Luxembourg City may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a European vacation, but this small and charming city that mixes medieval and modern vibes has a lot to offer visitors. From its picturesque old town to its beautiful natural landscapes, Luxembourg City is definitely worth a visit. But how much should you budget for your trip to this hidden gem? To help you plan a trip to Luxembourg that’s both memorable and budget-friendly, we’ll delve into the various aspects of your journey, from accommodation and dining to transportation and activities.
According to the World Economic Forum, the prices in Luxembourg City are pretty high, but in 2022 it dropped quite a few positions in the list of most expensive cities in the world, now ranking on 104th position. But is Luxembourg expensive to visit as well? The truth is that although it’s far from being considered a budget destination, a few days there doesn’t have to break the bank. Food and accommodation are indeed pricey, but many attractions are free, and the transportation won’t pose you any problems. But let’s dissect each expense individually, shall we?
Accommodation
A look at the accommodation prices is probably the best way to find out if Luxembourg is expensive for tourists, because this expense will most probably take the biggest chunk of your budget. Accommodation costs in Luxembourg City can vary greatly depending on the time of year you plan to visit. During peak tourist season (June to September), expect to pay around €100-€150 per night for a mid-range hotel or around €200 for a high-end hotel. If you visit in the off-season, prices can be significantly cheaper, with mid-range hotels averaging around €70-€100 per night.
And when it comes to hostels, there is only one hostel (that I know of) in the whole city – Youth Hostel! While I was in Luxembourg I stayed at this hostel and I can tell you it was a great deal – besides the fact that it’s about €40 per night (it can vary a bit depending on your specific dates), it’s very close to the Bock casemates, part of the Wenzel Circular Walk.
To explore more accommodation options and their prices, check the map below:
Booking.comTransportation
Getting around Luxembourg City is relatively easy, no matter if you choose to walk around or use the public transportation system. But here comes the best part: Since March 2020, Luxembourg became the first country in the world to provide free public transportation! Yes, you heard this right. You can take any tram, bus or train not only to get around Luxembourg city, but also around the country – for free! You only have to pay if you want to travel in first class on national trains or if you cross the border to Belgium, France or Germany during the trip. There are several options for day trips from Luxembourg, accessible either by train or by bus. For example, I chose to go to Vianden for a day and I loved it! If you want to do the same, you won’t have to pay a dime for the one and a half hour train ride. In conclusion, this perk will reduce your travel costs in Luxembourg by a lot, as you can entirely cross out transportation from the expense list.
Food and Drinks
Luxembourg City is known for its excellent cuisine, but dining out can be quite pricey. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant, and up to €50 or more at a high-end restaurant. However, there are plenty of cheaper options available, such as street food and casual cafes, where you can grab a quick and affordable bite to eat. A pint of beer will cost you around €5-€7, while a glass of wine can range from €5-€12.
Attractions
Fortunately, many of Luxembourg City’s top attractions are free to visit, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the stunning Adolphe Bridge and the picturesque old town with its Wenzel Circular Walk. However, some attractions do charge admission fees, such as the Luxembourg City Museum (€5) and the Bock Casemates (€6). If you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing a Luxembourg Card, which gives you free access and discounts to over 90 museums and attractions throughout the country.
Overall Budget
Based on the above estimates, a daily budget of around €90-€130 should be sufficient for budget travelers visiting Luxembourg City. This applies if you split the costs of a double room with a travel buddy. If you’re traveling solo, the costs can considerably rise, to a minimum of €185-€200 per day. If you’re not the type that weighs every cent spent, you’ll probably exceed a cost of €250 per day – easily. How much you budget for this trip can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or hostel and cooking some of your own meals. On the other hand, if you’re looking to splurge, there are plenty of luxury hotels and restaurants to choose from.
In conclusion, Luxembourg City may not be the cheapest destination in Europe, but with careful planning and budgeting, it’s definitely an achievable one. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it’s a destination that’s well worth the investment.