Travel Guide Leipzig
Located in the heart of Saxony, Leipzig is a destination that captivates with its rich history, culture and architecture. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors such as Berlin and Munich, this city proudly stands as a cultural and historical jewel ofGermany. With a population of 515,000, it has always been a hub of knowledge and innovation. As early as the 15th century, it established itself as one of Central Europe's leading trading centers. Later, it became Germany's intellectual capital, home to its most prolific book industry until 1945. Consult our Leipzig Travel Guide to discover all the hidden treasures of this fascinating city, as well as the finest hotels and restaurants.
Did you know that Leipzig has always been a magnet for brilliant minds? Personalities such as Wagner, Leibniz, Clara Schumann and Karl Liebknecht were born here. Other iconic figures such as Bach, Nietzsche, Goethe and Schiller studied here, enriching its cultural heritage.Leipzig's history is deeply rooted in European culture. It was here that the famous Battle of Leipzig took place, where Napoleon was defeated in 1813, marking a turning point in European history. The city is also intimately linked with music, having been the home of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose influence is still felt today through its many concerts and festivals.
Visiting Leipzig proves to be an enchantment. Old Leipzig is a feast for the eyes, with its narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque squares.St. Thomas's Church, where Bach worked for most of his life, is a must-see for music and history lovers. Leipzig has always been avant-garde. In the 19th century, it was the first city in Germany to embrace industrial modernity. Its new suburban fairgrounds are breathtakingly modern. TheUniversity of Leipzig, founded in 1409, is another highlight, having been one of Germany's most prestigious institutions.
But Leipzig is also a modern city that reinvented itself after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is renowned for its peaceful resistance to the Communist regime in 1989. And since the 1990s, Leipzig has undergone a remarkable architectural metamorphosis, marked by extensive projects and innovations. What's more, it boasts a fascinating mix of architectural styles: Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau and even Communist structures. The Renaissance town hall and Gothic churches are must-see gems.
Leipzig's nightlife is equally exciting. Home to a myriad of bars and cultural institutions, it is lively and welcoming to visitors. The once-industrial Plagwitz district is now a hotbed of alternative culture, with art galleries, trendy bars and coworking spaces. Saxon cuisine is another reason to visit Leipzig. Unhealthy but tasty, you'll discover dishes such as Leipziger Allerleia mixture of vegetables and meats, or the Eierscheckea deliciously sweet cake. Finally, escape to Lake Cospuden, a haven of peace just a few minutes from the city center, to recover from your emotions.
What to visit Leipzig?
Suggested addresses Leipzig
When to go to Leipzig?
Leipzig, with its lively streets and year-round festivals, is a destination to discover in every season:
January and February : a cold winter, often accompanied by snow. Note that in February, Leipzig always shines brightly with its extended Christmas markets;
March to May: Spring in Leipzig is mild, with moderate temperatures for strolling without the summer crowds;
June to August : summer is the peak tourist season. The days are long and sunny for music lovers, with various classical music festivals;
September and October: autumn offers a picturesque landscape for literature lovers, with the famous Book Fair!
November and December : low temperatures contrast with the festive spirit of the Christmas markets.
From June to August, accommodation and attractions are more expensive. For lower prices, go in April, May, September and October. In March, you can attend various spring celebrations and enjoy a quieter atmosphere before the high season. So, when to go to Leipzig? The decision is yours!
Weather at the moment
Leipzig enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with continental influences. Winters are relatively cold, with temperatures dropping well below zero, especially in January. In the high season, especially from June to August, Leipzig enjoys pleasantly mild temperatures. They fluctuate between 20 and 25°C.
The low season in Leipzig, from October to March, brings cooler temperatures and a risk of precipitation. If you visit this destination in November, for example, be prepared for shorter days and lower temperatures.
The weather in Leipzig varies according to the season. For mild temperatures, spring and summer are ideal. Nevertheless, each season has its own charm, whether it's the spring revival or the winter atmosphere.
The official currency in Leipzig is theeuro. Most places accept credit cards, but keep a few coins and bills in your pocket! ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city. Youth hostels and guesthouses offer affordable accommodation. Mid-range hotels offer comfortable rooms with additional services. And high-end hotels in Leipzig offer a luxurious experience with premium services.
For a special treat, the Imbiss offer German dishes at reasonable prices. Mid-range restaurants offer a variety of cuisine, and Leipzig's gourmet restaurants present high-end cuisine, with prices to match.
Our tip: it's customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants. However, this is not obligatory.
Leipzig, located in Germany, followsEuropean Union regulations for entry and residence.
If you are a citizen of an EU member state, you do not need a visa to enter or stay in Leipzig. A valid identity card or passport is sufficient;
Citizens of non-EU countries have different requirements. Many countries offer visa-free entry for short stays (less than 90 days). However, it is advisable to check specific visa requirements for Leipzig before you travel;
For longer stays, or for specific reasons such as work or study, additional formalities are required. Consult the latest information;
Also consult the website of the German embassy or consulate closest to your place of residence for detailed, up-to-date information on entry formalities in Leipzig and throughout Germany.
When planning your trip to Leipzig, the question of health arises. Leipzig is a modern German city with high health standards, making it easy for visitors to take health precautions:
There are no specific vaccinations required to enter Leipzig or Germany. However, it is always advisable to ensure that your routine vaccinations, such as tetanus, diphtheria and measles, are up to date before any international travel;
Drinking water in Leipzig: water quality in Leipzig is excellent;
Take out travel insurance to cover any health problems or accidents. Hospitals and clinics in Leipzig offer quality care, but having insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs.
And take a basic first-aid kit with you - it's always useful!
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
Media
How to go to Leipzig? Our advice & tips
Nicknamed the city of heroes for its key role in the fall of the Berlin Wall, Leipzig attracts and retains. Here's how to arrange a tour:
Numerous agencies offer organized tours of Leipzig. These tours cover the essentials of the city, such as the Old Market, the Opera House, the Church of St. Nicholas, or focus on specific themes such as music (think Bach and Mendelssohn) or the peaceful revolution;
Note that spring and summer are very popular. This is when you can enjoy the many parks, music festivals and outdoor terraces;
Most tour operators offer stays of 3 to 7 days;
Packages generally cover accommodation, some meals, transfers and excursions. However, specific activities such as concerts or museum visits may be extra.
Smart tip: Leipzig has a vibrant art and music scene. If you're an art or music lover, find out what events are taking place during your stay. Agencies can often book tickets for you in advance.
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationTravelling alone in Leipzig is an enriching experience. This German city, steeped in history, is also modern and welcoming:
Leipzig has a rich musical history, so consider visiting sites linked to composers like Bach or Mendelssohn. The city also played a major role in the peaceful revolution, making it a fascinating place for history buffs;
If you want to meet other travelers, hostels are an excellent option. If you prefer a little more privacy, consider a hotel room or apartment.
Leipzig has an excellent public transport network, so it's easy enough to get around without a car.
Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether it's strolling through the historic center, visiting a museum, attending a concert, or simply sitting in a café and watching the world go by, there's always something to do.
Leipzig offers travelers a variety of transport options for exploring the city. The public transport network is efficient. Bicycle hire is also popular, thanks to Leipzig's many cycle paths. Finally, for a more intimate discovery, walking is ideal. Many of Leipzig's sights are concentrated in the city center, making discovery on foot both convenient and enjoyable.
A single streetcar or bus ticket costs around €2.60. For bike hire, expect to pay between €10 and €15 per day. A tip for saving money? On weekends, a day ticket allows 5 people to travel together for the price of a single ticket! And keep an eye out for Leipzig Cards, which offer discounts on transport and attractions. Finally, don't forget the LVB transport company's mobile app, which offers real-time itineraries and timetables to help you get around the city.
