Getting Around Leipzig: A Practical Guide
Leipzig is well-connected by various forms of public transport, making it straightforward for visitors to navigate the city. The primary modes of transport are trams, buses, and trains, all of which are operated or coordinated by LVB (Leipzig transport company) and integrated into the regional MDV transport network.
The Tram Network
Trams are the backbone of Leipzig's public transport system. The network is structured like a star with a circle at the centre—tram lines generally run from the outskirts into the city, where they half-circle along the historic ring road, before continuing outward to other parts of the city. Most tram lines run every 10 minutes during the day and at least hourly at night, making them a reliable choice for getting around.
Buses and Additional Connections
Buses complement the tram network by providing additional direct connections, often serving routes that do not pass through the city centre. They operate on similar frequencies to trams and are useful for reaching areas not well-served by tram lines.
The S-Bahn (Suburban Trains)
Trains, known as the S-Bahn, cross the city centre in a north-south direction through the City Tunnel. This tunnel connects Hauptbahnhof (the main railway station) and Bayerischer Bahnhof, with underground stations at Markt and Wilhelm-Leuschner Platz. From both ends of the tunnel, lines branch off toward Leipzig suburbs and surrounding areas. The S-Bahn is particularly useful for fast north-south travel but is less helpful for east-west movement across the city.
Buying Tickets and Passes
A single-trip tram or bus ticket costs €3.60 and includes transfers to other lines within one hour of purchase. Several ticket options are available for longer stays:
- A full-day ticket valid for all buses and trams until 04:00 the next morning costs €10.20
- A day ticket for 2–5 people travelling together ranges from €15.30 to €30.60
- A weekly pass costs €37.30
You can purchase tickets from vending machines at stops and stations (accepting coins, bills, and cards), vending machines inside trams (coins and contactless cards), the LeipzigMOVE app, bus drivers, or at LVB service offices and selected shops. Paper tickets must be stamped after boarding the first bus or tram, or on the platform when using trains.
The Leipzig Card
For visitors, the Leipzig Card is a convenient option offering unlimited travel within the city and discounts of up to 50% at museums, cultural venues, and restaurants. It is available as a one-day or multi-day pass and can be purchased at LVB ticket offices, tourist information centres, via the official app, or online.
Accessibility and Timing
After 20:00 (8pm), you must board buses through the driver's door and show or purchase your ticket there. LVB service offices are located at Willy-Brandt-Platz (opposite the central station) and at Peterstraße/Markgrafenstraße in the city centre, both offering information, network maps, and help with regional connections.
Walkability
Leipzig is a walkable city, particularly in and around the historic centre. The current ring road that circles the historic centre follows the line of the old medieval city walls, creating a defined core that is easy to explore on foot. For longer distances or to reach outlying attractions, the integrated public transport network makes it simple to travel further afield.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Leipzig/Halle Airport is located approximately 22 kilometres north-west of central Leipzig. Trains run between the airport and the city every 30 minutes, with the journey taking either 14 or 18 minutes and costing €6.60. When arriving at the main station from the airport, you will need to go up the stairs to access connecting services. The tram network is also directly reachable from the City Tunnel, with departure times clearly marked on displays at the tram exits.
Rail Connections Beyond Leipzig
Leipzig Hauptbahnhof (the main railway station) is Europe's largest railway station by floor area and serves as a major transport hub. High-speed trains connect the city to major destinations across Germany, and regional trains link Leipzig to nearby cities in Saxony and beyond. The station also includes a large shopping mall, useful if you have time between connections. If you arrive at nearby Halle, a quick S-Bahn journey brings you into Leipzig.