Discover Leipzig's Landmarks
The trade fair city of Leipzig is undeniably a city of history, musicians and thinkers. Many of the sights are centrally located and within walking distance. Take a stroll through the trade fair city and get to know Leipzig’s fascinating museums and collections. The city also offers plenty of diversions for active holidaymakers and families. If you want to head straight to the water to go surfing or swimming, in Leipzig you don’t have to go far: the Leipzig Neuseenland awaits sports enthusiasts and recreation seekers, and is just outside the city gates.
Glamorous Cultural Evenings in Leipzig
Besides the sights, there’s a rich cultural programme in store for you. Whether high culture or off-stage, music, theatre or Leipzig’s traditional cabaret scene – there is something everyone.
The calendar of events taking place in the city gives an idea of what’s going on in Leipzig.
A variety of tastes: From Leipziger Allerlei to Gose beer
Whether you consider yourself a gourmet or like to hang out in bistros and coffee houses, or are a fan of hearty regional cuisine: With more than 1,400 restaurants, bistros and bars, Leipzig offers something for every palate.
How about some Leipzig specialities, including “Leipziger Allerlei” with vegetables and crayfish or the tasty “Leipziger Lerche”(shortcrust), the dessert “Leipziger Räbchen”, the strong caraway liqueur “Allasch” or “Gose” beer. You will find more information on the City of Leipzig homepage: “Food and Drink”.
Traditional trade fair heritage of Leipzig
Leipzig has a time-honored tradition as a thriving trade fair city.
The Leipzig Trade Fair, a historic institution dating back centuries, continues to play a pivotal role in the city’s economic and cultural life.
With a rich history of trade and commerce, Leipziger Messe (trade fair) is a bustling hub for business events, exhibitions and conventions. Today, Leipzig hosts a staggering 270 international and national events annually, showcasing innovations across various industries.
As one of Europe’s most modern convention centers with striking architecture, The Convention Center Leipzig (CCL) boasts spacious foyer and exhibition areas, 23 rooms and halls as well as cutting-edge media and conference technology. Due to its versatility, it is a prestigious venue for national and international events with several thousand attendees.
Music city Leipzig – where melodies dance in the air
Known as the “Music City”, Leipzig is globally renowned for its rich musical heritage.
As the hometown of Johann Sebastian Bach and the prestigious Gewandhaus Orchestra, Leipzig boasts a long-standing tradition in classical music.
Music enthusiasts from all corners of the world are also drawn to the Thomaskirche (St. Thomas Church) and the Bach Archive. The Opera Leipzig offers first-class performances with impressive staging and exceptional vocal artistry.
Furthermore, as the host of numerous music festivals, including the Leipzig Jazz Days Festival, Leipzig celebrates the diversity of music genres and brings together artists from around the globe. Beyond the realm of classical music, a vibrant modern music scene thrives, infusing alternative genres and street music into the city’s streets.
Lakes, canals, parks – green Leipzig
Leipzig offers not only a rich history and a vibrant music scene but also an abundance of green oases – lakes, canals and parks provide a retreat from the bustling urban environment.
Referred to as the ‘Neuseenland’ (new land of lakes), Leipzig and its surroundings are a paradise for water lovers.
Affectionately known as ‘Cossi,’ the Cospudener Lake is an artificial lake in the south of Leipzig and a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and sunseekers alike. Here, you can indulge in sailing, swimming or simply relaxing along its shores.
Crisscrossed by a network of canals and waterways, the city is inviting you to embark on a leisurely boat ride and explore its aquatic charms at your own pace.
The Clara-Zetkin-Park stretches along the Karl-Heine Canal and is a favored spot for walks, picnics and various sporting activities.
With its countless hiking and biking trails along the river Weiße Elster, the forest Auwald offers a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. All of these natural treasures make Leipzig a city that strikes the perfect balance between urbanity and nature.
Leipzig's trendy neighborhoods – where creativity and diversity thrive
Beyond its cultural significance, Leipzig is also known for its thriving trendy neighborhoods. These vibrant districts are the heart of the city, offering an impressive blend of culture, art, gastronomy and urban life.
In Connewitz, you’ll find independent bars, cozy pubs and alternative clubs, where you can enjoy live music spanning diverse genres such as punk, rock, electro or indie.
Plagwitz distinguishes itself with its renovated industrial buildings and factories, now serving as galleries, cafes or residential spaces, while the Baumwollspinnerei, located in the heart of this district, serves as a creative melting pot where art, culture and urbanity seamlessly blend.
Visitors can attend exhibitions and immerse themselves in the local creative workshops. Here, the Karl-Heine Canal and the White Elster Canal network invite you to embark on extensive paddle tours. Affectionately referred to as the ‘KarLi,’ the Karl-Liebknecht-Street is lined with bars, pubs, cafes and shops. Indulge in boutique shopping during the day and unwind with a Gose beer in the evening. Immerse yourself in these trendy neighborhoods and discover Leipzig’s vibrant culture and urban life.
Tasting Leipzig – a feast for every palate
Leipzig embodies cultural diversity and as such, the city hosts a wide range of both regional and international restaurants offering dishes from around the world.
Whether you prefer Asian, Italian, Greek or Indian cuisine, you will certainly find it here in Leipzig. Saxon cuisine is characterized by hearty dishes such as Sauerbraten (marinated pot roast) and Thüringer Rostbratwurst (grilled sausage). Leipziger Allerlei, a delicious vegetable dish featuring fresh asparagus, peas, carrots and morel mushrooms is a culinary highlight for lovers of seasonal food.
In the city’s historic coffeehouses, you can have delicious coffee and homemade cakes while enjoying the atmosphere of days gone by. A total recommendation is the famous Leipziger Lerchen, a traditional pastry made from shortcrust pastry shaped into a small pie and filled with marzipan and jam.
The Barfußgässchen, a picturesque cobblestone alley in the heart of the old town, is lined with charming restaurants, bars and cafes. Here, you can savor a wide range of local and international cuisines as well as delicious cocktails while enjoying the historic ambiance. Gottschedstraße, on the other hand, is a trendy street in Leipzig known for its mix of dining options. From cozy bistros to upscale restaurants, it offers a diverse culinary experience that caters to all tastes. Allow yourself to be enticed by the flavors of this diverse city
A twinkling gem – nightlife in Leipzig
When the sun sets in Leipzig, the city comes alive with a captivating nocturnal spectacle.
For night owls, Leipzig offers a vibrant pub and club scene as well as a diverse array of cultural events.
While Connewitz invites you to sample craft beers and enjoy live music, Plagwitz makes you socialize by the banks of the Karl-Heine Canal. In the city center, you’ll discover elegant cocktail bars and trendy nightclubs that remain open into the early hours. Whether you want to dance the night away at the legendary Moritzbastei or unwind with a cocktail at Spizz, Leipzig provides an exhilarating and multifaceted nightlife experience.
But the city is not only a haven for revelers, it’s also a treasure for culture enthusiasts. The Opera House allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music and theater. Here, you can savor awe-inspiring opera and ballet performances featuring top-tier talent. For those who appreciate a good laugh, Leipzig offers an abundance of cabaret shows featuring local and nationally renowned comedians.
Whether you are drawn to Leipzig’s dynamic nightlife or its culturally rich performances, the city’s after-dark offerings promise a memorable journey.
Leipzig Zoo: experience wildlife up close
Discover the wild side of Leipzig in one of Europe’s largest and most exceptional zoos.
Leipzig Zoo is renowned for its commitment to animal conservation, providing a haven for rare and endangered species. But what sets this zoo apart is Gondwanaland, a spectacular indoor tropical rainforest.
Here you can wander through lush vegetation, explore a vibrant ecosystem and encounter free-roaming animals like sloths, bats or birds in this breathtaking environment.
With over 850 different species and more than 6,000 animals, it offers a fascinating journey around the world. Home to some of the world’s most iconic creatures, including giant pandas, Leipzig Zoo provides a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent animals up close.
Step into the heart of the animal kingdom and immerse yourself in the wonders of Leipzig Zoo, a place where education, conservation, and adventure come together to create a memorable experience for all ages.
Comfy stay in Leipzig’s hotels
Enjoy a comfortable stay during your visit to the trade fair and congress city Leipzig.
If you want to book a central hotel in Leipzig, The Westin is a perfect choice. It offers a luxurious and convenient stay for both business and leisure travelers. With stylish rooms, top-notch amenities and easy access to Leipzig’s vibrant city center, The Westin Leipzig ensures a memorable and rejuvenating experience.
For those who wish to stay close to the trade fair grounds, The NH Leipzig Messe offers comfortable rooms. The hotel also features conference facilities, making it an excellent choice for business travelers.
The Congress Center’s Hotel Reservation Team is here to assist you with your hotel bookings, as we collaborate with a variety of hotels that cater to different preferences and requirements.
Discover Leipzig’s diverse array of accommodations, many of which offer special rates and discounts through exclusive partnerships with Leipziger Messe. These advantageous arrangements provide an excellent opportunity to secure accommodations at more favorable prices.
To explore and book these discounted hotel options, visit:
Leipzig – an intellectual mecca of heritage and wisdom
Leipzig is a well-known center of education and science with a rich history of intellectual achievements.
The city is home to numerous research centers and institutions, with research focus areas spanning cell therapy and immunology, environmental research or neuroscience.
The University of Leipzig, one of the oldest in Germany, plays a central role in this heritage. With its diverse range of programs and an open-minded environment, it attracts not only students from all over Germany but from around the world. Since its founding in 1409, the university has maintained a tradition of excellence in education and research.
Many scientific and research institutions are situated within this city, including the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, a global leader in the fields of anthropology, evolution and primate research. Here, scientists from various disciplines collaborate to explore fundamental questions about human evolution.
Leipzig in general is a place of thought, discussion and cultural expression. The city’s rich literary and philosophical tradition is reflected in its vibrant cultural scene and numerous literary events. Leipzig fosters the pursuit of knowledge, innovation and critical reflection, remaining a place where ideas thrive and where the future is shaped.