I'm a travel writer who visited 5 European countries this year. There's only one I'd recommend for a winter getaway.
- Luxembourg is the most underrated choice for a winter getaway.
- The European nation stands out for its gorgeous castles and free public transportation.
As winter approaches, it's time to start thinking about where to spend the holidays.
If you're like me and enjoy traveling during the festive season, I'd recommend Luxembourg, a little-known European nation that's one of the wealthiest countries in the world.
Luxembourg is one of five European nations I visited at the beginning of this year, along with Spain, Belgium, Norway, and Italy. While each country has something special to offer, Luxembourg would be my top choice for a winter getaway because of its beautiful castles and free public transportation.
The snow-capped castles feel like a winter wonderland
I visited Luxembourg in March when it was snowing.
I spent two nights at Chateau d'Urspelt, a 300-year-old castle near Clervaux in northern Luxembourg that was converted into a luxury hotel and spa in 2008. My superior room cost 376 euros, or around $410, for two nights, and had a queen-size bed that was decorated with rose petals upon my arrival. There was also a flat-screen TV and a walk-in bathroom with a bathtub and shower.
But the best thing about my room was the view of the courtyard, which looked like a winter wonderland in the snow.
Luxembourg has more than 70 castles, some of which date back 1,000 years, according to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Whether you stay in one of them overnight or choose a fleeting visit, these ancient buildings will surely be a highlight of any winter vacation.
Travel by train for undisturbed views
Luxembourg has 645,000 residents and is smaller than Rhode Island. The country's tiny population is something to consider if you're looking for peace and quiet during your trip; oftentimes, I was the only tourist at many of the attractions I visited.
While in Luxembourg, you could make use of the country's public transportation, which has been free to residents and visitors since 2020. And if you want to travel a little further afield, you can take affordable trains to its neighboring countries, Belgium, France, and Germany.
One highlight of my visit was the three-hour train journey I took from Clervaux, Luxembourg, to Brussels, Belgium, which cost $25.
The interior of the train was clean, comfortable, and spacious. There were only a couple of other passengers, and it was so peaceful that I would have had no issue with staying on the train for a longer journey.
Before visiting Luxembourg, I don't recall ever hearing of it being a popular winter destination — but it should be. While on the train, I got to enjoy views of the countryside's frosty hills, snow-drenched forests, and icy rivers. It was magical.
Luxembourg is certainly underrated, and it will leave you feeling inspired and ready to embrace the winter weather.