Best things to do in Leipzig

Best places to visit in Leipzig

How better to use up your time in a new city than to have a walk around, and where better to start than at a place used by over 54 million people each year. The Hauptbahnof is not only a fine looking building but also the world’s largest train station based on its huge floor space. Admire the early 20th century architecture from outside or venture in for a shopping extravaganza. 

The mall is the largest in the city and can certainly help you kill some time if required. From the station head across Unterer Park and take a right when you get to Brühl, a street in itself filled with notable buildings and shops to pop in and out of. 

Enjoy the fine arts? Well, when you turn up Katharinenstrasse from Brühl (or take the tree-lined zigzag path just before it) you’ll come across the Museum der Bildenden Künste, a glass cube that you’re unlikely to walk by without wanting to venture inside. 

After the museum, continue down Katherinenstrasse, passing the Leipzig Markt square, another thing to do in Leipzig will be visiting the wonderful Alte Handelsbörse, built in the latter part of the 17th century it is now a concert hall and is easily identified by the memorial of German poet and writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Incidentally, if time is on your side then allow your walk to drift off to the western side of Leipzig Markt and indulge yourself in the Zum Arabischen Coffe Baum (Arab Coffee Tree), an exquisite café that also contains a museum related to the rather interesting world of the caffeinated phenomenon. 

A few steps south of the café is another stop for you within this guide on what to do in Leipzig: Auerbachs Keller is well-known in the city for the location Faust was initially taken by Mephistopheles in Goethe’s play of the same name. As it’s popular, make sure to book ahead of time if you can. 

While you’re in the area, don’t miss a chance to be impressed by the original gothic architecture from the 12th century and know that Bach’s remains are buried within the church. A museum to the famous composer lies adjacent to the church for those that want more insight.

Another thing to do in Leipzig is going to Grimmaische Strasse, a street that tempts the innocent passer-by with its shops’ luxury window displays, and after a few minutes you will reach the square designed by Johann Carl Friedrich Dauthe, Augustusplatz. The square has been around since 1785 but had a facelift after significant damage during World War II.

These days it stands majestically as a place for locals and tourists alike to mingle, great for clearing the head at the end of the day. Take that idea further with a trip up the City-Hochhaus where you can enjoy the breathtaking view over the city and beyond or, arrange a table at the panoramic restaurant for a special dinner. Everything is so much more fun when you’re over 100 meters in the air!

Eating and entertainment in Leipzig

You already have an idea of some of the sights of Leipzig but there are key places worth knowing about if you are looking for a particular type of dinner. 

We’ve already mentioned Auerbachs Keller, which is suitable for either lunch or dinner no matter the occasion. Another recommendation, which carries with it a cosmopolitan atmosphere, is Max Enk on Neumarkt, near the university. If ‘cool with a hint of high class’ is the impression you are looking for, this is the place, with its wooden interior and pristine glass ceiling.

For a shorter stop, and possibly a required caffeine boost, try out the Riquet coffee house. Its beverage and snack options are a delight while the elephant-themed interior really catches the eye, especially the decorative head of the animal above the door. If you like cozy, this place has two floors, and is a great place to relax and watch the locals go about their business.

Once you have completed this list of things to do in Leipzig, you are sure to fancy a cocktail, so you have to go to Imperii Restaurant and Bar in Brühl. It’s funky, stylish décor will grab you from the moment you walk in trying amazing cocktails you didn’t even know existed and a great dinner menu.

Shopping around Leipzig

Now if picking up a souvenir of your trip or a gift for someone back home is required, Leipzig makes it easy. 

As well as the train station’s Promenaden experience, Mädler Passage is perfectly placed in the center of the city to capture any shopper’s eye and will provide you with ample opportunity to collect some niceties from its luxury boutiques to take with you. 

Alternatively, keep an eye open for the markets that spring up from time to time through the week – they are often a weekend affair – for special bargains. 

As you have already seen in this guide of things to do in Leipzig, the fusion of different streets throughout the city center can also be the place for your shopping, each of the corners of this city will give you a different opportunity.

Author: Dieu Linh Tran

Assistant Front Office Manager at NH Leipzig Zentrum

My Name is Dieu Linh Tran, Assistant Front Office Manager at NH Leipzig Zentrum, my journey began in August 2019 when I joined this remarkable hotel. I started as an eager apprentice, immersing myself in the world of hospitality. Those years of learning and hands-on experience shaped me, and I poured my heart into every task.
Upon completing my apprenticeship in 2022, the hotel recognized my dedication and offered me a position as a receptionist. It was a moment of pride and validation. I continued to learn, adapt, and contribute to the seamless functioning of our front office.
And then, at the dawn of 2023, I stepped into the role of Assistant FOM. The title felt like a badge of honor—a testament to my growth and commitment. Now, I orchestrate guest experiences, manage the front desk, and collaborate with our incredible team. Every check-in, every inquiry, every smile—I embrace it all.
So here I am, fueled by passion and driven by the desire to create memorable stays for our guests. NH Leipzig Zentrum isn’t just a workplace; it’s my canvas, and I paint it with warmth, efficiency, and genuine care. Together, we weave hospitality into every interaction, ensuring that each guest feels at home.
Join me on this journey—I promise it’s a delightful one.