Area guides
Where to stay in Echternach: base for the Mullerthal
5 min read
Echternach basilica and market square
Who it suits
Echternach is the country's oldest town, founded by Saint Willibrord in 698, and sits on the Sûre facing Germany. Stay here if you are walking the Mullerthal Trail, if you have tickets for the International Music Festival in May and June, or if you are attending the UNESCO-listed Dancing Procession on Whit Tuesday. The town has a proper medieval square, a Romanesque basilica and the Trifolion cultural centre.
It does not suit anyone wanting the capital nearby. There is no train — buses to Luxembourg City take about an hour and run every 30-60 minutes.
What is walkable
The basilica and Willibrord's crypt, the Abbey Museum, the Roman villa remains, and the town's medieval walls. The Mullerthal Trail loops start from the town — Route 2 through the Wolfsschlucht gorge is the most spectacular half-day walk. The lake (Echternacher See) is a 20-minute walk with a summer beach and pedalos. Cross the bridge and you are in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Dancing Procession?
Every Whit Tuesday (the day after Pentecost Monday), starting mid-morning. It is a UNESCO Intangible Heritage event and the town fills up — book accommodation months ahead.
How do I get from Echternach to Luxembourg City?
Bus 110 runs to the capital in about 55 minutes, every 30 minutes at peak. It is free like all Luxembourg public transport.
Where to stay
Rooms worth pairing with this guide.
Ready to plan this trip?
Real prices for the places this piece names.
