Historical and Cultural Exploration in Leipzig with Friends

Farewell, Leipzig!

As our Leipzig adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past nine days. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of this vibrant city, discovering hidden corners, and savoring the unique atmosphere that Leipzig so readily offers. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing that our time here is ending, but I'm also filled with excitement to share these final adventures with you.

Our last day began with a hearty breakfast at Lerchennest Leipzig. The name of the restaurant goes back to the regional specialty Leipziger Lerche, and it definitely gave us a real taste of traditional Saxon cuisine. I opted for a classic Würzfleisch in Königspastete, while my friends tried the Original Thüringer Rostbratwurst. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. I made a mental note to try my hand at brewing a beer inspired by this culinary delight when I got back to Halifax.


Savor authentic German cuisine at Lerchennest Leipzig – where tradition meets taste in a cozy café setting.

With our bellies full, we set out to find Letzte Gaslampe Leipzigs, Leipzig's last gas lamp. It stands as a solitary beacon of a bygone era. Finding it felt like stepping back in time. Standing on Martin-Luther-Ring, it’s easy to imagine Leipzig in the glow of these historical lights. It’s fascinating to think that Leipzig was the first German city to install a full gas lighting system in the inner city ring! While many cities are replacing these with LED replicas, this one remains, a testament to the city's history. It was a great reminder of how much history is packed into this city.


Discover Leipzig's illuminating past with a visit to the city's last remaining gas lamp on Martin-Luther-Ring, a poignant reminder of a bygone era amidst the modern cityscape.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of a city, away from the bustling crowds.

Next on our list was Rosental, a sprawling park that offers a green escape within the city. We strolled through the park, enjoying the tranquility and open spaces. The Rosental is a large park, a park-like part of the northern Leipzig floodplain forest. It's bordered by the Elstermühlgraben to the south and west, and the Parthe river to the north. It was fascinating to learn that the name might come from the Slavic word rozdot which means a hollow or wide depression. The park was lovely, and it was easy to see why it’s a favorite spot for locals to relax and unwind.


Explore the lush landscapes and historical charm of Rosental Park, a serene escape in the heart of Leipzig, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.

We then ventured to the Clara Zetkin Memorial, a tribute to the pioneering feminist and advocate for social justice. Located in Johannapark, the memorial stands as a reminder of Zetkin's significant contributions to the women's rights movement. It replaced a Bismarck Denkmal that stood there from 1879 to 1946. The bronze statue, created by Professor Walter Arnold, was unveiled on Clara Zetkin’s 110th birthday. It was a moment of reflection, honoring a woman who fought tirelessly for equality.


Explore the Clara Zetkin Memorial in Johannapark, Leipzig, and delve into the legacy of a pioneering feminist and advocate for social justice.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Cafe Madrid, a Spanish restaurant that offered a taste of modern Spain. Located between Thomaskirche and Barfußgässchen, this restaurant offers authentic Spanish cuisine with many ingredients sourced directly from the Iberian Peninsula. We enjoyed a selection of tapas, including patatas bravas and jamón serrano, while sipping on Spanish wine. It was a delightful culinary experience that transported us to Spain for a brief moment.


Savor the vibrant flavors of Spain at Restaurant Cafe Madrid, where authentic dishes meet warm hospitality in Leipzig's lively atmosphere.

As the afternoon waned, we made our way to Killiwilly, an Irish pub known for its welcoming atmosphere and extensive selection of beers and whiskeys. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our Leipzig adventure. With its traditional Irish fare and friendly staff, it felt like a home away from home. The pub is known for showing football games, and I felt right at home! I enjoyed a pint of Guinness while chatting with the locals and sharing stories of our travels. It was a great way to end our day, surrounded by good company and a lively atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant spirit of Ireland in Leipzig at Killiwilly, where hearty meals and great beers await in a lively pub atmosphere.

For our final dinner in Leipzig, we chose Johann S. Restaurant & Weinbar, a place known for its modern twist on traditional German cuisine. The restaurant is located near the Church of St. Thomas. The menu featured classic dishes alongside local beer and an excellent wine selection. We started with some hearty appetizers, followed by traditional German meals. The cozy ambiance and friendly service made it a memorable dining experience. It was the perfect culinary send-off to our Leipzig adventure.


Savor authentic German cuisine and fine wines at Johann S. Restaurant & Weinbar in Leipzig's vibrant culinary scene.

As I sit here tonight, packing my bags and preparing for our departure tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Leipzig. From the historical landmarks to the vibrant culture and the delicious food, this city has truly captured my heart. Traveling with friends has made it even more special, sharing laughter, stories, and unforgettable moments along the way. This trip will definitely be one that I remember forever. Leipzig, you've been amazing!

As I prepare to leave, I’m already thinking about how to share the stories of Leipzig with my tour groups back in Halifax. Perhaps a special themed tour, or even a beer brewed in honor of this incredible city. Until next time, Leipzig – thank you for the memories!

I’m also already planning my next adventure, and I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems the world has in store. Stay tuned for more travel stories and football adventures!

Safe travels, everyone!