Christmas fair in Luxembourg(Image: Getty Images)
It may be amongst Europe’s tiniest nations, but Luxembourg brims with activities, especially as the Christmas period approaches.
When the festive Wantermaart (Winter Market) arrives in the UNESCO-recognised capital, the city’s condensed layout makes it wonderfully walkable, enabling tourists to move effortlessly between historic squares such as Place d’Armes and Place de la Constitution.
Travel blog Together In Transit observes that the city, when sprinkled with snow, offers “a beautiful winter wonderland experience”, featuring gluhwein stands to shelter you from the sharp December chill.
However, the true highlight for cost-conscious Brits is that this delightful, hospitable, and reachable destination became the globe’s first nation to provide completely free public transport throughout the entire country, reports the Express.
The nation launched its zero-cost public transport scheme in 2020 to cut carbon emissions and promote public transport usage, covering all standard class bus, tram, and train journeys within the country’s boundaries.
This exceptional value pairs perfectly with its abundant heritage, which can be readily discovered on foot.
The city boasts spectacular vistas from the Chemin de la Corniche—hailed as the “most beautiful balcony in Europe” by Luxembourg author Batty Weber.
Luxembourg’s scattered festive markets provide all the expected delights, including fairground rides, ice skating, and food and drink stalls.
The capital city undergoes a transformation for the annual Winterlights Festival, with the main markets operating from 21 November 2025, right through to 1 January 2026.
Luxembourg is one of the rare European Christmas market destinations that remain open after Christmas Day.
The main attractions are dispersed across key squares: the Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart is located at the traditional Place d’Armes, while the Wantermaart at Place de la Constitution houses the spectacular 32-metre-high Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire lit-up city.
Visitors can savour traditional local treats like Gromperekichelcher (potato pancakes) and Glühwäin (mulled wine) across all major market locations, including Place de Paris.
The city also boasts numerous historical attractions worth a visit, with Vianden Castle standing as the top destination, recognised as one of Europe’s most impressive fortified strongholds.
Located in the country’s northern region, the castle has received glowing reviews from visitors and is ranked number one out of 15 things to do in Vianden.
One Tripadvisor user wrote: “A real medieval jewel! Vianden Castle is superb, beautifully restored and overlooking the valley. The village, with its picturesque streets and museums, is definitely worth a visit. The surrounding nature is splendid, and the chairlift offers a unique view. A must-see visit to Luxembourg.”
Another added: “The Château de Vianden is without a doubt one of the most beautiful castles in Luxembourg and an absolute must for lovers of history, architecture and impressive views.”
For those who favour Christmas markets and festive atmosphere, December represents the ideal time to visit Luxembourg.
However, if you prefer warmer weather, hiking, and outdoor adventures generally, late spring and summer come highly recommended.