With its rich musical heritage and charismatic architecture, Leipzig has long been a centre for the arts and literature in Europe. It’s home to the oldest music school in Germany and has forged a reputation as one of Saxony’s most creative and eclectic cities.

Things to do

The Markt is the main hub of city life in Leipzig and home to one of Germany’s largest town halls, built in an elaborate Renaissance style in 1556. Take the time to wander its museum and admire the fine works of medieval religious art and period furnishings.

Don’t miss a visit to St. Thomas Church, originally built in the 13th century by the Augustinians, before being transformed into the Late Gothic edifice seen today. Johann Sebastian Bach served as choirmaster during the early-18th century and the Bach Research Institute and Memorial is now housed in the adjacent Bosehaus.

Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments, which follows the history of Leipzig as a European artistic hub, with instruments dating from the Middle Ages on display and sound laboratories with hands-on exhibits. It’s easily combined with a visit to the adjacent Museum of Applied Arts and Museum of Ethnology.

Want to see the art scene in Leipzig? Make a trip to the Leipzig Cotton Mill, which has been transformed from an industrial factory into one of the city’s trendiest cultural destinations with eclectic cafes, artisan workshops and galleries.

Getting around

Leipzig/Halle Airport is around 25 minutes’ drive north-west of the city centre, and there are various trains that travel across Europe from Berlin Hauptbahnhof. While trams access all corners of the city, Leipzig also has an excellent bike sharing system and plenty of dedicated pathways.