Leaving Belgium behind, I arrived at the final stop and also the last country of my train journey across the three Benelux nations: Luxembourg – specifically, Luxembourg City, the charming and compact capital of the Grand Duchy. For the next two days, I soaked in the scenic views, crossed countless bridges, and got wonderfully lost among the layers of old and new.

Thanks to free public transport throughout the entire country, exploring couldn’t have been easier nor cheaper. Luxembourg is also incredibly accessible, with direct train connections from Belgium, France, and Germany, and the airport just a 20-minute bus ride from the city center.

Built upon the remnants of a mighty fortress, Luxembourg City is a place where history comes alive at every turn. Wandering through the UNESCO-listed Old Quarters, I was surrounded by picturesque streets and striking architecture. I explored the fascinating Petrusse and Bock Casemates, a network of underground tunnels and fortifications that once protected the city, and visited the National Museum to dive deeper into the country’s rich past. And no matter, where you want to go, the must-see sights are all within walking distance.

I also enjoyed visiting Grund, the old town nestled in a scenic valley with cobblestone streets and lovely river views. In contrast, the Kirchberg Plateau offered a completely different vibe, with its sleek modern buildings and bustling European institutions. But it’s definitely this unique blend of old and new that gives Luxembourg City its special character.

Looking back on my entire train journey, it feels almost surreal how much I experienced in the past couple of days – from reuniting with an old friend in Utrecht, to a spontaneous festival at Scheveningen, to the best fresh waffles in Bruges and best fries in Ghent. And although Luxembourg City may have been the final stop on this adventure, I know I’ll return someday to explore more of Luxembourg beyond its capital.