MAIN Travel Europe Luxembourg

Perhaps Europe's best kept secret, little Luxembourg is fast growing as one of the most popular holiday and vacation spots among otherwise jaded travelers, proving the point that good things often come in small packages.

Although the country's strong economy is based mainly on banking, residents are warm and welcoming as are the seemingly numberless and busy pubs, cafes and restaurants.

Luxembourg city, the main center and capital, is where most tourists begin exploring the rest of the country.

The Old City is a magnet for gourmands, wine and beer lovers, medieval history buffs, casual strollers and photographers who are drawn to the Old World atmosphere and spectacular scenery.

Although tiny compared to other world capitals, Luxembourg is abuzz with a 'United Nations' amalgam of German, French and Luxembourgish (a German dialect and official language) mixing right along with Italian and Portuguese (and English, spoken by many ex-pats.)

Top Luxembourg tourist attractions include the Grand Ducal Palace (left), the Luxembourg
American Cemetery and Memorial (middle), and day trips of the Moselle Valley vineyards (right).

While here, don't miss the Grand Ducal Palace, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and, just south of the airport - the very moving Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial — the final resting place of more than 5,000 soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice at the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. Here also is the final resting place of famous American General George S. Patton, whose final wish was to be buried with his valiant troops for all eternity.

For wine lovers, there is also Luxembourg's famous vineyard and winery region around the Moselle Valley. Picturesque castles, breathtaking scenery and, of course, world class wine tasting are all available on a day (or more) tour of the region bordering next door neighbor Germany.

DID YOU KNOW? Luxembourg Travel Fun Facts

Oddly enough....

• When giving someone flowers in Luxembourg it is considered good luck to give an odd number, but never 13!

• Cell phones in Luxembourg are the highest per capita in Europe. Practically everyone has one.

• French is the official language of business, but German is used in the media and remains the first language taught in schools.

• Luxembourg is smaller than Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US.

More about Luxembourg travel around the Web:

Luxembourg (city) - Comprehensive Wikitravel guide with everything you need to know including tips on what to see and do, suggested pubs and restaurants, train & bus information, summer holiday and event schedule.

Luxembourg City Tourist Office - The official site offering tips on hotels and accommodation, top tourist sites and nearby attractions, downloadable travel brochures, photos and history. In French, German and English.

Luxembourg Travel Information - Lonely Planet guide with overviews of top attractions in Luxembourg city, Echternach and Vianden with practical travel tips, weather info, maps and photos.