The Leipzig sports scene was designed with the participant in mind, more than the spectator.
While you can certainly catch the local football team in a match at the Central Stadium, there are also plenty of opportunities to get in shape. Choose from cycling, walking, hiking, running and water sports to improve your health as you enjoy this sporty locale.
Football / Soccer
Football (or soccer) has a long history in the city. Leipzig was the founding city of the German Football Association.
The premier team is the FC Sachsen Leipzig which plays its matches in the modern Zentralstadion, or Central Stadium (Sportforum 3 Am). It has the capacity for 45,000 and was one of the sites used for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Leipzig is home to other soccer clubs as well, including the RB Leipzig and FC Lokomotive Leipzig.
Football fans will have plenty to cheer about in this sports-loving place.
Cycling
With over 200 km (120 mi) of bike trails, this is one city the cycling enthusiast should not miss. This Leipzig sport is almost an obsession for the locals, and tourists can join in on the fun. You’ll notice this at least by the countless bikes that are rolling around and through Leipzig. ;-)
Inline skating
The sport of inline skating has increased in popularity in recent years, and its new esteem can be seen in the city with at least three inline skating courses. Enjoy the beautiful greenery of Leipzig and the lakeside as you go whizzing by them on a pair of inline skates.
Water Sports
Markkleeberger See is the place to go for water sports. This artificial lake was once the open pit of a coal mine, but was renovated in 2006 and has become a popular tourist attraction. Canoers and kayakers will do well to come here to partake in their favorite water recreation.
Also, don’t miss the artificial whitewater slalom course, powered by a pump, which is the only one of its kind in Germany.
Lake Cospuden and Lake Kulkwitz also offer opportunities for swimming, water skiing, diving, fishing, sailing and even surfing.
Walking and Running
As the host of an annual Marathon, Leipzig is a popular place for runners and walkers alike. Take advantage of the city’s many green parks and hiking trails during your time here.
The Auenwald floodplain forest is particularly noteworthy.
