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Luxembourg flag

Luxembourg

Luxembourg

Capital:Luxembourg
Population:660,809
Currency:Euro (EUR)
Language:Luxembourgish (national language), German (administrative language), French
An autumn view of Luxembourg city, Luxembourg

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Quick Look Factsheet

A multi-page overview of Luxembourg.

Luxembourg Factsheet

Customs and Culture

About the People

Luxembourg has a highly developed welfare system that allows people to put food on the table weather they are working or not. Work provides status and self esteem. Education is also provided for by the welfare system, allowing all the ability to obtain an education regardless of your financial situation. Wealth is best defined by monthly wages, real property, luxury goods, and expensive cars

Cultural Attributes

Luxembourg has a highly developed welfare system that allows people to put food on the table weather they are working or not. Work provides status and self esteem. Education is also provided for by the welfare system, allowing all the ability to obtain an education regardless of your financial situation.

Wealth is best defined by monthly wages, real property, luxury goods, and expensive cars.

When a person dies just prior to death, religious people receive the "last oiling", before the body is transferred to a morgue.

An autumn view of Luxembourg city, Luxembourg

Fortress of Prosperity

Get More Customs and Culture

5 more cultural topics for members

Social Customs & Etiquette · Diet · Family · Dating Customs · Recreation

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Holidays

  • National Day

    6/23

    Birthday

    Birthday of Grand Duchess Charlotte

  • Christmas

    12/25

    Christmas

Dates of Interest

  • December 25th

    Birthday of Grand Duchess Charlotte

How do people greet each other in Luxembourg?

Men shake hands, even with non-peers, while women typically receive three kisses on the cheeks (usually among people of the same age). Greetings vary by time of day and generation.

Do

  • Say "Moien" in the morning, "Metteg" during the day, and "n'Owend" (short for gudden Owend) in the evening
  • Use "Salut" if speaking with younger people (age 30 or less)
  • Get someone's attention by calling their name, shouting, whistling, or waving

Don’t

  • Don't expect public displays of affection, though kisses are becoming more accepted

Good to know

  • Older generations often use "Moien" or "Bonjour," with French words used to sound more distinguished
  • Many locals are multilingual, learning Luxembourgish, German, French, English, and a fifth language

What are the dining customs in Luxembourg?

Hearty appetites and large portions are standard, and Luxembourg is especially known for its delicious pastries.

Good to know

  • Try seasonal favorites like Quetsch, a plum tart popular in September
  • Les pensées brouillées is traditionally eaten on Shrove (Fat) Tuesday
  • Sample favorite dishes such as fleeschtaart (minced pork meat pies), civet de lièvre (rabbit in thick sauce), and liver dumplings

What should I know about visiting a home in Luxembourg?

You are not expected to bring gifts on ordinary visits, but gifts are customary for special occasions. Impromptu visitors may be politely turned away.

Do

  • Bring a bottle of champagne, wine, or flowers for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or dinners
  • Shake hands when leaving, and hug relatives

Don’t

  • Don't feel obligated to remove your shoes when entering a home
  • Don't drop by unannounced, as you may be politely turned away

Good to know

  • People commonly socialize at restaurants, bars, or neighborhood meals, especially summer barbecues

How should I dress in Luxembourg?

Clothing is very similar to French, German, or Belgian styles, with most people drawing fashion ideas from Europe.

Good to know

  • Everyday wear typically includes jeans, a shirt, sweater, and coat
  • Traditional clothes are very rarely worn

What is family life like in Luxembourg?

Families are usually small, with one or two children, and caring for aging parents is a legal obligation.

Good to know

  • National law requires adults to take care of their aging parents

What do people do for recreation in Luxembourg?

Soccer is the national sport, and popular adult pastimes include soccer, basketball, and cycling.

Good to know

  • Children usually start playing soccer and basketball through school or the community
  • Luxembourg's international sporting reputation comes mainly from individual sports like cycling, tennis, billiards, European bowling, darts, martial arts, and athletics

Last updated: 2026-07-12 · Sources: CountryReports

Photos of Luxembourg

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Travel and Tourism

Travel Alert Status
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Currency
euro (EUR)
Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Climate
Temperatures range from 5°F (-15°C) to 90°F (32°C), with an annual mean temperature of 49°F (9°C). Summer temperatures average 60°F (15°C) and winters are mild with an average low of 29°F (-1.7°C). July and August are the warmest months; May and June are the sunniest; and January and February are the coldest months. Luxembourg has a climate much like that of the U.S. Pacific Northwest-cool, temperate, and rainy. The northwesterly winds that traverse the western, lower portion of the Belgian Ardennes cause abundant clouds, fog, and rain. Average annual rainfall is 30 inches; some rain falls 50% of the year.
Airports
2
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Recipes

Featured Dish

Quetscheflued (Plum Tart)

Dessert

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History

Historical Eras

  1. Medieval County

    963 – 1443

    Siegfried of the Ardennes acquired the rock fortress of Lucilinburhuc in 963, founding the County of Luxembourg. The territory grew into a significant feudal power in the Holy Roman Empire, briefly elevated to a duchy in 1354. The era ended when Philip the Good of Burgundy acquired Luxembourg through purchase and conquest, beginning four centuries of foreign domination.

  2. Foreign Domination

    1443 – 1815

    Luxembourg passed successively under Burgundian, Habsburg, Spanish, French, and Austrian rule, serving primarily as a strategic fortress in the heart of Europe. The territory was repeatedly besieged and occupied, earning Vauban's description of Luxembourg as the 'Gibraltar of the North.' French Revolutionary forces annexed it outright in 1795, dissolving its distinct feudal status until the Napoleonic order collapsed.

  3. Grand Duchy Era

    1815 – 1867

    The Congress of Vienna elevated Luxembourg to a Grand Duchy in 1815, placing it in personal union with the Kingdom of the Netherlands under King William I. The Treaty of London in 1839 severed the French-speaking western half of the territory to Belgium, reducing Luxembourg to roughly its present size but granting genuine political autonomy. Luxembourg joined the German Confederation and maintained a Prussian garrison in its fortress.

  4. Independence & Neutrality

    1867 – 1914

    The second Treaty of London in 1867 recognized Luxembourg as a fully independent, perpetually neutral state, dissolved the German Confederation garrison, and ordered the dismantling of the great fortress. In 1890, the personal union with the Netherlands ended upon the accession of Grand Duke Adolphe of the Nassau-Weilburg line, establishing an entirely separate dynasty. The country developed its steel industry in the Minette region, laying foundations for future prosperity.

  5. World Wars Period

    1914 – 1948

    German forces violated Luxembourg's neutrality in both 1914 and 1940, occupying the Grand Duchy throughout each conflict. During World War II, the Nazi regime annexed Luxembourg outright, conscripting Luxembourgers into the Wehrmacht and suppressing the national language. Liberation by Allied forces in 1944 was followed by the Battle of the Bulge scarring the country's Ardennes region; these twin occupations permanently discredited neutrality as a policy.

  6. European Integration

    1948 – present

    Luxembourg abandoned neutrality in 1948 by joining the Benelux Customs Union and became a founding member of NATO in 1949. It was among the six original signatories of the 1951 Treaty of Paris establishing the European Coal and Steel Community, and later a founding member of the European Economic Community in 1957. Luxembourg City became a key seat of EU institutions, and the country adopted the euro in 2002, cementing its identity as a hub of European integration and international finance.

Overview

After 400 years of domination by various European nations, Luxembourg was granted the status of Grand Duchy by the Congress of Vienna on June 9, 1815. Although Luxembourg considers 1835 (Treaty of London) to be its year of independence, it was not granted political autonomy until 1839 under King William I of the Netherlands, who also was the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. In 1867, Luxembourg was recognized as independent and guaranteed perpetual neutrality.

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Timeline of Key Events

  1. 1867

    Luxembourg gained independence.

    Luxembourg gained independence.

  2. 1890

    Grand Duchy of Luxembourg separated from the Netherlands.

    Grand Duchy of Luxembourg separated from the Netherlands.

  3. 1914 – 1918

    Outbreak of World War I. Luxembourg is occupied by Germany until 1918.

    Outbreak of World War I. Luxembourg is occupied by Germany until 1918.

  4. 1920

    Luxembourg joins the League of Nations.

    Luxembourg joins the League of Nations.

  5. 1921

    Luxembourg enters economic union with Belgium.

    Luxembourg enters economic union with Belgium. The use of the Belgian currency in Luxembourg is permitted.

  6. 1940

    Luxembourg is again occupied by Germany.

    Luxembourg is again occupied by Germany. The occupation lasts for most of World War II, until 1944.

  7. 1948

    Luxembourg abandons its neutrality.

    Luxembourg abandons its neutrality. Forms an economic union with Belgium and the Netherlands.

View full timeline (13 events)
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Interesting Facts

  • Luxembourg has the world's highest GNP per capita at $45,100 per year.

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Geography and Environment

Geographically, the Grand Duchy is divided into two sections. The forested and hilly northern half of the country is a continuation of the Belgian Ardennes. In the south, the Lorraine Plateau extends from France, creating an open, rolling countryside with an average elevation of 1,000 feet. The Our, Sure, and Moselle Rivers flow north-south along the frontier between Luxembourg and Germany.
Terrain
mostly gently rolling uplands with broad, shallow valleys; uplands to slightly mountainous in the north; steep slope down to Moselle flood plain in the southeast
Climate
Temperatures range from 5°F (-15°C) to 90°F (32°C), with an annual mean temperature of 49°F (9°C). Summer temperatures average 60°F (15°C) and winters are mild with an average low of 29°F (-1.7°C). July and August are the warmest months; May and June are the sunniest; and January and February are the coldest months. Luxembourg has a climate much like that of the U.S. Pacific Northwest-cool, temperate, and rainy. The northwesterly winds that traverse the western, lower portion of the Belgian Ardennes cause abundant clouds, fog, and rain. Average annual rainfall is 30 inches; some rain falls 50% of the year.
Natural Hazards
NA
Current Environmental Issues
air and water pollution in urban areas, soil pollution of farmland
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People & Demographics

Religion

Languages Spoken

Luxembourgish (national language), German (administrative language), French

  • French
  • German
  • Luxembourgish

Population

Population
660,809
Population in Major Urban Areas
LUXEMBOURG (capital) 94,000
Nationality Noun
Luxembourger(s)
Ethnic Groups
Celtic base (with French and German blend), Portuguese, Italian, Slavs (from Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo) and European (guest and resident workers)

Education

Literacy Definition
age 15 and over can read and write

Health Information

Life Expectancy at Birth
Luxembourg consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for life expectancy, reflecting its high standard of living, well-funded public healthcare system, and strong economic prosperity. As of the most recent data, life expectancy at birth in Luxembourg stands at approximately 82 to 83 years overall, with women typically living longer than men. Women in Luxembourg can expect to live to around 85 years, while men have an average life expectancy of approximately 80 to 81 years. These figures place Luxembourg well above the global average and on par with other leading European nations such as Switzerland, Spain, and Iceland. The country's universal healthcare system, known for its comprehensive coverage and accessibility, plays a central role in supporting long, healthy lives for residents. Luxembourg's healthcare expenditure per capita is among the highest in the European Union, enabling access to advanced medical treatments, preventive care, and specialist services. Several factors contribute to Luxembourg's strong life expectancy outcomes. The country maintains low rates of extreme poverty, high levels of education, and robust environmental regulations that help ensure clean air and water. Luxembourg has also made significant investments in public health infrastructure, including mental health services and programs targeting chronic disease prevention. The aging population is a notable demographic trend in Luxembourg, as it is across much of Europe. The government has responded with policies aimed at sustainable pension funding and long-term care planning to accommodate a growing share of elderly residents. Immigration also plays a role in shaping demographic statistics, as Luxembourg has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents of any country in the world, which can influence national health averages in complex ways. Overall, the combination of economic stability, quality healthcare, social safety nets, and a high standard of living makes Luxembourg one of the most favorable environments in the world for longevity.

Life Expectancy

Life Expectancy at Birth
Luxembourg consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for life expectancy, reflecting its high standard of living, well-funded public healthcare system, and strong economic prosperity. As of the most recent data, life expectancy at birth in Luxembourg stands at approximately 82 to 83 years overall, with women typically living longer than men. Women in Luxembourg can expect to live to around 85 years, while men have an average life expectancy of approximately 80 to 81 years. These figures place Luxembourg well above the global average and on par with other leading European nations such as Switzerland, Spain, and Iceland. The country's universal healthcare system, known for its comprehensive coverage and accessibility, plays a central role in supporting long, healthy lives for residents. Luxembourg's healthcare expenditure per capita is among the highest in the European Union, enabling access to advanced medical treatments, preventive care, and specialist services. Several factors contribute to Luxembourg's strong life expectancy outcomes. The country maintains low rates of extreme poverty, high levels of education, and robust environmental regulations that help ensure clean air and water. Luxembourg has also made significant investments in public health infrastructure, including mental health services and programs targeting chronic disease prevention. The aging population is a notable demographic trend in Luxembourg, as it is across much of Europe. The government has responded with policies aimed at sustainable pension funding and long-term care planning to accommodate a growing share of elderly residents. Immigration also plays a role in shaping demographic statistics, as Luxembourg has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents of any country in the world, which can influence national health averages in complex ways. Overall, the combination of economic stability, quality healthcare, social safety nets, and a high standard of living makes Luxembourg one of the most favorable environments in the world for longevity.
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Government & Politics

Country Identity

Country Name
Luxembourg
Full Country Name
Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Local - Long
Grand Duche de Luxembourg
Local - Short
Luxembourg

Government Structure

Government Type
constitutional monarchy
Legal System
based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Executive Branch
chief of state: Grand Duke HENRI (since 7 October 2000); Heir Apparent Prince GUILLAUME (son of the monarch, born 11 November 1981) head of government: Prime Minister Luc FRIEDEN (since 17 November 2023); Deputy Prime Minister Xavier BETTEL (since 17 November 2023) cabinet: Council of Ministers recommended by the prime minister and appointed by the monarch elections: none; the monarch is hereditary; following popular elections to the Chamber of Deputies, the leader of the majority party or the leader of the majority coalition is usually appointed prime minister by the monarch; the deputy prime minister is appointed by the monarch; they are responsible to the Chamber of Deputies note: government coalition - CSV and DP
Legislative Branch
Unicameral Chamber of Deputies or Chambre des Députés (60 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms) Elections: last held on 8 October 2023 (next to be held in October 2028) Election results: percent of vote by party - CSV 28.1%, LSAP 18.0%, DP 14.3%, Green Party 8.6%, ADR 9.0%, Pirate Party 6.8%, déi Lénk 5.0%; seats by party - CSV 21, LSAP 11, DP 14, Green Party 4, ADR 5, Pirate Party 6, déi Lénk 2 (approximate distribution based on 2023 results) Note: there is also a Council of State that serves as an advisory body to the Chamber of Deputies; the Council of State has 21 members appointed by the Grand Duke on the advice of the prime minister
Judicial Branch
judicial courts and tribunals (3 Justices of the Peace, 2 district courts, and 1 Supreme Court of Appeals); administrative courts and tribunals (State Prosecutor's Office, administrative courts and tribunals, and the Constitutional Court); judges for all courts are appointed for life by the monarch
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Constitution
17 October 1868, occasional revisions
Independence
1839 (from the Netherlands)
National Holiday
National Day (Birthday of Grand Duchess Charlotte) 23 June

Capital City

Capital Name
Luxembourg
Capital - geographic coordinate
49 36 N, 6 07 E
Capital Time Difference
UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

the name derives from the Celtic lucilem (little) and the German burg (castle or fortress) to produce the meaning of the "little castle"; the name is actually ironic, since for centuries the Fortress of Luxembourg was one of Europe's most formidable fortifications; the name passed to the city that grew around the fortress

Military

Branches: Luxembourg Army (L'Armee Luxembourgeoises)

Embassy / Diplomatic Mission

U.S. Embassy Luxembourg

22, Blvd Emmanuel Servais, L-2535 Luxembourg City

Telephone: (352) 46 01 23 (available 24/7),

Emergency after-hours telephone: (352) 621 547 133 (duty officer)

Facsimile: (352) 46 19 39

Email: luxembourgconsular@state.gov

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Economy

Luxembourg boasts a stable, high-income economy characterized by moderate growth, low inflation, and relatively low unemployment. While the industrial sector was historically dominated by steel, it has diversified considerably to include chemicals, automotive components, glass, and aluminum.

Snapshot

Currency Name and Code
Euro (EUR)
GDP — official exchange rate
$31,760,000,000 (USD)
GDP Real Growth Rate
1.5%
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News & Weather

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Climate Overview

Temperatures range from 5°F (-15°C) to 90°F (32°C), with an annual mean temperature of 49°F (9°C). Summer temperatures average 60°F (15°C) and winters are mild with an average low of 29°F (-1.7°C). July and August are the warmest months; May and June are the sunniest; and January and February are the coldest months. Luxembourg has a climate much like that of the U.S. Pacific Northwest-cool, temperate, and rainy. The northwesterly winds that traverse the western, lower portion of the Belgian Ardennes cause abundant clouds, fog, and rain. Average annual rainfall is 30 inches; some rain falls 50% of the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the population of Luxembourg?
The population of Luxembourg is approximately 660,809.
How do people greet each other in Luxembourg?
Men shake hands, even with non-peers, while women typically receive three kisses on the cheeks (usually among people of the same age). Greetings vary by time of day and generation. Do: Say "Moien" in the morning, "Metteg" during the day, and "n'Owend" (short for gudden Owend) in the evening Use "Salut" if speaking with younger people (age 30 or less) Get someone's attention by calling their name, shouting, whistling, or waving Don't: Don't expect public displays of affection, though kisses are becoming more accepted Older generations often use "Moien" or "Bonjour," with French words used to sound more distinguished Many locals are multilingual, learning Luxembourgish, German, French, English, and a fifth language
What are the dining customs in Luxembourg?
Hearty appetites and large portions are standard, and Luxembourg is especially known for its delicious pastries. Try seasonal favorites like Quetsch, a plum tart popular in September Les pensées brouillées is traditionally eaten on Shrove (Fat) Tuesday Sample favorite dishes such as fleeschtaart (minced pork meat pies), civet de lièvre (rabbit in thick sauce), and liver dumplings
What should I know about visiting a home in Luxembourg?
You are not expected to bring gifts on ordinary visits, but gifts are customary for special occasions. Impromptu visitors may be politely turned away. Do: Bring a bottle of champagne, wine, or flowers for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or dinners Shake hands when leaving, and hug relatives Don't: Don't feel obligated to remove your shoes when entering a home Don't drop by unannounced, as you may be politely turned away People commonly socialize at restaurants, bars, or neighborhood meals, especially summer barbecues
How should I dress in Luxembourg?
Clothing is very similar to French, German, or Belgian styles, with most people drawing fashion ideas from Europe. Everyday wear typically includes jeans, a shirt, sweater, and coat Traditional clothes are very rarely worn
What is family life like in Luxembourg?
Families are usually small, with one or two children, and caring for aging parents is a legal obligation. National law requires adults to take care of their aging parents
What do people do for recreation in Luxembourg?
Soccer is the national sport, and popular adult pastimes include soccer, basketball, and cycling. Children usually start playing soccer and basketball through school or the community Luxembourg's international sporting reputation comes mainly from individual sports like cycling, tennis, billiards, European bowling, darts, martial arts, and athletics
What is the capital of Luxembourg?
Luxembourg City serves as the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and is one of the four official capitals of the European Union. Perched on a dramatic sandstone plateau, it houses major EU institutions including the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Court of Auditors. The city's historic old town and its fortifications are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting centuries of strategic and cultural importance at the heart of Western Europe.
Where is Luxembourg located?
Luxembourg is a small landlocked country situated in Western Europe, nestled between France to the south, Belgium to the west and north, and Germany to the east. Despite its modest size, it occupies a strategically significant position at the crossroads of Romance and Germanic Europe. Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union and has long served as a hub for European political and financial cooperation.
What countries border Luxembourg?
Luxembourg shares borders with three countries: Belgium to the west and north, Germany to the east, and France to the south. The country lost more than half of its original territory to Belgium in 1839, reshaping the borders that define it today. Despite this reduction, Luxembourg retained enough autonomy to develop into a fully independent, prosperous state, achieving complete independence in 1867.
What religion is practiced in Luxembourg?
Roman Catholicism is by far the dominant religion in Luxembourg, practiced by approximately 87 percent of the population. The remaining 13 percent includes Protestants, Jews, and Muslims. The Catholic Church has historically shaped Luxembourg's cultural traditions, public holidays, and social institutions, though the country maintains a secular constitutional framework that guarantees freedom of religion for all residents.
What currency does Luxembourg use?
Luxembourg uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. The country adopted the euro in 1999 as one of the original members of the eurozone, replacing the Luxembourg franc. This transition reflected Luxembourg's deep integration into European economic structures — the country was also one of the six founding members of the European Economic Community in 1957, the forerunner of the modern European Union.
What languages are spoken in Luxembourg?
Luxembourg recognizes three official languages: Luxembourgish, which serves as the national language and is the primary tongue of everyday speech; German, used predominantly in administrative and legal contexts; and French, widely employed in government, business, and higher education. This trilingualism reflects the country's position at the intersection of Germanic and Romance Europe and is a defining feature of Luxembourgish cultural identity, with multilingualism considered a practical social norm rather than a rarity.
What is Luxembourg known for?
Luxembourg is known for its extraordinary wealth — it consistently ranks among the world's highest in GDP per capita, driven by a powerful financial services sector that makes Luxembourg City one of Europe's foremost banking centers. The country is also recognized for its remarkably well-developed welfare state, which provides universal education and social support regardless of income. Historically, Luxembourg's Bock Casemates, a vast network of underground fortifications carved into the city's cliffs, draw visitors and reflect its centuries-long role as a coveted military stronghold in the heart of Europe.

Last reviewed 2026

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