For great views over the city, follow this scenic pathway along a section of Luxembourg City’s 17th-century defensive walls.
Join the other tourists that line up along Chemin de la Corniche to admire the architectural grandeur of Luxembourg City. This pedestrian walkway follows the course of the city’s former ramparts, which rise up above the River Alzette. The French and Spanish erected Chemin de la Corniche in the 1600s and it was turned into a level pathway when the fortress made way for the modern-day city. Batty Weber, one of the nation’s most-loved authors, described it as Europe’s most beautiful balcony.
There are beautiful views the entire length of the promenade. Starting from close to the Bock Casemates, the pathway meanders around St. Michael’s Church, a catholic monument with origins dating back to the 10th century. Peer down tall sheer cliffs to the peaceful water of the River Alzette.
Spread along the riverbanks and in the Alzette Valley is the Grund district. On the waterfront is the Church of St. Jean du Grund and Neumünster Abbey, both built in 1606. Behind here is a tree-shaded square set on the Rham Plateau.
The promenade continues south along the ramparts to the Plateau of the Holy Spirit. From here you are just a short walk from major city attractions such as the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Pétrusse Casemates and Monument of Remembrance. Also nearby is the stone-arch Adolphe Bridge, which crosses the Pétrusse Valley.
Getting to the trail is possible on foot from Luxembourg City’s Old Town. Public buses stop close to the northern entrance. If arriving by car then make use of park and ride services situated on the outskirts of the city.
Chemin de la Corniche is open 24 hours a day. Arrive late in the afternoon to see the city bathed in daylight and then watch as it becomes illuminated at nightfall. In winter, snowfall turns the city into a fairytale winterland. Come in fall to witness the warm colours created by the changing foliage on the hills and in the parks and river valley.
