Life in Leipzig

Most of Leipzig's students are not originally from Leipzig. Many come from the surrounding states of Saxony-Anhalt, Thuringia and, of course, from Saxony itself. Recently, the number of students originating from the western German states has increased.

In the East, you don't have to pay any fees for your first degree. Those who have lived in Leipzig for a longer period of time usually don't want to leave - because the choice of art and culture on offer is so broad. The opera, theater and Gewandhaus concert hall present programs that attract people from all over the country. Alternative culture is very lively here, too. Leipzig has several independent art house cinemas, alternative theaters and, allegedly, the highest concentration of cabaret theaters in Germany.

Affordable living

Many of Leipzig's students live in shared apartments or in one of the numerous student dorms. They are all modern and some of them even have their own club in the building. The most popular student districts are the alternative Connewitz, the Suedvorstadt area and Schleussig, which has a lot of young families. The city's abundance of living space allows students to easily find affordable shared accommodation.

All you can dance

Leipzig's best known bar and nightlife area is Karl-Liebknecht Street, often referred to as "die Karli" by the students. In the summer months, this street is like a crowded ant trail. Crowds of students go from club to club, visiting the in-bar Die naTO, or head to Connewitzer Kreuz. Here, you can find the city's best-known nightlife hotspots: the concert hall Werk II and the legendary dance restaurant Ilses Erika, Leipzig's most innovative venue for guitar gigs and dance nights. However, most students like to spend time in Moritzbastei - a venue for readings, concerts and dance evenings, located directly behind the famous Gewandhaus in Augustusplatz. Every Wednesday, 500 students dance their hearts out here at the "All you can dance" event. Once a year, during the Leipzig Book Fair, Europe's biggest reading marathon for young people takes place here.

Author: Ronny Arnold
Editor: Greg Wiser