7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Luxembourg City
Summary: Planning a quick weekend getaway is a great way to save money while still seeing new places. Here are 7 fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Luxembourg City.
Luxembourg City, with its charming blend of medieval fortifications and contemporary urban life, is a fantastic base for digital nomads. The city's central location in Europe makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore new destinations on the weekends. Whether you're in the mood for a cultural excursion, a nature retreat, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there's something nearby to satisfy your wanderlust. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of popular and unusual destinations, all within reach from Luxembourg City.
Trier, Germany
Just a short journey from Luxembourg City lies Trier, Germany's oldest city, brimming with Roman history and architectural marvels. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Porta Nigra gate, the Roman Baths, and the Trier Cathedral. The city also offers a delightful mix of shopping opportunities and wine-tasting sessions, as the Moselle Valley is renowned for its Riesling wines. Trier's Christmas Market is a must-visit for those traveling during the festive season.
How to Get There: Trier is easily accessible by train, with direct connections from Luxembourg City that take around 50 minutes.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Karl Marx House, the birthplace of the philosopher, which now serves as a museum detailing his life and work.
Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Villa Hügel for its beautiful indoor and outdoor pools, or the Park Plaza Trier for its central location.
Where to Eat: Zum Domstein offers a historical setting with traditional German cuisine, including the region's famous pork knuckle.
Metz, France
A gem in the Lorraine region, Metz is known for its stunning Gothic Saint-Étienne Cathedral, which boasts some of the largest expanse of stained glass in the world. The city's Germanic and French influences are evident in its architecture and culture. The Centre Pompidou-Metz, a branch of the famous Parisian museum, is a must-see for contemporary art lovers. The serene Jardin des Trinitaires provides a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
How to Get There: Metz is about an hour's drive from Luxembourg City, or you can take a direct train which takes approximately the same amount of time.
Travel Tip: Explore the local markets, especially the indoor market, Marché Couvert, for a taste of local produce and French delicacies.
Where to Stay: Hotel La Citadelle offers luxury accommodations in a historic building, while the quirky La Chambre à côté provides a more intimate B&B experience.
Where to Eat: L'Aromate is known for its fusion of French and international cuisine, set in a modern and elegant atmosphere.
Clervaux, Luxembourg
For a peaceful retreat, head to the quaint town of Clervaux in the heart of the Luxembourg Ardennes. The town is home to the stunning Clervaux Castle, which houses the famous "The Family of Man" photography exhibition curated by Edward Steichen. The surrounding hills and forests offer numerous hiking trails, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and photographers alike.
How to Get There: Clervaux is accessible by train from Luxembourg City in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Travel Tip: Take the time to visit the Benedictine Abbey of St. Maurice and St. Maur, which offers panoramic views of the town and serene spiritual retreats.
Where to Stay: Le Clervaux Boutique & Design Hotel boasts a luxurious spa and wellness center, while the Château d'Urspelt offers a stay in a beautifully restored castle.
Where to Eat: Rhino Steakhouse & Pizzeria is a local favorite for its hearty meals and cozy atmosphere.
Echternach, Luxembourg
Echternach, the oldest town in Luxembourg, is renowned for its cultural heritage and the Echternach Dancing Procession, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The town's abbey, with its beautiful basilica and museum, is a highlight, as are the picturesque surroundings of the Müllerthal region, often referred to as "Little Switzerland" for its stunning landscapes.
How to Get There: Echternach can be reached by bus from Luxembourg City in about an hour.
Travel Tip: Adventure seekers should explore the Müllerthal Trail, a route that takes you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and over unique sandstone rock formations.
Where to Stay: Hotel Bel-Air Sport & Wellness is perfect for relaxation with its spa facilities, while the Hostellerie de la Basilique offers a central location in the market square.
Where to Eat: Restaurant La Grappe d'Or serves exquisite French cuisine and has a lovely terrace for outdoor dining in warmer months.
Vianden, Luxembourg
The medieval town of Vianden, with its stunning hilltop castle, is like stepping into a fairytale. The Vianden Castle is one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences of the Roman and Gothic eras in Europe. The town's charming streets, chairlift offering panoramic views of the Our Valley, and the Victor Hugo Museum make Vianden a culturally rich and picturesque destination.
How to Get There: Vianden is accessible by a combination of train and bus from Luxembourg City, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Travel Tip: Visit during the Vianden Nut Market in October to experience a traditional festival with local crafts and nut-based products.
Where to Stay: Hotel Belle Vue offers modern comforts with excellent views, and Auberge Aal Veinen is a quaint inn known for its hospitality.
Where to Eat: Auberge de l'Our provides a romantic setting with a menu that highlights local specialties.
Esch-sur-Sûre, Luxembourg
Nestled in the Sûre Valley, Esch-sur-Sûre is a lesser-known destination offering a tranquil escape. The town is dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle and is surrounded by the Upper Sûre Natural Park, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching. The nearby Lake of the Upper Sûre is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing in the summer months.
How to Get There: Reach Esch-sur-Sûre by bus from Luxembourg City, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Wool and Textile Museum, which offers insights into the region's traditional industries.
Where to Stay: Gourmet & Relax Hotel De La Sûre features a wellness center and is known for its excellent restaurant.
Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant, Comte Godefroy, offers a menu that combines local and international flavors.
Schengen, Luxembourg
The small wine-making village of Schengen holds a significant place in European history as the signing location of the Schengen Agreement, which led to the creation of Europe's borderless Schengen Area. Visitors can learn about the agreement at the European Museum Schengen and enjoy the scenic vineyards along the Moselle River. Wine tasting is a must-do activity here, with many local wineries offering tours and samples of their products.
How to Get There: Schengen can be reached by bus or car from Luxembourg City in about 30 minutes.
Travel Tip: Take a leisurely cruise on the Moselle River to enjoy the beautiful landscapes from a different perspective.
Where to Stay: The Victor's Residenz-Hotel Schengen offers modern amenities and views of the vineyards.
Where to Eat: Hôtel-Restaurant Des Vignes is not only known for its excellent dining but also for its extensive selection of local wines.
These destinations offer a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, all within a short distance from Luxembourg City. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a weekend escape, each of these locations promises a unique and memorable experience for digital nomads and travelers alike.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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