Luxembourg has extremely efficient, world-class public transport services. In recent years, Luxembourg modernised its extensive road network so that its motorways now link the city of Luxembourg, which is its capital, with Germany, France and Belgium.
Travelling by Bus
The bus service in Luxembourg is punctual and far-reaching, but not very frequent. Therefore, it is important to check the bus schedule when making travel plans, so as to avoid waiting for hours. Buses generally run from six in the morning to midnight, and every bus stop has timetables and maps that show the different routes and timings. Smartphone users have the option of using an app to access timetables, while others can simply send a text message to 661 104 105 with the name of the bus stop to receive a bus schedule.A bus ticket can be bought at the vending machines that are installed at main bus stops, or you can buy one on the spot from the bus driver. A short-distance ticket costs only 1.50 Euros and is valid for two hours from the time of purchase – which means that your transit must end within the stipulated timeframe. This ticket allows you to travel on any public transport system such as a train or a coach. There are day tickets for 5 Euros that you can use if you plan on travelling a lot throughout the day. There are several ticket options to cater to different requirements, including a weekend ticket that allow up to five adults to travel on either Saturday or Sunday for 6 Euros. Children who are less than 12 years old and are residents of Luxembourg can travel without any charge on the bus, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
There are various cards that can be purchased according to the individual’s requirements. The e-go card is an electronic card that can be used to pay public transport fees. There is also an option to purchase tickets via a text message. To use this service, one simply has to send a text message with information on the type of ticket required. The passenger will then receive a text message confirming the purchase.
As an expat, you may take a while to learn the bus routes, and if you want to make things a little simpler in the first week or two, you can use the Call-a-bus service. You will need to call 4796-4797 at least 45 minutes before you wish to be picked up. The cost for a trip is 5 Euros per person, and 2.5 Euros for every additional person who is travelling in the same group. Since the bus picks up other passengers along the way, it may not take the shortest route, but it will drop you right to your destination and not simply at the nearest bus stop.
Travelling by Train
The train service in Luxembourg is extensive and reasonably priced. The trains are punctual, modern and comfortable. The southern portion of the country is well connected by a rail network, while the north has only a single main line. When commuting to and from work on a daily basis, the railways would probably be the most reliable method of transport. Luxembourg is a relatively small country, which means that the travel time is pretty short. The rates for bus and train tickets are the same – 1.50 Euros for two hours – and so the same ticket is valid on both the bus and the train. There are also monthly tickets that can be purchased at any train station for 40 Euros.
There are several scenic routes through the Ardennes valleys as the train follows a winding path through wooded valleys dotted with brooks and even the occasional castle. The hiking trails and natural parks make this a great weekend getaway for expats who want to experience the natural beauty of Luxembourg.
Using the shared cycle system
Luxembourg city has an efficient bike sharing system called Vel’oh!. The computerised cycle kiosk will generate a unique code that you can use every time you need to unlock a bike. Periods of 30 minutes or less are free, while every additional hour after that is 1 Euro, which makes this mode of transport an economical option. There are 72 stations around the city, and they are operational 24X7. Each Vel’oh! station comprises of a parking terminal with several individual stands. At the end of your ride, you simply have to reinsert the cycle into a stand. Each Vel’oh! bicycle has a shopping basket in the front, which is handy if you need to make a quick dash to a nearby grocery store. The cycles have 3 gears, and are unisex with an adjustable saddle.