Leipzig: like a local
Leipzig like a local
This month we are back with our insider tips from Pentahotel Leipzig. Leipzig is one of the most beautiful and diverse cities in Germany’s East. In addition to its rich culture and history, symbolized by the magnificent architecture, Leipzig boasts a lively art and music scene. Here you can find culinary inspiration on every corner and savour the student life in alternative bars or nightclubs. Since the city is not that vast, many places can easily be reached by bike. Check out our tips for Leipzig and discover this ‘little metropolis’ off the beaten track.
1. Where to go to get away from the crowds.
For example, to Clara-Zetkin-Park. The Park is located in the city centre and you can reach it within 15 minutes by bike from Pentahotel Leipzig. Here you can rent a kayak and simply enjoy the lapping of the water on a little tour.
2. Any indie shops you recommend?
Yes! Leipzig has plenty of unique shops that are worth a visit. One of them is Fummelei on Eisenbahnstraße 20. Following their motto “The Fummtional for Leipzig”, they stock vintage streetwear and extravagant accessories. Sometimes they also host events, such as painting workshops.
3. A must for music lovers.
The record store sleeve++ in Leipzig’s Neustadt quarter sells records as well as second-hand fashion and jewellery from local designers. The shop is cosy yet well-stocked. Here you can browse for yourself and discover some old treasures or get advice from the friendly staff.
4. Unmissable galleries or museums for any self-respecting art buff?
There are plenty of museums and art exhibitions in Leipzig, but one of the most exciting places is the Spinnerei – a former cotton spinning mill in Leipzig-Lindenau. The vast terrain houses galleries and studios of local artists, ranging from emerging talents to Leipzig greats like Neo Rauch.
A trip to the Spinnerei is sure to inspire and entertain you. We especially recommend the guided tours and walks where you can learn more about the artworks and industrial architecture of the place.
5. The best local market and what to buy there.
In the Südvorstadt quarter on Karl-Liebknecht-Street, called Karli, you will find the Feinkost-venue. This cultural center hosts summer movie nights as well as the popular Feinkost flea market. Here you can buy clothes, beautiful everyday items, toys, and much more.
If you love flea markets, you should also check out the Kiezflohmarkt Plagwitz, which is held around the Westwerk and offers everything from second-hand fashion to books and bicycles.
6. Leipzig tips for a rainy day.
If you haven’t been to the Leipzig Zoo on your vacation yet, you can also go there on a rainy day. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Gondwanaland – a tropical indoor hall where you can discover hundreds of animal and plant species on an area of 1.6 hectares.
Alternatively, a rainy day is well suited for a trip to the GRASSI Museum. Here you can check out three museums under one roof: the Museum of Applied Art, the Museum of Ethnology, and the Musical Instrument Museum.
7. What’s worth checking out in the region around the city?
If you want to escape the city centre, we recommend a bike tour to the Cospudener See lake, located at the southern border of Leipzig about 10 km from the centre. Even just the way there is a beautiful sight, as you bike through the floodplain forest and along the wildlife park. The lake’s western beech offers little bays that are perfect for a day at the beach. Another fun activity is cycling or skating around the lake.
