Nestled in deep gorges cut by the Alzette and Pétrusse rivers, Luxembourg City is far more than an economic powerhouse and collection of European Union buildings. Though it’s the modern capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg with a central role in Western Europe, it also harbours ancient ruins of medieval fortifications, dungeons and tunnels hinting of a rowdier past. Historic and contemporary art and museums reflect Luxembourg’s evolving culture and prominence on the world stage.
Farmer’s markets and pedestrian zones give Luxembourg a friendly aura, accentuated by the Chemin de la Corniche winding through 17th century ramparts and fortifications of the Wenceslas Wall. The Bock Casemates entice travellers underground to explore a dungeon, prison and the famous Archaeological Crypt, known as the birthplace of Luxembourg City. Clubs, pubs and wine bars reflect contemporary nightlife, while the Grand Theatre performing arts complex swings its doors open to the public for international dance performances, opera, concerts and plays.
The public transport network in Luxembourg City includes buses and trains, with combo bus/train tickets available. Taxi ranks and short-hop bike rental stands are positioned in key tourist and commerce areas. Dedicated tourist trains give narrated journeys through the city, and popular hop-on-hop-off buses allow visitors to maintain a flexible schedule.
Luxembourg occupies a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List due its extensive fortifications and casements. It perches on the Luxembourg Plateau sandstone formation from the Early Jurassic period. A series of high-tech bridges span the deep river-cut gorges, including the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, the Adolphe Bridge and the Passarelle.