After nearly a decade of living in Germany, I was surprised it took a business trip for me to finally visit Leipzig. I had always heard so much about this city—a cornerstone of East Germany with a thriving Vietnamese community. Before the fall of the Berlin Wall, many Vietnamese students and workers came to Leipzig, leaving behind a legacy that still shapes the city today. One of them was my uncle, who studied and worked as a translator in Leipzig before eventually settling in Berlin. Knowing this family connection made me even more curious about the city. In my mind, Leipzig was a bustling urban hub with a rich cultural tapestry, and I couldn’t wait to see how the reality compared to my imagination.
My journey began early in the morning as I arrived at Leipzig Hauptbahnhof. The first thing that struck me was the sheer size of the station—immense, yet remarkably clean and well-organized. However, navigating through it proved to be a challenge. It took me about 30 minutes to figure out which train would take me to my hotel. Despite the confusion, the kindness of strangers stood out. Several people patiently offered their help, making the experience not only manageable but also memorable.
Eventually, I arrived at my hotel, NH Leipzig Zentrum—a modern and cozy property located in Burgplatz, near Neues Rathaus (New City Hall). I later discovered that this area is part of Leipzig’s newer developments. Although recently built, the neighborhood retains a deep respect for Leipzig’s historic architectural style. This blend of old and new creates a unique harmony that is rarely found in modern urban planning. I felt fortunate to have found this hotel—newly built, reasonably priced, and in such a prime location. I’m not sure if it still offers the same great value, but I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Leipzig.
One of the things I appreciated most about Leipzig was its convenience and walkability. From my hotel, everything I needed was within easy reach—the grand central station, the client company I visited, and the vibrant marketplace in the city center. This proximity allowed me to explore the city on foot, soaking in its peaceful and inviting atmosphere without the need for trams or buses.
The weather during my visit was perfect—sunny and pleasantly warm, adding to the city’s charm. My meeting with clients and partners from Invest Region Leipzig (IRL) was both productive and engaging, further elevating my impression of the trip. Unfortunately, my stay was brief—just two days—leaving me with little time to fully explore all that Leipzig has to offer.
Still, this short visit provided a wonderful glimpse of a city that exudes history, resilience, and quiet charm. I hope to return soon to uncover more of Leipzig’s hidden treasures. This first trip has left me eager for another opportunity to dive deeper into its culture, history, and vibrant community.
