Leipzig’s Main Sights and Attractions

The Monument to the Battle of the Nations is located in the south-eastern suburbs of Leipzig. Inaugurated in 1913, it is the tallest monument in Europe at 91 metres. The monument was erected to commemorate the Battle of the Nations which took place near Leipzig in 1813. It was here that Napoleon suffered a decisive defeat when faced with the united armies of Russia, Sweden, Prussia and Austria. The Battle of the Nations in 1813 was the biggest battle in European history before World War I. The monument is accessible to the public and presents a number of exhibitions and light-art installations. An audio guide provides interesting background information during a tour of the monument. And if you are duly impressed by the towering warrior statues which dominate both the interior and the exterior, you will no doubt also enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the monument.

Leipzig Zoo lies just a few hundred metres north of the city centre. Covering an area of 26 hectares, it is home to over 630 different species. The zoo is thus one of the most diverse anywhere in Europe. It was originally established as a private zoo in 1878, but has been constantly expanded and redefined over the years. As a “Zoo of the Future”, it is today divided into six theme worlds, each with its own very special attractions. “Africa” recreates landscapes of the savannah as a habitat for giraffes and zebras, and also offers opportunities to observe rhinos, lions and many other typical animals. Similarly species-appropriate enclosures make up the theme worlds “Asia” and “South America”. Two sections which should never be missed are “Pongoland” and “Gondwanaland”, with their spacious ape enclosures and opportunities to experience the jungle and its animals at close quarters. Special mention must also be made of the so-called “Founder’s Garden” and the vast aquarium which was reopened in 2022 after comprehensive renovation.

Website Leipzig Zoo

You can discover Leipzig not only on foot, but also by boat – via its many canals and waterways. A boat trip around Leipzig’s city centre and out into the nearby riverside woods combines natural and urban perspectives. Soak up Leipzig’s industrial heritage and enjoy the local flora and fauna as you glide under countless bridges along the Karl Heine Canal or the Weisse Elster and Pleisse rivers.

At the Panometer Leipzig, you are transported to distant or bygone places by some of the largest painted 360° panoramas in the world. The former gasometer, built in 1909 to store gas for the city, was converted by artist Yadegar Asisi in 2003. Today, visitors are welcomed to regularly changing themed exhibitions, in which they are immersed in the setting of the artist’s work through unique visual effects and coordinated sound and lighting.

Website Panometer