How to spend 48 hours in Leipzig, Germany: a complete guide
Leipzig, a thriving city in eastern Germany, offers you an interesting mix of history, culture, and modernity. From Leipzig’s main attractions to unique dining spots like Cafe Hundertwasser Leipzig, you’ll find that 48 hours in Leipzig is enough time to get a real sense of the city’s charm and variety.
Our guide below outlines the must-see places and things to do in Leipzig during your two-day trip.
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📍 Day 1: Arrival & downtown exploration 🗺️
Morning: Bayerischer Bahnhof Leipzig Brunch
Let’s begin with the historic old town, the heart and soul of the city. When you arrive at the main railway station, you’ll immediately notice its grandiose architecture. Although a jaw-dropping sight with its magnificent façade and impressive ceilings, it also has more than 140 shopping facilities and service providers on 3 floors.
Kick-start your day with a sumptuous brunch at Bayerischer Bahnhof, Germany’s oldest preserved railway terminal. This historic site has been converted into a restaurant and brewery, and its brunch menu is dedicated to both traditional and modern German cuisine. Now, you’re ready for a day full of Leipzig sightseeing!
Mid-morning: Leipzig English Church & more
Make your way to the Leipzig English Church which serves the English-speaking community as well as adds to the cultural scene of Leipzig. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for quiet contemplation. Nearby, you can find art galleries and small shops that uncover the city’s creative spirit.
If you walk along Goethestraße for a few minutes, you’ll reach Augustusplatz where you’ll get to see the Gewandhaus, the Leipzig Opera House, the university building and the City-Hochhaus skyscraper.
And what better way to unwind than a light lunch and a glass of prosecco in combo with a panoramic view from a height of 120m at the Panorama Tower restaurant of the City-Hochhaus skyscraper? Completed in 1972, this skyscraper was the tallest in the whole of Germany back then. The restaurant and viewing platform are open daily.
Afternoon: Leipzig main attractions & sightseeing tour
Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the city’s hotspots. Opt for a Leipzig sightseeing tour that covers landmarks such as the Opera House, St. Nicholas Church, and the Monument to the Battle of the Nations. These tours usually offer you the option of a live guide, or an audio guide and provide an excellent introduction to Leipzig’s rich history.
If you take a stroll from Augustusplatz along Grimmaische Straße, past St. Nicholas Church (also an eye-catcher!), you’ll soon notice a large square on the right side and beautiful old baroque buildings on the left side, the Market Place. The annual Christmas market held here is one of the most traditional and most beautiful in Europe.
On the opposite side of the street, directly next to the Forum of Contemporary History Museum, is the entrance to the Mädler Passage. Here you can find Auerbachs Keller, a wine bar with a long tradition. It was made particularly famous by Goethe who, during his studies (1765-68) in Leipzig, often visited it and even named one scene in his world-famous work Faust after the wine cellar. Enjoy the good wines and delicacies, but also the head-turner rooms there!
Evening: Café Hundertwasser Leipzig
Unwind at Café Hundertwasser, named after the famous Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. This whimsical café is like an art installation AND a dining place under one roof. The organic, locally sourced menu will delight all of you, foodies, while the imaginative decor will give you endless photo opportunities.
Step into the lively Barfußgässchen, a hotspot for dining out. Created in 1996 by Leipzig’s finest culinary minds, it’s now a mix of cozy eateries and cool bars to suit every taste. It’s locally known as “Drallewatsch,” meaning strolling casually between bars for a good time. Just what you need to top off an exciting day!
🖼️ Day 2: Culture, cuisine & street art 🥐
Morning: Passion Patissier Leipzig
Start your day in the most delicious way possible: a visit to Passion Patissier. This artisanal bakery is renowned for its pastries, croissants, and coffee. Consider this your fuel for a day full of exploring the city’s edgier and more contemporary sides!
Mid-morning: street art Leipzig Plagwitz
Leipzig is an absolute dream city for artists and art lovers. Head to the district of Plagwitz, a former industrial area turned creative hub. Here, you’ll encounter Leipzig graffiti radicals, street artists who use the city’s walls as their canvases. The street art in Leipzig Plagwitz ranges from political commentaries to abstract beauties, and walking through its alleys feels like stepping into an open-air art gallery.
Afternoon: city bike Leipzig tour
Switch gears and get active by renting a city bike in Leipzig! Navigate your way to Clara-Zetkin Park or alongside the canals, experiencing the city’s urban landscapes.
Leipzig is also a super family-friendly city. Find a wide range of activities, and plenty of entertainment programs for your kids.
Evening: Leipzig’s nightlife
Finish your 48 hours in Leipzig with a taste of its vibrant nightlife.
One of the most famous and most popular pub miles in Leipzig is undoubtedly the Karli. Karl-Liebknecht-Straße in the district of Connewitz is particularly popular with students. There are countless restaurants (including many vegan ones) bars, cafés and concert venues; in a nutshell, “the place to be” for an unforgettable evening. At the Connewitzer Kreuz, you’ll find Werk 2, a cultural center that often hosts German and international artists. There’s something going on here almost every evening!
Unlike many other European cities, Leipzig offers you amazing and diverse possibilities for vegan food. The city is famous for its many cafés, restaurants, snack bars and supermarkets, which partly or exclusively have vegan delicacies.
Whether you’re into jazz, techno, or something in between, Leipzig’s bars, pubs, and clubs got your back!
💡 Practical tips
#1 Transportation
Leipzig is well-connected via public transit, but if you’re short on time, consider the convenience of a city bike. The train from Berlin to Leipzig is also a quick and easy option, usually taking just over an hour.
#2 Accommodation
Looking for a central and budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Leipzig?
Book your spot at the MEININGER Hotel Leipzig Central Station. You’ll have easy access to the entire city wither on foot, or via strong public transport connections.
Address: Brühl 69, 04109 Leipzig, Germany
Summing up…
Whether you’re drawn to the Leipzig English Church’s quiet reverence, the local delicious snacks, or Leipzig’s graffiti, you’ll find out that 48 hours is just enough time to fall in love with this beautiful German city.
48 hours in Leipzig: FAQs
How can I get to Leipzig from Berlin?
The train from Berlin to Leipzig is one of the most convenient ways to travel between the two cities. The journey usually takes just over an hour, and trains are frequent, running multiple times per day. You can also fly into Leipzig/Halle Airport, which is well-connected to various international and domestic locations.
Where can I rent a city bike in Leipzig?
Easily rent city bikes from various locations throughout Leipzig. Many hotels also offer bike rental services to their guests—we're one of them! There are also dedicated bike rental shops and automated bike-sharing stations where you can pick up a bike, usually requiring just a simple registration process and a valid form of payment.
What are the operating hours for Café Hundertwasser Leipzig?
The operating hours for Café Hundertwasser Leipzig can vary by season, so it's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. Generally, they’re open for both lunch and dinner, and often for breakfast during weekends.
Is the Leipzig English Church open to visitors who aren't part of the congregation?
Yes, the Leipzig English Church is open to visitors and welcomes people from all backgrounds. It's not only a place of worship, but also a cultural landmark that contributes to the diverse fabric of the city.
What kind of street art can I expect to see in the Plagwitz district?
The Plagwitz district is a haven for street-art enthusiasts. It features a wide variety of works by many street artists. Expect to see everything from political commentaries and murals to abstract and avant-garde pieces. The area essentially serves as an open-air gallery and is an integral part of Leipzig’s vibrant art scene.
What types of cuisine can I expect to find at Bayerischer Bahnhof Leipzig?
Bayerischer Bahnhof Leipzig offers you a mix of traditional and modern German cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu often features classic dishes like sausages, pretzels, and schnitzel, as well as contemporary takes on German and European fare. Being a brewery, it also offers a variety of beers, making it an ideal place for brunch, and other types of delicious food.
