Travel Guide Leipzig

Located in the heart of Saxony, Leipzig is a destination that captivates with its rich history, culture and architecture. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors such as Berlin and Munich, this city proudly stands as a cultural and historical jewel ofGermany. With a population of 515,000, it has always been a hub of knowledge and innovation. As early as the ^15th century, it established itself as one of Central Europe's leading trading centers. Later, it became Germany's intellectual capital, home to its most prolific book industry until 1945. Consult our Leipzig Travel Guide to discover all the hidden treasures of this fascinating city, as well as the finest hotels and restaurants.

Did you know that Leipzig has always been a magnet for brilliant minds? Personalities such as Wagner, Leibniz, Clara Schumann and Karl Liebknecht were born here. Other iconic figures such as Bach, Nietzsche, Goethe and Schiller studied here, enriching its cultural heritage.Leipzig's history is deeply rooted in European culture. It was here that the famous Battle of Leipzig took place, where Napoleon was defeated in 1813, marking a turning point in European history. The city is also intimately linked with music, having been the home of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose influence is still felt today through its many concerts and festivals.

Visiting Leipzig proves to be an enchantment. Old Leipzig is a feast for the eyes, with its narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque squares.St. Thomas's Church, where Bach worked for most of his life, is a must-see for music and history lovers. Leipzig has always been avant-garde. In the ^19th century, it was the first city in Germany to embrace industrial modernity. Its new suburban fairgrounds are breathtakingly modern. TheUniversity of Leipzig, founded in 1409, is another highlight, having been one of Germany's most prestigious institutions.

But Leipzig is also a modern city that reinvented itself after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is renowned for its peaceful resistance to the Communist regime in 1989. And since the 1990s, Leipzig has undergone a remarkable architectural metamorphosis, marked by extensive projects and innovations. What's more, it boasts a fascinating mix of architectural styles: Renaissance, Baroque, Art Nouveau and even Communist structures. The Renaissance town hall and Gothic churches are must-see gems.

Leipzig's nightlife is equally exciting. Home to a myriad of bars and cultural institutions, it is lively and welcoming to visitors. The once-industrial Plagwitz district is now a hotbed of alternative culture, with art galleries, trendy bars and coworking spaces. Saxon cuisine is another reason to visit Leipzig. Unhealthy but tasty, you'll discover dishes such as Leipziger Allerleia mixture of vegetables and meats, or the Eierscheckea deliciously sweet cake. Finally, escape to Lake Cospuden, a haven of peace just a few minutes from the city center, to recover from your emotions.