Luxembourg’s cityscape is characterised by deep valleys, steep cliffs, and breathtaking viewpoints. The city’s unique topography is closely linked to its eventful history. Back in 963, Count Siegfried decided to build a castle called “Lucilinburhuc” on the mighty Bock Promontory, which later became the foundation of Luxembourg City as we know it today. Perched on a rocky plateau, the former fortress city quickly became one of Europe’s most coveted strongholds. It was even hailed the “Gibraltar of the North”. Over time, the city kept expanding and its different city districts settled in the surrounding valleys and plateaus. 
With the city spread across different levels and plateaus, the different districts are connected by numerous bridges, both modern and old. The Pond Adolphe, also known as the “new bridge”, connects the city centre with the railway station district on the north side. Back in the day the largest stone arch bridge in the world, the Pont Adolphe features a suspended pedestrian and bike passerelle, from which you can enjoy stunning views of the Pétrusse valley. Built in the 1960s, the Grand Duchess Charlotte Bridge connects the city centre to the Kirchberg Plateau, the city’s financial hub. Due to its red colour, the bridge is commonly referred to as the “red bridge”. 
In recent years, various urban mobility solutions were put into place to grant easier and faster access to the lower parts of the city. Offering sweeping views of the lower town, a ride in the 17 m high Pfaffenthal panoramic glass lift is an experience in itself. It even features a glass-bottomed viewpoint – not for the faint of hearts! Just a short walk away from the panoramic lift is the city’s only funicular, which connects the lower town to the booming Kirchberg district.
Exploring the lower city is a must when visiting the capital. The Pétrusse valley, with its green parks and its eponymous river, is the perfect place to escape the buzz of the city. Nestled in a valley on the banks of the Alzette river, the Grund district is also a popular tourist hotspot and can be easily accessed on foot or by public lift. One of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, this idyllic district is often described as a “village within a city”. Perfect for a peaceful stroll out!