Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, Luxembourg

The Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge, affectionately known as the “Red Bridge”, is one of Luxembourg City’s most iconic landmarks. Completed in 1965 and opened in 1966, it was designed by German architect Egon Jux following a national competition, and built as part of a broader initiative to develop the Kirchberg plateau as the future home of European institutions. The bridge spans the Alzette River and the Pfaffenthal valley, rising approximately 74–75 meters above the valley floor, stretching 355 meters long with a clear main span of 234 meters. Its striking red steel structure-drawing on Luxembourg’s industrial heritage-makes it a bold visual anchor in the city's skyline.

For tourists, the Red Bridge is more than just a functional crossing-it’s a fascinating blend of urban design, history, and picturesque views. The bridge carries six lanes of road traffic, a tram line (LuxTram’s Line 1 since 2018), plus dedicated pedestrian and cycle paths suspended beneath the main deck. Walking or cycling across presents panoramic vistas in every direction: the historic Ville Haute, steep valley walls, and the ultra-modern Kirchberg district, dotted with EU institutions and sleek skyscrapers.

Highlights include the chance to pause mid-span and take photos of the city curving beneath you, especially dramatic at sunset or under soft evening illumination. Nearby attractions like the Pfaffenthal‑Kirchberg funicular, which runs adjacent to the bridge and lifts visitors up the steep hillside, make combining a bridge visit with a fun glimpse of city infrastructure effortless.

In short, the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge is a must for visitors to Luxembourg: it merges engineering brilliance, cultural significance, and photogenic views into one memorable experience, bridging the city’s historic heart with its modern European future.

Why You Should Visit:
The iconic bridge of the city, with a view of the valley that separates the upper town and the lower town.
It also offers the possibility of taking some souvenir photos with monuments characteristic of the city.