National Geographic
Why Leipzig, Germany, Is a Music Lover’s Dream
The city that nurtured several of history’s greatest composers is offering more ways than ever to connect with their legacy.
Where Bach led the boys' choir
In the coverage2 stories
Lonely PlanetJul 24
Why you should visit Leipzig, Germany
Leipzig
13th-century church where Martin Luther preached.
25 things in this story
- Leipzig BachfestFestivalSee Bach’s music in all forms, May to June.
- Wave-Gotik-TreffenFestivalMassive Gothic music fest, costumed audience rocks most.
- A CapellaFestivalAnnual vocal competition in various venues.
- Klassik AirlebenFestivalGewandhaus Orchestra picnic performances in July.
- Leipziger Markt MusicFestivalClassical orchestras and indie bands in early August.
- Christmas marketMarket300-stall market opens late November, since 1458.
- PlagwitzNeighborhoodIt is part of the borough Südwest.
- ConnewitzNeighborhoodIt is a subdivision (Ortsteil) in the borough of Leipzig-Süd (Stadtbezirk).
- Lake MarkkleebergSightServed by the S-Bahn, ideal for cycling.
- NextbikePlaceApp to book municipal bicycles available around the city.
- Old City HallSightBaroque tower, Renaissance delight, completed in 16th century.
- Stadtgeschichtliches MuseumMuseumMuseum of City History, housed in Old City Hall.
- ThomaskircheAttraction13th-century church where Martin Luther preached.
- New Town HallSightBuilt in 1905, Germany's tallest town hall tower.
- VölkerschlachtdenkmalSightGrandiose art nouveau tribute to Battle of Leipzig.
- SpinnereiPlaceFormer cotton mill, now cultural center with 100+ artists.
- TapetenwerkPlaceFormer wallpaper factory, hosts art exhibitions and festivals.
- KunstkraftwerkArts centreTurn-of-the-century power plant displaying visual arts.
- Museum der Bildenden KünsteMuseumHosts 15 galleries, including local Leipzig artists.
- Spoon Family signSightIlluminates a lively beer garden and cultural space.
- Zentrum-SüdNeighborhoodWonderful buzz on Café Puschkin’s breezy terrace.
- Café PuschkinPubBreezy terrace, especially on warm summer evenings.
- Bayerischer BahnhofRestaurantServes hearty German cuisine and crisp lagers.
- Ramen1974RestaurantQuality ramen that won’t break the bank.
- KarLiNeighborhood