust victims, its walls lined with mementoes of Luxembourgers who died in concentration camps. The castle often closes without notice so it is best to confirm before making the trip.

Behind the castle a road leads uphill to the St Maurice Abbey, built in 1910, where the Benedictine monks sometimes hold Gregorian chant concerts. There is a church service every morning at 10.30am at the abbey.

The town is picturesque and has numerous appealing restaurants and cafes, as well as good hotels. It also has a charming little shopping district. Clervaux is easily accessible by train and is a popular excursion from the capital. Two days will be more than enough to explore the little town and its attractions.

map of Clervaux

Website: http://www.tourisme-clervaux.lu

Echternach
Luxembourg-Ville

The beautiful town of Echternach lies on the border between Germany and Luxembourg on the banks of the Sûre River, and is widely acknowledged as the oldest town in the country. It boasts a famed abbey, founded in the 7th-century by St Willibrord, whose remains are contained in a magnificent white marble sarcophagus in the crypt of the Basilica.

There are also three museums in the town, one dedicated to the history of the abbey, another showcasing ancient artefacts, and a third detailing rural architecture. Echternach also boasts the remains of an ancient Roman villa, thought to have been the largest of its kind north of the Alps.

Apart from these attractions, Echternach is perhaps best known for its unique annual event: a centuries' old traditional dancing procession takes place each Whit Tuesday, attracting thousands of pilgrims and spectators.

Although the charms of the town itself are undeniable, Echternach also attracts visitors because of its stunning natural surroundings. The town is a base for hikers and nature lovers wishing to explore the area known as the Mullerthal.

The Mullerthal is a fascinating landscape of curious sandstone rock formations, waterfalls, creeks, springs and forests. Also known as 'Little Switzerland', this region is criss-crossed with hiking trails and dotted with picturesque villages.

map of Echternach

Moselle Valley
Luxembourg-Ville

The Moselle Valley is a region in eastern Luxembourg, promoted as a wine-growing region since the 19th century. It has developed into an important tourist industry thanks to its rural idyllic atmosphere and environment.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg shares with Germany the wide, navigable Moselle River, tributary of the Rhine. Along the riverbanks are vineyards that produce a wine which connoisseurs rate as among the best in Europe.

A wine tour through the quiet villages and wine cellars of the region proves a scenic and relaxing experience. The principal town of Luxembourg's Moselle wine growing region, Grevenmacher, has links to the German bank of the river by a bridge.

Grevenmacher is an old town with narrow streets, the remains of medieval fortifications, and a 13th-century belfry. The town's claim to fame is the wine cellars of Caves Bernard-Massard, housing internationally-acclaimed sparkling wines.

The cellars are open daily for tastings from April to October. There is a small museum in the town, and an exotic butterfly garden. Grevenmacher is also an embarkation point for regular scenic river cruises on the Moselle, which call at other quaint villages in the region.

map of Moselle Valley

Mondorf-les-Bains
Luxembourg-Ville

In the Moselle region in the southeast of Luxembourg, nestling in the hills, lies the spa town of Mondorf-les-Bains. Thousands come on holiday every year to enjoy the verdant surroundings and thermal springs of one of the most modern balneotherapy centres in Europe.

The town is actually very old, established by the Celts and conquered by the Romans in about 65 BC. The settlement has frequently been attacked and destroyed in its long history, but has nonetheless endured.

The Mondorf-les-Bains holiday resort consists of a thermal park set in 50 hectares of parkland, offering a variety of sports facilities and a balneotherapy pavilion with saunas, swimming pools, waterfalls, whirlpools and geysers. The hot springs are said to be particularly good for the treatment of liver, gastric and respiratory ailments, with visitors also pampered by massages and mud baths.

There is a casino in the town and historical and architectural attractions include some interesting frescoed churches, a Roman fortress and some Art Nouveau-style houses to visit while on holiday. The spa town has plenty of luxury accommodation, great shopping opportunities and some excellent restaurants.

map of Mondorf-les-Bains

Website: http://www.mondorf-les-bains.lu

Public Holidays in Luxembourg

  2020 2021
New Year's Day Wed. January 1 Wed. January 1
Good Friday Thu. April 10 Wed. April 2
Easter Monday Sun. April 13 Sat. April 5
Labour Day Thu. May 1 Thu. May 1
Ascension Day Wed. May 21 Tue. May 13
Whit Monday Sun. June 1 Sat. May 24
Luxembourg National Holiday Mon. June 23 Mon. June 23
Assumption of the Virgin Mary Fri. August 15 Fri. August 15
All Saints' Day Sat. November 1 Sat. November 1
Christmas Day Thu. December 25 Thu. December 25
St Stephen's Day Fri. December 26 Fri. December 26

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