What to see in Leipzig - the most popular attractions with photos

After reading our review, you will find out what is worth visiting in Leipzig first of all. When creating this list, we relied on reviews from professional guides and experienced tourists. The places we will offer you have deservedly brought fame and popularity to Leipzig.

What to see in Leipzig first?

If you want your trip to be truly memorable and educational, be sure to include the following excursions in your plan:

New Town Hall

One of the greatest buildings in Leipzig, mentioned in all lists of the main attractions of Germany, is a complex with more than 600 halls, made in the Art Nouveau and Gothic styles. Its area is 10 thousand square meters. The building resembles an ancient castle with a round tower, carved bay windows and bas-reliefs. Particular attention is drawn to the grand staircase, which leads to a luxurious hall for ceremonial receptions. Many guides recommend starting your acquaintance with Leipzig from this place.

Old Town Hall

One of the iconic architectural monuments of Leipzig is a building built in the 14th century, which embodies the spirit of the Renaissance with elements of the Gothic style. Here you will see the characteristic octagonal tower and asymmetrical entrance to the town hall, typical of the Gothic. Initially, the building served as a meeting place for the city council, and its basement housed shops and warehouses. Over time, the town hall turned into a museum, which displays unique historical exhibits, including a portrait of Johann Sebastian Bach. This place is a must-see for any tourist.

St. Nicholas Church

The oldest church in Leipzig, which became famous for its magnificent interiors in the classical style. The interior of the church is decorated with masterpieces of 18th century art. In the 12th century, a church was built here, in which Johann Sebastian Bach himself once performed. The temple has also become a venue for peaceful protests. The current appearance of the building is a Gothic temple with three naves, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the history and architecture of Leipzig.

Battle of the Nations Monument

In the mid-20th century, this complex was used to promote nationalist ideas, which almost led to its demolition by the government of the German Democratic Republic. However, the monument survived this time and stood in disrepair for more than half a century. Only in 2003 did its large-scale restoration begin. Today, tourists can climb to the observation decks, located at a height of about 90 meters, either by elevator or by stairs with hundreds of stone steps. The observation points offer stunning views of the entire city, which will leave an indelible impression.

Golizskiy Palace

The castle, which was built in the middle of the 18th century, was originally intended as a country residence for the rulers of Leipzig. Famous masters of the time worked on its creation. However, over time, the palace became a meeting place for representatives of the city's intellectual elite. Later, it became the property of the city authorities, and now its doors are open to tourists.

St. Thomas Church

The construction of the temple dates back to the 12th century, and, like many of Leipzig's attractions, it has been reconstructed several times. During World War II, the building was almost completely destroyed by bombing. Later, the remains of Bach, who led the local choir, were brought here. It was thanks to the great composer that this Gothic-style temple became famous throughout the world. It made it onto our list of "Leipzig's top attractions" not only for its historical significance, but also for its majestic appearance: the façade is decorated with intricate decoration, stained glass windows with biblical scenes, and inside the temple there are two ancient organs.

Leipzig Opera House

The opera is an integral part of Leipzig's cultural life. Germany has been famous for its opera traditions since the 17th century, but the first two opera houses in Leipzig were destroyed. The current opera house was only built in 1960 and is a great place to visit for music lovers.

Mendelssohn House Museum

The Mendelssohn House is listed as a Blue Book property and is the only surviving building where the famous composer lived. Here, in the museum, you can see personal belongings, manuscripts, scores and furniture that once belonged to Mendelssohn. The guides tell not only about the composer's musical career, but also about his active social and political activities.

Alte Waage

The Renaissance building, erected in the middle of the 16th century, is located in the center of Leipzig. It was created for the City Chamber of Weights and Measures, hence the name "Old Scales" (Alte Waage). The facade of the building is decorated with a sundial and a four-step pediment facing the Market Square. Today, it houses an insurance company.

Bach Museum Archive

The Bach Museum is located in the house where the great composer lived for over 25 years. It was here that he died in 1750. The museum exhibits parts of the organ, personal belongings, manuscripts and scores by Bach. This place is a must-see for anyone interested in music and the history of Leipzig, as it offers a unique insight into the world of the great composer.

Grassi Museum

The wealthy merchant F. D. Grassi left Leipzig around two million marks as a legacy, which were used to create a museum complex and build several buildings. During World War II the museum was heavily damaged by bombing, but the collections were restored in the following years.

Forum of Contemporary History

The museum, dedicated to the period 1945-1989, houses more than 3,000 exhibits, including newspaper articles, photographs and documents. The exhibition presents the Federal Republic of Germany as an example of democracy, while the German Democratic Republic is shown in a less attractive light. Fans of German history will be especially interested in these exhibits.

Natural History Museum

This museum complex presents exhibits on archeology, zoology, geology and other related sciences. The invertebrate collection of A. Reichert is housed here, including all the insect species found in the Leipzig region.

Museum of Fine Arts

Founded in the 19th century thanks to generous donations from bankers and entrepreneurs, the museum is one of Leipzig's most important cultural venues. The collection was expanded throughout the 20th century. Although the original building was destroyed during the war, a modern structure in the shape of a glass cube now stands in its place. This attraction is interesting not only for its exhibits, but also for its architecture.

Sights of Leipzig: what else to visit in Leipzig?

We have provided a brief overview of the main attractions of Leipzig. Every tourist should visit them. However, this is only a small part of what you can see in Leipzig in one day or during a longer visit:

Leipzig Zoo

Leipzig Zoo was founded in 1878 and covers an area of ​​26 hectares. Initially, it was a small "living corner" at a restaurant. Currently, there are about 400 species of sea creatures and fish, as well as 850 species of animals, including lions and other large predators. Visitors are separated from the animals by glass partitions and deep moats. Walks around the zoo are offered as part of small tours, and for the convenience of visitors there are small cafes.

An old and famous restaurant, opened in the historical center of Leipzig. The name of the establishment was given by the luminary of medicine. The Cellar has 4 spacious rooms, each of which can accommodate about 30-40 guests. It is necessary to book tables in advance, as this restaurant is considered one of the best and most popular in the world. At one time, Goethe turned this Cellar into one of the sites of action of "Faust", adding to its fame.

Restaurant Pogreb Auerbach

This old and famous restaurant, located in the historical center of Leipzig, got its name in honor of the outstanding doctor. The restaurant offers four spacious rooms, each of which can accommodate from 30 to 40 guests. It is recommended to book tables in advance, as the establishment is recognized as one of the best and most popular in the world. Goethe once made this restaurant one of the scenes for his work "Faust", which added to its fame.

Gewandhaus Concert Hall

The theater, opened in 1981, is home to the city symphony orchestra, as well as chamber music ensembles and a choir. The large hall of the theater can accommodate almost 2,000 spectators. The foyer of the building is decorated with one of the largest monumental ceiling paintings in Europe.

Leipzig Main Station

The largest railway station in Europe, with a 300-meter-long façade, is one of Leipzig's main attractions. Like many other significant buildings in the city, this station was damaged during World War II, but was restored. Currently, it includes about a hundred shops and more than 25 platforms.

Coffee shop Zum Arabischen Coffee Baum

Zum Arabischen Coffee Baum is a unique establishment that serves as a museum of the city's history and a restaurant. Its sign, preserved since the beginning of the 18th century, reads: "The West receives coffee as a gift from the East." Among the famous people who visited this establishment was Robert Schumann.

Mädler Passage

The shopping center, located in the city center and opened its doors in 1525, was originally a small wine restaurant, which later expanded into an exhibition center. In the 20th century, the territory of the complex was significantly expanded. The only untouched parts are the historical cellars, which now store collections of leather, porcelain and wine. The modern complex also houses shopping pavilions, boutiques, business and office spaces. Some of the best hotels in Leipzig are located near the "Mädler Passage".

If you are planning to visit this hospitable German city in the near future, do not forget to include our recommended attractions in your route. With TurPoisk recommendations, your excursion trip will be interesting and fully exciting.