🐾 Traveling to Luxembourg with Pets
Pet-Friendly Luxembourg
Luxembourg is exceptionally welcoming to pets, especially dogs. From historic fortifications to scenic trails, pets are integrated into daily life. Most hotels, restaurants, and public transport accommodate well-behaved animals, making Luxembourg one of Europe's most pet-friendly destinations.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Luxembourg embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
No federal ban on breeds, but some Luxembourg municipalities restrict certain dogs.
Breeds like Pit Bull Terriers may require special permits and muzzle/leash mandates.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Luxembourg authorities.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Luxembourg on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Luxembourg City & Vianden): Many 3-5 star hotels welcome pets for €10-25/night, offering dog beds, bowls, and nearby parks. Chains like Ibis and Novotel are reliably pet-friendly.
- Country Lodges & Guesthouses (Mullerthal & Moselle Valley): Rural accommodations often welcome pets at no extra charge, with direct trail access. Perfect for hiking holidays with dogs in scenic surroundings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, especially in rural areas. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to roam and relax.
- Farmstays (Agritourism): Family farms in the Ardennes and Eisch Valley welcome pets and often have resident animals. Ideal for families with children and pets seeking authentic rural experiences.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Nearly all Luxembourg campsites are pet-friendly, with designated dog areas and nearby trails. Sites in Mullerthal are especially popular with pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Sofitel Luxembourg Le Grand Ducal offer VIP pet services including gourmet pet menus, grooming, and walking services for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Hiking Trails
Luxembourg's nature areas are dog heaven with pet-friendly trails in Mullerthal and the Ardennes.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check trail rules at nature reserve entrances.
Rivers & Parks
Many parks along the Alzette and Sauer rivers have designated dog areas and open spaces.
Moselle Valley paths offer pet-friendly sections; check local signage for restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Luxembourg City's Pétrusse Valley and Knuedler Park welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés commonly allow pets at tables.
Vianden's old town permits dogs on leash; most outdoor terraces welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Luxembourg café culture extends to pets; water bowls outside are standard in cities.
Many Luxembourg City coffee houses allow dogs inside; ask staff before entering with pets.
City Walking Tours
Most outdoor walking tours in Luxembourg City and Echternach welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Historic centers are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums and churches with pets.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Many Luxembourg cable cars allow dogs in carriers or muzzled; fees typically €5-10.
Check with specific operators; some require advance booking for pets during peak seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (CFL): Small dogs (carrier-sized) travel free; larger dogs need half-price tickets and must be muzzled or in carriers. Dogs allowed in all classes except dining cars.
- Buses & Trams (Urban): Luxembourg City public transport allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs €2 with muzzle/leash requirement. Avoid peak commute times. Note: Public transport is free nationwide.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Bolt and Uber rides may require pet-friendly vehicle selection.
- Rental Cars: Many agencies allow pets with advance notice and cleaning fee (€30-80). Consider SUVs for larger dogs and rural trips.
- Flights to Luxembourg: Check airline pet policies; Luxair and Lufthansa allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Luxair, Lufthansa, and KLM accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for €50-100 each way. Larger dogs travel in hold with veterinary health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour emergency clinics in Luxembourg City (Tierklinik Luxembourg) and Esch-sur-Alzette provide urgent care.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range €50-200 for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Cactus and Auchan chains across Luxembourg stock food, medicine, and pet accessories.
Luxembourg pharmacies carry basic pet medications; bring prescriptions for specialized drugs.
Grooming & Day Care
Major cities offer pet grooming salons and daycare for €20-50 per session or day.
Book ahead in tourist areas during peak seasons; many hotels recommend local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Rover and local services operate in Luxembourg for pet-sitting during day trips or overnight stays.
Hotels may also offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted local services.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, public parks, and protected nature zones. Trails may allow off-leash if under voice control away from wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Luxembourg City and some areas require muzzles on certain breeds or large dogs on public transport. Carry a muzzle even if not always enforced.
- Waste Disposal: Poop bags and disposal bins are ubiquitous; failure to clean up results in fines (€50-500). Always carry waste bags on walks.
- Park & Water Rules: Check park signage for dog-allowed sections; some areas ban pets during peak hours. Respect other visitors' space.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome at outdoor tables; ask before bringing indoors. Dogs should remain quiet and seated on floor, not chairs or tables.
- Nature Reserves: Some trails restrict dogs during bird nesting season (April-July). Always leash pets near wildlife and stay on marked paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Luxembourg
Luxembourg for Families
Luxembourg is a family paradise with safe cities, interactive museums, historic adventures, and welcoming culture. From fairy-tale castles to nature playgrounds, kids are engaged and parents relaxed. Public facilities cater to families with stroller access, changing rooms, and children's menus everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Bock Casemates (Luxembourg City)
Underground tunnels and fortifications with guided tours and exploration for all ages.
Tickets €5-7 adults, €3-4 kids; open year-round with family audio guides available.
National Museum of Natural History (Luxembourg City)
Interactive exhibits on wildlife, dinosaurs, and ecosystems in the city center.
Tickets €7 adults, €4 kids; combine with nearby parks for full-day family outing.
Vianden Castle
Medieval castle with panoramic views, museum, and fairy-tale atmosphere kids love.
Cable car ride up adds adventure; family tickets available with child-friendly exhibits inside.
Luxembourg Science Center (Differdange)
Hands-on science museum with experiments, planetarium, and interactive displays.
Perfect for rainy days; tickets €8-10 adults, €6 kids with multilingual exhibits.
Renert Village (Mersch)
Themed adventure park based on Luxembourg folklore with playgrounds and shows.
Tickets €10 adults, €8 kids; enchanting experience with gardens and activities.
Mullerthal Adventure Parks
Rock formations, easy hikes, and nature trails across Luxembourg's "Little Switzerland".
Family-friendly activities with picnic areas; suitable for kids 4+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Luxembourg on Viator. From castle tours to nature adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Luxembourg City & Esch-sur-Alzette): Hotels like Novotel and Ibis offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for €100-180/night. Amenities include cribs, high chairs, and kids' play areas.
- Country Family Resorts (Ardennes): Resorts with childcare, kids' clubs, and family suites. Properties like Hotel des Ardennes cater exclusively to families with entertainment programs.
- Farm Holidays (Bauernhof): Rural farms across Luxembourg welcome families with animal interactions, fresh produce, and outdoor play. Prices €50-100/night with breakfast included.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering rentals ideal for families with kitchens and washing machines. Space for kids to play and flexibility for meal times.
- Youth Hostels (Jugendherberge): Budget-friendly family rooms in hostels like those in Luxembourg City and Echternach for €60-90/night. Simple but clean with kitchen access.
- Castle Hotels: Stay in historic guesthouses like those near Vianden for fairy-tale family experience. Kids love medieval architecture and surrounding gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Luxembourg City with Kids
Bock Casemates, Mudam modern art museum's kids' area, puppet theaters, and Pétrusse Valley parks.
Horse-drawn carriage rides and ice cream at traditional parlors make Luxembourg City magical for children.
Vianden with Kids
Castle tours, chairlift rides, folklore museum, and nearby hiking trails.
Child-friendly guided tours and Our River boat rides keep families entertained.
Echternach & Mullerthal with Kids
Salt mine tours with underground slides, rock climbing playgrounds, and easy nature walks.
Sauer River beaches and picnic spots with alpine wildlife and panoramic family views.
Moselle Valley
Wine village explorations, riverside swimming, boat trips, and vineyard picnics.
Easy cycling paths and family-friendly wineries with non-alcoholic options suitable for young children.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 6 travel free; ages 6-15 get 50% discount with parent. Family compartments available on CFL trains with space for strollers. Public transport is free for all.
- City Transport: Luxembourg City offers family day passes if needed, but transport is free. Trams and buses are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (€5-10/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 14 or 150cm. SUVs offer space for family gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Luxembourg cities are highly stroller-accessible with ramps, elevators, and smooth pavements. Most attractions provide stroller parking.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Nearly all restaurants offer Kindermenü with schnitzel, pasta, or fries for €5-10. High chairs and coloring books commonly provided.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional restaurants welcome families with outdoor play areas and casual atmosphere. Luxembourg City's Clausen district has diverse food options.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Cactus and Auchan stock baby food, diapers, and organic options. Markets offer fresh produce for apartment cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Luxembourg bakeries offer pretzels, tarts, and chocolate; perfect for keeping kids energized between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in shopping centers, museums, and train stations with changing tables and nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Pharmacie): Stock baby formula, diapers, and children's medications. Staff speak English and assist with product recommendations.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels in cities arrange English-speaking babysitters for €15-20/hour. Book through concierge or local services online.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in all major cities; emergency care at hospitals with pediatric departments. EHIC covers EU citizens.
♿ Accessibility in Luxembourg
Accessible Travel
Luxembourg leads in accessibility with modern infrastructure, wheelchair-friendly transport, and inclusive attractions. Cities prioritize universal access, and tourism boards provide detailed accessibility information for planning barrier-free trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: CFL trains offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps. Book assistance 24 hours ahead; staff help with boarding at all stations. Free for all.
- City Transport: Luxembourg City's trams and buses are wheelchair-accessible with elevators and low-floor vehicles. Audio announcements aid visually impaired travelers.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis with wheelchair ramps available in cities; book via phone or apps like Mobiliteit.lu. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Luxembourg Airport provides full accessibility with assistance services, accessible toilets, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: Grand Ducal Palace and Luxembourg City's museums offer wheelchair access, tactile exhibits, and audio guides. Elevators and ramps throughout.
- Historic Sites: Vianden Castle has chairlift access; Luxembourg City's old town largely accessible though some cobblestones may challenge wheelchairs.
- Nature & Parks: Nature reserves provide accessible trails and viewpoints; parks in Luxembourg City fully wheelchair-friendly.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) for outdoor activities and festivals; spring/autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
Winter for Christmas markets and indoor attractions; shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures.
Budget Tips
Family attractions often offer combo tickets; Luxembourg Card includes transport and museum discounts. Public transport is free.
Picnics in parks and self-catering apartments save money while accommodating picky eaters.
Language
Luxembourgish, French, and German are official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and with younger generations.
Learn basic phrases; Luxembourgers appreciate effort and are patient with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Layers for variable weather, comfortable shoes for walking, and rain gear year-round.
Pet owners: bring favorite food (in case unavailable), leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
CFL app for trains, Google Maps for navigation, and local pet care services.
Mobiliteit.lu app provides real-time public transport updates.
Health & Safety
Luxembourg is very safe; tap water drinkable everywhere. Pharmacies provide medical advice.
Emergency: dial 112 for police, fire, or medical. EHIC covers EU citizens for healthcare.