Imagine a place where medieval castles stand amidst rolling hills, and cosmopolitan city life thrives alongside tranquil villages. Welcome to Luxembourg, a gem in the heart of Europe. Despite its modest size, Luxembourg boasts a robust economy, ranking among the world’s wealthiest nations. Its picturesque landscapes and multicultural ambiance make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Professionals are drawn to Luxembourg’s dynamic financial sector and strategic location, offering seamless access to major European cities. Whether you’re exploring its historic fortresses or engaging in its vibrant business scene, Luxembourg offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, inviting you to discover its many facets.
Luxembourg at a Glance
| Region | Western Europe |
|---|---|
| Population | 645,000 |
| Languages | Luxembourgish, French, German |
| Capital | Luxembourg City |
| Currency | Euro (€) |
| Neighboring Countries | Belgium, France, Germany |
Table of Contents
- Traveling to Luxembourg
- Visa and legal requirements
- Culture and lifestyle
- Work opportunities
- Cost of living
- Where to stay
- Health and safety
- Local laws and customs
Traveling to Luxembourg
Luxembourg is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. The primary gateway is Luxembourg Airport (LUX), located just 6 kilometers from Luxembourg City. It offers direct flights to several European cities through airlines like Luxair, Lufthansa, and Ryanair.
Luxembourg’s position at the crossroads of Europe allows for seamless overland travel. High-speed trains connect Luxembourg City to Paris (2 hours), Brussels (3 hours), and Frankfurt (3 hours). Bus networks also link Luxembourg to neighboring countries, offering an affordable travel option.
For road travel, Luxembourg’s excellent highway system makes driving from nearby countries straightforward. Be sure to carry the necessary documentation, including a valid driver’s license and insurance.
Visa and legal requirements
Luxembourg follows the Schengen Area rules, allowing visa-free travel for citizens of Schengen member states and several other countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Travelers who require a visa must apply for a short-stay (Type C) visa or a long-stay (Type D) visa depending on their visit’s duration and purpose. Consult the Luxembourg government portal or the nearest Luxembourg consulate for detailed requirements.
Passports should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay. For stays exceeding 90 days, a residence permit is required.
Types of Visas in Luxembourg
Luxembourg offers several visa options for foreign nationals, primarily categorized by the duration and purpose of stay:
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C): Allows stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period for purposes such as tourism, business meetings, family visits, or attending conferences. This visa does not permit paid employment.
- Long-Stay Visa (Type D): Intended for stays exceeding 90 days, this visa is suitable for individuals pursuing employment, studies, family reunification, or self-employment in Luxembourg. Holders can apply for a residence permit upon arrival.
- Working Holiday Visa: Available to young citizens (typically aged 18-30) from countries like Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Chile, this visa allows a one-year stay combining travel and limited employment opportunities.
Currently, Luxembourg does not offer a specific digital nomad visa. However, remote workers from non-EU countries can enter Luxembourg on a short-stay visa for up to 90 days, depending on their nationality. For longer stays, they would need to explore other visa options, such as the long-stay visa, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Culture and lifestyle in Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s culture is a blend of French, German, and native Luxembourgish influences. The country values multilingualism, tradition, and a strong sense of community.
Traditions and celebrations
Luxembourg hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals:
- National Day (June 23): A grand celebration of Luxembourg’s independence with parades, fireworks, and concerts.
- Schueberfouer: A centuries-old funfair held in late August in Luxembourg City.
- Oktav: A religious festival honoring Our Lady of Luxembourg in late spring.
Luxembourgish food
Luxembourg’s cuisine combines French and German influences, emphasizing local ingredients:
- Judd mat Gaardebounen: Smoked pork neck with broad beans.
- Quetschentaart: A plum tart popular in autumn.
- Bouneschlupp: Green bean soup with potatoes and bacon.
Luxembourg is also known for its excellent wines, particularly Riesling and Crémant.
Work opportunities in Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s strong economy offers opportunities in sectors like banking, IT, and logistics. Its strategic location also makes it an appealing destination for remote workers.
Top industries
Key industries include:
- Financial services
- Information technology
- Logistics and transportation
- Tourism
Remote work
Luxembourg supports remote workers with excellent coworking spaces, such as:
Minimum wage
As of 2024, Luxembourg’s minimum wage is among the highest in Europe, at approximately €2,387 per month.
Cost of living in Luxembourg
Luxembourg has a high cost of living, especially in housing and dining out. However, salaries are also high, offsetting expenses for many workers.
Where to stay in Luxembourg
Luxembourg City: The capital offers luxury apartments and historic neighborhoods.
Echternach: A charming town near Mullerthal’s scenic hiking trails.
Clervaux: Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking quiet and greenery.
Health and safety
Luxembourg boasts high safety standards and a robust healthcare system. Emergency numbers include:
- Police: 113
- Ambulance: 112
Local laws and customs
Respect Luxembourgish laws, including bans on smoking in public places and strict recycling mandates. Public intoxication and drug use are prohibited.
Dress modestly in rural areas and religious sites to show respect for local customs.