Leipzig travel guide

Photo of city of Leipzig, Germany. A panorama at sunset.
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Introduction to Leipzig

Monument to the Battle of the Nations, Marktplatz Leipzig, and Leipzig Panometer have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Leipzig, Germany. Leipzig has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This largest city in Saxony, Germany is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 615.1 thousand people, the region of Leipzig is truly one of the main highlights of Germany.

Easily accessible from Leipzig/Halle airport, Leipzig is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Germany any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Leipzig as you explore this spectacular region.

Traveling to Leipzig is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the region of Leipzig below!

History of Leipzig

Leipzig, a city in the eastern part of Germany, boasts a rich history that dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. It was officially recognized as a city in the year 1165.

Over the centuries, Leipzig has been a focal point for trade, culture, and education. It was home to famous personalities like Johann Sebastian Bach and Felix Mendelssohn, who left an indelible mark on the city's musical scene.

In the 19th century, Leipzig became an important center for publishing and printing, earning it the nickname 'Book City'.

In recent history, Leipzig played a pivotal role in the Peaceful Revolution of 1989, which led to the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War.

Today, Leipzig's history can be experienced through its well-preserved architecture, thriving arts scene, and numerous museums and historical sites.

Top services in Leipzig

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Leipzig, Germany. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 320 airlines that fly to Germany. Browse the 32 top-rated tours available to you in Leipzig. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Leipzig and the 8 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Leipzig.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Leipzig, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Leipzig on your vacation in Germany.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Leipzig from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the region of Leipzig!

Best time to visit Leipzig

The best time to explore Leipzig, Germany is from May to September when the weather is pleasantly warm, with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F). The city is draped in lush greenery and the streets are lively, yet crowd levels are moderate compared to larger German cities. During these months, Leipzig hosts a number of festivals such as the Wave-Gotik-Treffen in June, the world's largest Goth festival, and the Bachfest in June, a music festival dedicated to the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. For those who prefer cooler temperatures, the late autumn months of October and November are also an excellent choice. The fall foliage in Clara Zetkin Park is a sight to behold. However, if you wish to experience the city's magical Christmas markets, plan your visit for late November to December. Regardless of the season, ensure you pack appropriately for the weather and book accommodations in advance to secure the best deals.

Local tip for visiting Leipzig

When visiting Leipzig, the insider tip is to explore the city's thriving subculture scene. Don't limit yourself to the mainstream attractions; instead, take a dive into the offbeat Leipzig. The city is known for its alternative arts scene, independent shops, and underground music venues, particularly in the west of the city. Places like Plagwitz and Lindenau are buzzling with graffiti art, quirky cafes, and innovative galleries located in repurposed industrial buildings. These areas bring a unique character to Leipzig and offer a different perspective on the local life that is often missed by tourists. This insider tip will certainly add a vibrant, edgy touch to your Leipzig experience.

Learn more about Germany

There are many reasons to visit the region of Leipzig, but a trip to Germany needs no explanation.

Exploring Germany, which spans 357,588 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Germany offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Monument to the Battle of the Nations, Marktplatz Leipzig, and the Leipzig Panometer, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Germany.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Germany.

What to see in Leipzig

Photo of panoramic view over the city of Leipzig with the Monument to the Battle of the Nations at sunset.

Leipzig has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the region.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the region of Leipzig.

Top attractions in Leipzig

Home to plenty of top attractions, Leipzig is more than just a wonderful region in Germany. Leipzig is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Germany.

One fascinating sight in Leipzig is the unforgettable Monument to the Battle of the Nations. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the region, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Leipzig. This remarkable attraction is located at Str. Des 18. Oktober 100, 04299 Leipzig, Germany and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-16:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Germany, check out our list of top attractions in Leipzig below. Discover the best places to visit in Leipzig, including the fascinating Monument to the Battle of the Nations, Marktplatz Leipzig, Leipzig Panometer, St. Nicholas Church, and St. Thomas Church.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Leipzig.

Things to do in Leipzig

Photo of Karl Heine Canal in the Plagwitz district in Leipzig.

Enrich your travel experience in Leipzig by joining tours and activities. Leipzig offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the region.

Discover the most popular experiences in Leipzig below.

Most popular experiences in Leipzig

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the region of Leipzig.

Leipzig offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Historical Tours, Walking Tours, and City Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Germany.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Leipzig by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Leipzig

Travelers in Leipzig can choose from 12 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Leipzig is the fantastic Leipzig 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Leipzig one of the best travel destinations in Germany.

Leipzig also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour is the cheapest tour in the region, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 5 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Leipzig. This Historical Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 10 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Leipzig and book a top-rated tour in the region. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Leipzig below.

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Search for things to do in Leipzig

Discover the best things to do in Leipzig. Choose from 32 fantastic tours and activities available in the region.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Leipzig. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Leipzig

Leipzig, Germany offers a rich culinary journey ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. The city is renowned for its local dishes such as 'Leipziger Allerlei', a hearty vegetable dish, and 'Leipziger Lerche', a sweet pastry named after the songbird. Explore the Südvorstadt district, famous for its vibrant street food scene, where you can savor authentic German sausages, freshly baked pretzels, and local beer. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the city center. Here, you'll find Michelin-starred restaurants like Falco, offering innovative takes on traditional German cuisine. The 'Karli' or Karl-Liebknecht-Straße is also one of the best places to eat in Leipzig, with an array of restaurants and pubs serving regional dishes. Don't forget to try the local 'Gose' beer, a Leipzig specialty. Remember, dining in Leipzig is not just about eating, it's also about embracing the local culture and tradition. So, immerse yourself in the city’s culinary heritage, try new flavors, and enjoy every bite.

Best shopping in Leipzig

Leipzig, Germany offers a diverse shopping experience for every taste, with a blend of traditional German craftsmanship, high-end fashion, and unique local treasures. The city center is the best place to go shopping in Leipzig, boasting a variety of boutiques and designer stores, nestled among charming historic buildings. Petersstraße and Grimmaische Straße are iconic shopping streets, filled with world-renowned brands and local shops alike. For an indoor shopping experience, visit Höfe am Brühl, a modern mall with over 100 stores.

Don't miss the chance to explore Speck’s Hof, the oldest preserved arcade in Germany, offering an array of shops set within a stunning architectural masterpiece. Leipzig's markets are another must-visit, especially the historic Leipziger Marktplatz, where you can find everything from fresh produce to antiques.

Among the distinct local fashion and craftsmanship, look out for Leipzig's Lebkuchen, a traditional German gingerbread, as a must-buy souvenir. Take advantage of Leipzig's late-night shopping every first Thursday of the month, when shops stay open until 10 pm, adding to the vibrant city nightlife. Leipzig's shopping scene is accessible, diverse, and full of character, offering an exciting addition to your German travel experience.

Best Free Things to Do in Leipzig

Explore the best free things to do in Leipzig, a city steeped in history and culture. Start your journey at the Augustusplatz, one of the largest city squares in Germany, home to Leipzig Opera and the Gewandhaus orchestra hall. Here, enjoy the bustling atmosphere and impressive architecture. Next, visit the Leipzig Panometer, an old gasometer turned into a visual panorama of the city's history, offering free entrance on certain days. Don't miss the St. Nicholas Church, a historic landmark known for its role in the Peaceful Revolution of 1989. Its striking interiors, a blend of classical and contemporary styles, are a sight to behold. For music lovers, a visit to the Johann Sebastian Bach monument located in front of St. Thomas Church, where the composer worked and is now buried, is a must. Finally, take leisurely strolls through the numerous parks Leipzig offers, like Clara-Zetkin-Park or Rosental, where you can relax amidst nature. With so many free attractions, Leipzig provides a rich and fulfilling experience without lightening your wallet.

Vacation packages in Leipzig

Photo of aerial view to city of Leipzig.

The best and easiest way to visit Leipzig is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Germany.

Booking a vacation package to Leipzig means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Leipzig to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Leipzig is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 196 unique vacation packages to Leipzig, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the region of Leipzig.

Popular types of vacations in Leipzig

The most popular way to experience Leipzig is by visiting the region as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Germany. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Leipzig on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Germany, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Germany, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Leipzig, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Leipzig below.

Top vacation packages in Leipzig

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Germany. In fact, you can choose from as many as 196 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Leipzig, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Germany.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the region of Leipzig.

For an epic vacation, discover Leipzig and other top destinations in Germany on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Germany Road Trip from Leipzig to Berlin and Dresden. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Leipzig, but also in other top places to visit in Germany. If Friedenspark, Marktplatz Leipzig, Monument to the Battle of the Nations, Botanical Garden Leipzig, and Leipzig Panometer are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Leipzig, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Germany City Break in Leipzig and spend as little as 206 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Leipzig, including the fantastic Marktplatz Leipzig, St. Nicholas Church, Monument to the Battle of the Nations, Botanical Garden Leipzig, and Leipzig Panometer.

Get more Leipzig vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Germany that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Leipzig

Discover and compare 196 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful region of Leipzig.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Leipzig get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Germany. Your customized holiday package to Leipzig is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Leipzig

To get to the region of Leipzig the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Germany can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Leipzig by booking flights with any of the 27 airlines that offer direct flights to Leipzig/Halle airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Leipzig/Halle airport are Ryanair, United Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air China, and Condor. Go to this page to compare all flights to Leipzig.

To reach the region of Leipzig, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Leipzig/Halle airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Leipzig, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Leipzig/Halle airport and Leipzig below.

Find cheap flights to Leipzig

Photo of beautiful view of an old church ruins of Wachau, Markkleeberg, Leipzig, Germany.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Leipzig, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Germany. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Leipzig, Germany, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Leipzig costs around 20 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair. The flight leaves on May 23 at 2 and departs from London Stansted airport in London, England.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Leipzig cost approximately 128 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on June 25 and the return flight is scheduled on June 4. The flight time is around 7 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Saarbrücken.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Germany and the region of Leipzig from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Leipzig

Travelers visiting Leipzig in Germany can fly to Leipzig/Halle airport directly from 1346 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Leipzig/Halle airport and the region of Leipzig in Germany depart from Leipzig/Halle airport in Leipzig, Germany, Sydney airport in Sydney, Australia, and Tocumen International airport in Panama City, Panama.

Travelers can fly to Germany by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Leipzig; from 5 weekly flight(s) from Sydney; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Panama City.

The airline that operates most flights to Germany is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 7 scheduled flight routes to Germany.

Discover the most popular flights to Leipzig below. Click to view flights to Leipzig, Germany from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Leipzig

Photo of Facade of St. Thomas Church (Thomaskirche) in Leipzig, Germany.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a region as fantastic as Leipzig is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Leipzig usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Leipzig offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the region allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Leipzig and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Leipzig planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Leipzig, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Germany can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Leipzig. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the region, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Leipzig.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Leipzig in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Leipzig

A trip to the fascinating Leipzig, Germany, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the region. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 311 vacation rental apartments, 238 hotels, 7 cottages, 2 guesthouses and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Leipzig provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the region, H2 Hotel Leipzig is one of the top picks of travelers in Leipzig.

The hotel is located at Sachsenseite 5 and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Leipzig. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Leipzig, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose A&O Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. For approximately 20 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Leipzig. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Leipzig

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Leipzig for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the region is home to around 559 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Leipzig provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Leipzig are created equal, finding the best in the region often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Leipzig.

Felix im Lebendigen Haus Augustusplatz offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Leipzig. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out H4 Hotel Leipzig, the top 4-star hotel in the region. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Leipzig, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, H2 Hotel Leipzig, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Leipzig. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the region of Leipzig on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the region of Leipzig that match the information provided.

Car rental in Leipzig

Photo of Leipzig, Germany by lapping

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Leipzig. Leipzig has 8 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Leipzig start from 24.72 EUR per day or 173.06 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Ford Focus Aut.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Leipzig, starting from 17.46 EUR per day or 122.24 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Ford Fiesta.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Leipzig, Germany, below.

Popular types of car rental in Leipzig

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the region of Leipzig to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Leipzig can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Germany at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Leipzig is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Leipzig is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the region of Leipzig.

Check out all options available in Leipzig and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Germany below.

Search for car rental in Leipzig

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful region of Leipzig. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Leipzig, Germany, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Leipzig

Leipzig's well-structured transport network makes it easy for visitors to navigate through the city. The Leipzig Public Transportation System (LVB) is the chief mode of transport, consisting of trams, buses, and city trains (S-Bahn). The trams and buses cover the city extensively, while the S-Bahn connects Leipzig with the surrounding areas.

For those seeking more flexibility, taxis are readily available and can be hailed directly from the street or ordered by phone. Car rental services, like Sixt, Europcar, and Avis, are also present in the city, offering a wide range of vehicles to choose from.

For a unique local experience, consider exploring Leipzig by bicycle. The city is well-equipped with cycling paths, and bike rentals are available at various locations. Leipzig's compact size makes it ideal for biking, offering a healthy and eco-friendly alternative for getting around. Alternatively, you can also choose to take a leisurely boat ride in one of Leipzig's many navigable waterways, providing a different perspective of this beautiful city.

Popular destinations to visit after Leipzig

Photo of beautiful view of St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, Germany.

The region of Leipzig is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Germany. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Germany has it all.

Germany is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Germany that are as magical as the region of Leipzig. The most popular travel destinations in Germany are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Germany

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Germany. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Leipzig

Photo of city walk through the beautiful city centre of Leipzig.

A taste of Germany through a visit to Leipzig can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Leipzig to another remarkable destination in Germany.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the region of Leipzig to other spectacular locations in Germany, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Leipzig

Travelers in Germany can catch flights to domestic airports in Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Düsseldorf, and Dortmund. Domestic flights in Germany are operated by 12 airlines: Condor, Ryanair, Corendon Airlines Europe, Lufthansa, and Eurowings. There are around 44 scheduled flight routes operating to Leipzig on a weekly basis.

From Leipzig, travelers can book scheduled flights to 23 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Leipzig depart to many top-rated destinations in Germany and are offered by Condor, Ryanair, and Corendon Airlines Europe.

Search domestic flights from Leipzig

Traveling to another city or region in Germany? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Leipzig to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Germany on the selected dates.

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