Things to do in Luxembourg for One Day

Yes, it’s possible to visit Luxembourg for one day. The city is just too small that you don’t even have to stay there for a night. I’ve seen and did all the things I wanted to do in less than 6 hours. I could have taken a train to Brussels that evening but I already booked a hotel, so I had to stay.

My train from Paris arrived in Luxembourg (2 and a half hours) around noon. As soon as I exited the train, I directly went to my hotel, right in front of the station. My room was already cleaned up so they allowed me to check-in earlier than scheduled. I rested for an hour and off I started my sightseeing.

Things to do in Luxembourg for One Day

Travel Tip for self-guided Tour: Find the following places on your Google Map app before you embark on your own walking tour. You don’t have to follow this route. Most of these attractions are just meters away from each other, so there’s no need to take public transport.

1:30 PM – Chemin de la Corniche (12 minutes walk from my hotel)

Chemin de la Corniche is, perhaps, the world’s longest and most beautiful balcony. Pedestrians can walk freely on its promenade with the view of the The Grund below.

2:45 PM – The Grund

From the balcony, go down to The Grund, Luxembourg’s Old City. Walk on its narrow streets with curious eyes and you’ll never be disappointed.

4:00 PM – St. Michel Church 

This is the city’s oldest church. It’s small but you’ll find it interesting. The century-old Baroque altar and the stained glass windows are fascinating.

4:20 – MNHA (Museum of Natural History and Arts) 

This museum is free. So, you have no reason not to go there. 😉 You’ll also find here some of the local contemporary arts that made waves worldwide. The religious arts on display are pretty eclectic.

5:00 – Grand Palace Ducal 

This is the official residence of the country’s Royal Family. Unlike other royal palaces, this palace is in a very public location. I only saw two guards outside its gates and there are cafes in front of it. Get a drink and enjoy people-watching.

5:30 – Luxembourg City Museum 

Few steps from the Grand Palace Ducal is the city’s famed museum. It is built along the ramparts of the Old City and they did an amazing job of its interior. I only stayed here for 30 minutes because they closed at 6:00 PM.

6:15 PM – Notre Dame Cathedral 

While the Cathedral has Gothic influences, most of its adornments inside are from the Renaissance Period. Don’t forget to go down to the chamber of the Church and you’ll find more interesting history.

7:00 PM – Sky City View 

Go on a ride to see the city’s skyline. As you go up, the glass-covered platform circles around, giving you a 360-degree view of the city of Luxembourg!

After an interesting ride, I had no idea what to do but I followed some well-dressed people crossing the streets and they led me to Rue Philippe II. 😀

7:30 PM – Rue Philippe II

This is where high-end shops are competing each other. I did my usual window-shopping – literally. 😀 I sat in one of the cafes there and had a glass of wine.

8:15 PM – Walking

I crossed the viaduct bridge and continued walking on Avenue de la Libertie. I’m not really sure but judging from the traffic, I had a feeling that this is the city’s main street. Along the street, there were interesting old buildings, gardens, cafes, shops and restaurants. I found another cafe, sat outside and watched people went by.

9:30 PM – Walked back to the hotel. 

Where to Stay in Luxembourg

I stayed at Hotel Empire, a budget hotel opposite Central Train Station.  This was a convenient location for me since I had to wake up early for my morning train ride to Brussels. The hotel is in a busy area where everything you need is just few meters away. You can book via HostelWorld and Booking.com.