Travel fans urged to visit European country now – 'before it becomes popular'

For those yearning for a European break away from the usual crowds, a travel expert has a hot tip that she's shared on TikTok, urging travellers to discover the hidden gem "before it gets popular" with other tourists. Londoner Sandy Breitmeier shared her insider advice for those in search of a tranquil holiday spot that still delivers all the thrills of Europe's popular destinations.

Sandy shared footage of herself taking in the sights, and added: "This is easy one of the most beautiful and underrated countries in Europe. It's the perfect blend of quaint cobblestone vibes and an urban forward thinking feel." The country she recommends is Luxembourg, where just 190,000 visitors visited in 2024.

This is far fewer than the 48.7 million people who flocked to Paris in 2024! However, tourist figures were up 16% compared to 2019, suggesting Luxembourg is increasing in popularity. So if you do want to book a trip before it gets even more popular, now might be the time.

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One of the location's biggest draws is the fact that all public transport is completely free, as are "tonnes of music and art events" on offer. Sandy elaborated on the cultural offerings of Luxembourg City, saying: "Imagine this, we went to a free house music rave and a free classical music picnic concert in the same night."

Given Luxembourg's compact size, Sandy pointed out that the free travel makes it simple to explore enchanting spots beyond the capital.

"Places like Vianden are easy and a must-do," Sandy remarked. "Fun fact - there are more castles per square mile here than any other country in the world."

On the culinary front, Sandy praised the "perfect blend of modern and tradition" as she savoured a sumptuous three-course meal.

Sandy revealed in her post: "We just spent a long weekend in beautiful Luxembourg and are seriously wondering why we hadn't visited this beautiful European destination before.

"With Luxembourg being such a small country, it's, to me, one of the easiest best places to visit in Europe this summer."

The travel expert also listed her top three recommendations for things to do on your trip:

• Visiting the Old Town and taking pictures on Pont du Grund
• Visit LUGA - Luxembourg’s urban garden project
• Visit Glacismaart for antiques and the Central Market at Place Guillaume II for fresh food and flowers

And as for where to dine, Sandy advised:

Where to eat in Luxembourg:

• For wine - Vins Fins in Grund
• For traditional food from Luxembourg - Um Dierfgen
• For coffee and lunch - Konrad Cafe
• For fine dining and rooftop views - Restaurant Six Seven

According to the nation's tourism authority: "What strikes many visitors to Luxembourg City is the gorge splitting the centre in two. The deep valleys and high cliffs were the area's strength when 'Lucilinburhuc' (small castle) was established here in 963.

"For almost a thousand years, the area housed a fortress that became so strong it was known as 'Gibraltar of the North'. "Luxembourg City has since forged a new visual identity out of the castle ruins.

"It built architectural gems such as Adolphe Bridge, the town hall, Place d'Armes, the Grand Ducal Palace, Notre-Dame cathedral, places for reflection like the Gelle Fra (golden lady) and romantic riverside gardens in the Grund and city parks."