Germany's Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland share borders with Luxembourg. These German regions offer many opportunities for outings and visits, whatever your interests.
Germany is a very interesting country to visit, just a few kilometers from Luxembourg. No fewer than 4 sites are listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites. You can also enjoy a wide range of activities close to Luxembourg, either on your own or with your family. Germany is also a prime shopping destination.
Visit German cities near Luxembourg
Trier (Germany) tourist and shopping destination
Less than 50 km from Luxembourg, Trier is Germany's oldest city. Many traces of its rich past and Celtic, Roman and Germanic history can still be seen today.
Don't miss the famous "Porta Nigra", the northern gate of the ancient city walls built at the end of the 2nd century, or St. Peter's Cathedral, home to the relic of the Holy Tunic. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You'll also enjoy shopping in Trier's charming pedestrian streets. Prices here are lower than in Luxembourg.
You can also enjoy the Christmas markets on the beautiful Hauptmarkt square.
Aachen, capital of Charlemagne's Empire
Located 175 km from the Luxembourg border, the beautiful city of Aachen is the capital of Charlemagne's Empire. Discover the magnificent cathedral, a Unesco World Heritage Site, with the Palatine Chapel housing Charlemagne's tomb and, upstairs, his throne.
German cities such as Trier and Aachen are also well worth a visit during the Advent markets to enjoy the magic and entertainment of Christmas.
Koblenz and its cable car
172 km from Luxembourg, visit the pretty city of Koblenz. It bears witness to a rich past, from Roman times to the time of the Frankish kings.
What's more, treat yourself to an unforgettable journey with a spectacular cable car ride over the Rhine. You can then reach the Ehrenbreitstein fortress and enjoy a superb view of the picturesque town and the Deutsches Eck, a promontory at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Admire the panorama as far as the Rhine valley.
On your way to or from Koblenz to Luxembourg, follow the Moselle valley. You'll discover the many castles that line the river, as well as charming towns and villages amidst vineyards.
If you have the time, drive to the pretty town of Bernkastel-Kues, set in the meandering Moselle. It attracts many tourists, so be patient in the traffic jams.
Parks and attractions in Germany
Hiking in the Eifel Volcanic Park
1h30 from Luxembourg, the Eifel Volcanic Park offers great hiking and walking opportunities in the heart of the Eifel. This is Germany's newest volcanic region.
The GeoPark features a number of museums where visitors can discover the region's geological heritage. The lava dome at Merzig is a true-to-life example of a volcanic eruption, while the Laacher See bears witness to the region's intense volcanic activity.
Seven information centers are available for the curious.
Discover the Werner Freund Wolf Park in Merzig
52 km from Luxembourg, what could be more exciting for our children than discovering the Big Bad Wolf? Several dozen wolves live in the wild in this reserve. The ranger offers a free guided tour every 1st Sunday of the month at 4pm. The tour takes place whatever the weather! Visit www.wolfspark-wernerfreund.de.
Eifelpark, amusement park for the little ones in Gondorf
Located 64 km from Luxembourg, this amusement park in the middle of the forest is ideal for young children. They can enjoy an age-appropriate roller coaster, mini-karts, water bumper cars and giant slides. A mini-zoo, clown shows and a puppet theater also await them. They can play in an Indian camp, large playgrounds or discover an animal farm. Barbecues and picnics available. Catering available. For more information, visit www.eifelpark.de.
Europa Park amusement park for older children in Rust
Further afield, more than 3 hours away, you can enjoy family fun at Europa Park. This large amusement park will delight thrill-seekers and water enthusiasts alike. Europa Park is Germany's largest amusement park. You can stay overnight in one of the many hotel-resorts on site.
Visit to the Völklingen Ironworks
What if you visited the only ironworks as it was in the heyday of the steel industry? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Völklinger Hütte is a completely preserved ironworks. Here, you can see how steel workers went about their work.
The tour can be taken independently or with a group guide. Guided tours are available in several languages, including sign language. Why not organize an outing for several families and enjoy all the explanations as a group? A fascinating visit for all, 1h30 from Luxembourg.
Have you already visited Belgium and France? Discover these magnificent countries on the other side of the Luxembourg border, and take advantage of the many activities available for family outings.
