Luxembourg
Luxembourg, one of Europe’s smallest countries, is known for its stunning castles, rolling hills, and a blend of cultures.
Its capital, Luxembourg City, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with impressive fortifications, charming old quarters, and modern financial districts. Luxembourg’s culture reflects French, German, and Belgian influences, making it a unique mix of traditions and languages.
The cuisine is rich, featuring dishes like judd mat gaardebounen (smoked pork with broad beans). With its picturesque countryside, vibrant history, and cosmopolitan cities, Luxembourg offers both tranquility and sophistication.
Passport
Most travelers around the world can enter Luxembourg with a valid passport. Here is a general guide:
Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries can enter Luxembourg without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) with just a valid passport:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
- Japan
- South Korea
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Mexico
- Singapore
- Israel
- United Arab Emirates
Visa Required
Citizens of countries that are not on the visa-exempt list must obtain a visa before traveling to Luxembourg. A valid passport is required, and you must apply for a Schengen visa at a Luxembourg embassy or consulate.
Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.
ID Card
Citizens of the following countries can enter Luxembourg with a valid national ID card, without needing a passport:
- European Union (EU) countries: All EU citizens can enter Luxembourg with a valid national ID card.
- European Economic Area (EEA) countries: Citizens of EEA countries, including Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, can enter Luxembourg with an ID card.
- Switzerland: Swiss citizens can enter Luxembourg with their national ID card.
These travelers can enter Luxembourg and move freely within the country using only their national ID card, without the need for a passport.
Toll Roads in Luxembourg
Luxembourg does not have any toll roads. All highways and roads in Luxembourg are free to use for all vehicles.
Driving Tips in Luxembourg:
- Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road in Luxembourg.
- Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
- Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h, rural roads: 90 km/h, highways: 130 km/h (110 km/h in rainy conditions).
- Road Conditions: Roads in Luxembourg are generally in excellent condition, with a well-maintained highway network.
- Fuel: Luxembourg often has lower fuel prices compared to neighboring countries, making it a popular refueling stop for travelers.
Weather in Luxembourg
Luxembourg has a temperate climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. The country experiences four distinct seasons, influenced by both maritime and continental air masses.
Summer (June to August)
Summers in Luxembourg are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 57°F to 72°F (14°C to 22°C). July and August are typically the warmest months, with occasional hot days reaching above 86°F (30°C).
Winter (December to February)
Winters are cold but not severe, with average temperatures ranging from 32°F to 39°F (0°C to 4°C). Snowfall is common, especially in the northern Ardennes region, but heavy snow is rare in the capital.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, with temperatures typically ranging from 45°F to 59°F (7°C to 15°C). These seasons can be somewhat rainy, with autumn generally being the wetter of the two.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is the best time to visit for comfortable weather and outdoor activities.
- Rain Gear: Be prepared for rain at any time of year, as Luxembourg has a fairly wet climate.
- Layered Clothing: Due to variable weather, especially in spring and autumn, it's advisable to pack layers.
Currency in Luxembourg
The official currency of Luxembourg is the Euro (EUR). Luxembourg was one of the first countries to adopt the Euro on January 1, 1999, for electronic payments, and began using Euro notes and coins on January 1, 2002.
Banknotes and Coins
Euro banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 EUR. Coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 EUR.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available throughout Luxembourg, especially in banks and exchange offices. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, allowing you to withdraw Euros directly from your bank account.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Luxembourg, particularly in urban areas, restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or in rural areas.
Travel Tips
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions in Luxembourg.
- Currency Conversion: If you're coming from a non-Euro country, be aware of the exchange rates and any fees associated with currency conversion.
- Tipping: Service charges are usually included in bills in Luxembourg, but it's common to round up or leave a small tip for good service.
- Banking: Luxembourg is known as a major financial center, so banking services are widely available and sophisticated.