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Forget Rome, Berlin, or Paris, and opt for one of the most underrated European gems instead — Luxembourg! It’s much more than a luxurious fairy tale, yet that’s precisely why people opt to visit it in the first place.
If you’re contemplating a Luxembourg getaway, chances are you’re wondering when the best time to visit Luxembourg is. From the warm summers to the enchanting winters, Luxembourg is special in each season.
Read on to find the ideal one for you.
The Best Time to Visit Luxembourg
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The best time to visit Luxembourg is during the May–August period. The last spring month, May has temperatures between 64°F and 47.1°F.
With temperatures varying between 73.8°F and 52°F, the summer months are warm enough for all kinds of outdoor activities without breaking a sweat. Crowds may be an issue, but the city’s beauty makes up for it.
Plus, travelers get to enjoy Luxembourg’s climate at its finest. In May, all hiking routes open, and kayaking in the Sûre River is back.
Also, more than 40 Luxembourg-based museums allow visitors free of charge to honor the country’s cultural heritage and artistic endeavors for two days.
Summer draws in a myriad of travelers not only because of fine weather but also thanks to the rich festival program. June boasts Fête de la Musique — a day-long music festival, it hosts artists performing various genres, varying from folk and pop to jazz.
June 22 marks the official celebration of the Grand Duke’s birthday. An event filled with numerous traditions, such as the well-known changing of the guard accompanied by fireworks, military shows, and festivities, National Day is a not-to-be-missed occurrence.
With its versatile program, the Medieval Festival running each summer ensures visitors are taken care of by offering battle shows, knights’ camps, bird-of-prey demonstrations, and jugglers’ performances, to name a few.
Music lovers should also keep their eyes peeled for the OMNI Festival dates and line-up. Other festivals worth being on your music radar include Rock um Knuedler, Blues Express, and Blues’n’Jazz Rallye.
Given all of them are free outdoor events, it may be just the “financial help” you need to compensate for dealing with Luxemborg’s peak season prices.
Cheapest Time to Visit Luxembourg
Talking about the cheapest time to visit one of the most expensive European countries is somewhat ironic but far from impossible, as the cheapest time to head to Luxembourg is arguably in mid-November.
That said, note that certain world-class hotels are much more affordable in July and August, as that’s when business trips come to a halt, so regular travelers can take advantage of attractive prices during their tourist visit.
A relatively frosty month, November has temperatures between 36°F and 45.1°F. If you arrive in mid-November, you’ll be right on time for the city’s ice skating rink opening, Knuedler on Ice.
Besides an awesome ice-skating experience, take advantage of the holiday stalls right outside the rink offering Luxembourgish meals, such as potato pancakes (yes, it’s a thing!), Luxembourgish sausages, and mulled wine to keep everyone warm and happy.
Luxembourg’s Winter Lights Festival starts in November and lasts until January. If you make it earlier than mid-November, check out Haupeschfest.
A two-day happening in Berdorf, more than a hundred artisans reunite to sell handmade crafts. Loved by both locals and travelers alike, Haupeschfest is a true spectacle.
Finally, note that Luxembourg has free public transportation for both residents and visitors, so you’ll have one less expense to plan for your stay regardless of when you may decide to visit.
Least Busy Time to Visit Luxembourg
LUXEMBOURG CITY, LUXEMBOURG – AUGUST 28, 2013: Urban scene, streets in the old town of Luxembourg City, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg/Vali.Lung/Shutterstock
The least busy time to visit Luxembourg is in winter (December–February), mostly due to Luxembourg’s winter climate.
These months have temperatures fluctuating between a maximum of 40.5°F and a minimum of 31.7°F.
While winter sees moderate crowds in general, Luxembourg readies for the upcoming festive season, which may lead to an occasional influx of visitors, especially around the Christmas period.
Sunlight isn’t at its peak at this time of the year, but people prefer spending time indoors anyway. You can head to galleries and museums or simply enjoy a glass of wine in a local restaurant.
That said, no matter how cold it may get, you have to give skating rinks and the Christmas markets a chance. The capital has the following major Christmas markets: Place de la Constitution, Place d’Armes, and Place de Paris.
From Ferris wheels and famous delicacies to various light displays, Luxemborug’s Christmas markets are unlike anywhere else. January and February are undoubtedly the least busy months — the temperatures are still very low, but snow gives the entire region a winter idyll touch.
February marks the start of the carnival season, boasting music performances, parades, foodie options, and a myriad of playful costumes wandering the streets.
Worst Time to Visit Luxembourg
Although a year-round destination, the worst time to find yourself in Luxembourg is in October, as it’s the rainiest month of the entire year.
With 87 mm of precipitation, rain for around 14.4 days, and average relative humidity of 83%, your plans can easily get ruined, leaving you with nothing but feelings of disappointment for what was probably meant to be a spectacular (and not to mention expensive!) getaway.
October sees moderate fall temperatures varying between 55.6°F and 43.3°F. It’s the month when the transition from one season (summer) to another (fall) is most detectable.
Watching the leaves change color and eventually fall, people substitute their light jackets with sweaters and thicker coats, and stronger winds making their presence known isn’t the best recipe for attracting tourists.
That said, just because we’ve classified October as the “worst” time to visit Luxembourg doesn’t mean you’re not going to have an awesome stay.
For starters, you can head to some of the top-rated restaurants and try local delicacies, spend some time in the Notre Dame Cathedral, tour Vianden Castle, or opt for other rainy-day activities that will keep you dry.
Things to Consider
LUXEMBOURG-JANUARY 2021: The new modern tram in the city center/Sabino Parente/Shutterstock
What else is there to know before you head to Luxembourg? Here are some useful travel tips to make your trip as smooth as possible:
- US visitors are permitted to travel to Luxembourg for business/pleasure purposes for a maximum of 90 days without a visa only if they possess a passport valid for three months after their return to the United States.
- Being one of the founding members of the European Union (EU), Luxembourg uses the euro.
- Make the countryside part of your itinerary. Staying in the capital may be tempting, as the city’s gorgeous, but visiting some nearby areas is worthwhile too. Tip: if you can visit at least one, make it Vianden.
- Walking is hands down the best way to navigate the capital, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes. That said, cycling is another cool option worth relying on. With approximately 372 miles of biking routes and 434 miles of mountain bike trails, Luxembourg is a heaven for bike enthusiasts. Car rentals are generally expensive, but we believe they don’t allow you to experience Luxembourg the way you should anyway.
- Just because Luxembourg is one of the wealthiest countries in Europe, your trip shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. One way to save money is by getting The LuxembourgCard. Not only does it provide you with hassle-free access to some of the main tourist highlights, but it also offers attractive discounts (the larger the number of people, the better the discount!).
- During some important holidays or major festivals, business opening times may undergo some changes, and work schedules could be adjusted. Make sure to check official announcements before making any plans.
- To eat well yet not break the bank, take advantage of the midweek menus at times when “à la carte” dishes are served for only a fraction of their regular prices.
- Tipping is customary. Most restaurant bills may include a 15% service charge, so any additional tipping may be unnecessary. That said, you’re always welcome to add a couple of euros if you’re satisfied with the service you received. Rounding up a taxi bill is also common, especially if the driver ends up giving you useful recommendations and insider tips.
- Most areas have free WiFi, so don’t sweat over getting lost or having to pay for expensive Internet packages. Note that this applies only to urban areas — visiting the countryside is a whole other story.
- Luxembourg has a high-quality health system — if you’re an EU citizen, your European Health Insurance Card will cover any potential medical costs. If not, get travel insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are five interesting facts about Luxembourg?
Luxembourg is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other place in Europe. Luxembourg’s official motto is: “mir welle bleiwe wat mir sinn” (we want to remain as we are).
Chiggeri restaurant, a Luxembourg-based venue, has the largest wine lists in the world (over 2200 different wines). Luxembourg is the only city that has been appointed the European capital of culture twice. Luxembourg has the highest minimum wage in the European Union.
Is Luxembourg expensive for tourists?
The average price for a three-day getaway to Luxembourg costs $1249 for solo travelers, $2124 for couples, and $2749 for a family of four.
While Luxembourg isn’t really a budget destination, being aware of the potential expenses can greatly help you plan out your visit in the most cost-effective manner. Here are some further estimates to assist you in the process.
Hotel prices in Luxembourg’s city center vary between $298 and $745 — a night costs $372 on average, whereas Airbnb prices are $93 for the whole flat. Finally, keep in mind that the figures we’ve just shared are merely approximations, meaning they’re likely to change over time.
Is Luxembourg one of the safest countries in the world?
Yes, Luxembourg is one of the safest counties you can visit. The crime rate is very low, and people tend to be very polite and easy-going.
That said, pickpockets may be common in train stations and some tourist areas, so show common sense as you would anywhere else in the world. Also, if you’re renting a car, don’t leave any valuable items in it.
What food is Luxembourg famous for?
Top traditional foods you have to try during your visit include: Bouneschlupp (green beans), Gromperenzopp (potato soup), Letzeburger kniddelen (Luxembourg dumplings), Träipen (Luxembourg blood sausage), Kuddelfleck (breaded Luxembourgish tripe), Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes), and Wäinzoossiss mat moschterzooss (sausage with mustard and wine sauce)
What language is mainly spoken in Luxembourg?
Three official languages are spoken in Luxembourg — Luxembourgish, German, and French. English is common too, but an interesting fact is that as 20% of the population consists of Portuguese, this language also manages to find its place in the country.
How many days do you need for Luxembourg?
If you’re just checking out the city, consider at least one full day; if Luxembourg is your primary destination and you’d like to fully explore the capital and its surrounding area, we recommend at least three or four days.
What cities to visit from Luxembourg?
Being bordered by Germany, France, and Belgium, Luxembourg allows you to extend your European trip to feature at least three other countries. Our city break recommendations include: Brussels, Strasbourg, Paris, Amsterdam, Maastricht, and Cologne.
Are there any natural disasters in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg is at risk of several natural disasters, such as flash floods, flooding, winter storms, and heat waves linked with droughts. Among all these, floods and storms seem to have caused the greatest issues during the past twenty years.
Over to You — Book Your Trip Today!
The best time to visit Luxembourg is during the May–August period. The weather supports all kinds of recreational activities, festivals, and events, drawing in both locals and tourists alike. The cheapest time to visit Luxembourg is in mid-November.
While heading to Luxembourg is never going to be a cheap undertaking, going in mid-November may be the most affordable option when it comes to taking advantage of this shoulder month and finding attractive flight deals, and picking accommodation within your budget range.
The least busy time to head there is in winter (December–February). Luxembourg’s winters can be quite harsh and don’t seem to attract a myriad of travelers.
That said, many wish to experience the Luxembourgish holiday magic and decide to proceed with their itinerary irrespective of the weather they may encounter there. The worst time to pay Luxembourg a visit is in October.
Given that it’s the wettest month, it’s more than likely the rain will end up running your Luxembourg plans, which is not to say you’re not going to enjoy your trip — you may need to be more flexible, that’s all.
To wrap up, Luxembourg is full of stunning ancient buildings, tolerant residents, castles, and breathtaking landscapes.
Even if you end up visiting during the “worst” period of the year, Luxembourg is going to surprise you with its world-class wine, dining experiences, sustainability, and majestic sights. Happy travels!