Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: ETIAS Authorization
Most visa-exempt travelers to Luxembourg now need ETIAS authorization (€7) - a straightforward online application that takes about 10 minutes and is valid for three years. Apply at least 72 hours before your trip to avoid delays. This electronic travel authorization is required for all short stays in the Schengen Area, including Luxembourg's borders with France, Germany, and Belgium.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for stamps. For biometric passports, ensure the chip is intact for automated border checks at Luxembourg's Findel Airport.
Double-check expiration dates well in advance, as some countries require additional validity for re-entry, and Luxembourg immigration may scrutinize documents during peak travel seasons.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa in Luxembourg and the Schengen Zone.
Registration might be needed for longer stays through local authorities, especially if planning to work or study in this compact yet cosmopolitan nation.
Visa Applications
For required visas, apply online via the Schengen visa system (€80 fee), submitting documents like proof of funds (€50/day recommended for Luxembourg's higher costs) and comprehensive travel insurance.
Processing takes 15-45 days depending on your location; apply at the Luxembourg embassy or consulate in your home country for faster handling.
Border Crossings
Luxembourg's borders with France, Germany, and Belgium are seamless via Schengen, but expect quick checks at Luxembourg Airport or train stations during high-traffic periods.
Land crossings by car or train are efficient, with ETIAS verification often done digitally; always have your passport handy for random spot checks in rural areas like the Mullerthal region.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is essential, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities like hiking in the Mullerthal or wine tasting in the Moselle Valley.
Policies start at €5/day from reputable providers; ensure coverage for Luxembourg's excellent but potentially costly healthcare system, including repatriation if needed.
Extensions Possible
You can extend your stay for valid reasons by applying at a local immigration office in Luxembourg City before your visa expires, providing evidence like medical certificates or work invitations.
Fees are around €30-50 with supporting documents required; extensions are more readily granted for humanitarian reasons or unforeseen circumstances in this EU member state.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Luxembourg uses the Euro (€). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks. This is especially useful in Luxembourg's financial hub, where banking services are advanced but fees can add up for tourists.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Luxembourg Airport by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for direct flights from major European hubs to this small but central destination.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at bouchons or market stalls for Judd mat Gaardebounen (smoked pork) under €15, skipping upscale tourist spots in Luxembourg City to save up to 50% on food costs.
Local markets in places like Esch-sur-Alzette offer fresh produce, cheeses, and quiches at great prices, providing authentic Luxembourgish flavors without breaking the bank.
Public Transport Passes
Get a national transport pass for unlimited bus and train travel at €40-60 for multiple days, cutting intercity costs significantly across Luxembourg's efficient network.
Free public transport is available nationwide since 2020, but passes are useful for integrated tickets with neighboring countries like France or Germany.
Free Attractions
Visit public parks like Parc de Merl, the free Adolphe Bridge views, and self-guided walks in Vianden Valley, which are cost-free and offer authentic experiences of Luxembourg's natural beauty.
Many museums, including the National Museum of Military History, have free entry days or are gratis for EU citizens, maximizing your cultural exploration on a budget.
Card vs Cash
Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but carry cash for rural markets, small vineyards, or hiking cafes in the Ardennes region.
Withdraw from ATMs at major banks like BGL BNP Paribas for better rates than airport exchange bureaus, and notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Museum Passes
Use the Luxembourg Card for entry to over 80 sites at €32 for 3 days, perfect for cultural trips covering castles, museums, and transport.
It pays for itself after visiting 4-5 attractions and includes discounts on guided tours, making it ideal for history buffs exploring sites like the Bock Casemates.
Smart Packing for Luxembourg
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack layers for variable weather, including waterproof jackets for frequent rain and light sweaters for cooler evenings in the valleys.
Include modest attire for visiting historic sites like Vianden Castle and breathable fabrics for summer hikes; versatile outfits work well for Luxembourg City's mix of urban and rural vibes.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter (Type C/E), power bank for day trips to remote areas like Mullerthal, offline maps for hiking trails, and a camera for capturing medieval architecture.
Download translation apps supporting Luxembourgish, French, and German, plus apps for free public transport schedules to navigate this multilingual country effortlessly.
Health & Safety
Carry travel insurance documents, basic first-aid kit, any prescriptions, and sunscreen for outdoor activities in the Moselle wine region.
Include hand sanitizer, insect repellent for forested hikes, and a reusable mask for any indoor sites; Luxembourg's pharmacies are excellent for refills if needed.
Travel Gear
Pack a daypack for sightseeing in Luxembourg City, reusable water bottle (tap water is pristine), quick-dry towel for spa visits, and cash in small denominations for markets.
Bring copies of IDs, a money belt for security in crowded festivals, and a compact guidebook for off-grid spots without strong signal.
Footwear Strategy
Opt for sturdy hiking boots for trails in Little Switzerland or the Ardennes, and comfortable sneakers for cobblestone streets in Clervaux and Echternach.
Waterproof shoes are crucial given Luxembourg's damp climate and river valleys; pack extra socks for long walking days exploring fortifications.
Personal Care
Include biodegradable toiletries, lip balm with SPF for outdoor exposure, and a compact umbrella or poncho for unpredictable showers.
Travel-sized items help with packing light for multi-region trips, plus moisturizer for dry winter air in heated castles and hotels.
When to Visit Luxembourg
Spring (March-May)
Ideal for blooming parks in Luxembourg City and mild hikes in Mullerthal, with temperatures of 8-16°C and fewer crowds than summer.
Perfect for cherry blossom viewing in the countryside and outdoor markets without the peak season rush; events like the Spring Festival add cultural flair.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season for music festivals in Rockhal and wine harvests in Moselle, with warm weather around 18-25°C and long daylight hours.
Expect higher prices and visitors in Vianden; great for river cruises, castle tours, and al fresco dining, but book accommodations early.
Autumn (September-November)
Excellent for foliage hikes in the Ardennes and Mullerthal with vibrant colors and temperatures of 8-15°C.
Harvest festivals, truffle markets, and lower accommodation costs make it ideal; milder weather suits exploring medieval towns like Larochette.
Winter (December-February)
Budget-friendly for Christmas markets in Luxembourg City and Esch with temperatures of 0-6°C and festive lights.
Ideal for cozy indoor experiences like museum visits and hot wine tastings; ski options in nearby Ardennes, avoiding summer crowds entirely.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Euro (€). Exchange rates are stable. Cards widely accepted but carry cash for rural markets and small vendors.
- Language: Luxembourgish, French, and German are official. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and business hubs.
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1 (UTC+2 in summer)
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type C/E/F plugs (European two-pin or schuko)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance; 113 for non-emergency police
- Tipping: Service charge usually included. Round up or add 5-10% for excellent service in restaurants
- Water: Tap water is safe and high-quality to drink throughout Luxembourg
- Pharmacies: Widely available (Apotheke signs). Open weekdays; some 24-hour services in major cities