Things to Do in Leipzig in Autumn

While many other cities start winding down between the end of summer and the beginning of the festive season, Leipzig comes alive in autumn with an array of fairs and festivals. The city’s reputation for offering plenty of things to do in autumn (and many Leipzig attractions) goes back to the Middle Ages and Leipzig has been a place of autumnal festivities ever since.

Here are some of the best events and attractions to experience during your stay in Leipzig this autumn:

Leipzig Market Days (Late September-Early October) - Celebrate local food and crafts and the city’s historic Market Square. Sample Zwiebelkuchen (onion tart), Federweißer (young wine), and soak up the festive harvest atmosphere.

Leipzig LichtFest / Festival of Lights (9th October) - Every October 9th, Leipzig commemorates the peaceful candle-lit demonstrations of 1989 with the spectacular Festival of Lights. The evening begins with a prayer for peace and speeches on democracy at St. Nicholas Church, then thousands join a candlelight procession around the inner city ring and Augustusplatz for a sea of lights and outdoor art performances.

Leipzig Lachmesse / Laughter Fair (mid October) - The European Festival for Humour and Satire, known as Lachmesse, brings a mix of political satire, cabaret, comedy and music to venues across the city. Dozens of well-known comedians and emerging acts perform in this week-long “laughter fair.” If you enjoy witty entertainment, this festival promises plenty of laughs on those grey October days.

Leipziger Jazztage / Jazz Days (October) - Autumn in this music city wouldn’t be complete without its renowned jazz festival. The Leipzig Jazz Days have been celebrating jazz for over 40 years, attracting more than 100 jazz heavyweights, pioneers, and innovative newcomers for concerts all over town.

DOK Leipzig (Late October / Early November) - One of the world’s leading international festivals for documentary and animated films, DOK Leipzig is a must for film lovers. Participating cinemas across the city screen hundreds of films from dozens of countries – over 300 films from 60 countries are typically showcased, offering unique perspectives and stories

Mendelssohn Festival (Early November) - A treat for classical music aficionados, the Mendelssohn Festival is a yearly homage to composer Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. Co-hosted by the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and the Mendelssohn House museum, this festival features a series of orchestra concerts, chamber music, and lectures around the beginning of November.

Must-See Attractions in Leipzig 

Whatever the time of year that you come to stay in Leipzig, there are a few essential ‘must-sees’ that need to be explored: 

St. Nicholas Church: Visit the heart of Leipzig’s peaceful revolution with its pastel neoclassical columns and regular concerts.

Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Battle of the Nations Monument): Climb to the top for sweeping views of autumn foliage and explore one of Europe’s largest monuments.

Panorama Tower: Take in the city skyline and fall colours from this central viewing platform and rooftop restaurant.

Leipzig Zoo & Gondwanaland: Enjoy warm indoor tropics, perfect for a rainy day, alongside open-air animal exhibits.

Outdoor Activities to Do in Leipzig in Autumn

Autumn weather in Leipzig can swing from warm to chilly – September often brings mild, even summery days, before October and November turn cooler and grey. Dress in layers, and you’ll be able to enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities. From city parks to nearby lakes, Leipzig offers plenty of ways to experience the autumn colours and crisp air. The city also hosts exciting sports and open-air happenings during this time of year. Head to the city parks such as Clara-Zetkin Park and Johannapark to take pictures with stunning autumnal backgrounds and enjoy the crunch of the fallen leaves as you stroll the paths around the park. If you’re feeling more active then there’s the forest trails of Leipzig Auenwald to hike or cycle, as well as the city’s open lakes and canals.

Indoor Things to Do in Leipzig

Autumn in Germany can bring rainy days, especially as October and November roll in – but boredom is one thing you won’t need to worry about in Leipzig. The city is full of engaging indoor attractions perfect if the weather takes a turn. Here are a few of our favourite indoor things to do in Leipzig when you want to stay warm and dry:

Museum der Bildenden Künste (Museum of Fine Arts):Browse centuries of European art in a stunning modern gallery space.

Bach Museum: Get hands-on with Leipzig’s most famous composer through immersive exhibits. 

Stasi Museum (Runde Ecke): Understand Leipzig’s GDR history with gripping real-life stories and artifacts.

Mädler Passage & Auerbachs Keller: Shop in historic arcades or enjoy Saxon cuisine in Goethe’s famed tavern.

Where to Stay in Autumn in Leipzig

Stay close to the city centre for convenience and comfort. Capri by Fraser Leipzig offers stylish serviced apartments, complete with kitchenettes, comfy beds and easy access to top attractions, markets, and events. A warm welcome and central location make it the perfect base for your autumn city break.

FAQ about Living in Leipzig

1. When does the Christmas Market start in Leipzig?

Leipzig’s Christmas Market typically opens in the last week of November, transforming the city centre into a festive wonderland. If you're visiting toward the end of autumn, you’ll catch the first mulled wine stalls, twinkling lights and seasonal cheer.

2. Are Leipzig attractions open year-round?

Most of Leipzig’s top sights – including museums, churches, galleries and indoor markets – remain open throughout the autumn. Some smaller attractions may adjust opening hours, but you’ll still find plenty to fill your itinerary even on rainy or cooler days.

3. What is Leipzig weather like in October?

October in Leipzig is cool and often damp. You can expect daytime highs of around 13–14°C and lows near 6°C. It’s one of the wetter months, so it’s wise to pack a raincoat and umbrella. The days are shorter, but often bright with autumn sunshine – perfect for exploring the city’s parks or attending seasonal festivals.

4. Is Leipzig worth visiting in November?

Yes, November is a quieter and more atmospheric time to visit. While temperatures drop to around 8°C by day, Leipzig still offers plenty to do. Events like euro-scene and the Mendelssohn Festival bring world-class theatre and music to the city, and late November typically marks the start of the festive Christmas market season.