Best things to do in Leipzig
Find out more about those top places in Leipzig
Leipzig: Germany's Hipster Heartthrob That's Giving Berlin a Run for Its Lederhosen (and the Warehouse Parties are Epic!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide!
Move over, Berlin! There's a new cool kid on the German block, and its name is Leipzig! In recent years, this city has been quietly (and not so quietly) stealing Berlin's "coolest city" crown, thanks to its irresistible combo of cheap rent (music to any traveler's ears!), its easy-peasy proximity to the capital (perfect for a day trip if you miss the Berlin buzz), and a whole lotta empty warehouse space that's been transformed into DIY art galleries cooler than your vintage sunglasses and nightclubs that pulse with an underground energy.
Now, here's a quirky twist: unlike many German cities where the heart beats in the center, most of Leipzig's top attractions and coolest vibes are actually located beyond the city center. You see, Leipzig's core took a bit of a beating during World War Two and was rebuilt with slightly less TLC than its fancy neighbor Dresden. But fear not, intrepid explorer! This just means the real magic lies in the surrounding neighborhoods, waiting to be discovered.
The city's thriving nightlife and art scene have set up camp around the painfully cool Karl Heine Straße in the formerly industrial western district of Plagwitz. Think edgy galleries popping up in old factories and nightclubs where the beats are as innovative as the cocktails. Then there's the politically spirited southern district of Connewitz, home to the legendary Karl Liebknecht Straße, affectionately nicknamed "the Karli." This near 4-kilometer stretch is a glorious mishmash of pop-up restaurants serving culinary surprises, bars with more character than a Wes Anderson film, and other hidden gems just waiting to be stumbled upon.
But while Leipzig is undeniably thrillingly modern and buzzing with a creative energy, it's still a German city at its core. Its deep connections to musical giants like Bach, Mendelssohn, and Wagner are a testament to its rich cultural heritage. So, you can soak in the edgy vibes by night and then immerse yourself in classical music history by day. Talk about a well-rounded city!
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this captivating German city. Get ready for some seriously cool sightseeing, from exploring industrial-chic art spaces to diving into the vibrant nightlife and uncovering the city's rich musical past. Leipzig is the underdog that's about to become your new favorite!
Top Attractions: Beyond the Center, Where the Cool Stuff Happens!
Leipzig's charm lies in its vibrant neighborhoods and unique cultural scene. Here are some of the top places to visit you absolutely shouldn't miss:
Plagwitz and Karl Heine Straße: Industrial Chic and Artistic Adventures
Explore the formerly industrial district of Plagwitz, now a haven for art galleries, studios, and creative spaces housed in repurposed factories. The Karl Heine Straße is the beating heart of this neighborhood, offering a mix of trendy bars, restaurants, and independent shops. It's a prime spot for sightseeing a different side of Germany.
Connewitz and "the Karli" (Karl Liebknecht Straße): Alternative Vibes and Hidden Gems
Dive into the alternative atmosphere of Connewitz and stroll down "the Karli," a seemingly endless stretch of pop-up eateries, quirky bars, independent boutiques, and a generally cool, unpretentious vibe. It's a fantastic place to visit for a taste of Leipzig's rebellious spirit and to discover some truly unique things to do.
The Bach Museum: Following the Footsteps of a Musical Legend
Music lovers, rejoice! Visit the Bach Museum to learn about the life and work of the legendary Johann Sebastian Bach, who spent a significant part of his career in Leipzig. Explore interactive exhibits and immerse yourself in the world of Baroque music. It's a must-see for any music enthusiast.
St. Thomas Church (Thomaskirche): Where Bach Conducted and History Echoes
Stand in the very church where Johann Sebastian Bach once worked as a cantor. The St. Thomas Church is a beautiful Gothic building with a rich musical history. You can often catch performances here, bringing the past to life. It's a significant landmark for your Leipzig sightseeing.
Things to Do Beyond the Main Sights: Art, Nightlife, and Industrial Exploration!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Leipzig vibe:
- Explore the Spinnerei: This massive former cotton mill has been transformed into a vibrant art center, housing numerous galleries and studios. It's a must-visit for contemporary art lovers.
- Dive into the Nightlife: Leipzig's nightlife is legendary, especially in Plagwitz and Connewitz. Discover underground clubs, live music venues, and bars with a unique atmosphere.
- Wander Through Clara-Zetkin Park: Escape the urban bustle in this large and beautiful park, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or even a boat ride on the Elster River.
- Visit the Zeitgeschichtliches Forum Leipzig (Forum of Contemporary History): Learn about East Germany's history and the events leading up to the fall of the Berlin Wall at this informative museum.
- Discover the Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of the Nations): This imposing monument commemorates the Battle of Leipzig in 1813 and offers panoramic views of the city from its top.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Germany that offer a thrilling mix of modern cool, a vibrant arts and nightlife scene, and a rich cultural history, Leipzig is your answer! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unique sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to ditch the traditional tourist trail and embrace the edgy, creative spirit of this fantastic city! Auf geht's (let's go)!
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Nikolaikirche
Built in 1797 but rising to international prominence for its ‘peace prayers’ that were one of the pivotal movements leading to the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Nikolaikirche is Leipzig’s star attraction. With a graceful interior, including pillars designed like palm trees, it is a real architectural gem with a vibrant history to match. Tours of the Nikolaikirche are highly recommended, as they reveal the story behind the collapse of the East German government.
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Monument to the Battle of Nations
Built on Leipzig outskirts, this colossal monument, which is also the apogee of Wilhelmine architecture, commemorates the 1813 Battle of Nations where Prussian, Russian and Austrian armies defeated Napoleon. While the monument has spectacular views of the surrounding Saxon countryside, its architecture is the biggest draw with gigantic granite soldiers lining the walls and exterior.
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Plagwitz
In recent years down at heel Leipzig has become known as ‘Hypezig’, owing to the influx of creative Berliners priced out of the gentrifying capital. In the former industrial area of Plagwitz warehouses, like the famed Baumwollspinnerei, have been repurposed as artists studios, contemporary art galleries and hip bars. Make sure to take a street art tour to immerse yourself in the area’s creativity.
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Bach Museum
While Leipzig is today famed for its modern art, the city has long been a creative hot spot. At the Bach Museum tours let you learn fascinating insights into the famed composers life in the city and listen to some of his most famous works.
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Mendelssohn House
Much like the Bach Museum, the Mendelssohn House immortalizes one of Leipzig’s other creative geniuses: Felix Mendelssohn. In the museum interactive exhibits let you immerse yourself in the life of the famed composer.
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Trabant Tour
When in the former East Germany a tour in one of the former communist country’s famed exports, the Trabant car, is a must. With the help of an expert guide you can cruise the Stalinist boulevards of Leipzig in one of these retro cars and take in the city’s main sites.
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Stasi Museum
For a glimpse inside the life of ordinary East German citizens head to the Stasi Museum where you can learn how the secret police monitored the population through disguises, surveillance devices and other, sometimes bizarre, means.
