Luxembourg, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, offers a truly cosmopolitan environment. Of its 480,000-strong population, 42% are foreign residents and no less than 69% of residents in Luxembourg City come from 143 different countries.

Lying at the crossroads of the European motorway network, Luxembourg is linked to the French TGV train network and boasts a modern airport, making the city hugely accessible to principal European and international cities.

Luxembourg offers a multitude of cultural and sporting events, and its cultural calendar includes numerous, heartily celebrated fêtes, fairs and customs that often date back to the Middle Ages.

As a small country surrounded by Belgium, France and Germany, characterised by rolling hills and forests, many of Luxembourg's specialty dishes include traditional forest fare, such as jugged hare and Ardennes ham. Trout and pike, fresh from the country’s rivers, also feature regularly on menus here.

Luxembourg shares the Moselle valley with Germany and the local white wines are enormously popular. Like other northern European countries, Luxembourg also produces well-known brands of beer.

German is the first foreign language for most Luxembourgers and is used in the media, while French is the administrative language.

What is special or unique about your city?
Luxembourg culture is a mix of Romance Europe and Germanic Europe, borrowing customs from each of the distinct traditions. Luxembourg City is a banking centre and cosmopolitan town surrounded by magnificent historical fortifications, classified as world patrimony by UNESCO.

While in no way comparable in size to most other European capitals, Luxembourg has a lot of charm and its people are justifiably proud of their country.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?
A first impression of Luxembourg is the cleanliness of the city and its beauty.

Are these impressions likely to change?
Hopefully, a newcomer will not change his/her mind about these things.

What is the local language? 
Three primary languages are spoken in Luxembourg: Letzebuergesch or Luxembourgish (recognised as the national language), German, and French.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language? 
English is also spoken, primarily in the city and its surrounding areas.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city? 
People in Luxembourg are usually hospitable, friendly and welcoming.

How might the local weather affect my daily life? 
With a moderate climate, Luxembourg is a great destination any time of year. However, be prepared for a bit of rain. The average temperature is between -1 to 7°C in winter and 12 to 21°C in summer.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people? 
The world’s only Grand Duchy, Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy neighbouring Belgium, France and Germany. In the 2011 edition, the famous Michelin Guide crowns 13 of Luxembourg’s gourmet restaurants with a total of 14 stars.