Top Rated Attractions in Leipzig

Established in 1856 on the insistence of city Lawyer Carl Heine, Karl Heine Kanal is an artificial water body running across the length of the city. The most prominent feature of the canal is that as many as 15 bridges that connect different streets span it. Each bridge has a different name and the canal itself is a major cultural and historical monument in the city and is strictly under preservation.

the Gewandhaus is truly a gorgeous concert hall that is a lovely architectural landmark and provides amazing entertainment in the form of concerts. First built in 1781, it was later rebuilt in 1981. Make sure you allow time on your tour of the city to see it lit up at night. The real highlight is the music emanating from inside, for the acoustics are truly top-notch. Kurt Masur used to be synonymous with the building. Its halls also house an impressive organ and are well worth a visit.

Leipzig Zoo certainly has plenty to offer to its visitors. Located on a 54-acre (22 hectares) site, the zoo offers the regular animal attractions as well as a few highlights, which include a great aquarium, a tropical hall complete with artificial rivers called Gondwanaland, and a fun-filled monkey house. And with over 100 years experience (it was founded in 1878), the zoo knows a thing or two about entertainment. Special services such as animal sponsorship and children's birthday parties can also be organized here.

The Zeitgeschichtliches Forum is a free museum in the center of Leipzig. Its permanent exhibition deals with the GDR, the former state of East Germany. The exhibition presents the history of the state from its formation until the fall of the Berlin Wall with a focus on political oppression as well as everyday life for its citizens. There are also temporary exhibitions that deal with a wide range of historical themes. Not all of the information is presented in English, but visitors can request a translation of the text at the information desk.

You can't miss this wonderful building in the heart of Leipzig, as the Old Town Hall is in the middle of the market place. The first plans for building the Town Hall as it stands now were made in 1555. Although it was badly damaged in World War II, you can once again go for a stroll in the Town Hall's colonnade on account of the restoration work in the 1950s. The hall also houses the fascinating Leipzig City History Museum, where you can learn all about the city's glorious past.

In 1990, theater manager Professor Udo Zimmerman set himself the task of creating a reputation for Leipzig opera and it would appear that his ambitions have taken effect. There's quite a history behind Oper Leipzig which, to be precise, has been around since 1693, though it has only been at its current premises at the centrally located Augustusplatz for 40 years. Come summertime, the opera house hosts the splendid Gewandhausorchester Open Air.