Leipzig has been an important influence in European commercial and intellectual life for centuries, and its sights are all part of the Leipzig experience. Historical shopping arcades, lovingly restored, are typical of the architecture in the city centre. There are great shops, a vibrant cultural scene and lively bars that stay open very late, all within a relatively small area.

The Renaissance Old Town Hall is where Johann Sebastian Bach signed his employment contract as cantor of nearby St. Thomas's Church. St. Nicholas's Church became known throughout the world in 1989 as the starting point of the "peaceful revolution" which paved the way for the reunification of Germany.

The Old Town Hall, one of the finest buildings of the German Renaissance, is home to the Museum of City History. Its banqueting hall is used as a venue for concerts and gala events. Definitely worth seeing are the council chamber, the 1823 model of the city, the prison cells and the portrait of Bach. The extensive building was erected in a period of only nine months in 1556/1557.