Local Information

Tucked between Belgium, France and Germany, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is only 51 miles long by 32 miles wide. But what it and its capital Luxembourg City lack in size, they certainly make up for in substance. Nestled in the centre of one of the smallest, yet richest countries in the world, Luxembourg City is immensely cosmopolitan both in terms of architecture and demographic. Its history is one of invasion and conquest and the numerous invading armies have left an indelible mark.

Even today, foreigners make up a vast proportion of the population, generating a highly diverse cultural mix that only adds to its charm. Indeed, Luxembourgers boast that they have had the great fortune to extract only the finest facets of European civilisation. This cultural cherry picking is best exemplified by the fact that there are more Michelin-starred Restaurants per head of population in Luxembourg than anywhere else in the world. In particular note the Clairefontaine, Agath, and Schneidewind in Luxembourg-city.

Much of the city's architecture can also be attributed to specific periods of occupation. The Art Nouveau buildings in the Bourbon area of the city are a response to external influences and the ancient convent in the Grund suburb, once used as a prison, is now a venue for exhibitions and concerts. For a place to relax and soak up the city atmosphere, head to the Place d'Armes, originally a military parade ground and now a haven of restaurants and open-air cafes. Take the opportunity to savour the splendid beers and fine wines of Luxembourg in its tranquil and sophisticated heart. But it is perhaps for its fortresses that Luxembourg is best known. In 963, Sigefroid, Count of Ardennes, laid the cornerstone of a fortress that would become Luxembourg City. Although Sigefroid's fortress no longer exists, the views and what does remain of the original structure continue to inspire artists, writers and tourists alike.

But if you wish to explore beyond the capital, why not hire a car and take a drive down to the Petrusse Valley. The spectacular fortifications; part natural rocks, part man-made walls, gun-ports and secret passageways carved from solid rock are a sight to see. But if you simply wanted to hire a car and explore the countryside, Luxembourg boasts a host of verdant landscapes crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with rural hamlets that look like they were created by the Brothers Grimm.

Visitors travelling with young children may also wish to consider the Parc Merveilleux, Luxembourg's most popular family amusement park. The park features a small zoo, mini-train and playground. Although the park is small compared to other you will find in Europe, it is sure to keep the kids entertained. While Luxembourg City is unlikely to be described as the most exciting in Europe, its beauty and quaint sophistication make it a destination to savour. From its patchwork of rivers and fairy tale landscape, to its culturally diverse inhabitants and its bloody history, Luxembourg City has something for everyone.

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