Chemin de la Corniche (Walls of the Corniche), Luxembourg

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Chemin de la Corniche (Walls of the Corniche), Luxembourg

Chemin de la Corniche (Walls of the Corniche), Luxembourg (must see)

The Walls of the Corniche (Chemin de la Corniche) is a historic promenade, often hailed as “the most beautiful balcony in Europe” thanks to Luxembourg writer Batty Weber. This elegant pathway stretches along the old city ramparts—built in the 17th century by the Spaniards and French—gracefully perched above the Alzette valley. From its vantage point on the Bock promontory to the lower sections around the Holy Ghost Citadel, the corniche offers a stunning vantage over the terraced rooftops of Ville Haute and the storybook quarter of Grund below.

Walking the corniche feels like stepping into a living postcard. Visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Alzette River, the charming Grund neighborhood, and the verdant Rham Plateau. The stone pathway, once equipped with staircases to navigate steep inclines, was leveled off in the late 19th century following the fortress's dismantling of 1867. This transformation revealed unobstructed vistas—shields, and loopholes were removed—so that the beauty of Luxembourg’s dramatic terrain could fully shine.

Steeped in deep history, the corniche traces the remnants of a city fortress that spanned nearly a millennium. From the 10th-century castle of Count Siegfried to the sprawling ramparts heightened by Vauban’s expertise and later scaled back by the Treaty of London’s decree, this area still preserves pieces of its defensive past—walls, towers, casemates, and cobbled ancient paths. As part of the Old Quarters and Fortifications of Luxembourg, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994, the corniche forms a captivating chapter in the city’s resilient narrative.

For tourists, the Walls of the Corniche is a must-do stroll. It’s ideal for early mornings or twilight walks when sunlight bathes the valley and rooftops in golden hues. Interpretive plaques, scenic viewpoints, and access to the Grund via elevators or stairways enrich the experience. Along the path, you’ll be just steps from key landmarks—Saint Michael’s Church, the Bock bridge, and the Neumunster Abbey—each one anchoring the corniche within Luxembourg’s intimate tapestry of culture, architecture, and breathtaking beauty.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Luxembourg. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "ϳԹ: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Chemin de la Corniche (Walls of the Corniche) on Map

Sight Name: Chemin de la Corniche (Walls of the Corniche)
Sight Location: Luxembourg, Luxembourg (See walking tours in Luxembourg)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Create Your Own Walk in Luxembourg

Create Your Own Walk in Luxembourg

Creating your own self-guided walk in Luxembourg is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Luxembourg Introduction Walking Tour

Luxembourg Introduction Walking Tour

The capital city of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is known as Luxembourg City. The Romans had built small forts here that guarded two roads that passed through. But it was Count Seigfried in 963 who began the town by building a castle on the Bock promontory. A small church followed on the site of present day St. Michael’s Church. Soon a community sprang up along the Roman road.

Bock Rock...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Chocolates and Pastries Walking Tour

Chocolates and Pastries Walking Tour

A tiny European nation wedged between Belgium, France, and Germany, Luxembourg may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of chocolate and pastry. Still, the country's capital, Luxembourg City, has a burgeoning confectionery scene that can successfully compete with its renowned Belgian and French counterparts.

One must-visit spot for pastry enthusiasts here is La...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.9 Km or 0.6 Miles
Souvenir Shopping Tour

Souvenir Shopping Tour

Luxembourg, a picturesque European nation, offers a delightful array of souvenir shopping experiences, allowing you to carry a piece of its charm back home.

Start your journey at the Luxembourg City Tourist Office, where you can acquire traditional souvenirs such as postcards and keychains, along with valuable information about the city's attractions.

The Market on Place Guillaume II is...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles

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Sourvenir Shopping: 16 Unique Things to Buy in Luxembourg

Sourvenir Shopping: 16 Unique Things to Buy in Luxembourg

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