Accessibility for all
Leipzig is committed to ensuring accessibility throughout its infrastructure. Cultural institutions provide accessibility through a variety of inclusive features and support services. Public transport is widely accessible, with 69.5% of tram stops and 56% of bus stops being barrier-free, and vehicles being equipped with tactile markings, visual and auditory announcements and wheelchair spaces. Accessibility efforts continue with the installation of tactile orientation models at numerous public and cultural sites, including the Paulinum at Leipzig University, St. Thomas Church and the Monument to the Battle of the Nations.
Preserving cultural heritage
Leipzig transforms its rich cultural heritage into vibrant, forward-looking tourism experiences. The city blends its musical heritage as the City of Music with contemporary music through festivals and immersive events. It is transforming one of Europe’s most important classical music festivals, the Bach Festival Leipzig, to make it more diverse by adding participatory events, family concerts, multilingual digital guides, and a green mobility concept. The city seeks to shape tourism as an inclusive cultural experience enhanced by modern interpretation and climate awareness. The Leipzig loves Regional campaign showcases regional craftsmanship and culinary heritage, with the aim of promoting regional art and handmade products and connecting tourism with the local creative industry. Meanwhile, the Hidden Leipzig initiative highlights venues outside the city centre, offering visitors a broader view of the city.
Digital access to urban experiences
Digitalisation is an ongoing process in Leipzig – the city is committed to eliminating digital barriers and ensuring the accessibility of services for diverse groups. Being part of the Magic Cities Germany network enables Leipzig to align with current developments and collaborate with other cities to co-develop solutions. This has resulted in the development of such tools as the AI-based chatbot LIO. Integrated into the official tourism portal leipzig.travel, LIO helps users plan their trips and navigate the city. The Explore Leipzig mobile app offers themed walking tours in German and English, 360° imagery, audio guides, accessibility filters, and ‘Leolina’s Adventures’, a family-focused tour through the city. The LeipzigMOVE platform provides multilingual transport options for public transit, car-sharing, taxis, bike and e-scooter sharing.
Sustainability in action
The city has declared a climate emergency and incorporated sustainability into every aspect of its tourism strategy. Besides joining the European Climate Alliance, the city has developed its own Energy and Climate Protection Program 2030 (EKSP). Strategies like the Leipzig Stretegy 2035, the Leipzig Tourism Development Plan (TEP), and the Destination Stretegy LEIPZIG REGION integrate sustainable tourism with the city’s broader urban development goals.