Oh, Leipzig. Where do I even begin with you? The city of Leipzig is and always will be a special place for us! For starters, it was the first place Ryan and I moved to after we got married, making it our first “home” as husband and wife. It’s also where we adopted our husky, Jax, and up until now, it’s the only place we have resided in for longer than 1 year. We feel like we became a true family here in Leipzig, so I think it’s safe to say we feel a pretty strong connection to this wonderful place. The city itself is strikingly beautiful, the people are crazy nice, and you can always find something to see or do while here. Simply put, we love it here!
If you are ever lucky enough to wind up in the heart of Leipzig some day, here is a guide to all of my favorite things to see and do!
St. Thomas Church
Probably one of Leipzig’s biggest “claims to fame” is this baby right here! St. Thomas Church is linked to many famous composers such as Richard Wagner, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy, and of course, Johann Sebastian Bach! Bach worked here as the music director from 1723 until his death in 1750 and to this day, the church also holds his remains. So cool, right?! Although Ryan and I are both Catholic (and St. Thomas is a Lutheran Church), we couldn’t resist attending Christmas Eve Mass at this gorgeous location. Even if you aren’t the biggest classic music fan, this spot is definitely one that you should add to your list of must-see’s!
St. Nicholas Church
Okay, I know what you’re thinking…while yes, I am adding a second church to your itinerary, I promise you that this is no ordinary church! After all, it’s pink and green! This one is also super famous for premiering several works by Johann Sebastian Bach in the 18th century and for being the center of peaceful demonstrations in the 1980’s. The colors and interior are like nothing you have ever seen so don’t miss this one!
Monument to the Battle of the Nations
Okay, this is probably one of my all-time favorite places in Leipzig. It is SUCH a cool spot to visit! In 1913, the Monument to the Battle of the Nations was dedicated as a national monument to serve as a memorial to honor the fallen after the defeat in Germany in the Battle of Nations. The structure and architecture of the Monument is stunningly beautiful and you can even go inside! After climbing 364 steps, you will be rewarded with a gorgeous panoramic view of the city of Leipzig. Word of caution though, the climb can be a bit tiring and the winding staircases bring you through some narrow passageways. However, the journey is totally worth it!
Zoo Leipzig
Internationally known for its large building projects, the Zoo houses roughly 850 species. The best part about this Zoo is definitely the indoor rainforest hall, which is currently the second largest in the world! Ryan and I have made many trips to the Zoo here in Leipzig and it was definitely one of our favorite things to do in the Summer months. There is so much to see that you could definitely spend a full day exploring, especially if the weather is nice!
Cospudener See
By far, one of our absolute favorite places to be during the spring and summer! We were fortunate enough to live within walking distance from the lake and we took full advantage of this whenever Ryan had a free afternoon. There’s long stretches of beach and sand, paths to walk and bike along, some waterside restaurants and cafes, and even a sailing harbor! It’s amazing how this little beach paradise is so close to such a large European city. You really get the best of both worlds here! Ryan and I spent many days lounging on the beach, biking with Jax along the lakeside, and having drinks or dinner during sunset. Not going to lie…being so close to the water was one of the reasons as to why we chose our particular apartment! Location, location, location…am I right?!
Panorama Tower (City-Hochhause)
Standing at 466 feet, the Panorama Tower is the tallest building in Leipzig, and one of the tallest in Germany! The 36-story skyscraper is now mainly used as an office building (I know, super boring) but the rooftop has a viewing platform that showcases the beauty of downtown Leipzig. Aside from the Battle of Nations Monument, it is, without a doubt, the best city view you will get in Leipzig!
Leipzig Panometer
Probably one of the coolest things we have seen here in the city, the Leipzig Panometer is a must-visit! The Panometer is visual panorama displayed in a former gasometer, accompanied by a thematic exhibition. Created in 2003 by Yadegar Asisi, this 360° Panorama displays a 30 meter-high panoramic picture, making them the largest such pictures in the world. Also included are exhibitions on the theme relating to the picture, as well as a film viewing room. Currently, there are multiple Panometers showcasing various themes that have ranged from Mount Everest to Titanic, Amazonia, The Great Barrier Reef, and more!
We had the pleasure of viewing the Titanic exhibit in Leipzig, and let me tell you…it did NOT disappoint!
Museum Coffee Baum
Being the oldest coffee shops in Germany, and one of the oldest coffee shop’s in all of Europe, this is definitely a Bucket List item for you to cross off! Since 1711, everyone’s favorite drink has been served from here! The main floor currently houses their café, where you can order coffees, specialty drinks, and super yummy food! Located on the upper floors is a Museum of Coffee, where you can read and learn all about the history and culture of coffee.
Old Stock Exchange
Built in the 17th century, the Old Stock Exchange served as a prestigious gathering place for merchants. Today, it’s used primarily for musical and literary events, academic presentations or lectures, corporate conferences, and private celebrations. It’s such a beautiful building to stumble upon and there’s even a restaurant right there in the courtyard. If it’s a nice day out, you can do what we did and stop for a drink, grab some yummy snacks, and just enjoy the view!
Clara Zetkin Park
One of our favorite parks here in Leipzig! Whether you prefer to take your dog, ride your bike, or just simply walk around for a bit, this is such an awesome park to spend an afternoon when the weather is nice. It’s especially beautiful during the fall months when the leaves change colors!
Markt
This large square is considered the center of the city and houses many beautiful and historic buildings- including the Old Town Hall! There are many restaurants in cafes located in the square so if you are looking to grab a bite to eat or sip on a cappuccino and stare aimlessly at the architecture, you are in luck! Ryan and I spent many afternoons here and even after two years of living in Leipzig, we never got over the beauty of it all. The annual Christmas Market takes place right here every year and it is one of the most beautiful and traditional in all of Germany. Furthermore, weekly markets, an Easter market, and the medieval market are also held here!
And more…
- Porsche Factory Tour
- Belantis
- Gewandhaus Leipzig
- Museum der bildenden Kunste
- Bach Museum
- Botanical Garden
If you get the chance to visit Leipzig, Germany in the future, be sure to let me know in the comments what your favorite things were!
Are you visiting Germany for the first time? Be sure to check out this post, Visiting Germany: What You Need To Know. It’s informative and super helpful, while also giving you a good laugh on what to expect while staying in Germany!
Are You Travel- Ready?
