In Luxembourg, the car is still more popular than the alternatives. Since I've only lived here for three months, I'm not going to try to figure out why that is. But, one reason may have something to do with all the commuters going in and out from the surrounding countries. Anyway, whatever the reason, there can be quite a bit of traffic on the roads. For those of us new to driving in Luxembourg (where everyone drives fast and the roads are far from straight), the train and bus system is usually a better option, especially at night.
There are two ways of getting around, the train and the bus. The buses run more frequently, make more stops, and are a bit quicker. The trains can be late or show up on the wrong track, but they aren't as crowded as the buses usually are. The ride is also smoother. Some buses are outfitted to haul bikes, and there are bike areas on many trains, more on the newer trains.
To take the train or the bus in Lux you need an E-GO card. You get your card at the kiosk located inside the train stations and then load it with a ticket package. The card is then scanned at the train station or on the bus. Now, this whole scanning thing is still a bit of a mystery. Several times, the scanner on the buses or at the train station haven't been operating. On the trains, the conductors will come through and check the card, but no one has done that on the buses. The important thing is to have your card ready just in case. I guess. The fares are very reasonable and you can take as many transfers as you need within two hours of activating the pass. If traveling to another country, you will need to reserve the ticket. That can be done online or at the service desk at the train station. When heading to Paris, book the TGV train which is direct with a few stops. If you take the regular trains it will take forever. Unfortunately, there isn't a direct service into Belgium, so expect a 3 hour trip to Brussels. However, in that case, the driving time is the same, so taking the train still cuts out the hassle of traffic and parking.
Figuring out what train or bus to take can be pretty intimidating. Unlike subways we've had experience with, the tracks aren't always clearly marked as to which the direction the trains are headed. The buses are. The schedules are listed at all the stations and, thankfully, the main hub in Luxembourg City has plenty of signage. If you're at a small station elsewhere in the country you will need to pay close attention. In Ettelbruck, they always are changing to a different track from what was listed. Sometimes they announce the change, and sometimes they don't. Since the trains aren't marked with their final destination on the outside, we usually resort to asking a conductor before we get on. We also pay attention to what is going on with the other commuters. If everyone starts running to another track when our train is due, we follow suite.
One thing we've found to be very helpful is the CFL app for the iPhone. It gives point by point directions for getting around on the trains and buses. With the app, you can use your current location or station/bus stop. It will then give you multiple options for reaching your destination. If you aren't at a stop, it will give you walking directions to the closest one. Once you commit to a schedule, it charts your progress (which is helpful at night when you're on a train that doesn't list what stations you're at, you can't read the signs outside the window, and you've lost count). Of course, you still need to pay attention to what track you need to be at and the time, but at least it narrows down the options. If confused, you can always ask. So far, all CFL staff we've talked to at the train stations have been very friendly and helpful if we have any questions. When it's time to board, allow those disembarking to get off first before you get on. Like subways, etiquette dictates that you speak softly to those you're traveling with. Large luggage can be stowed overhead and many trains have coat hooks. All have a free WC on-board (another advantage of taking the train instead of driving). If travelling right before school starts or ends, be prepared for more congestion. As is the case anywhere, don't expect traditional politeness from the teenage passengers.
Yeah, it is still a little fuzzy. But, after a few rides it is starting to make more sense. There have only been a couple of occasions when driving is faster than public transportation, but the taking the train or bus is always cheaper. Even with the minor dose of confusion, it is a relief to just hop on and get where we need to go without having to worry about fog, traffic, parking, and wild boar. For more information, check out the CFL website (and have Google translate it) here.
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