Luxembourg, one of Europe’s most charming and compact countries, is a popular destination for Indian travelers seeking a blend of history, modernity, and picturesque landscapes. While Luxembourg may not be a frequent destination for Indian travelers, the journey is relatively straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a detailed guide on planning and executing a trip from India to Luxembourg, covering flights, visas, transportation, and tips for a smooth journey.
Flight and Hotel Booking Itinerary/Reservation Including 7 Days Insurance
1. Visa Requirements
To enter Luxembourg, Indian citizens need a Schengen visa, which allows access to 26 European countries within the Schengen area. Luxembourg falls under the Schengen Agreement, so if you have a valid Schengen visa issued by another Schengen country, you can also use it to enter Luxembourg.
Steps to Apply for a Schengen Visa:
- Determine Visa Type: For tourism, you’ll need a short-stay Schengen visa, usually valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Prepare Documentation: You’ll need:
- A valid passport (with at least two blank pages and validity extending three months beyond your stay).
- Passport-size photographs.
- A filled Schengen visa application form.
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, payslips).
- Travel itinerary (including round-trip flight booking, accommodation bookings, and travel insurance covering €30,000 in medical expenses).
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit.
- Book an Appointment: Schedule a visa appointment at a VFS Global center in your city. The application will be processed by the Embassy of Luxembourg or the embassy of the Schengen country you plan to visit first.
- Submit Application: Submit your documents, along with a visa fee (generally around €80 or INR equivalent). Processing takes about 15 business days, so apply well in advance.
2. Flight Options and Best Routes
Direct flights from India to Luxembourg are not available, but various one-stop and two-stop options connect major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Luxembourg City. Typically, you’ll find flights with layovers in cities like Frankfurt, Paris, or Amsterdam.
Popular Airlines and Routes:
- Lufthansa: Offers connecting flights via Frankfurt, with Frankfurt being a common hub for transit to Luxembourg.
- Air France: Connects through Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).
- KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Routes through Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).
- Swiss International Airlines: Provides connecting flights via Zurich.
Flying time varies between 11 and 15 hours, depending on the layover duration. Tickets generally range between INR 50,000 to 80,000 for a round trip, but prices can vary based on the season and booking time.
Tips for Booking Flights:
- Book Early: Booking 2-3 months in advance can help secure better prices.
- Use Fare Comparison Websites: Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights can help you find the best fares.
- Consider Multicity Stops: If you’re open to visiting another Schengen country, opt for a stopover to make the most of your time in Europe.
Cheapest Ways to Travel to Luxembourg
3. Arriving in Luxembourg
Your arrival in Luxembourg will likely be at Luxembourg Airport (LUX), located around 6 km from Luxembourg City’s center. The airport is well-connected, and there are several convenient transportation options available.
Transportation from Luxembourg Airport to the City Center:
- Public Bus: The bus lines 16 and 29 operate between the airport and the city center. Tickets cost about €2 and can be purchased directly on the bus or at ticket machines.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal, costing around €30-35 for a 15-20 minute ride to the city center.
- Car Rentals: If you plan to explore the surrounding regions or neighboring countries, you may want to rent a car from the airport. Major providers like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operate at the airport.
4. Accommodation Options in Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers a range of accommodation choices, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. The city center is a popular location for tourists, with many attractions and restaurants nearby.
Popular Areas to Stay:
- Ville Haute: This is the historic heart of Luxembourg City, where you’ll find upscale hotels, restaurants, and boutiques.
- Gare District: Near the central train station, it’s well-connected and has more budget-friendly accommodation options.
- Kirchberg: The modern business district offers several international hotel chains and is ideal for business travelers.
Accommodation Types:
- Luxury Hotels: Sofitel Luxembourg, Le Royal Hotels & Resorts, and Melia Luxembourg.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Vauban, Park Inn by Radisson, and Novotel Luxembourg Centre.
- Budget-Friendly Stays: Youth Hostels (like Luxembourg City Hostel) and budget hotels such as Ibis Luxembourg Aeroport.
5. Getting Around Luxembourg
Luxembourg has one of the most convenient public transportation systems in Europe, and most modes of public transport are free within the country.
Transport Options:
- Tram: The modern tram system operates within Luxembourg City and is efficient for traveling within city limits.
- Bus: The extensive bus network connects all parts of the city and surrounding towns.
- Train: For day trips to nearby towns, Luxembourg’s train services are highly convenient, with connections to Belgium, France, and Germany.
Free public transportation means visitors can explore the country at no additional cost, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers.
How To Travel To Luxembourg For Free
6. Places to Visit in Luxembourg
Luxembourg is rich in culture, history, and scenic beauty. Some of the top attractions to include in your itinerary are:
- Luxembourg City: Explore Ville Haute, known for the Grand Ducal Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the famous Adolphe Bridge.
- Vianden Castle: This iconic medieval castle, located in the town of Vianden, is one of the most visited monuments in Luxembourg.
- Echternach: Luxembourg’s oldest town, known for its abbey and beautiful medieval architecture.
- The Moselle Valley: A picturesque wine region along the Moselle River, where you can enjoy scenic vineyards and wine-tasting tours.
- Mullerthal Region (Little Switzerland): Known for its hiking trails, rock formations, and waterfalls, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
7. Cuisine and Dining in Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers a delightful culinary scene, influenced by French, German, and Belgian cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and popular dining options:
- Local Dishes: Try “Judd mat Gaardebounen” (smoked pork with broad beans), “Bouneschlupp” (green bean soup), and “Gromperekichelcher” (potato pancakes).
- Popular Restaurants: Some well-regarded options include La Cristallerie for fine dining, Beim Siggy for traditional Luxembourgish food, and Chiche! for Mediterranean cuisine.
8. Currency and Payments
Luxembourg uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, and most establishments accept credit and debit cards. ATMs are widespread, especially in major cities, and you can withdraw cash if needed. It’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases in rural areas.
Currency Exchange and ATMs:
- Currency Exchange: Major airports, banks, and currency exchange centers in Luxembourg offer currency exchange services.
- ATMs: Visa, MasterCard, and other international cards are widely accepted at ATMs.
9. Language and Communication
The official languages of Luxembourg are Luxembourgish, French, and German. English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so communication is not a significant barrier.
Basic Phrases to Know:
- Hello: “Moien” (Luxembourgish)
- Thank You: “Merci” (French) or “Merci villmools” (Luxembourgish)
- Excuse Me: “Entschëllegt” (Luxembourgish)
10. Travel Tips for Indian Travelers
- Electrical Outlets: Luxembourg uses the Type C and Type F sockets, and the standard voltage is 230 V. You may need a universal adapter.
- Health and Safety: Luxembourg is generally very safe. It’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers health and accidents.
- Time Zone: Luxembourg is in the Central European Time (CET) zone, which is 4.5 hours behind IST.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November) offer pleasant weather, with fewer crowds than summer.