1. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels has a rich cuisine for you to indulge in and diverse architectural landmarks. The most popular attraction is the Grand Place, which is Brussels’ unique, beautiful and aesthetic landmark at the heart of the city. It is surrounded by guild houses displaying marvelous architecture, City Hall and Maison du Roi. Maison du Roi features a classic Gothic Revival architectural style, and it houses Musée de la Ville de Bruxelles with masterpieces such as Manneken-Pis and The Altarpiece of Saluces. Other attractions in this city include Atomium and Parc du Cinquantenaire.

2. Dinant, Belgium

Known for its stunning cliffs and charming architecture, Dinant offers a plethora of attractions to explore. Marvel at the iconic Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, perched high on the hillside, and enjoy panoramic views of the town and river below. The imposing Citadel of Dinant, dating back to the 11th century, provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past and offers breathtaking vistas.

Admire the remarkable saxophone sculptures scattered throughout the town, paying homage to Dinant’s most famous native, Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. Cruise along the Meuse River, taking in the enchanting scenery or relax in one of the cozy riverside cafes, savoring delectable Belgian treats. For those looking to be in nature, Dinant’s surrounding area offers great walks and hikes suitable for all levels.

3. Bastogne, Belgium

Bastogne, located in the picturesque Ardennes region of Belgium, is renowned for its significant role in World War II. It’s among the great places to visit near Luxembourg for history enthusiasts as visitors can explore the iconic Mardasson Memorial, paying tribute to the brave soldiers who fought during the Battle of the Bulge. The Bastogne War Museum provides an immersive experience, offering a comprehensive understanding of the city’s wartime past.

Beyond its historical significance, Bastogne boasts idyllic landscapes and picturesque countryside, perfect for leisurely walks or cycling adventures. You can also stroll through the charming town center, where quaint shops and cozy cafes invite you to relax and savor the local cuisine.

4. Bouillon, Belgium

Visit Bouillon is a town where history blends with nature. It is renowned for the medieval Bouillon Castle. Situated on a rocky spur of land, the castle offers great views of the Semois River. A tour of Bouillon Castle takes you through its maze of tunnels and passageways that lead to dark dungeons, lofty battlements and towers. View antique weaponry that date back to the 16th century in its chambers. Learn about how this castle could survive a long-term siege as it is equipped with a network of tunnels that lead to a well for water supply, and can also be used to smuggle in foodstuff from the riverside.

5. Trier, Germany

Take your sightseeing from Luxembourg up a notch by paying a visit to this city with several well-preserved archaeological and architectural attractions. Enjoy a guided tour of Porta Nigra, which is a towering Roman gate made of stone. Marvel at the grand design of the oldest church in Germany, Trier Saint Peter’s Cathedral. The church’s remarkable features include the Roman brick used to construct it, the Romanesque west work, and a collection of Christian art.

Other attractions include the Roman bath complex at Trier Imperial, The Roman Bridge that is constructed from stone, Trier Amphitheater, which is a Roman amphitheater, and Rheinische Landesmuseum Trier, which displays Roman artifacts.

6. Metz, France

Metz is a city lined with trees, flowerbeds, and a green promenade. It is also rich in history and culture. A popular attraction is Metz’s Cathedral. Its impressive features include its Gothic architecture, yellow Jaumont limestone, expansive stained-glass windows, breathtaking vaults in the nave soaring to 42 meters (138 ft.), Renaissance organ, the old Episcopal throne of Saint-Clement, and the terrifying model of the Graoully. Take in its breathtaking beauty in all its glory. Other attractions include Centre Pompidou-Metz, which shows semi-permanent and temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Museum of La Cour d'Or displays archaeological exhibits, art, medieval and architectural collections.

7. Amneville Zoo, France

Sitting on 10 hectares (25 acres), Amneville Zoo is home to 2,000 animals from 5 continents. The different animals are placed in 11 different facilities within the zoo. See elephants and rhinos in The African Plain, a dozen sea lions in the Bay of Sea Lions, gorillas in the Gorilla’s Camp, and reptiles in The Tropical Vivarium. Enjoy watching the zoo’s different shows. TigerWorld presents to you a show of tamed tigers in a huge space with cliffs, waterfalls, wooden pontoons, and prehistoric caves.

This zoo is an amazing place to check out if you’re looking to interact with animals and for fun things to do in Luxembourg.

8. Torgny, Belgium

For a serene and farm life atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city, visit Torgny. This village is truly a sight to behold. The honey-colored and brightly painted houses, pretty flowers everywhere and several vineyards make the village enchanting. Explore different vineyards and taste their wines whilst admiring the pretty views. Try regional recipes at La Romanette’s, which is a family-friendly restaurant that makes delectable dishes using fresh ingredients. Every spot in this city offers an amazing backdrop for your photos.

9. Museum of Sacred Art, Durbuy, Belgium

Museum of Sacred Art is the place to go if you want to learn about contemporary Indian art from various spiritual traditions and faiths. MOSA’s collection comprises of over 2,000 works by experts and young artists. These include paintings, sculptures, photography and installations. Stroll through the gallery and see these magnificent traditional Indian works of art depicting sacred themes from ancient India. The museum also hosts dance and musical performances, and video documentaries that relate to devotion. Have fun learning about Indian religion through art.

10. Mettlach, Germany

Mettlach is a municipality in Germany that sits on the Saar River. This town has a lot to offer, from being a shopper’s paradise and a historical center to breathtaking views of its natural landscape. Marvel at spectacular views of nature at its finest from various vantage points. Walk along a forest path on an elevated wooden bridge at Treetop path Saarschleife, which opens up to a unique lookout tower. See the striking views of the surrounding landscape, Saar River and Saar loop. Cloef is another unique spiral observation platform. These spots are great for hiking and taking amazing photos.

11. Mosel River Valley

If you want to have one of the best weekend trips from Luxembourg, take a trip to the scenic Mosel River Valley. Mosel River flows through France, Luxembourg, and Germany. Go on a relaxing Mosel River cruise aboard a boat or keep fit hiking or biking in its many hiking and biking trails. The hillsides have terraced vineyards with numerous castles and old fortress ruins adorning the hilltops. Quaint wine villages and towns dot the riverbanks.

Enjoy the region’s wine culture as you explore the villages and sample their wines. Have fun spending time in this area that is packed with history and medieval architecture, stunning scenery, and a variety of wines for you to taste.

12. Bonn, Germany

Bonn is a city renowned for being the birthplace of Ludwig Van Beethoven, a famous German composer, and pianist. The Beethoven House museum honors him and displays his birthplace and dwelling. The museum also houses a collection of manuscripts, pictures, musical instruments and mementos. Other museums include a science museum in Poppelsdorf Palace and Kunstmuseum Bonn. You can also explore Schloss Drachenburg and appreciate its architectural style, which makes it look like a palace.

Have fun exploring

Day trips are always a fun and exciting way to explore different locations. They are even more fun when you can easily go from one country to the next without border restrictions. Get to discover stunning natural scenery, museums, medieval buildings with unique architectural styles, and enchanting villages with vast vineyards and tasty wines for sampling. Have fun exploring with our list of best day trips from Luxembourg.