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The Black Forest, Berlin, Munich, and Neuschwanstein Castle are well-known tourist magnets in Germany. Less visited by international travellers is Leipzig, the charming, right-sized city in the eastern part of the country. Located between Berlin and Munich and served by Germany’s impressive ICE trains from both cities, Leipzig had an appealing combination of historical attractions, cultural stimulation, good-natured locals, and a relaxed vibe, making it a worthwhile inclusion on any European itinerary.

Innside Leipzig by Meliá guestroom

Leipzig is known throughout Europe for hosting conventions and other business-related activities, but its leisure appeal also brings visitors to the city. The annual Bachfest celebrates the life and music of Johann Sebastian Bach, one of several German composers of world renown who made Leipzig a city of music. While classical music concerts are to be expected here, somewhat more surprising is the Wave Goth Festival, which brings alternative music and its fans to the city squares for open-air concerts and other events. Music of all kinds is highly appreciated in German culture, and Leipzig’s Gewandhaus concert hall hosts various concerts, recitals, and other musical occasions throughout the year.

Lepizig’s central railway station, a remarkable work of architecture, is a gargantuan building that houses a large shopping mall along with the train tracks and other ancillary services expected in a transport hub. The station is an easy walk across the park from Leipzig’s Old Town, where the city’s soul thrives

Leipzig is a visually delightful city.

with enthusiastic residents and municipal government support. Major sights include the splendid MdbK Museum Of Fine Arts, the Forum Of Contemporary History, and the lovely Old Stock Exchange building, which shares the atmospheric Market Square with the City Of Leipzig History Museum housed in the grand Old Town Hall. If a walk around the Old Town starts to demand refreshment, a stop at the Kleinert bakery for a traditional Leipzig pastry is highly recommended. Unique to the city, the addictive Leipziger Lark is a baked tart filled with marzipan and various other flavours.

And where to stay in this thoroughly agreeable place? ‘Innsiders’ know that Innside by Meliá is the first choice for sophisticated travellers looking for comfortable accommodation in stylish surroundings. The whimsical works of art in the lobby set the tone for the general ethos of Innside in Leipzig—friendly, welcoming, and professional in providing a high-quality guest experience. The ample, open L-shaped ground floor space serves as the Reception area, living room, and dining room of the hotel.

Leipzig train station lobby.

A bountiful buffet breakfast is found each morning around the corner from the Reception area; a scattering of sofas and armchairs encourage guests to relax and enjoy the art and the streetscape through the glass walls. On the higher floors, guestrooms are immaculate (this is Germany!), comfortable beds encourage lazy mornings, and fresh autumn air fills the rooms when the double-glazed windows are open. Rooms facing the lovely pocket park in front of St Thomas Church convey a sense of place matched by the rooftop Bar Cabana restaurant, a popular venue to witness sunsets over the city and enjoy the innovative cuisine and extensive drinks menu that keeps patrons happy throughout the evening.

A spontaneous trip to Leipzig from Berlin, Munich or other points in Germany is easy and carefree with a Eurail Pass, allowing travellers to go through the impressive railway station as a passenger rather than a mere visitor. A Eurail Pass is also valid on local trains in the region, a factor that comes in handy for visiting the impressive Monument To The Battle Of The Nations on the outskirts of Leipzig. Eurail Passes are available in Australia through Rail Europe.