Cents with Kids: A Family Guide to the Quarter

A practical guide to exploring Luxembourg City's Cents quarter with children, from parks to practicalities.

Why Cents Works for Families

Cents is a residential quarter east of Luxembourg City's centre, about 2.5 km from Place d'Armes. It's quiet, green and flat enough for strollers, with wide pavements and low traffic. Families base here because hotels are often cheaper than in Ville Haute, parking is easier, and the area feels safe. The main bus corridor along Route de Thionville runs every 10–15 minutes to the centre (10–15 minutes), and the Kirchberg plateau with its science museum is 15 minutes by car. Spring and early autumn are ideal: mild weather, fewer crowds than July–August. If you want space without losing city access, Cents is a smart pick.

Hotels in Cents tend to be modern mid-range chains and apart-hotels rather than luxury properties. Expect to pay less than in the old town, though exact rates vary by season and demand. Many offer family rooms or kitchenettes, which helps with young children. Book directly with the hotel for the best cancellation terms. If you're arriving by train, Luxembourg Gare Centrale is 3 km away; a taxi takes 10 minutes. The quarter is also on the night-bus network, so you can enjoy an evening in the city and return easily.

Getting Around and What to See

Public transport in Luxembourg is free nationwide, including buses and trams. From Cents, bus lines 7, 9 and 14 connect to the centre and Kirchberg. A tram stop at Luxexpo is 10 minutes by bus. For families, the Pfaffenthal panoramic lift and the Grund district are 20 minutes away by bus. The MUDAM modern art museum and the National Museum of Natural History are both in the centre and have family activities. The Parc de la Ville, just west of Cents, has playgrounds and open lawns. In summer, the Cents swimming pool on Rue de Trèves offers outdoor lanes and a paddling area for toddlers.

For a half-day outing, take bus 9 to Kirchberg and visit the Luxembourg Science Center in Differdange? No, that's far. Better: the National Museum of Natural History in the old town has dinosaur skeletons and a hands-on area. The City Museum on Rue du Saint-Esprit is free and has a children's trail. The Bock Casemates, underground tunnels, are fun for ages 6+ but not stroller-friendly. Walk the Chemin de la Corniche for views. In Cents itself, the Parc de Cents on Rue de Cents has a playground and shade. Most attractions are free or low-cost, making Luxembourg a budget-friendly city for families once you're here.

Where to Eat and Sleep

Cents has a handful of family-friendly restaurants along Route de Thionville and Rue de Trèves, serving Luxembourgish and Italian dishes. Expect mains around €15–25. Many places offer high chairs and children's portions. For a quick meal, the bakery on Place de Cents sells sandwiches and pastries. Supermarkets like Delhaize and Auchan are within walking distance, handy for self-catering. If you want a special dinner, head to the Grund or Clausen, 15 minutes by bus, where you'll find a wider choice. Book ahead on weekends. Note that many restaurants close on Sundays and Mondays, so check before you go.

For accommodation, I'd book a hotel in Cents if you have a car and want easy parking, or if you prefer a quieter base. The double rooms at the mid-range chain on Route de Thionville are compact but clean; family suites have separate sleeping areas. Apart-hotels near the Cents tram stop (future line) offer kitchenettes and laundry. Avoid hotels right on Route de Thionville if you're sensitive to traffic noise; ask for a room facing the courtyard. If you'd rather be in the centre, pay more for a place near Place d'Armes, but you'll sacrifice space. For a family of four, Cents usually gives better value.

Practical Tips for Your Stay

Luxembourg is generally safe, but keep an eye on children near roads. Tap water is drinkable. Pharmacies are on Route de Thionville; the nearest hospital is in Kirchberg. In summer, pack sunscreen and hats; parks have limited shade. Winters are cold and wet, so indoor attractions like the Natural History Museum are useful. The city's Christmas market in Place d'Armes runs in December and is family-friendly. For day trips, Echternach and Vianden are 40–60 minutes by car and have castles and forests. Check the Mobilitéit app for bus times. Most museums are closed on Mondays.

When booking, look for hotels that include breakfast; it saves time and money. Ask for a cot if needed; many places provide one free. If you're visiting in July or August, book at least a month ahead, as Luxembourg fills up with business travellers and tourists. Shoulder months (May, September, October) offer better rates and fewer crowds. For a stress-free trip, base in Cents, use the free buses, and plan one main activity per day. The quarter's calm rhythm suits families, and you're never far from the city's highlights.

Questions, answered

Is Cents a good area for families with young children?

Yes. Cents is quiet, residential and has wide pavements, playgrounds and easy access to the city centre by free bus. Hotels often have family rooms and parking, making it a practical base.

How do I get from Cents to Luxembourg City centre?

Buses 7, 9 and 14 run every 10–15 minutes from Route de Thionville, taking 10–15 minutes to the centre. Public transport is free. A taxi takes about 10 minutes and costs around €15–20.

What are the best months to visit Luxembourg with kids?

May, September and October offer mild weather and fewer crowds. July and August are warm but busy. December is festive with Christmas markets. Book ahead in peak season.

← Luxembourg's page