Begin your day at St. Thomas Church, a stunning medieval church that dates back to the 13th century. This church is famous for being the workplace of Johann Sebastian Bach, who served as the choir master from 1723 until his death in 1750. Notable for its stained glass windows, impressive nave, and breathtaking acoustics, St. Thomas Church is a must-visit destination for any visitor to Leipzig.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by spending a couple of hours at the Leipzig Botanical Garden. This garden covers an area of 22 acres and is home to over 7000 different species of plants from all over the world. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, admire the colourful flowers and beautiful fountains, and learn about the importance of biodiversity and sustainable living.
Stop for lunch at Auerbach's Keller, a historic restaurant that dates back to the 15th century. With its old-world charm and delicious traditional German cuisine, this restaurant is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Try the famous Auerbachs Rut- und Schlotzgulasch or Auerbachs Krustenbraten, both specialties of the house.
Take a short stroll to the Leipzig Museum of Fine Arts, a world-renowned museum that houses an impressive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. Among the highlights of the museum are works by Caspar David Friedrich, Claude Monet, and Max Beckmann, as well as a fascinating collection of contemporary art and art from the former German Democratic Republic.
End your day with a visit to the Stasi Museum Leipzig, a museum dedicated to the history of the Ministry for State Security in East Germany, also known as the Stasi. This museum is located in the former district headquarters of the Stasi and showcases the methods and tools used by the secret police to monitor and control the East German population. Visitors can tour the museum's various exhibits and learn about life under communist rule.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Leipzig Zoo or taking a guided tour of the city. Alternatively, if you have less time, skip the visit to the Stasi Museum and spend more time exploring the other attractions. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring along water and snacks for the day. Also, be sure to check the opening hours of each attraction as they may vary depending on the time and date of your visit.