Tips on how to best visit Vianden Castle and town with Kids

Besides Luxembourg City, the town of Vianden and its castle are a must see for anyone visiting our tiny country. If you are planning a trip, here is what to expect at Vianden castle.

Vianden is located in the north eastern part of the country and it takes about 1 hour by car. Coming from Luxembourg City via Diekirch, the Castle will suddenly appear after a left turn upon entering the town. You can park your car on the left side of the road to take a first look at the castle.

Welcome to vianden

Vianden castle

Depending on which season you are visiting, there are basically 2 options to park your car.

How to access the castle?

Vianden Castle with Kids in Summer (April to October)

 

During peak tourism season, parking in Vianden can be difficult. We suggest parking at Larei, which is the closest to the chairlift. Just walk up a few steps, turn right and you’re at the chairlift station. It will take you up to 440 meters and all along the ride you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful views on the Our valley.

Vianden chairlift

View of vianden from the chairlift

River Our flowing through the town of Vianden

There is a small café at the top with a fantastic terrace and a panoramic view of Vianden. This is also the start of several trails and the access to the Indian Forest a tree climbing adventure park with zip lines. To get to the castle, you’ll need to walk 400 meters. It is a steep downhill path and not suitable for strollers.

Vianden sign

To get back to the car, it is an easy stroll through the picturesque town.

Vianden Castle with Kids in Winter (November to March)

 

As the chairlift is not operating in this season, the best way to access the castle is parking at the Montée du Château and then walk up to the castle. If you’re planning on going to the center afterwards you may want to take you car and park further down in the village to avoid walking back up to the parking.

The Vianden Castle

 

Dating back to the 11th century, Vianden Castle is one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences of the roman and gothic periods in Europe. In 1820 the castle was partly ruined but has been restored to its former splendour since 1977 when the ownership was transferred to the luxembourgish state.

 

Nestled among trees and overlooking the town, Vianden Castle offers a number of armor, weaponry and tapestry displays. It is a self guided tour, but audio guides are available in 10 languages. Most of the displays are in German and French so if you are not familiar with any of this languages, we recommend the audio guide. The views from the castle are breathtaking and worth alone the trip.

Entrance fee is 6€ for adults and 2€ for kids.

Vianden with Kids

 

We recommend strolling through the picturesque town after the castle visit. Take your time looking at the pretty houses and imagine how life was here back in the days. Before leaving, buy a Veiner Nossdroepp (a nut liqueur) and enjoy a drink by the water with a view on the castle.

Veiner Nossdroepp / vianden nut liqueur

House of Victor Hugo and literature museum

 

Located by the water just after the bridge, Victor Hugo House gives an overview of his life. You’ll be able to see the room where Victor Hugo used to live for a brief period. We found the displays interesting and well laid out. Signage is mostly in French but you can get an audio guide, included in the entrance fee of 5€.

The museum is open from 12h-18h except on Mondays.  Click here for more information.

 

Yearly events taking place in Vianden

Medieval Fair: 29.07.2017- 6.08.2017

Fête du Livre (book market)

Veiner Nëssmoort / Nutmarket on October 15, 2017

Know before you go:

• Wear good shoes ( especially if you plan to walk from the chairlift to the castle)

• Lot of stairs and steep climbs

• Take coins for the parking

• The castle is closed on 1.1, 2.11, 25.12

Vianden Map

Map of Vianden with the different parking options

 

If you have any questions about visiting Vianden with Kids, please leave a comment below or contact us. You can also follow our Facebook Page for family friendly activities in Luxembourg and around the world. We’d love to hear from you!