Museums and cultural centers in Luxembourg

Museums are an undeniably important part of any country — they are a source of education and entertainment, they provide a sense of cultural heritage, promote tourism, and can be a great option for social gatherings.

Despite its small size, Luxembourg has a rich history and an impressive cultural heritage. The beautiful museums of the Grand Duchy preserve the cultural heritage and treasures of the country. You can visit them with your family or alone, and enjoy some art and history in your free time.

Museum Nights

Screenshot from the video on Museumsmile.lu

The Night of Museums (or Nuit des Mesees) is an annual event that takes place in many cities and countries around the world, including Luxembourg. During this event, museums and cultural institutions stay open late into the night and offer a range of special activities and events, such as guided tours, concerts, and workshops.

In Luxembourg, the Night of Museums usually takes place in the middle of autumn or the first half of October.

In previous years, the event has included over 40 museums and cultural institutions throughout the country, including the Museum of Modern Art, the National Museum of History and Art, and other historic places.

Visitors can purchase a single ticket that provides access to all participating museums, and free shuttle buses are often provided to transport visitors between venues. The event is a great opportunity to explore Luxembourg's rich cultural heritage and enjoy a fun night out with friends and family.

Special Passes for museums in Luxembourg

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The Kulturpass

The Kulturpass is a special program and cultural access pass, that aims to provide people on low incomes with free or reduced-price access to cultural events in Luxembourg. Prices for tickets to events in this case will be as low as 1,5 euros, or even free.

With the Kulturpass, cardholders can get free or discounted entry to a range of cultural events and institutions, including museums, concerts, festivals, theatre performances, and more. The program is supported by the Luxembourg Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Family Affairs.

To apply for the Kulturpass, you need to come to the collection point (usual partners of the program) with an ID Card and just one of the following documents:

the written proof of the cost of living allowance delivered by the National Solidarity Fund (FNS)

the form provided by social partners of the program.

Once the application is approved, you will receive a Kulturpass card, which is valid for two years. Now you can use the pass to access cultural events and museums across the country.

The Kulturpass program also offers workshops and other cultural activities aimed at promoting social inclusion and cultural diversity. It aims to break down barriers to cultural participation and ensure that everyone in Luxembourg has the opportunity to experience and enjoy the country's rich cultural offerings. A full list of partners in the program can be found on the website.

The LuxembourgCard

The LuxembourgCard is a program that provides guests and residents of the Grand Duchy with free or reduced-price access to over 80 tourist attractions and museums in Luxembourg.

The card can be purchased online with the mobile app, at participating tourist offices, and at some hotels and campsites in Luxembourg. It is valid for a period of 1, 2, or 3 days, making it perfect for tourists in Luxembourg. It offers free admission to all participating sites during that time. In addition to free entry, the card also includes discounts on tours, transportation, and other activities.

Some of the popular attractions that are included in the LuxembourgCard program are the Luxembourg City Tourist Office, the Casemates du Bock, the National Museum of History and Art, the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial, and the Vianden Castle, among many others.

Art museums

MUDAM: Grand Duke Jean Museum of Contemporary Art

Christian Aschman, Mudam Luxembourg

Musée d'Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean is located in the heart of Luxembourg, in a spectacular glass and metal building. Designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei — among his other creations are the world-famous pyramid for the Louvre, the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, and other outstanding architectural monuments.

MUDAM is a museum of contemporary art. It features works by artists from around the world, including Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and Jeff Koons.

In addition to its permanent collection, MUDAM holds seasonal temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the year, making it a must-see for art lovers. It also hosts numerous activities for children and teens.

The museum is closed on Tuesdays and December 25; on all other days, the MUDAM can be visited during working hours.

Every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the entrance is free for everyone. At other times the ticket price for adults is 8 euros, and for groups of 15 people or more — 5 euros. For young people under 21, students, and Kulturpass card holders the entrance is free of charge.

Mudam website (press kit)

Villa Vauban: Museum of Fine Arts

Villa Vauban website

Vauban Museum Villa is located in an 18th-century villa in the heart of Luxembourg's old town. The mansion was renovated and extended by the Luxembourg architects Diane Heirend & Philippe Schmit, the main goal of which was to preserve the historic architecture.

The collection focuses on European art from the 16th to 19th centuries, with special emphasis on Flemish and Dutch paintings. The museum features paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, Antonis van Dyck and Rembrandt. Throughout the year, the villa holds seasonal exhibitions.

The museum is closed on Tuesdays, November 1, December 25 and January 1. On all other days, Villa Vauban can be visited during office hours.

Every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the entrance is free for everyone. At other times the cost for adults is 5 euros, and for groups of 10 people or more — 3 euros. Free for young people under 21, students, and Kulturpass card holders.

MNHA: National History and Art Museum

MNHA Facebook page

This National history and Art museum is located in the heart of Luxembourg's historic center and is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building.

The museum's extensive collection spans more than 50,000 years of Luxembourg's history and includes artifacts from the Roman period, the Middle Ages, and the modern art era.

Highlights of the collection include ancient Roman mosaics, medieval sculptures and paintings, and contemporary art installations. The MNHA is also home to a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, making it a dynamic cultural center in the heart of the city full of museums.

Every Thursday, between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., the museum offers free entrance for all. At other times, adults can enter for 7 euros, while those coming in bigger groups of 10 and more will have to pay 5 euros per person, and families (parents and children) — 10 euros. Individuals younger than 26 and students can enjoy free entry. The same as those who have a Kulturpass — moreover, they can also join various workshops for both younger and older for half of the price.

If you still have questions unanswered or want to request special conditions for your visit, you can write to the museum at musee@mnha.etat.lu. To get more information on planning your visit, visit their official website.

Casino Luxembourg: contemporary art museum

Casino Forum Website

Established in 1996, Forum d'art contemporain showcases contemporary art from a diverse selection of mainly up-and-coming artists from around the world. In addition to the art exhibitions, the center also offers public spaces that serve a variety of purposes, creating a warm and welcoming environment.

The Casino Luxembourg operates more as an innovative, modern art museum and exploratory laboratory for contemporary art, continuously pushing the boundaries of the latest developments in the field.

The forum provides a welcoming space for anyone with an appreciation for new things, including experts in the field, passionate aficionados, and newcomers eager to explore the singular realm of modern art artistic expression.

The museum is known for its focus on cutting-edge and experimental art, and its exhibitions often feature works by emerging artists from around the world. Some of the permanent exhibitions that have been on display at the Casino Luxembourg in recent years include:

La Surface de l'Art (1997)

This exhibition explores the concept of surface in contemporary art, featuring works by artists such as Michel Blazy, Angela Bulloch, and Philippe Decrauzat. The exhibition looks at how artists use surfaces to create meaning, from the physical materials used in the artwork to the symbolic and conceptual implications of surfaces.

A Wise Thought in a Circle (2003)

This exhibition focuses on the work of artist Rosemarie Trockel, featuring a range of her pieces from the 1980s to the present day. Trockel is known for her use of unconventional materials and techniques, and her work often addresses issues of gender and identity.

Beautiful Steps #10 (2014)

This exhibition is part of a series that showcases recent acquisitions by the museum. Beautiful Steps #10 features works by artists including Raphaël Zarka, Katinka Bock, and Karl Holmqvist, exploring themes of movement, space, and geometry.

Zeitgeist: Karl Cobain (2016)

This exhibition looks at the work of German artist Karl Cobain, who is known for his abstract paintings and sculptures that use a variety of materials and techniques. The exhibition explores Cobain's interest in the intersection of art and science, as well as his engagement with issues of identity and perception.

Every Thursday evening at 19:00 and every Sunday at 15:00, a mediator will show you the current exhibition. Entrance to the museum is free for all. On their website, you can also book a guided tour or a guided tour with babies, as well as various workshops.

There are schedules for children and families workshops, ranging between 6 and 14 euros, as well as school programs. With these, children from schools can come to the museum with a guided tour, and participate in a special workshop for the group.

Historical museums

Musée National de la Résistance

Facebook page of Museum

Situated in Esch-sur-Alzette, the museum provides an impartial perspective on one of the most challenging eras in Luxembourg's past.

The exhibition centers on Luxembourg's experiences during World War II, including its courageous resistance to Nazi occupation. The displays feature photographs and personal items belonging to individuals who lived through this tumultuous period, along with exhibits showcasing the country's resistance movement.

At the moment, the museum is closed to visitors as a permanent exhibition is being installed and is anticipated to reopen in April 2023. We will announce the exact reopening date with our news channels.

You can take a look and plan your visit to the Museum online: there are plenty of descriptions of upcoming expositions.

There is no admission fee for visiting the abbey and its exhibitions. However, some of the public events may require a fee. You can see the list of upcoming events and choose which one you would like to see on the official website of Neumünster Abbey.

Musée d'Histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg

museumsmile.lu website

Housed within a historic 17th-century structure, the Lёtzebuerg City Museum is focused on preserving and showcasing the rich history of Luxembourg's capital city. The collection comprises a range of medieval artifacts, photographs, and documents, chronicling the city's evolution from its earliest days up to the present.

Notably, the collection includes a significant selection of exhibits dedicated to the city's industrial and cultural history of Luxembourg city.

But besides that, they have a unique and fun exhibition, connected to pop art, for example, the Best of Posters exhibition, that will run until the beginning of 2024.

Screenshot from the official website

The museum is closed on the following days: November 1st, December 25th, and January 1st.

The standard entrance fee for adults is 5 euros. People older than 60 pay reduced prices for tickets — 3 euros per person. Additionally, certain groups of visitors are also eligible for free or discounted entry:

people younger than 21 years old,

students younger than 26 years old (with valid student card),

and holders of a muséeskaart or LuxembourgCard.

There are special offers for groups of visitors, who want to enjoy exhibitions is a good company. For groups, the entry fee is 3 euros per person, with the option to book a guide for a total of 100 euros per group.

Musée Dräi Eechelen

Luxembourg City website

The Musée Dräi Eechelen in Luxembourg is a museum that serves as a preservation for the Thüngen Fort, a significant historical place that has great value for the history of the Grand Duchy. The fort was originally built in the 18th century as part of Luxembourg's extensive fortifications, and it played an important role in the country's defense over the centuries.

In recent years, the fort has been integrated into the Kirchberg district's general urban development project, which has given it a prominent position in Luxembourg city's cultural tourism. The museum was established to further enhance the fort's significance and to promote its historical value to the public.

Unlike traditional museums that simply showcase artifacts, the Musée Dräi Eechelen aims to tell the story of Luxembourg's Fortress and explain its unique significance in the city's history, the formation of the country's territory, and the cultural identity of the nation. Through interactive exhibits and engaging displays, visitors can learn about the history of the fort and its role in shaping the city and the country as a whole.

The museum features a range of exhibitions that explore different aspects of the fort's history, including its construction, its use as a military stronghold, and its eventual transformation into a cultural heritage site. Visitors can explore the fort's underground tunnels and passages, view historical artifacts, and experience immersive multimedia exhibits that bring the fort's history to life.

You can check out the current agenda on the official website.

Museumsmile Program

There are 7 museums that participate in the Museumsmile program in Luxembourg. The tour of this museum on a card forms a smile in a mile, here is how the name was created. Truly unique collaboration allows visitors to benefit from the 7 main museums of Luxembourg City.

The program includes also the museums we mentioned above:

Villa Vauban — Musée d'Art de la Ville de Luxembourg

Musée d'Histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg

Musée Dräi Eechelen — Forteresse, Histoire, Identités

Lëtzebuerg City Museum — Musée de la Ville de Luxembourg

Musée national d'histoire et d'art Luxembourg

Mudam Luxembourg — Musée d'Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean

Casino Luxembourg — Forum d'art contemporain

To get an annual unlimited pass for these museums, you can purchase a special pass at any of the participating museums — as of September 2021, the cost of the annual museum pass for the Museumsmile program in Luxembourg was 50 euros for adults and 20 euros for students and seniors (age 60+). You can purchase the museum pass through the participating museums.

Museums for children and adults

MNHN: National Museum of Natural History

Luxembourg City website

The Luxembourg National Museum of Natural History is a fascinating museum that provides visitors with a wealth of knowledge about the natural world. The museum is located in three separate buildings on either side of Münster Street, each dedicated to different activities.

The «natur museum», which is the museum's main attraction, is housed in the Hospice Saint-Jean building.

The museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions feature a wide range of specimens from the natural world, including rocks, minerals, fossils, plants, and animals.

Visitors can explore the museum's interactive displays and learn about the geological history of the region, the diversity of plant and animal life, and the importance of environmental conservation.

The educational building of the museum features three classrooms that are used for environmental awareness and educational activities geared toward young people, especially school groups. These activities are designed to promote a greater understanding of the natural world and to inspire future generations of environmental stewards.

The Scientific Research Center of the museum comprises six laboratory offices and two collection depots. Here, scientists and researchers carry out cutting-edge research on the natural world and study the museum's extensive collection of specimens. Visitors can learn about the latest scientific discoveries and see firsthand how scientists are working to better understand the natural world.

During the end-of-year holidays, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; on December 24 & 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Museum will be closed on December 25, December 26, and January 2, as well as on Mondays all year long.

Usual fees are 5 euros for adults, and 3 euros for seniors. But there are free admission for certain people:

Everyone up to 21 years old;

Students up to 26 years old with a valid student card;

Holders of Muséeskaart, LuxembourgCard, ICOM, Kulturpass, or Scientific collaborators of the MnhnL.

Groups of up to 25 members can join a guided tour around the Museum for 60 euros.

The museum holds permanent exhibitions as well as temporary ones. Some interesting upcoming this year temporary exhibitions are:

IMPACT — Biodiversity in question (April 16, 2023)

Täuschend echt. Wilde Orchideen in Luxemburg (May 26 – August 27, 2023)

2024: Asteroid Mission (October 13 – August 18)

Science Festival (November 9-12, 2023)

Museum of Cinema

Cinémathèque de la Ville de Luxembourg, website

The Cinémathèque is an essential destination for cinephiles visiting Luxembourg. As a cultural institution, it is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of international film heritage. With its extensive archives of films and other materials, the Cinémathèque plays a vital role in safeguarding film history for future generations.

Located at Place du Théâtre, the Cinémathèque is not just a repository of films: in addition to showcasing films, it also hosts a diverse array of events such as film conferences, round tables, youth programs, senior activities, film concerts, and festivals. These events are designed to engage and educate audiences about the history, culture, and artistry of cinema.

Tickets can be bought in the box office, or online. Keep in mind, that reduced-price tickets are only available in the office. The price for one ticket for an adult is 3,70 euros. A booklet of 10 tickets can be purchased for 25 euros. Reduced prices are available for the elderly, students, and young people under 18 years old: in this case the single ticket will cost 2,40 euros, and ten tickets bundle — 17 euros.

Tram and Bus Museum

website ville de luxembourg

The Tramsmusée, invites visitors on a captivating journey through the evolution of public transportation in Luxembourg.

The museum boasts a collection of restored trams and buses. The collection also includes written artifacts, such as controller uniforms, tickets, punchers, maps, and plans, spanning the history of mobility in Luxembourg City.

Visitors can even explore two operational electric trams, two tram engines, a life-size replica of a horse-drawn tram, two buses, and a stunning Ford wagon utilized for catenary maintenance. Exhibition guides and explanatory plans provide detailed insights into the mechanics and technical specifications of the vehicles. Whether you're a technology enthusiast or a history buff, the Tramsmusée offers something for everyone.

The museum is usually open on official public holidays, making it a great place to spend weekends: it operates from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., excluding the 1st of November and All Saints Day. All primary and temporary exhibitions are free of charge for everyone visiting this museum.

Read more about Luxembourg's traditional holidays in our special article — Luxembourg public holidays 2023: bank holidays and traditions.

Toy Museum in Clervaux

Unsplash, Wilhelm Gunkel

This museum‘s collection is a wonderland for both children and adults alike.

It showcases exhibits featuring vintage trains, cars, toy soldiers, dolls, and other antique toys. Visits are available only upon prior request, as the collection is private.

The museum is located in a historic building in the center of Clervaux, a picturesque town in the north of Luxembourg. The collection includes over 1,000 toys from different periods, many of which are from the 19th and 20th centuries.

The museum is family-friendly and has interactive exhibits and activities for children, including a play area and a dressing-up corner where kids can try on historical costumes.

The museum is open year-round and works on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., although the hours may vary depending on the season.

Museum of Luxembourg Chateaux and Palaces

visit-clervaux.lu

The Clervaux Castle is home to an extraordinary exposition, called Exposition de maquettes des châteaux et châteaux forts du Luxembourg.  It is home to 22 models showcasing Luxembourg's castles and fortresses.

These meticulously crafted 1:100 scale models are accompanied by captivating pictures and sound recordings and are displayed in beautifully renovated rooms surrounding the castle courtyard.

Since the 1970s, various institutions have reinvested in the castle's rooms. The Museum of Models of the Fortified Castles of Luxembourg occupied the West wing back in 1970. The Museum of the Battle of the Ardennes was added in 1974.

Since 1994, the East wing's first and second floors house «The Family of Man», a UNESCO Memory of the World photographic collection that reopened to the public in July 2013 after restoration and refurbishment between 2010 and 2013.

During the low season (from late November to April) the museum works only during weekends: on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Note that the museum is closed on Mondays (except on public holidays: 26.12.). More detailed opening time schedules can be found online.

The admission prices for the castle's museums are 3,5 euros per person. There are discounts available: 2,50 euros for groups of 10 people or more and students over 21 years of age. A COMBI ticket, which provides access to both the Museum of the Ardennes Counteroffensive and the Museum of Models of the Castles and Palaces of Luxembourg, costs 5 euros at full price and 3 euros for the discounted price. Admission is free for children and adolescents under 21 years old, as well as for visitors with a valid Luxembourg Card or Camping Key Europe.

Cultural centers in Luxembourg

Center of Plural Arts in Ettelbruck

a Facebook page of CAPE, photos by Pierre Webber

CAPE (Centre des Arts Pluriels Ettelbruck) is a cultural center located in Ettelbruck. The center opened in 2007 and is housed in a modern building designed by the Luxembourgish architect Jim Clemes.

This center's mission is to promote and showcase and establish inclusive and diverse cultural learning, with a particular focus on contemporary art and performance.

The center has several performance spaces, including a theater, a concert hall, and a dance studio, as well as exhibition spaces and workshops for artists.

Throughout the year, CAPE hosts a wide range of cultural events and activities, including concerts, theater performances, dance shows, film screenings, and exhibitions. It is known for its dynamic and diverse programming, which includes both local and international artists and performers. The center also collaborates with other cultural institutions in Luxembourg and abroad, in order to promote cultural exchange and dialogue.

The prices for specific events can be found in event's announce. But there is a special offer for a young audience. Youth rate offers a 50% discount for:

individuals up to 26 years old,

students,

staff of the Conservatoire du Nord,

and Theater Federation professional cardholders.

A valid ID or proof may be required when purchasing tickets or entering the location. People with disabilities and groups of 10 or more people are eligible for a reduced rate of 15%. Kulturpasses are available for this centre.

A special School rate (6 euros for a ticket) is available for groups when it is an actual extracurricular activity for a class, and the class is accompanied by one or more leaders. The school or university must register in advance using a specific form.

Cube 521 Cultural Space

Visit Clervaux Website

Cube 521 is a cultural center located in Marnach, Luxembourg.

It is a multi-purpose venue that hosts a variety of cultural events such as theater performances, music concerts, dance shows, art exhibitions, and workshops.

The building has a modern and spacious design with state-of-the-art facilities such as a theater with 350 seats, a concert hall, rehearsal rooms, and exhibition spaces. Opened in 2007, Cube 521 is known for its diverse and high-quality programming that appeals to a wide range of audiences.

It also provides a platform for local and international artists to showcase their work and collaborate with other creatives. In addition to its cultural events, Cube 521 also offers educational programs for children and adults, as well as community outreach initiatives to promote the arts and culture in the region.

In order to visit events in this cultural center, you will usually have to buy tickets and reserve them in advance for a specific performance. The full program is available on the website of the cultural center.

Cultural Center of Cercle Cité

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The Cultural Center of Cercle Cité is a historic building located in the heart of Luxembourg City. It was built in 1929 and originally served as a club for Luxembourg's high society. In 1995, the building was renovated and transformed into a cultural center.

The center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and film screenings. It also serves as a venue for conferences and other cultural activities. This prestigious space welcomes associations, artists, and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of tradition and modern art.

The Cultural Center of Cercle Cité has two main exhibition spaces: the Cercle Munster Gallery and the Cercle Artistic Gallery. The Cercle Munster Gallery presents contemporary art exhibitions, while the Cercle Artistic Gallery showcases traditional Luxembourgish art. It also includes a variety of areas, such as the Ratskeller exhibition space, parlors on the Bel-étage, a conference center, the Luxembourg City library, and the Japanese restaurant Aka.

Admission to the exhibitions and events at the Cultural Center of Cercle Cité varies depending on the specific event. Some events are free, while others require a fee. Visitors can find information on upcoming events and admission fees on the center's website or by contacting the center directly.

You can find the agenda of the museum, as well as the current exhibition on their site.

Les Rotondes Cultural Space

Sven Becker, Facebook Rotondes.

Les Rotondes Cultural Space is a contemporary cultural center located not far from Gare in Luxembourg.

It was established in 2009 in a former railway depot and has since become a hub for various cultural activities, including music, theater, dance, and visual arts.

A very stylish and modern place will welcome all sorts of guests for various occasions.

The center features two main venues: a large concert hall and a smaller theater, as well as several exhibition spaces, rehearsal rooms, and a bar. Les Rotondes hosts numerous events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and workshops, catering to a wide range of audiences and artistic interests.

The center is committed to promoting emerging artists and supporting innovative and experimental art forms. It also focuses on environmental sustainability and social responsibility, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and education.

The prices for events at Les Rotondes vary depending on the type of event and age group. The center offers discounted rates for young people under 26 years old, as well as for students and job seekers. Group reservations are also available for some events. The ticket prices can be found on the center's website or by contacting the box office directly, you can also use your Kulturpass here.

rotondes.lu

Les Rotondes also offer their visitors to enjoy a cafe, that serves healthy food, light brunches, and various drinks for hot summer nights. The Buvette can be found right outside the center on a terrace. The dish of the day is served for as little as 13 euros per person.