Thousands of Palace fans are descending on Saxony ahead of our monumental UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano tomorrow evening.
If you have already made the journey to Germany. or are arriving early ahead of matchday - Leipzig is a city bursting with culture, history, and an incredible food and drink scene to enjoy before the game.
To help you get the most out of your European trip, here’s a quick guide to the best things to see, eat and do around the city.
The city centre
Leipzig’s compact and stunning historic centre is just a 30-minute stroll away from the Leipzig Stadium and is the perfect place to begin exploring.
Be sure to check out the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), a beautiful Renaissance building sitting right in the heart of the main square, Marktplatz.
Thomaskirche (St Thomas' Church)
A must-visit for any music or history lovers, this 12th-century Lutheran church is the final resting place of legendary composer Johann Sebastian Bach, who spent 27 years of his life working as a choirmaster in the city.
Located in the western part of the inner city, it has played host to iconic historical figures including Martin Luther, Richard Wagner, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Völkerschlachtdenkmal (Monument to the Battle of the Nations)
Located slightly to the south of the city, this colossal 91-metre monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany.
It commemorates the 1813 Battle of Leipzig, where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated by the Sixth Coalition, which consisted of Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Sweden
You can climb the steps to the top viewing platform for breathtaking panoramic views across the entire city.
Leipziger Lerchen (Leipzig Larks)
You can't leave the city without trying Leipzig’s most famous sweet delicacy.
Leipziger Lerchens are small shortcrust pastries filled with almonds, brandy and apricot jam, originally shaped like birds to satisfy the Saxon appetite for small fowl.
Originally, the city was famous for eating actual lark birds in pastries - but when a hunting ban was introduced in the 19th century by King Albert I, local bakers invented this sweet alternative instead.
Sauerbraten
If you're looking for a hearty, traditional German meal to line the stomach before matchday, look no further than Sauerbraten (a heavily marinated pot roast) served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.
It can be made from a variety of meats, but it is most often made using beef, but also from chicken, lamb and mutton, pork and even horse!
Restaurant of choice: Auerbachs Keller
Leipzig’s most famous traditional restaurant is located in the Mädlerpassage arcade, found in Leipzig city centre.
Dating back to the 16th century, it was famously a favourite of writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and features heavily in his masterpiece, Faust.
Check out the Gottschedstraße bar scene
If you’re looking for a pre-match drink in a vibrant atmosphere today or tomorrow before the game, the Gottschedstraße street is an ideal place to visit.
It is packed with brilliant independent pubs, bars, and outdoor seating areas and is also on your way to the stadium.
Explore the waterways by canoe
Leipzig is often referred to as the 'Little Venice' of Germany due to its vast network of historic canals and waterways.
With the weather forecasted to be sunny - you could rent a canoe or take a boat tour from the Plagwitz district to see the city from a different perspective.
Fanzone
Don't forget that our official Palace Fanzone (Fan Meeting Point) will open at Wilhelm-Leuschner-Platz from 12:00 local time.
Come along to enjoy a Palace takeover, full live entertainment from 14:00, special guest appearances from club legends, food stalls, and plenty of bars to soak up the pre-match buzz!
For all the essential travel information, stadium entry guidelines and transport details, make sure to read our comprehensive Palace on Tour Guide here.
Crystal Palace v Rayo Vallecano
