Traveling From Paris to Luxembourg: A Worthwhile Day Trip?

Traveling From Paris to Luxembourg: A Worthwhile Day Trip?

Updated by Vanessa M. in September 2023.

France and Luxembourg are next-door neighbors, so a day trip seems like a very good idea if you’ll be spending a significant period of time in the capital city, Paris.

The fact that Luxembourg is so tiny makes it even more suitable for such a trip. This country is small enough to be considered a town, with just 500,000 residents nationwide. Luxembourg is so small, in fact, that the country is its own capital city.

A full day here is more than enough time to experience the essence of the land. Read on and I’ll tell you why!

Luxembourg – by Jean Carlo Emer – Unsplash

From Paris to Luxembourg

Between Paris and Luxembourg’s center there are 373km. The roads that get you between the two cities will run right through France’s eastern countryside, past the French towns of Reims and Metz.

Despite the short distance, crossing the boarder between France and Luxembourg is considered international travel and you will have to have the relative travel permits in order to enter.

Click here for the Amazing Nature Day Trips from Paris

Both France and Luxembourg form part of the Schengen zone, so most foreign travelers not on EU passports can move between the two without needing to apply for second permits.

The close proximity of these countries also makes them very similar. French is widely spoken in Luxembourg, and the climate is close to what you would experience in Paris and other parts of the French north.

Things to do During a Day Trip in Luxembourg

In spite of its size, Luxembourg is a historic part of Europe and there is a lot of art and culture to be enjoyed here. More than this, it is one of the most picturesque places on the continent, as you will surely see should you choose to make the journey by train.

Luxembourg – by Rowan Heuvel – Unsplash

The National Museum of History and Art

This is one of the most popular museums in Luxembourg’s city center.

The history side of the museum focuses on works from throughput the Gallo-Roman era, showcasing early life and culture for societies that used to call Luxembourg home. The modern art side of the museum features some great works of the 20th century.

The Old Quarter

When you make the journey between Paris and Luxembourg, the city center is where you’ll have your first impression of the land.

As mentioned, Luxembourg is an old country and the Old Quarter is where all of the ancient fortifications once stood. Today, this charming part of town is nothing more than cobblestoned streets, parks and beautiful bridges.

Luxembourg – by Polina Sushko – Unsplash

The Notre Dame Cathedral

Like Paris, Luxembourg has a Notre Dame of its own. While it’s nowhere near the size or grandeur of France’s, this is still a significant structure to Luxembourg’s religious community.

The church is baroque-style and full of gorgeous stained glass. It holds the crypts that house the remains of various members of the Luxembourg royal family.

The Castles

Lovers of castle-style architecture will feel like a kid in a candy shop in Luxembourg. This city is filled with them, and they are just about all open for public visitation year round.

The village of Bourscheid has a charming castle that dates back to the 10th century. Two rivers run beside it and dense nature surrounds it. If you’re a hiker you’ll want to give this spot some attention.

Walferdange Castle is in Walferdange Village, a district known for flowers and rose bushes. While Beaufort Castle sits in the Mullerthal region of Luxembourg. It was constructed in the 12th century and much of it is in total despair, making for a more realistic ancient castle visit compared to the other more pristine ones in the city.

Bourscheid Castle – by Photodudau – Wikimedia Commons

Getting There

To get from Paris to Luxembourg you’ll need to invest in some reliable transportation. While flying from Charles de Gaulle is an option, the time it takes to cover the short distance is simply not worth it for a day trip.

Trains, cars and busses are your most efficient resources. Read on!

By Car

I tend to recommend hiring a car for a day when taking short trips outside of Paris. For one, you get to be on your own schedule. And two, you’ll save a lot of money in the long run if there are more than two people making the trip.

From Paris to Luxembourg you’re looking at roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, give or take. You’ll pass through the towns of Reims and Metz, where you’ll be able to stop for a few minutes en route if you have a car.

Luxembourg – by GukHwa Jang – Wikimedia Commons

By Train

The train is the fastest way to move between these two cities. It moves between the them in just over 2 hours total, with multiple departure times per day.

Here are the best European Cities to Visit by Catching a Train from Paris

Traveling this train route is also relatively affordable compared to other cities accessible from Paris. Depending on when you book, you might be able to pay as little as €30.

Trains depart from Paris’ Gare l’Est station as early as 7am each morning. Be sure to check the last train out of Luxembourg if you intend to return on the same day; this is usually around 9pm.

By Bus

Getting to Luxembourg by bus costs less than an average meal in Paris. Tickets start from as little as €10 most days, with slight hikes during peak seasons.

The catch? This is a 5 hour long journey with many stops along the way.

The pros of this route are that you spend next to nothing (ideal for students and backpackers), and that you get to see a lot of the French countryside at ground level.

Luxembourg – by Will Roberts – Unsplash

Those wanting time to fly, and to spend as much time in Luxembourg as possible, should look at the 11pm busses that depart from Paris’ city center. They travel through the night and get you into Luxembourg just as the sun comes up in time for an early breakfast before activities.

Why Luxembourg is worth visiting

Luxembourg is one of Western Europe’s few truly hidden treasures. It’s jam-packed with breathtaking treks, delectable wine, fascinating castles, and postcard-perfect villages. Add in friendly folks and a truly multicultural ambiance, and you have plenty of reasons to visit!

Streppel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This small country offers a plethora of pleasures, such as castle hunting, hiking, and strolling through the UNESCO-listed old town of Luxembourg City. It will not let you down! Continue reading to find out why you should visit Luxembourg, what you can do there, and which wonderful local vegetarian dishes you must taste once you arrive.

Rich History: Luxembourg has a lengthy and fascinating history. It was formerly a strong fortress city ruled by several European nations. Historical sites in the country such as medieval castles and fortresses offer a peek into the country’s past.

Multilingual and Multicultural: Luxembourg is a trilingual and multicultural country with Luxembourgish, French, and German as official languages. This language diversity reflects its multicultural society making it an appealing destination for people interested in experiencing diverse cultures.

Charming Old Towns: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luxembourg City’s Old Town is a gorgeous neighborhood with small alleyways, medieval houses, and charming squares. It’s a nice area to walk about and take in the ambiance.

Natural Beauty: The country is recognized for its lush green scenery, rolling hills, and stunning valleys. The Müllerthal region, sometimes known as “Little Switzerland,” is especially beautiful, with hiking trails that wind past breathtaking rock formations and deep forests.

Learn more on the Amazing Nature Day Trips from Paris

Paul Braun, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, cycling, and kayaking are just a few of the outdoor activities available in Luxembourg. The country’s well-kept trails and bike lanes make it a haven for nature lovers.

Cultural Heritage: Luxembourg boasts a vibrant cultural environment, with various museums, galleries, and theaters. The Mudam Luxembourg – Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean is an important contemporary art museum.

Culinary Delights: Luxembourg’s cuisine is influenced by its neighbors, with a blend of French, German, and Belgian flavors. Try traditional delicacies such as “Judd mat Gaardebounen” (smoked pig with broad beans) and local wines.

UnorthodoxY, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

European Institutions: Many European Union institutions including the European Court of Justice and the European Investment Bank are based in Luxembourg. These institutions can be explored by visitors who are interested in EU politics and governance.

Accessibility: Because of its center location in Europe Luxembourg is an easily accessible destination with well-connected road and rail networks. It’s also an excellent starting point for visiting neighboring countries such as Belgium, France, and Germany.

Safety and Cleanliness: Luxembourg is frequently ranked as one of the safest and cleanest countries in the world making it a relaxing and stress-free destination for visitors.

Here are some of the reasons to Visit the Luxembourg Gardens in Paris

Christian Alexander Tietgen, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Luxembourg is a small country yet it provides a varied selection of experiences for history buffs, nature lovers, foodies, and anybody looking for a unique European vacation. It has much to offer any type of traveler whether you want to explore its rich heritage or engage in outdoor activities or simply appreciate its cultural offers.