Travelling the World on a Budget: A Festive Weekend Trip to Luxembourg City

If you’re searching for a charming and festive getaway, look no further than Luxembourg City. My girlfriend, Daisy, and I took a weekend trip from London Stansted to explore the magic of this small yet captivating city, and it truly exceeded our expectations. From medieval architecture and cobblestone streets to enchanting holiday lights, Luxembourg City is the perfect destination to get into the festive spirit.

How to Get to Luxembourg City from London Stansted

Flying from London Stansted to Luxembourg City is simple and convenient. We took a direct flight, which took just over an hour, and arrived at Luxembourg Airport in the early evening. The flight was relatively inexpensive, with tickets costing around £30-£60 per person depending on how early you book.

Upon arrival, we took a Bus from Luxembourg Airport to the city centre, which took about 40 minutes and cost €3 (£2). 

Where to Stay in Luxembourg City

We stayed in the city centre, which was the perfect base for exploring Luxembourg City’s highlights. There are plenty of charming hotels and boutique guesthouses, many of which offer great value for money. We opted for a mid-range hotel that cost us about £100 per night, with a central location that allowed us to walk to most of the major attractions.

Things to Do in Luxembourg City

Place d'Armes Christmas Market

One of the first stops on our trip was Place d'Armes, a lively square located in the heart of the city. During the winter months, this area transforms into a Christmas market, with twinkling lights, wooden stalls selling festive treats, and the delicious smell of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine filling the air. We spent hours here, sampling traditional Luxembourgish snacks like Gromperekichelcher (fried potato fritters) and sipping Luxembourgish mulled wine while browsing the handcrafted goods on display. It was the perfect place to kick off our festive weekend.

Chemin de la Corniche: Europe’s Most Beautiful Balcony

Next, we made our way to Chemin de la Corniche, often referred to as "Europe’s most beautiful balcony." The view from here is absolutely breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the Alzette River and the old town. The contrast between the medieval fortifications and the modern skyline made for some fantastic photos, especially with the holiday decorations adding a festive touch.

Exploring Luxembourg’s Old Town

We spent the next few hours wandering through Luxembourg’s Old Town, where history and charm are woven into every street. We visited the Grand Ducal Palace, home to the country’s royal family, and then made our way to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece. The cathedral’s stunning stained-glass windows and peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect spot to pause and take in the city’s beauty.

Luxembourgish Cuisine at a Cozy Café

One of the best things about Luxembourg City is how easy it is to stroll through the streets and discover quaint cafes and restaurants. For lunch, we found a cozy café that served Judd mat Gaardebounen, a traditional Luxembourgish dish of smoked pork and broad beans. It was hearty and comforting—just what we needed to fuel up for more sightseeing. The food in Luxembourg is rich and satisfying, perfect for the cold winter weather.

Christmas Lights and Festive Magic

As evening fell, the Christmas lights around the city really came to life. We visited Place Guillaume II, which looked like something straight out of a winter wonderland, with its holiday lights creating a magical atmosphere. We also explored Parc Municipal, where trees were draped in fairy lights, making the park feel like a scene from a Christmas fairytale.

Mudam Luxembourg: A Modern Art Haven

Luxembourg is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, and one of the highlights of our trip was visiting Mudam Luxembourg – Musée d'Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean. This modern art museum, located just outside the city centre, is housed in an impressive architectural space. The exhibitions, which feature both local and international artists, were thought-provoking and inspiring. If you enjoy contemporary art, this museum is a must-visit.

Cost Breakdown for a Weekend Trip to Luxembourg City

• Flight (Round Trip from London Stansted to Luxembourg City): £60-£120 (depending on booking time)
• Taxi from Luxembourg Airport to City Centre: €25 (£22)
• Hotel (1 Night in City Centre): £100
• Meals and Snacks (Christmas Market, Lunch, etc.): €40-€60 (£35-£55)
• Museum Entrance (Mudam Luxembourg): €10-€15 (£9-£13)
• Public Transport and Miscellaneous: €10-€15 (£9-£13)

Why Luxembourg City is the Perfect Festive Getaway

Luxembourg City is a small city with a big heart. The Christmas markets, historic landmarks, and festive lights create a truly magical atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for a festive weekend getaway. Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in a cozy café, exploring medieval fortifications, or admiring stunning city views, Luxembourg offers a wonderful mix of holiday charm and European elegance.