LUXEMBOURG
Luxembourg The ideal European city break, Luxembourg offers a jampacked travel itinerary characterised by fascinating medieval monuments and idyllic landscapes all perfectly packaged in a beautiful, pocket-sized country WRITER: LUCY PILGRIM | PROJECT MANAGER: MANTE KALINAUSKAITE
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ne of Europe’s smallest nations nestled between France and Germany, do not let Luxembourg’s size fool you. This charming country offers stunning scenery of medieval castles taken straight from a fairytale, lush forest lands ripe for exploration, picturesque vineyards with some of the continent’s most treasured wineries, and, perhaps best of all, completely free public transport. The capital – aptly named Luxembourg City – is the epitome of cosmopolitan chic, offering world-class retail therapy dotted between quaint cafés and novel eateries. Shopaholics should take a wander down Rue Philippe II in the Ville-Haute district, showcasing high-end fashion stores – including the likes of Chanel and Dior – as well as luxury boutiques oozing with sophistication. Luxembourg City is also renowned for its history, with its fascinating Old Quarters and fortifications being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. To see the capital in all its historical glory, the Wenzel Circular Walk takes explorers on a journey through its 1,000-year past, letting you stroll through the city’s oldest districts, military vestiges, and distinctive landmarks such as Casemates
du Bock, Castle Bridge, and the stunning Chemin de la Corniche. For those travelling further afield, Luxembourg boasts an extensive network of fortress systems – earning it the title of ‘Gibraltar of the North’ – and possesses many magnificent medieval castles and ruins. One of the most beautiful is Vianden Castle, built between the 11th and 14th century, with its foundations dating back to the fourth century as a Roman outpost. Both whimsical and gothic, the castle showcases some of the best medieval architecture Europe has to offer. No trip to Luxembourg would be complete without a hiking around Müllerthal. Known as ‘Little Switzerland’, this serene, Edenic landscape is packed with mountain trails, forests, and intriguing sandstone structures, making it a top spot for keen ramblers. Offering dream-like landscapes straight from a storybook, deep historical prowess, and contemporary European spirit, this multilingual country perfectly combines history, nature, and culture in one picturesque small package.
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An iconic RESIDENCE RESTORED TO ITS Former Glow Today, Villa Pétrusse offers an unexpected oasis of nature in the heart of Luxembourg’s Ville Haute – an utterly unique privilege for its guests. Designed as an intimate private home, the Relais & Châteaux-affiliated hotel occupies the Villa itself, the Pavillon in the former stables, and the inner courtyard overlooking the park and the Adolphe Bridge. Just a few steps away lie the boutiques of the historic city center. In its 22 rooms, suites and penthouse, as well as in the reception spaces and restaurant, the warm elegance of a private home is everywhere. After five years of ambitious restoration, Villa Pétrusse has been reborn, with utmost respect for its remarkable architectural and artistic heritage. Interior designer Tristan Auer drew inspiration from the spirit of the original house, restoring many historic elements. Among them: hand-painted wallpapers featuring reproductions of Sosthène Weis, whose poetic watercolors feel strikingly modern today.
1, Avenue Marie Thérèse . L-2132 Luxembourg
www.villapetrusse.lu . +352 22 17 44
“THE rebirth OF VILLA PÉTRUSSE IS PART OF A LONG-TERM MISSION TO preserve Luxembourg’s heritage AND PASS IT ON TO FUTURE GENERATIONS – A jewel NOW OPEN FOR BOTH LOCALS AND VISITORS FROM around the world.” A symbol of the fortified past, the Casemates of the Pétrusse – carved into the rock in the 17 th century and listed as UNESCO World Heritage – lie only steps away. Once abandoned for years, the Villa now finds its natural place in this historic setting, where heritage and art de vivre meet. From the very first glimpse, the emotion takes hold as you pass through the restored Neo-Romanesque gates into an atmosphere shifting between grandeur and intimacy. Now open to the city, Villa Pétrusse welcomes residents and visitors alike: Le Lys – the fine dining restaurant unfolds across unique spaces, offering bespoke gastronomic experiences at any time of day. Led by Luxembourg-born chef Kim de Dood, with Michelin-starred experience worldwide, his ambition is clear: “to make Le Lys the best restaurant in the country.” Brasserie Ciel – convivial and bright, with sweeping garden views.
““I love revisiting traditional dishes of my native Luxembourg with Asian influences, which have now become part of my cultural identity. My dreamis for this place to embody a modern vision of gastronomy, not at all stiff, where we can connect with our guests, creating a true relationship around taste.” KIM DE DOOD
In Focus
Wine Heritage Showcasing two centuries of grape cultivation across the scenic Moselle Valley, Luxembourg boasts a distinct wine heritage that is rising in the ranks of leading global wine connoisseurs. FO UND ON THE country’s border with Germany, the sweeping hillsides of Moselle Valley are home to wines, crémants, and late harvest wines drawn from globally loved grape varieties such as Riesling, Pinot, Gewürztraminer, Auxerrois blanc, Rivaner, Elbling, and Chardonnay. The nation has a long and storied history in winemaking, solidified by the creation of the Marque Nationale wine seal in 1935, which established top-quality standards for locally produced wine. Today, travellers can indulge and learn more about its wine heritage through cellar tours and tastings, such as the Caves St Martin where guests can explore the cellar that is carved directly into limestone, before enjoying an extensive tasting of their sparkling and still varieties. For something a bit more modern, Le Domaine d’Henri 6 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
is a visually striking building that offers public tours and tantalising pours, paired with delicious small plates and breathtaking views. There are also a number of guided city walking tours which include a lovely glass of vino whilst you saunter through the city. Alternatively, why not take to the water and indulge in a gourmet wine and dine cruise? Predominantly departing from Moselle Valley docks, treat yourself to a five-course meal paired with premium regional white and sparkling wine varieties. Of course, no day exploring the city would be complete without sampling one of the area’s many fantastic wine and champagne bars. Why not crack open a bottle at the charmingly cosy Vins Fins, lively Pas Sage, or romantically chic Flûte Alors!
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MORE THAN A HOTEL, YOUR LUXEMBOURG HOME Committed to shaping a more sustainable future, Hôtel Le Place d’Armes has just been awarded the Green Key certification — a prestigious recognition of its environmental commitment. Environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in its daily practices: careful resource management, local sourcing, eco-conscious materials, and waste reduction. A discreet yet fundamental commitment, in perfect harmony with the values equally upheld by Relais & Châteaux.
HÔTE L L E P L A C E D’ A R M E S 18 Place d’Armes L-1136 Luxembourg-ville +352 27 47 37 . contact@hotel-leplacedarmes.com www.hotel-leplacedarmes.com
30 rooms & suites . 3 restaurants . 1 bar . 3 private meeting rooms
WELCOME TO LE PLACE D’ARMES, YOUR STORY BEGINS HERE
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n the heart of Luxembourg’s historic centre, Hôtel Le Place d’Armes offers a refined escape rooted in the soul of the city. A member of Relais & Châteaux, this five-star property brings together seven restored 17 th-century townhouses, each one adding depth and character to a hotel unlike any other. Beyond its beautifully preserved architecture, the hotel reveals a world of quiet sophistication. Curved staircases, natural textures, and soft lighting create a sense of calm intimacy. Every room and suite has its own identity — warm, elegant, and designed for moments of pause and inspiration. Le Place d’Armes is also a destination for gastronomy, offering a trio of distinctive culinary experiences that reflect both the richness of French culinary tradition and the creative spirit of modern Luxembourg.
At the heart of it all is La Cristallerie, the hotel’s finedining restaurant, set in a luminous space adorned with gilded detailing and Art Nouveau glasswork. Here, Chef Milan Brée orchestrates a refined, seasonal cuisine where precision meets emotion, a journey of taste designed to awaken the senses and surprise with grace. Just across the inner courtyard, Le Plëss offers a different rhythm. This contemporary rotisserie brings fire and flavour into focus, with elegant simplicity. Thoughtfully prepared meats, vegetables, and fish are elevated by the flame, and by the kitchen’s respect for ingredient integrity and bold, modern flair. Finally, there's Le Café de Paris, a timeless brasserie that opens directly onto the bustling Place d’Armes square. Lively, welcoming, and full of local character, it’s a place for long lunches, aperitifs, or a late dinner in a setting that captures the city's unique blend of elegance and ease. But to stay here is also to live Luxembourg. Just outside the hotel’s doors, the Place d’Armes square beats with café culture, music, and daily life. Steps away, the UNESCO-listed old town reveals its layers: from fortress walls and dramatic casemates carved into the rock, to peaceful gardens, panoramic views, and winding cobbled streets. A capital that feels both grand and human-sized, full of contrasts and surprises. Thoughtfully engaged in its environment and its community, Hôtel Le Place d’Armes reflects Luxembourg itself, a city of heritage, elegance, and quiet energy.
RECOMMENDS Eat: FOR T R A DI T ION A L LU X E M B OU R G E AT S S I NC E 1 9 6 8 … A gastronomic sensation located in the heart of Luxembourg City, Um Dierfgen offers the best national cuisine. Each exquisite plate is carefully crafted using fresh local produce and distinct flavour pairings, culminating in an extraordinary menu of traditional Luxembourgish food. This includes Kniddelen mat Speck (flour dumplings and bacon), Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork collar with broad beans), and Feierstengszalot matte gebootschten Gromperen (cold beef salad with sautéed potatoes), alongside a whole host of specials that change daily. Away with any food pretentiousness; Um Dierfgen fosters a bustling and warming atmosphere, allowing hungry guests to take in the cheerful sounds of a restaurant in full swing, supported by inviting staff who delight in showing you the joys of Luxembourgish cuisine.
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Do: FOR E Y E- CAT C H I NG C ON T E M P OR A RY A R T… Showcasing the best and brightest of Luxembourg’s art scene, hop over to the city’s trendy Kirchberg district and spend your afternoon wandering the Mudam Museum of Modern Art. Housing a plethora of weird and wonderful contemporary pieces, art lovers can gaze upon thought-provoking exhibitions that provide commentary on Luxembourg’s heritage, changing modern culture, and even natural landscapes. Interestingly, the museum’s foundations tell a story of their own as the building sits on the site of Fort Thüngen which honours the Austrian military commander Adam Sigmund von Thüngen, creating a deliberate dialogue between the country’s military heritage and contemporary architecture. The museum’s designer, Ieoh Ming Pei, purposely retained much of the fortress’s character to create a structural conversation between the city’s past and its future, using burgundy stone and large skylights throughout the building. Featuring 800 works from both Luxembourgish and international contemporary artists, the Mudam Museum of Modern Art opens your eyes to captivating spectacles.
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Sleep: FOR A H I S T OR ICA L LY DE CA DE N T S TAY… Located amongst captivating greenery and centenarian trees, looking out over the Pétrusse River as it winds under the iconic Adolphe Bridge, guests of Villa Pétrusse are instantly taken aback by the hotel’s elegance as one of the last remaining bourgeois residences from the late 19th century. The hotel’s 22 rooms – including luxury suites and an unforgettable penthouse – are naturally interwoven into the former Baldauff family estate, which stretches across the hotel and old stables (now known as the pavilion), with the two areas connected by a charming inner courtyard. Stepping through the door of the highly spacious rooms, guests instantly feel the warmth and elegance that has been retained from the villa’s time as a luxurious private estate. With majestic proportions and rich, historical decor, the soul of the
property’s past can be sensed in every room. A similar historical spirit can be felt in neighbouring Hotel Le Place D’Armes, comprising an elegant ensemble of seven houses that have been thoughtfully refurbished to exude both authenticity and modernity. The eclectic design of its 28 rooms seamlessly blends art nouveau and contemporary styling – crafting accomodation that is equal parts rustic, inviting, and stylish. Each room possesses its own distinctive character, some of which feature magnificent white wooden framework that accentuates the natural light, whilst others possess exposed wooden beams that hark back to the establishment’s deep historical ties. Hotel Le Place D’Armes is to be discovered piece by piece, with winding stairs, intriguing, curved corridors, and humble yet luxurious rooms.
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Landmark Attractions Chemin de la Corniche Once described as “the most beautiful balcony of Europe” by famous Luxembourgish journalist and writer, Batty Weber, this 17th century rampart offers stunning panoramic views of the Alzette Valley, the historically quaint Grund district, and ancient fortresses. Take in the one-of-a-kind scenery along a 300 to 600-metre pathway that connects the Bock Promontory to the Holy Ghost Citadel.
Casemates du Bock A winding hidden underworld of rugged tunnels and casemates, discover the 17th century subterranean defence system originally built by the Spanish. Embark on a self-guided tour to take in its underground galleries and archaeological crypts that open up to offer breathtaking views of the Grund, Clausen, and Pfaffenthal districts in the Alzette Valley.
Cathedral Notre-Dame of Luxembourg The historical core of the capital, this majestic catholic cathedral boasts a beautiful blend of Baroque, Renaissance, and Late Gothic architecture. Inside, its towering ceiling, intricate carvings, mighty sandstone pillars, bronze gates, and eye-catching stained-glass windows only add to its significance. Built by the Jesuits between 1613 and 1621, it is the resting place of key historical figures, including John the Blind, King of Bohemia and Count of Luxembourg, as well as important members of the Grand Ducal family.
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Getting There and Around T H ANKS TO ITS central location in Europe, there is a vast range of ways to get to Luxembourg. Those travelling by air can catch direct flights from myriad other European cities with Luxembourg’s national airline, Luxair, as well as dozens of other international carriers. Luxembourg Airport (LUX) is conveniently situated only six kilometres from the city centre and offers shuttle bus and tram transfers to and from the airport, which are also free to use. Travelling to the country by train is another great option, particularly from neighbouring nations such as
Germany, France, and Belgium. For instance, the high-speed TGV Est train line takes you from Paris to the centre of Luxembourg City in just over two hours, with multiple services running throughout the day. Petrolheads will revel in the fact that driving to Luxembourg couldn’t be easier and offers a highly picturesque journey. If entering Europe via Calais, for example, you can expect a 4.5hour journey through Belgium via the quickest route, though you can easily plan a scenic detour passing through Bruges and Brussels if you have the time. As with many European
destinations, long-distance bus services offer a convenient, affordable, and accessible mode of transport. Having arrived in Luxembourg, visitors can make the most of free public transport links across the country – the first nation in the world to do so. However, travellers must still pay regular taxi fares, and it is recommended that you book a vehicle online ahead of time. Due to Luxembourg’s compact size, you can explore the capital without hours of travelling between attractions, before easily taking a trip into the countryside without spending a cent.
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