Grand Ducal Palace
Palace in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
French: Palais grand-ducalGerman: Großherzogliches PalaisLuxembourgish: Groussherzogleche Palais
- Type
- Palace
- Location
- Luxembourg City
- Built
- 1572
- Entry
- €18
- Visit time
- 1.5 h
- Access
- Open to visitors
About Grand Ducal Palace
As the official residence of the grand duke, the palace is used by him in the exercise of his official functions. He and the Grand Duchess, together with their staff, have their offices at the palace, and the state rooms on the first floor are used for a variety of meetings and audiences. On Christmas Eve, the Grand Duke's Christmas message is broadcast from the Yellow Room.
Foreign heads of state are accommodated at the palace, as guests of the grand duke and grand duchess, during official visits to Luxembourg, and the Ballroom is the setting for state banquets in their honour. Throughout the year, numerous other receptions take place at the palace, such as the New Year's reception given for members of the Government and the Chamber of Deputies.
In the summer months, the palace is open to the public for guided tours. Most years, tours run from mid-July to mid-September with tours offered in Luxembourgish, French, English and German.
History
Originally Luxembourg’s city hall (1572–1795), the building later became the prefecture’s seat (1795) and the Luxembourg Government’s headquarters (1817). That year, it also became the governor’s residence, hosting Prince Henry during his tenure. In 1883, the interior was renovated for King William III and Queen Emma’s visit.
After the House of Nassau-Weilburg took over in 1890, the palace was exclusively reserved for the grand ducal family. Grand Duke Adolphe oversaw extensive renovations, including a new wing designed by architects Gédéon Bordiau and Charles Arendt.
During World War II, the Nazis repurposed the palace as a concert hall and tavern, causing significant damage. Grand Duchess Charlotte restored it after her return in 1945. Further redecorations took place in the 1960s, with a full restoration from 1991 to 1996.
The Grand Ducal Guard performed ceremonial duties until 1966, after which Luxembourg’s military took over palace security.
Visiting & Practical Information
Opening hours
| Monday | 10:00-18:00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10:00-18:00 |
| Wednesday | 10:00-18:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00-18:00 |
| Friday | 10:00-18:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00-18:00 |
| Sunday | 10:00-18:00 |
Open months: All Year.
Good to know
- Entry: €18
- Typical visit: 1.5 h
- Accessibility: Elevator and ramps available for wheelchair accessibility.
- Note: Guided tours of the Grand Ducal Palace are only offered in the summer months.
- Events: Various events throughout the year.
- Address: 17 Rue du Marché-aux-Herbes, 1728 Ville-Haute Luxembourg
- Official site: monarchie.lu/en/visit-grand-ducal-palace
Grand Ducal Palace in Photos
See Grand Ducal Palace on a Private Tour
Recommended route: Custom private castle route. Interior visit or guided stop. Walking: Usually easier access.
