Saxony's most populous city, Leipzig is famed as the birthplace of Wagner and later the home of Bach, Mahler, Mendelssohn and the Schumanns. Hugely popular with classical music aficionados, this beautiful historic city will also delight architecture buffs and museum goers. Leipzig has a buzzy, fresh feel, too, with a plethora of lively events and exhibitions throughout the year. Many of the best places to stay in Leipzig are housed in converted heritage buildings, appealingly close to the charming old town centre.
Stroll along streets lined with imposing Renaissance, Baroque and Modernist buildings, pondering the inspiration behind Schiller's 'Ode to Joy' or Bach's great masterpieces. Step into tree-lined squares, admire the lovely churches of St Nicholas, St Peters and St Thomas, or visit the unusual Palais Roßbach, a wonderful example of the 19th century Grunderzeit era. The Leipzig Museum of Fine Arts and the Grassi Museum are real highlights, as are the Schillerhouse and the Egyptian Museum of the University of Leipzig.
If you’re travelling as a family, the Leipzig Zoological Garden is not to be missed. Home to around 850 species, it’s amongst the largest modern zoos in Europe, and also boasts the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Come evening, catch a performance at the acclaimed Leipzig Oper, or savour gourmet fare at a trendy restaurant before joining the city’s residents for a night of music and dancing. Return to one of the best places to stay in Leipzig for a nightcap in striking surroundings!
