Leipzig is a city that effortlessly marries rich history with the vibrancy of modern life. Located in the eastern part of Germany, Leipzig is renowned for its classical music heritage, bustling arts scene, and incredible architectural marvels. Often dubbed the “City of Heroes” for its pivotal role in the peaceful revolution that led to the fall of the Berlin Wall, Leipzig is teeming with stories waiting to be told. However, what’s less talked about, yet equally compelling, is Leipzig’s natural beauty—from tranquil parks to serene lakes.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your travel essentials and prepare to be enchanted by the myriad of experiences Leipzig has to offer!
Things to do in Leipzig
1. Thomaskirche: Follow in the Footsteps of Bach
Stepping into Thomaskirche is like entering a time capsule that takes you back to the era of Johann Sebastian Bach. This historic church is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a musical landmark where Bach served as a Kapellmeister.
Wandering around the church, you’ll find yourself enveloped in an atmosphere of reverence and beauty. The intricate stained-glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors that dance across the hallowed interiors. Don’t miss the statue of Bach that sits proudly in front of the church, and if your timing is right, you may even catch one of the free concerts that are a tribute to its illustrious past.
2. St. Nicholas Church: A Beacon of Peace and Freedom
As the originating point of the peaceful demonstrations that led to the end of the GDR regime, St. Nicholas Church is more than just a place of worship; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope. The church itself is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, accented by Gothic and Baroque elements.
Inside, your eyes will be drawn to the captivating palm-shaped columns and the organ loft. Each element, from the slender arches to the tranquil altar, tells a story of Leipzig’s rich history. Participate in the weekly ‘Prayers for Peace’ if you happen to visit on a Monday; it’s a tradition that has continued since the days leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall.
3. Monument to the Battle of the Nations: A Towering Tribute
This monument is a colossal structure built to commemorate the Battle of Leipzig in 1813. At 91 meters tall, it is the largest monument in Europe and offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscape.
While the climb up might be a bit of a trek, the view from the top is absolutely worth it. The monument itself is a masterpiece of architecture and sculpture, evoking the grandeur and gravity of the battle it commemorates. Inside, the exhibit provides historical context, making your visit both educational and awe-inspiring.
4. Panometer Leipzig: Dive into 360° Art
Prepare to be mesmerized at the Panometer Leipzig, an extraordinary exhibition space that presents 360° panoramas by artist Yadegar Asisi. The larger-than-life installations cover themes ranging from ancient civilizations to natural wonders.
As you stand in the center of the cylindrical structure, the visual spectacle envelops you from all sides. It’s like stepping into another world, all while being accompanied by thematic sounds and lighting. The installations change periodically, ensuring that there’s always something new to see.
5. Leipzig’s Historic Market Square: Heart of the City
Leipzig’s Market Square is the bustling hub where history, commerce, and culture collide. With its roots going back to the 12th century, this square has been the city’s commercial heart for centuries.
Browse through a variety of shops and stalls, where you can buy anything from fresh produce to artisan crafts. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Old Town Hall, an example of Renaissance architecture that now houses the Museum of City History. The square often hosts events, so whether it’s a Christmas Market or a spring fair, there’s always something festive in the air.
6. Belantis: The Adventure Kingdom
Ready for a day full of thrills and spills? Head over to Belantis, an amusement park that promises fun for the whole family. With roller coasters, water rides, and various thematic zones like ‘Valley of the Pharaohs’ and ‘Island of the Knights,’ excitement is just around the corner.
Feel your heart race on the ‘Huracan,’ one of the steepest roller coasters in the world, or take a gentler adventure with your kids at ‘Captain Black’s Pirate School.’ Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for some wholesome family time, Belantis delivers.
7. Museum der bildenden Künste (Museum of Fine Arts)
Art lovers, this one is for you! Leipzig’s Museum of Fine Arts is a striking modern building filled with an extensive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
Walk through galleries that showcase masters like Lucas Cranach, Max Klinger, and even some pieces by Picasso. The museum also places a strong emphasis on contemporary Leipzig artists, making it a comprehensive journey through the history of art.
8. Leipzig Zoo: A Wilderness Adventure
The Leipzig Zoo is a family-friendly adventure that will leave you awe-struck. One of the oldest zoos in the world, it houses more than 850 animal species, many of which are part of international conservation programs.
Begin your journey at ‘Pongoland,’ the world’s largest facility for keeping primates. Then, immerse yourself in the magical ‘Gondwanaland,’ a tropical experience hall where you navigate via boat amidst lush landscapes and exotic animals. The zoo provides educational tours, making it an insightful experience for both children and adults.
9. Auerbachs Keller: Dine Like Goethe
Experience a culinary journey through history at Auerbachs Keller, one of the oldest restaurants in Germany. Immortalized in Goethe’s ‘Faust,’ this restaurant provides a sumptuous array of Saxon dishes in an atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Take a seat in the historic wine tavern or one of its themed dining rooms, like the ‘Goethe Room,’ which brings scenes from ‘Faust’ to life. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes all your senses.
10. Südfriedhof Cemetery and Mahnmal Kapellenanlage: A Serene Respite with a Fairy-tale Twist
If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle while experiencing a blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor, Leipzig’s Südfriedhof Cemetery offers an unexpected but rewarding detour. Often compared to the renowned Père Lachaise in Paris, Südfriedhof is one of the largest cemeteries in Germany and is a stunning example of funerary art and landscaping. With meticulously designed plots and grandiose mausoleums, it is more like an open-air museum than a traditional graveyard.
But what sets Südfriedhof apart is the Mahnmal Kapellenanlage, a chapel complex that seems to have sprung straight from a fairy tale, bearing an uncanny resemblance to a Disney castle. The juxtaposition of the chapel’s fantastical look against the somber backdrop of the cemetery creates a surreal and contemplative atmosphere. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking quietude, this hidden gem provides an unusual yet captivating experience.
Intriguingly, the Mahnmal Kapellenanlage serves as a war memorial, adding depth to its whimsical appearance. Walking through this area provokes thoughtfulness about the juxtapositions of life—beauty and sorrow, peace and conflict, reality and imagination. As you stroll through Südfriedhof, it becomes clear that the cemetery isn’t just a place to remember the departed; it’s a space where art, history, and nature converge in a poignant symphony.
11. Cospudener See: A Lakeside Retreat
For those craving a natural respite, Cospudener See offers a beautiful lake setting ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and sailing. Located to the south of Leipzig, this lake is a popular getaway.
Its sandy beaches make it feel like a coastal retreat, while bike paths and hiking trails offer more active ways to enjoy the beautiful scenery. As you relax on the shore or engage in water sports, you’ll find that the lake provides the perfect break from city life.
12. Grassi Museum: Triple the Culture
The Grassi Museum is actually a complex of three museums—Museum of Applied Arts, Museum of Ethnography, and Museum of Musical Instruments. Whether you’re interested in decorative arts, global cultures, or the history of music, there’s something here for everyone.
Browse through ornate furniture, historical costumes, and even a collection of historical keyboards. Each museum provides a unique lens through which to explore human creativity, making it a rewarding experience for visitors of all ages.
13. Leipziger Baumwollspinnerei: A Creative Hive
Once a cotton mill, the Leipziger Baumwollspinnerei has transformed into a dynamic center for art and culture. Housing galleries, artist studios, and workshops, it’s a creative hive that embodies Leipzig’s contemporary spirit.
The regular exhibitions and events make it a pulsating venue where art forms and ideas intersect. It’s not just a place to see art; it’s a place to experience the creative process up close.
14. Augustusplatz: A Modern Square with Historic Roots
Augustusplatz is one of the largest city squares in Germany and serves as a focal point for modern Leipzig. Surrounded by significant buildings like the Gewandhaus concert hall and the Leipzig Opera, the square is always abuzz with activity.
Whether you’re catching a world-class musical performance or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, Augustusplatz offers a slice of Leipzig’s cosmopolitan lifestyle.
15. Botanical Garden: A Natural Oasis
Leipzig’s Botanical Garden is the oldest of its kind in Germany. The garden is not just a beautiful place for a leisurely walk; it also serves as a scientific collection with over 7,000 species of plants and trees.
From tropical greenhouses to thematic gardens, the Botanical Garden offers a diverse range of flora. It’s a serene oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for both relaxation and education.
Additional Information
Local Foods to Try:
Don’t leave Leipzig without tasting the traditional “Leipziger Allerlei,” a vegetable dish featuring asparagus, peas, and carrots, usually served with crayfish or prawns. For dessert, indulge in the Leipzig Lerche, a pastry filled with marzipan and a cherry.
Festival Timings:
The Leipzig Bach Festival in June is a must for classical music enthusiasts, while the “Wave Gotik Treffen” in May is one of the world’s largest gatherings for the goth culture.
Leipzig is a city that has something for everyone—from the history buff to the nature lover, from the art connoisseur to the adventure seeker. Come and discover this German gem for yourself!