Currency and cards
Luxembourg uses the Euro. Cards work everywhere including buses (though transport is free so you don’t need to pay), farmers markets, and small cafés. American Express is accepted about 60% of places; Visa and Mastercard universally. ATMs (Bancomat) are common and don’t charge fees from EU cards; non-EU cards may pay $3-5 per withdrawal. Contactless works up to $50 without PIN.
What things cost
Coffee: $3-5. Beer (pint): $6-8 in a bar, $4 in a supermarket. Basic lunch: $12-16. Sit-down dinner two courses: $32-45 without wine. Museum entry: $6-10. City taxi start: $12. Groceries: 20% pricier than Germany, 10% cheaper than Switzerland. A weekly supermarket shop for two averages $110-140 at Cactus or Auchan.
Tipping
Service is included by law. Restaurants: round up or leave 5-10% if excellent — never 20%. Café coffee: leave the coins. Taxis: round up to the nearest Euro. Hotel porters: $2 per bag. Housekeeping: $2/day is generous. Tour guides: $5-10 per person for a half-day. Do not tip in bars for a beer or two.
Good to know
Is Luxembourg expensive?+
Yes. It's in the top five most expensive EU countries. Budget $110-140 per person per day mid-range including hotel.
Cash or card?+
Card. Carry $50 in cash for markets and tips; everything else runs on plastic.
Should I tip in restaurants?+
Only for good service, and only 5-10%. Servers are properly paid; heavy tipping isn’t the norm.
Is there VAT refund for tourists?+
Yes for non-EU residents on purchases over $80 in single-store transactions. Ask for a Tax Free form and stamp at the airport.