A day trip to Luxembourg: World Heritage – and free travel once you're there

From Trier to another country – in under an hour. Only around 60 kilometres lie between the Moselle and the capital of the Grand Duchy. Few day trips give you this much: a UNESCO World Heritage city, fortress cliffs above deep valleys, and the relaxed certainty that you won't pay a single cent for buses and trains while you're there.

Getting there is half the fun

The easiest way is by train. The RE11 takes you from Trier Hauptbahnhof directly to Luxembourg Gare in around 50 minutes; alternatively, the RB83 runs from Trier West in just over an hour. No traffic jams, no hunting for a parking space in the cramped upper town – and you can enjoy your first coffee on the way.

The best part comes on arrival: since 2020, all public transport in Luxembourg has been free – for locals and visitors alike. Trains, trams, buses and even the funicular cost nothing at all, no ticket required. You can get everywhere without spending a euro. From the station it's about a 20-minute walk along the Avenue de la Liberté into the old town – or simply hop on the tram.

What you have to see in the city

The old town and the mighty remains of the old fortress have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994. At their heart is the Bockfelsen with its casemates – miles of defensive tunnels hewn into the rock, with views that take your breath away. Right beside it runs the Chemin de la Corniche, a promenade high above the Alzette valley that isn't called "Europe's most beautiful balcony" for nothing.

If you'd rather have art than casemates: the MUDAM, designed by star architect I. M. Pei, shows contemporary art in light-flooded galleries. And at the Luxembourg City History Museum you'll learn more about the country in an hour than from any guidebook.

If one day isn't enough

Because the travel is free, a jaunt into the countryside is well worth it too. By bus and train you can reach the medieval castle of Vianden, perched high above the River Our, or the Müllerthal, Luxembourg's "Little Switzerland" with its sandstone rock formations and hiking trails. Ideal if you're staying with us a little longer and planning a second day out.

Our tips in brief

• Set off early: the first RE11 is worth it – it gives you 7 to 8 hours in the city
• Comfortable shoes: the loveliest way to link the upper and lower town is on foot, via the steps and lifts
• Ride everything for free: no ticket needed, but always carry ID
• Don't miss the casemates – the view from the Bockfelsen is the best in the city
• Check the timetable for your return: services thin out in the evening

Want to combine Luxembourg, Trier and the Moselle in one weekend? Our Saartal Suite and Saar Home in Konz-Filzen sit practically halfway to the border – the ideal base for both countries. Book direct with us and you'll always stay at the best rate.

Your home away from home in Trier & Konz

Book direct and always get the best price – guaranteed cheaper than the usual booking platforms.