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Ayla’s Adventures: A guide to Luxembourg

Vianden Castle in Luxembourg in early September.
Vianden Castle in Luxembourg in early September.

On Oct. 10, I will have been in Europe for two months. In that time, whenever I’m not hopping from city to city, I have tried my best to immerse myself in Luxembourg’s culture. Whether that's through trying new foods or visiting monuments around the country, I have found some of my favorite places ever within Luxembourg.

Food

To start, I cannot recommend coffee and sweets from Maiora enough. It’s right down the street from the Miami University Dolibois European Center (MUDEC) Chateau in Differdange. My friends and I have become regulars at the cafe, and the workers even know us by name. They are always so friendly whenever we walk in.

If you like your coffee on the sweeter side, Maiora is perfect. However, if you like your coffee stronger, the workers will make it any way you like it if you ask them to adjust. If you haven’t developed a coffee addiction like me, they have plenty of cakes and baked goods that always brighten the day.

For dinner spots in Differdange, I recommend Schrainerei and Food Addict. Schrainerei serves traditional Luxembourgish meals. The restaurant’s atmosphere is also incredible, with antique chairs and unique decorations scattered around. Food Addict is a great option if you’re missing American cuisine. They serve everything from burgers and chicken tenders to kebab bowls and salads. Food Addict is on the ground floor of the Gravity apartments, making it an easy, convenient option for students living there.

Study

While studying in the Chateau is a great option, I often get distracted by all the people walking around — mostly because I end up talking to my friends. For a quieter option, I recommend going to the library on Luxembourg University’s campus in Belval. It is just a seven to 12-minute train ride away, and anyone can get in. Also, there are multiple coffee shops around to add an extra pep in your step for studying.

Shopping

Since the options for food provided by the university are more limited in Luxembourg than in Oxford, Auchan is the number one place in Differdange to get groceries. It’s like a smaller version of Walmart or Kroger. They have the typical supermarket options, but also stock clothing, household items and electronics.

I also recommend checking out the Auchan in Cloche d'Or Shopping Center in Howald, which is much bigger and has more options. The Howald shopping center houses plenty of American retail stores, like Zara and H&M. While at the center, I also recommend checking out European brands like Only, Bershka and Pull & Bear for sweaters, jeans, cute tops and much more.

Sightseeing and events

Besides everyday activities around Differdange, there’s plenty to see in Luxembourg. One of the most popular places to visit among MUDEC students is Vianden Castle.

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Located near the German border, this medieval castle is truly gorgeous. It sits on a hill overlooking the town below. The tickets are 7 euros for students, and you get to explore the entire castle.

I also recommend checking out Rockhal in Belval for concerts. I saw Lorde there and had the time of my life.

Whether you are thinking about studying abroad with MUDEC or just wanting to visit the country, there are so many things to do around the country to make you feel like a local.

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