Grand Ducal Palace, Luxembourg (must see)

The Grand Ducal Palace at 17 Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes marks the heart of Luxembourg City’s Old Town. As you approach it along the narrow street, look for the richly decorated stone façade with tall windows, projecting bays, and Renaissance ornament. This is the historic core of the palace, built in 1572–1573 as the city hall on the site of an earlier municipal building dating from 1418. Since 1890, it has served as the official city residence and workplace of Luxembourg’s head of state.

Before entering, take time to study the façade. The oldest section directly in front of you is distinguished by its Flemish Renaissance decoration and wrought-iron balcony. Facing the palace, look toward the right-hand side, where the complex continues into later additions. Farther along is the Chamber of Deputies, Luxembourg’s parliament building, which adjoins the palace but serves a separate function.

Near the main entrance, look for the uniformed sentry and guard box, one of the easiest ways to identify the building. Ceremonial changing-of-the-guard events are occasionally held outside and attract many spectators.

During the summer opening season, guided tours provide access to the palace interior. One of the first highlights is the Grand Staircase, whose ornate bronze and wrought-iron balustrade leads to the ceremonial rooms on the first floor.

Among the most impressive spaces is the Ballroom, recognizable by its chandeliers, decorated ceiling, gilded details, and connection to the balcony overlooking the street. Nearby is the Kings’ Salon, where portraits of Luxembourg’s former sovereigns decorate the walls. Tours may also include the formal dining room and the Grand Duke’s office, emphasizing that the palace remains an active working building rather than simply a historic monument.

Although this is the Grand Duke’s official city residence, the Grand Ducal family’s principal home is Berg Castle at Colmar-Berg.

Guided visits are normally offered during July and August and last about 75 minutes. Tours begin at the Luxembourg City Tourist Office on Place Guillaume II, a short walk from the palace. Photography is not permitted inside.

Even if you can't enter, the palace is worth seeing for its ornate Renaissance façade, ceremonial guards, and unusual combination of monarchy and parliament within one closely connected architectural complex.

Tip:
For the best exterior view, stand across Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes, stepping as far back as the opposite side allows, and angle your camera slightly upward to capture the carved upper stonework, balcony, and roofline.