Luxembourg for tourists: budget and lifehacks for vacations

How expensive is Luxembourg for tourists?

Let's get straight to the point and address the question you're here for: how expensive is Luxembourg for tourists? The answer might be more nuanced than you expect because travel costs aren't always black and white. Various factors influence average expenses, making it essential to consider multiple aspects.

However, to give you a general idea, we've gathered information from several comprehensive databases on global city costs, including partir.ouest-france.fr and whereandwhen.net. We've adjusted the data to provide a realistic estimate of daily expenses for a typical trip to Luxembourg.

Based on our analysis, you should budget at least 133 euros per person per day when traveling to Luxembourg. This estimation covers staying in a budget hotel, dining at a mid-range restaurant for one meal, grabbing fast food for another meal, purchasing a bottle of water, enjoying a beer, using public transportation twice and allocating some funds for tourist activities.

As you can see, one of the most significant expenses when traveling is accommodation, which ranges from 67 to 210 euros per night on average, depending on the type of hotel. However, it’s possible to find cheaper options or, conversely, to spend much more on luxury hotels with special amenities. To help you find hotels that suit your preferences, we have several guides on this topic you might find useful.

What is the cost for different travel types?

Sometimes you have to travel to Luxembourg on a budget, but other times you can afford a bit more comfort. How much will it cost in each case? And what if you’re traveling for several days or with family? Below, we’ve calculated the costs for different travel styles, considering the same expenses as in the previous section. In the mid-range and high-end estimates, we have chosen mid-range or high-end hotels for accommodation, for food, we have included only restaurant meals, and in the high-end budget estimate, we have included a 5 km cab ride.

These costs are a starting point to have an idea; it is important to keep in mind that you have to make adjustments. When traveling with several people and for several days you can save by having more interesting rates for hotels or other expenses and the costs for a trip with comfort the budget can be much higher.

What affects the cost of traveling to Luxembourg?

Several factors can influence the overall cost of your trip to Luxembourg. Understanding these can help you plan and budget effectively, ensuring you get the most out of your visit without overspending. Here’s a breakdown of the main elements that can impact your travel expenses:

Type of Traveler (Backpacker, Luxury Tourist, Group Travel)

The type of traveler you are significantly affects your travel costs. Backpackers typically spend less by staying in hostels or budget accommodations, eating at inexpensive eateries, and using public transportation. On the other hand, luxury tourists may opt for high-end hotels, fine dining, and private transport, which can considerably increase costs. Group travelers can sometimes save money through shared expenses, such as group rates for accommodations and tours.

Duration of the Trip

The length of your stay in Luxembourg will directly impact your budget. Longer trips generally mean higher overall costs, but daily expenses might decrease due to longer accommodation bookings and other bulk discounts. Conversely, shorter trips might see higher daily spending due to the tendency to pack more activities and experiences into a limited timeframe.

Timing of the Trip (High Season or Low Season)

Traveling during peak tourist seasons (typically summer and major holidays) can be more expensive due to higher accommodation rates and flight prices. In contrast, visiting during the off-season can help you save money, as many hotels and airlines offer discounts to attract travelers during quieter periods.

Visa and Travel Permit Costs

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Luxembourg, which can add to your travel costs. Ensure you check the visa requirements well in advance and factor in any fees associated with obtaining the necessary permits.

Travel Insurance (Medical, Cancellation, Baggage)

Travel insurance is an essential but often overlooked cost. Medical insurance can protect you from high healthcare expenses in case of illness or injury. Cancelation insurance covers non-refundable bookings if you need to cancel your trip, while baggage insurance compensates for lost or stolen luggage. The peace of mind these provide is often worth the additional cost.

Currency Exchange Rates

The exchange rate between your home currency and the euro (Luxembourg’s currency) can affect how far your money goes. Keeping an eye on exchange rates and converting money at favorable times can help you maximize your budget. Additionally, using credit cards with low or no foreign transaction fees can save you money on currency conversion.

Transportation to Luxembourg

The mode of transport you choose to reach Luxembourg, whether by plane, train, bus, or car, can significantly affect your travel expenses. Flights are usually the most expensive option, especially from long distances, whereas trains and buses can offer more affordable alternatives for those traveling from nearby countries.

Local Transportation Costs (Taxis, Car Rentals, Public Transport)

Getting around Luxembourg can vary in cost. While Luxembourg offers free public transportation across the country, taxis and car rentals come with additional expenses. If you plan to explore areas not easily accessible by public transport, renting a car might be necessary, but it will add to your costs.

Type of Accommodation (Hotels, Hostels, Friends/Family) and Comfort Level

Accommodation costs can vary widely depending on where you stay and the level of comfort you desire. Hotels, especially high-end ones, can be quite expensive. Hostels offer more affordable options for budget travelers. Staying with friends or family can drastically reduce your accommodation expenses if you have that option.

Dining (Restaurants, Cafés, Street Food)

Where and how you choose to eat can also affect your budget. Dining at restaurants, particularly in tourist areas, can be costly. Cafés and street food vendors offer more budget-friendly options. To save money, consider eating like a local and trying some of the affordable eateries frequented by residents.

Grocery Shopping in Supermarkets or Local Stores

Buying groceries and preparing some of your meals can significantly reduce your food expenses. Supermarkets and local stores often offer fresh produce, snacks, and other essentials at much lower prices than restaurants.

Entrance Fees to Tourist Attractions, Museums, Theme Parks

While some attractions in Luxembourg are free, many others charge entrance fees. Planning your visits and prioritizing the attractions you most want to see can help you manage these costs. Look out for discount days or multi-attraction passes that can provide better value.

Souvenirs and Gifts

Purchasing souvenirs and gifts can add up quickly. Set a budget for these items and stick to it. Shopping at local markets or less touristy areas can often yield unique items at more reasonable prices.

Local SIM Cards or International Roaming Plans and Internet Use

Staying connected is essential for most travelers. Local SIM cards usually offer the best value for money compared to international roaming plans. Ensure your phone is unlocked before traveling and consider purchasing a SIM card upon arrival to save on communication costs.

Specific Equipment and Clothing (Winter Clothes)

Depending on the time of year you visit, you might need specific equipment or clothing, such as winter apparel. Purchasing these items before your trip can be more cost-effective than buying them upon arrival, where prices might be higher, especially in tourist areas.

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The average budget for a holiday in Luxembourg compared to other countries

If you're still wondering if Luxembourg is cheap to visit or if Luxembourg is expensive to visit, let's dig deeper by comparing it with neighboring countries and some popular European destinations like Spain, and Italy.

Below, we've calculated the same costs in EUR as in the previous section for Luxembourg, now also comparing them with France, Germany, Belgium, Spain, and Italy.

The results are quite illustrative. Luxembourg appears slightly more expensive than its counterparts, except for Belgium, but not by much. Interestingly, savings in some categories are often offset by higher costs in others, leading to relatively balanced overall expenses. Spain stands out with costs approximately 39% cheaper compared to Luxembourg.

Luxembourg

Car

Carshare

How to carshare a car in Luxembourg

Luxembourg for tourists compared with the most expensive countries in the world

We've already compared Luxembourg with some of the most common destinations in Europe, but how does it fare against some of the most expensive countries in the world? Let's take a closer look. For this comparison, we've selected Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Denmark.

Luxembourg appeared relatively costly in earlier comparisons, but when compared to these other countries, it turned out to be more economical than all of them. Switzerland emerges as the most expensive by a significant margin, followed by Denmark, Norway, and Iceland.

Lifehacks for travel in Luxembourg on a budget

Exploring Luxembourg doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of planning and these savvy tips, you can make the most of your budget while enjoying all that this charming country has to offer.

Free Public Transportation

LuxembourgCard for Sightseeing

Food Shopping at Local Markets

Festivals and Events to Visit Throughout the Year

Great Offers at Airbnb and Youth Hostels

Explore Free Art and Cultural Exhibitions

Wine Tasting in the Moselle Valley

Rent Bicycles for Sightseeing

Enjoy Nature in Luxembourg's Parks

Exploring Luxembourg on a budget doesn't mean missing out on the country's rich history and vibrant culture. By following these money-saving tips and exploring the many activities and sights the country has to offer, you can create an unforgettable travel experience. From ancient castles and medieval festivals to UNESCO World Heritage sites, Luxembourg has a wealth of attractions that can help you create an amazing and affordable trip.