1. A dynamic hub for business and science
Leipzig is Germany’s fastest growing city. It is one of the top three most dynamic cities in the country (according to city rankings by Wirtschaftswoche, Immoscout and the German Economic Institute) and also performs well in international comparisons: the Leipzig economic region came third in the fdi European Cities and Regions of the Future 2024 ranking. For you as an event organiser, it is worth taking a look at the city’s cluster strategy. With this, Leipzig is providing targeted support for forward-looking industries and innovation-driven sectors. One advantage is how founders and start-ups find ideal incentives to develop innovative ideas in Leipzig.
A centre of science, Leipzig stands for internationally acclaimed cutting-edge research, sophisticated teaching and knowledge and technology transfer, centuries of tradition and an innovative present. The second oldest medical faculty in Germany was founded in Leipzig. In addition to the University of Leipzig, some 13 higher education and 15 non-university research institutions contribute to Leipzig’s excellence. The region is one of the most dynamic life sciences clusters in Germany. Leipzig is also renowned for the speed with which it can translate and bring to market innovations from biotechnology, biomedicine, medical engineering and bioinformatics.
2. A city rich in art and culture
Visitors to Leipzig are greeted by a wealth of art and culture. Home to two world-class ensembles – the St Thomas Boys’ Choir and the Gewandhaus Orchestra – it is internationally renowned as a city of music. The city is closely associated with important musicians such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Edvard Grieg, Gustav Mahler and Clara and Robert Schumann. Leipzig Opera is one of the oldest musical theatres in Europe. If you want to find out more, you can explore historic sites and museums on the Leipzig Music Trail.
In addition to the major theatres, there are countless stages and clubs for the musical present. Festivals with international audiences celebrate very different genres. Annual highlights include the Bachfest, Leipzig Jazz Days and Wave Gotik Treffen.
Speaking of the stage: Whether opera, ballet, theatre, variety, cabaret or the independent scene – Leipzig has it all. Experience the heritage of this city of books at readings. The visual arts are equally at home in Leipzig. Explore museums, galleries and studios. For example, art lovers can follow in the footsteps of the famous Leipzig School.
The perfect setting for leisure activities and a stimulating evening programme after a long day at the conference.
3. Modern conference hotels and unique venues
Leipzig offers organisers a wide range of conference hotels and unusual venues for meetings, conferences and business events. Choose from an extensive range of sizes and styles. There are design hotels and exclusive conference hotels with modern meeting and conference facilities and a special ambience. What these hotels all have in common is high-quality facilities, sophisticated services and city life on their doorstep.
In addition to the conference hotels, there are venues in the city centre with very different characters. In the Salles de Pologne, neo-baroque elegance meets a modern room concept. The Moritzbastei welcomes guests with its imposing vaulted cellars. With rooms 120 metres above the ground, Panorama Tower – Plate of Art promises a stimulating change of perspective. The Felix Suites on Augustusplatz boast inspiring design and great views. The University of Leipzig and the Leipzig KUBUS are an ideal environment for scientific conferences.
Not far from the city centre, the KONGRESSHALLE am Zoo Leipzig and the Congress Center Leipzig (CCL) are modern conference centres for large conferences with trade exhibitions. Zoo Leipzig, the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig, media city leipzig and the Kunstkraftwerk are all ideal venues for industry meetings in exceptional surroundings.
4. Convenient connections and relaxed local mobility
Thanks to its central location, Leipzig is easy to reach however you travel. To get to and from the event, conference participants can use the regular IC and ICE rail services as well as flights to Leipzig/Halle Airport. Leipzig also has excellent motorway connections.
With its excellent local transport infrastructure, it is easy to travel to the area without a car. If you want to take a bus, tram or taxi, the Leipzig MOVE app from the local transport authority LVB will help you get from A to B with ease. The app also integrates e-scooters and rental bikes for more personalised transport options.
Sustainable mobility also happens to be part of the deal: LVB is working on the gradual electrification of bus services. Some 38 electric buses are already on Leipzig’s roads. They run on green electricity, just like the trams. For event organisers there is the Leipzig congress ticket. Conference delegates can use their badge as a ticket for public transport.
5. Sustainable ideas on the road to climate neutrality
Matters concerning the future are at the top of the agenda in Leipzig. Leipzig’s strategic vision focuses on ensuring that the city grows sustainably and serves the public good. It includes goals and areas of action such as climate neutrality by 2040, a business-friendly administration, international cooperation, inclusive citizen participation and a healthy city. Leipzig is also committed to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations (SDGs).
One focus is on sustainability at events in the trade fair and congress city. The city’s guide to organising sustainable events provides you as an organiser with clear and measurable recommendations for action in areas such as mobility, the careful use of resources, regional and fair trade, and social responsibility. And then there are the many players in the conference sector who bring the concept of sustainability to life, including conference hotels, Leipziger Messe and other venues.
With its Energy and Climate Protection Programme 2030 (EKSP), Leipzig is well on its way to becoming climate-neutral by 2040. As a participant in the EU Cities Mission “100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities”, there is advice and support from the European Union. Key measures include the expansion of public transport and cycling networks, and renovating neighbourhoods to make them more energy-efficient. The city has also adopted numerous programmes and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to it.
It is not only the city administration that is facing the major challenges of the present. A variety of players from across city life are involved in implementing the plans. Find more information about Leipzig’s commitment to sustainability here.
Bonus: Strong partners for organisers
A sustainable idea also underpins the congress initiative “Feel the spirit … do-it-at-leipzig.de”. Together with the Leipzig Convention Team, more than 50 partners are involved in the network to promote Leipzig as a conference location. The team spirit and ongoing cooperation between congress and event venues, conference hotels, service agencies, local PCOs and logistics partners will benefit you as an organiser in the planning, organisation and execution of your events in Leipzig.
The first port of call for event organisers: Leipzig Convention Team
Have we given you a taste of Leipzig? Then get in touch with the Leipzig Convention Team at Leipzig Tourismus und Marketing GmbH. They offer free advice on suitable venues, hotels, service partners and supporting programmes. They will arrange viewing appointments and put you in touch with local players. So there is nothing to stop you from planning a successful event in Leipzig!