Vianden

Vianden – A Picturesque Medieval Town in Luxembourg Vianden, a charming medieval town in Luxembourg, captivates visitors with its narrow streets and lively festivals. Its true jewel, however, is the impressive Vianden Castle, majestically perched above the Our Valley. Carefully restored, the castle not only reflects centuries of history but also offers breathtaking panoramic views across Vianden and its surroundings.

Every year, countless visitors are drawn to the historic old town, fascinated by its cobbled lanes, medieval town walls with watchtowers, and the vibrant medieval festival. Vianden’s rich past is closely linked with personalities such as Victor Hugo, Edmond de la Fontaine, and the Counts of Vianden and the House of Nassau.

Geographically, Vianden belongs to the Luxembourg Ardennes(Éislek), bordering Germany’s Eifel region and Luxembourg’s Mullerthal. Nestled directly on the River Our, which partly marks the German border, the town is dominated by its iconic castle. Picturesque spots such as the Grand-Rue or the Victor Hugo Bridge, with its statue of the writer and views of the river and surrounding hillsides, are among the most photographed sights in town. The municipality has approximately 2,200 inhabitants.

Vianden Castle – Unique in Europe

Vianden Castle is one of the most important historical monuments in Europe. Built on the remains of a Roman fort and developed between the 11th and 14th centuries, it represents the grand feudal residences of the Romanesque and Gothic periods. Today, it is part of Luxembourg’s national heritage and under state ownership.

After extensive restoration, the castle shines in immaculate condition and can therefore also be visited from the inside. Its highlights include the chapel, the Great and Small Palaces, and the gallery – all offering unique insights into medieval architecture. Recognised by CNN as one of the world’s 20 most beautiful castles, it attracts visitors from across the globe. From its ramparts, the sweeping views of the Our Valley and Vianden town are truly unforgettable. Several films were shot there, including ‘Shadow of the Vampire’.

The castle opens its doors every day at 10 a.m. Closing times vary depending on the season. Admission to the castle is free with the LuxembourgPass and for children under 6 years of age. Detailed prices can be found on the castle's website. The visit takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Hiking in Vianden

Surrounded by green hills and the winding Our Valley, Vianden is an excellent starting point for hiking in the Luxembourg Ardennes. Six marked hiking trails begin in town, starting at the Tourist Info or the cemetery, with routes leading either directly to the castle or through the surrounding landscapes.

The Nat’Our Route 5 is more challenging but rewards walkers with spectacular views across the town and valley. For families, the Ourdall Promenade is ideal: a barrier-free riverside trail leading all the way to Stolzembourg.

Culture in Vianden – Victor Hugo & More

For culture lovers, the Victor Hugo Museum is a must. The French writer stayed in Vianden in 1871 during his political exile, and today visitors can explore his former residence. A viewpoint named after Hugo showcases the setting of one of his major paintings.

In 2023, the Vianden dam became home to a striking reverse graffiti artwork by German artist Klaus Dauven, depicting the faces of workers who helped construct the hydroelectric power station.

The Only Chairlift in Luxembourg

Another highlight is the Vianden chairlift, the only one of its kind in Luxembourg. Floating from the valley station near the mini-golf course across the River Our up to the hilltop, it offers stunning bird’s-eye views of the medieval town and its natural surroundings. At the top, visitors can relax with a drink on the terrace while enjoying the panoramic scenery.

During each ride, a photo is taken – a perfect keepsake of the experience. Adventurous visitors can also hike up to Vianden Castle along a steep forest path.

Accommodation and Gastronomy in Vianden

Vianden has long been a popular tourist destination and offers a wide range of places to stay, including hotels, guesthouses, holiday rentals, a youth hostel, and campsites.

Its restaurants and cafés, many with terraces overlooking the River Our, invite visitors to try traditional Luxembourgish dishes and local specialities.

Thanks to its central location in Europe, directly on the German border and close to Belgium, Vianden is a perfect year-round destination. Nearby towns such as Clervaux, Echternach, and Diekirch are easy to reach with Luxembourg’s free public transport, while Luxembourg City and Trier are only a short journey away.