HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Luxembourg
Explore medieval fortresses, picturesque river valleys and centuries of European history. From Luxembourg City’s UNESCO-listed old quarters to hilltop castles, ancient abbeys and forested landscapes, the Grand Duchy is filled with remarkable stories.
A SMALL COUNTRY WITH A REMARKABLE PAST
Discover Luxembourg Through the Ages
From the fortress founded by Count Siegfried in 963 to medieval castles, princely dynasties and the creation of the Grand Duchy, Luxembourg’s past is written into its old towns and dramatic landscapes. Discover the heritage of a small country at the heart of Europe.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Luxembourg’s Destinations
Luxembourg City
Discover the UNESCO-listed old quarters, Bock Casemates, Grand Ducal Palace and dramatic fortress heritage of Luxembourg’s capital.
Vianden
Discover Vianden’s magnificent medieval castle, winding streets and the Our Valley, together with the town’s links to Victor Hugo.
Echternach
Visit Luxembourg’s oldest town, celebrated for its historic abbey, the Basilica of Saint Willibrord and medieval pilgrimage traditions.
Clervaux
Explore the abbey town of Clervaux, its castle, wartime history and picturesque setting in the northern Ardennes.
Esch-sur-Sûre
Wander through a tiny riverside settlement dominated by a ruined medieval castle, surrounded by forests and bends of the Sûre.
LUXEMBOURG THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Luxembourg
From Count Siegfried’s fortress to the independent Grand Duchy, Luxembourg’s history reflects the shifting borders and dynasties of Europe.
963
Origins of Luxembourg
Count Siegfried acquires the Lucilinburhuc fortification, laying the foundations of Luxembourg City.
1354
Duchy of Luxembourg
The County of Luxembourg is elevated to a duchy within the Holy Roman Empire.
1815
Grand Duchy Created
The Congress of Vienna establishes the Grand Duchy in personal union with the Dutch crown.
1839
Treaty of London
The Grand Duchy loses its western territory to Belgium, establishing its modern borders.
1867
Fortress Dismantled
A new Treaty of London confirms neutrality and requires the capital’s fortress to be dismantled.
1940–1944
Wartime Occupation
Nazi Germany occupies Luxembourg; liberation begins in September 1944.
Fortress City
Luxembourg City’s defensive cliffs, casemates and old quarters preserve the legacy of a strategic European stronghold.
Grand Ducal Heritage
The Grand Ducal Palace and historic castles reveal Luxembourg’s princely traditions and changing political ties.
Medieval Castles
Vianden, Bourscheid and Beaufort preserve striking chapters of Luxembourg’s medieval history.
PLAN YOUR LUXEMBOURG TRIP
Everything You Need for Luxembourg
Everything you need to plan your trip to Luxembourg, from places to stay and things to do to transport and flights.
Hotels
Choose from atmospheric hotels in Luxembourg City, castle-country guesthouses and peaceful Ardennes retreats.
Tours & Activities
Explore fortress walks, medieval castles, heritage museums and guided tours across Luxembourg.
Car Hire
Discover the Moselle vineyards, Ardennes castles and scenic valleys at your own pace.
Flights
Compare flights to Luxembourg and nearby regional airports to plan your journey.
Trains & Buses
Plan journeys between Luxembourg’s towns, castles and cultural destinations; public transport is fare-free in standard class nationwide.