Luxembourg

Brief History

In 1859, the first railroad line opened in Luxembourg, connecting the capital with the Belgian border. Over time, the country's railway system developed: in 1902, a new line from Auchierville to Wiltz was opened, and in 1946 the railroads were nationalized. In 1957, the first electrified section was launched, and from 1992, high-speed trains began running in Luxembourg, linking the country with Brussels and Paris. In 2017, a new train station opened in Luxembourg, a modern symbol of passenger rail transportation in the country.

General Information and Statistics

Luxembourg's railroads, operated by Chemins de Fer Luxembourgeois (CFL), are the backbone of the country's public transportation network and connect the most important cities. Passenger traffic carried on CFL trains for 2019 amounted to 25 million passengers.

Total length of tracks is 617 km, of which 576 km are electrified tracks. the total number of stations is 62.

In 2022, the share of renewable energy will be 65%. The target for 2027 is 74%.

What connections to other countries there are.

There are frequent train services to all neighbouring countries including the Belgium, Germany, and France.

Are trains fast in Luxemburg in general? How much time to cross the country?

There is currently a frequent high-speed connection to Paris via the LGV Est. EuroCap-Rail is a proposed high-speed rail line connecting Brussels, Luxembourg (city) and Strasbourg. 
The journey from Troisvierges to Bettembourg takes 1:24 hours and from Wasserbillig to Rodange 1:25 hours.

What railway companies are available?

Luxembourg shares borders with Belgium, France and Germany. Accordingly, there are cross-border shipments to these countries. Some are wholly owned by CFL, others by SNCF, NMBS/SNCB and DB. CFL passenger trains serve most of the network.

What train types are available in Luxembourg

Luxembourg offers several types of trains for passenger transportation. These include:

    • Regional trains: These trains connect various cities in Luxembourg as well as neighboring regions in Belgium, France, and Germany. They are often used for commuting and short distances.
    • Inter-city (IC) trains: IC trains provide faster connections between major cities in Luxembourg and other countries. Compared to regional trains, they are more comfortable and convenient.
    • TER (Transport Express Régional) trains: TER trains are regional trains that operate in regions bordering Luxembourg, mainly in France. They connect Luxembourg with cities and towns in the surrounding regions.
    • TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse): TGVs are high-speed trains that connect Luxembourg with major cities in France, such as Paris. They offer fast and efficient long-distance travel options.
    • EuroCity (EC) trains: EuroCity trains connect Luxembourg with other European cities, including Belgium, Germany. They provide comfortable international connections.

Are there high-speed-trains available?

Luxembourg has high-speed trains. The TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) is a high-speed train connecting Luxembourg with major French cities such as Paris.

Most important train stations / hubs.

The main railway hubs in Luxembourg are Luxembourg (Luxembourg City), Esch-sur-Alzette, Differdange, Ettelbruck, Mersch, Pétange, Rodange, Diekirch, Belval-Université.

Websites to buy train tickets for Luxembourg?

https://www.cfl.lu

Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Luxembourg?

CFL has its own “CFL mobile app”.

Possible to buy a ticket at a railway station in Luxembourg?

You can buy train tickets at the ticket offices of the Luxembourg and Belleval-University stations. There are also ticketing machines at all stations.

Can I buy my ticket by phone?

You can also purchase tickets for international trains by calling the call centre (+352 2489 2489).

Return the ticket.

To request a refund you need to fill out a form on the official website.
The tickets for which refund is requested must be issued by CFL.
The request must be submitted not later than 1 month after the expiration date of the ticket.
The completed form does not automatically entitle you to a refund.

Train ticket prices

Since 29 February 2020, all forms of public transport – including buses, trains and trams – have been free for residents and tourists alike.

Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?

Saver fares to neighbouring countries are available from CFL. For example, from Luxembourg  to Bruxelles  from EUR 23.80. And from Luxembourg to Koblenz from EUR 31.50.

Where to find timetables.

Find train schedules on https://www.cfl.lu/en-gb/timetable, https://www.mobiliteit.lu/en/timetables-and-lines/train/

Buying tickets in advance or right before the train

Tickets for local trains in second class are free. For international trains, prices do not change if you take a ticket for tomorrow or a month later.

Types of tickets.

Public transport within the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is free to use for all, except in 1st class by train.  All tickets are valid on all forms of public transport in Luxembourg.
The following types of tickets are available for first class tickets: "Short-term 1st class ticket" is valid for 2 hours after its issuance or validation on the CFL rail network without any restrictions costs 3 euros for one ticket or 24 euros for 10 tickets. There is also a "Long-term 1st class ticket", once issued and coded, is valid on the CFL rail network in Luxembourg without any restrictions until 4:00 am the next day, costing 6 euros for фone ticket or 24 euros for 5 tickets.

Interrail/Eurail Passes in Luxembourg

Interrail/Eurail Passes are available in Luxemburg.
The best option is to buy your Eurail or Interrail Pass on the official website using their app.

Saver price.

It is free to ride Luxembourg trains in second class. So just ride in second class and save money.

Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?

Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.

Flexible tickets.

When you ride the trains for free-any ticket is flexible. First class tickets are also flexible.

Rules of boarding.

When controlled on board the train in 1st class, persons in possession of a nominal train ticket are obliged to prove their identity (identity card, passport) if requested by the train staff.

Discounts for group travel.

Are you organizing a group excursion and are you planning to travel by train or bus? Here is some advice:
Your request will be processed no earlier than 10 days prior to your scheduled departure.
During peak times (between 7.00 and 9.00 and between 16.00 and 18.00), we recommend to submit a group travel request for groups of over 50 people. We must receive the request at least 3 workdays (Monday to Friday) before your departure date.
Outside peak times, no group travel request is necessary.

Age groups and discounts.

Children who have not yet reached the age of 4 must be accompanied by a person who has reached the age of 12 at least, otherwise they are not admitted to public transport.
Children under 12 years of age are entitled to free transport in 1st class if accompanied by a person of at least 12 years of age in possession of a valid transport ticket for 1st class. Free admission is limited to two children in this case.

Age limitations for minors.

Children from the age of 4 can travel independently on Luxembourg trains.
Children who have reached or exceeded the age of 12 years and children under 12 years of age travelling alone in 1st class must be provided with a valid transport ticket in 1st class.

Handicapped passengers.

CFL provides services to assist people with disabilities. Most of the services offered by PRM are also available for people traveling with luggage, baby strollers, bicycles and sports equipment.
If you plan to travel under the PRM program and take advantage of domestic train assistance: submit your request no later than 1 hour prior to train departure and no later than 20:30 for same day departures.
International travel: submit your request 24 hours prior to train departure.

Seat reservations in trains in Luxembourg.

There are no reserved seats on domestic trains. On international routes, the need to reserve a seat should be clarified with the carrier.

Comfort classes on the trains.

For travel within Luxembourg and beyond, you are offered a choice of 2nd or 1st class for each journey. In 2nd class trains on the Luxembourg rail network you travel free of charge.
 
In 1st class you can enjoy more space and silence.        
On some CFL trains, particularly those to Koblenz and Düsseldorf, you can also take advantage of reclining seats and power outlets.
Traveling to France on the TGV in Première classe (1st class), you will benefit from wider, adjustable seats, as well as power outlets for connecting devices...   

Please note: 1st class is not available on TER trains to Thionville, Metz and Nancy.

Food and drink in trains / train restaurant in Luxembourg.

No official information about food on trains could be found.

Night trains in Luxembourg?

There are no night trains in Luxembourg.

Important train routes in Luxembourg.

Luxembourg – Esch-sur-Alzette / 0:25 hours / every 10 to 20 minutes
Luxembourg – Ettelbruck / 0:27 hours / every 10 to 20 minutes
Luxembourg – Diekirch / 0:44 hours / every 10 to 20 minutes
Luxembourg – Petange / 0:25 hours / from 17,90 EUR / every 10 to 20 minutes
Luxembourg – Rodange / 0:29 hours / every 10 to 20 minutes

International train routes.

There are frequent train services to all neighbouring countries including the Belgium, Germany, and France.

Tourist / scenic routes in Luxembourg.

Luxembourg offers several scenic train routes that are popular among tourists for their picturesque landscapes and charming views. Some of the most notable tourist and scenic train routes in Luxembourg include:

The Valley of the Seven Castles: This scenic route takes you through the enchanting Alzette River valley, passing by seven magnificent castles, including Vianden Castle and Bourscheid Castle. The train journey offers stunning views of the castles perched on hillsides and the lush greenery of the surrounding countryside.

The Moselle Valley: Traveling along the Moselle River, this route showcases the beautiful vineyards, quaint villages, and scenic landscapes of the Moselle Valley. The train ride provides breathtaking views of the river winding through the hills, making it a favorite among wine enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The Ardennes Region: This route takes you through the Ardennes, a region known for its dense forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. The train journey offers glimpses of the natural beauty and rural landscapes that make the Ardennes a perfect destination for nature-oriented travelers.

The Redrock Region: Traveling through the southern region of Luxembourg, this route offers views of the famous red sandstone cliffs that characterize this area. The journey passes through the Mullerthal region, also known as "Little Switzerland," renowned for its unique rock formations and beautiful hiking trails.

The Upper Sûre Lake: This route takes you to the Upper Sûre Lake, a picturesque reservoir surrounded by forested hills. The train ride provides travelers with tranquil views of the lake's sparkling waters and the peaceful countryside.

Luggage information.

Baby carriages, child seats or luggage may be carried on the train provided that you take the baby carriage or luggage on board the train yourself and place it in the designated place.
Once you arrive at your destination, you are responsible for removing the baby carriage from the train.
Depending on the type of train, different seats are available. The number of places for carrying baby carriages and bicycles on trains is limited.

If you are traveling abroad, the conditions of transportation depend on the destination.

Bicycle on the train.

In Luxembourg, bicycles are transported free of charge and do not require a reservation.
Travel is free of charge, subject to availability of seats on the train.

International connections may require a seat reservation. Please check this before traveling.

Ski or snowboard on the train.

Most of the services offered to PRM, are also accessible to people traveling with luggage, baby carriage, bicycles and sport equipment. That is, sports equipment can be transported. 
There is no precise information on skis and snowboards from official sources.

Luggage lockers on the stations in Luxembourg.

Drop off your luggage at Luxembourg train station.

Drop off your luggage at left luggage office. The left luggage office is open every day between 06:15 and 21:30.

Lost and Found Items.

If you have lost something on a train, train station or bus, you can fill out a form on the official website and they will assist you in finding your lost items.( https://www.cfl.lu/en-gb/lostandfound).

Pets on the trains.

Dogs of all sizes are transported free of charge on trains of the Luxembourg railway network. 
Dogs must be on a leash and may not sit on seats.
Your pet must not pose a danger to or disturb other passengers.
A muzzle is recommended in some cases.
Small pets are transported free of charge in a basket or cage.
Traveling abroad?
Before you travel to Europe with your pet, check with your call center and sales centers for ticket conditions and prices.