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43 of the Most Unique and Best Souvenirs from Germany


I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty particular when it comes to souvenirs. I want something meaningful—either useful or tied to a special memory from the trip.

If you’re on the hunt for the best souvenirs from Germany, you’re in the right place!

With family roots in Germany, I’ve been lucky to visit often. Over the years, I’ve built up a collection of keepsakes that remind me of my heritage and those unforgettable trips.

From classic beer steins and Hummel figurines to chocolate, ornaments, books, and Schnapps, the options are endless.

Just be ready to want it all—though your suitcase might not thank you for it!

Ready to explore the best picks? Let’s get started!

One of the best parts of travelling is finding the perfect treasure or keepsake to bring back home.

Whether it reminds us of an adventure, a certain place we visited, or maybe even someone we met along the way, trying to find that truly unique gift can be a lot of fun.

Uber-in-Germany-Bus-Tour-with-Family

And the best part is, no matter what your budget is, you are sure to find something that is affordable, practical, unique, fun, and that represents this amazing country.

To make things a little easier, we have broken down our list of best German souvenirs into categories.


Best German Souvenirs for Foodies

If you are anything like our family, food and travel are strongly intertwined. So naturally, quite a few of our souvenir suggestions, are edible!

1. German Chocolate

It came as no surprise to me to find out that Germany has the second-highest annual chocolate consumption in the world (only slightly behind Switzerland).

Coming from a family of chocoholics, I was raised around every variety of German chocolate known to man!

In fact, the first time that the kids visited Germany, we signed them up for a chocolate-making class at the Ritter Sport Museum in Waldenbuch.

Ritter Sport Museum - Hubby reaching for chocolate in shop

And if you haven’t tried some, German chocolate is GOOD! It ranks right up there with Swiss and Belgian chocolate as the finest in the world.

In fact, Cologne is often thought of as the chocolate capital of Germany. Home to the Stollwerck Chocolate Company and the legendary Chocolate Museum, there is no way you could leave Cologne without sampling a few (dozen) treats!

So it definitely stands to reason that chocolate would be one of the best souvenirs to take home with you.

With popular choices like Milka, Ritter Sport, Toffifee, and of course, Kinder to choose from, you may have a problem deciding which to buy!

Ritter Sport Museum - Boy measuring his height with chocolate

If you’re thinking about buying chocolate as a German souvenir for kids, the famous Kinder Surprise eggs should be at the top of your list.

Available in both bars and eggs, the Kinder Surprise eggs are a definite favourite.

Not only do you get the creamy and delicious layers of white and milk chocolate to enjoy, but you also get a small toy inside.

Kinder products are individually wrapped, making them easy for kids to open, hold and eat.

🚨 Pro Tip: If you are travelling from Germany to the US, you can’t bring back the Kinder Eggs with the toys inside.


2. German Gummy Bears

Of course, if chocolate isn’t your thing (really??), you still have plenty of options for German sweets.

After all, we cannot overlook the iconic “dancing” Haribo gummy bears.

German Souvenirs - Bowl of Gummy Bears

In the 1920s, German entrepreneur Hans Riegel introduced gummy bears to the world when he started his candy company, Haribo.

Today, this popular candy is recognized and consumed in many countries across the globe.


3. Lebkuchen

Similar to soft gingerbread, Lebkuchen dates back to the 13th century. And since that time, the southern German city of Nuremberg has been famed for its Lebkuchen.

A pretty important part of Christmastime in Germany, these cookies are bursting with a warm spicy flavour.

And many of the lebkuchen bakeries you will find throughout the country, have actually been operating for several generations.

German Christmas Market Foods - Lebkuchen Hearts

Lebkuchen is primarily made up of ground almonds, hazelnuts, brown sugar, honey, and candied citrus peels. The cookies can come covered in chocolate or filled with different jams.

We tend to stock up on Lebkuchen whenever we make it to Germany, as it’s our absolute favourite treat.

Package of store-bought Lebkuchen Hearts filled with Apricot jam

We also stock up on a couple of the ingredients needed to make our own Lebkuchen.

Backoblaten (wafers) and Lebkuchengewürz (spices) are far easier to find in Germany and can make the perfect gift for the baker in your life.


4. German Herbs and Spices

And speaking of spices, there may be other foods that you enjoyed during your trip to Germany and would like to recreate at home.

Foods like Sauerbraten, Sauerkraut, Bratwurst, or even just German mustard all have very distinct flavours.

In many German dishes, you will find spices like bay leaves, Bavarian spice mix, caraway seeds, dill, juniper berries, mustard powder, cardamom, mace, coriander and horseradish.

Best-german-Food-Spatzle

Throughout your travels, make a note of your favourite dishes and stock up on spices at the local market.

While you could easily buy all these spices separately at home, many German delis will sell spice packets that are mixed and ready to use in your favourite recipes.


5. Cheese

Germans love their cheese. Although often overlooked, most likely due to their neighbours of Switzerland and France, Germany produces many cheeses ranging from hard and soft to regional specialties.

With choices like Holsteiner Tilsiter, Allgäuer Bergkäse, Bavaria Blu, and Allgäu Emmentaler, just to name a few, we recommend taking the time to sample as many as you can before deciding on a favourite!

Stuttgart Christmas Market - Cheese wheel being used to make

Pairing well with locally made bread and blonde ales, a block of high-quality cheese really does make for a tasty souvenir.


6. Stollen

Stollen, or Christstollen as it is known in Germany, is a yeast bread that is baked with dried fruits, candied citrus peel, nuts and spices.

This traditional German cake is dusted with icing sugar and often contains marzipan.

Lucerne Christmas Market - Christstollen

Typically served at Christmastime, German Stollen has been around for nearly 700 years.

Considered to be one of the most famous and beloved of all Christmas pastries, adding Stollen to your list of the best German souvenirs would not be a bad idea!

🎄 Fun Fact: Only Christstollen baked by certified bakers in Dresden can be labelled as Dresdner Christstollen.


7. Sauerkraut Juice

When we were doing our research for this article, I was surprised to see how often Sauerkraut Juice was mentioned.

I’m not sure how happy I would be with a gift of Sauerkrautsaft (instead of maybe chocolate??), but I am guessing it is an acquired taste (like Kombucha).

Known as Sauerkrautsaft in Germany, sauerkraut juice is the pickling liquid combined with the juice of cabbages and other vegetables used when making sauerkraut.

It is quite popular amongst Germans, who drink it for its nutritional benefits.


8. German Tea

Most Germans are known for their love of coffee and cake. But surprisingly, in some parts of the country, Germans prefer tea.

In East Frisia, for example, where the average person drinks around 300 litres each year, tea is a serious business!

East Frisians not only prefer loose teas over tea bags, but they firmly believe that no matter what ails you – there’s a tea for that.

German Souvenirs - Tea in a German flag patterned mug

So if you also enjoy a good cup of tea, be sure to give East Frisia’s local blend a try.

If you are in other parts of Germany, Schwarztee (black tea) and Fruchtetee (fruit tea), are also quite popular.

🫖 Fun Fact: Tea is so firmly rooted in East Frisian culture, that during WWII they were the only Germans afforded extra tea rations.

Look for popular brands like TeekanneDethlefsen & BalkHaelssen & Lyon, and Messmer, which can be found in most supermarkets or artisan tea shops all over Germany.

The best part of buying tea is that it is easy to pack into your suitcase, most people appreciate a good cup of tea, and it is by far one of the simplest souvenirs from Germany that you can get.


Best German-Made Alcohol

German-made alcohol can be another souvenir you may want to consider bringing home with you. Of course, there is a limit to how much you can travel with, so keep that in mind.

9. German Wine from Saxony

With the absolutely perfect soil and climate conditions along the Elbe River, Germany’s Saxony region produces some of the best wine in the country.

And although it’s Germany’s smallest of 13 wine regions, winegrowing has been part of the way of life in Saxony since the 2nd century AD.

German Souvenirs - German Wine with vineyards in background

With only 500 acres of vineyards, Saxony produces just enough wine to satisfy locals and visitors, making it difficult to find these wines outside of Germany.

The most popular white wines found in Saxony are Gewürztraminer and Müller-Thurgau.

Our recommendation is to give them a try while you are visiting, and purchase a few bottles to go!

This is one German souvenir that you WILL have a hard time finding elsewhere.


10. Egg Liqueur

Eierlikör is German egg liqueur and a definite favourite of mine.

It is made by combining egg yolks, spices, sugar, and a dark spirit like brandy or rum.

While it is often compared to North American eggnog, Eierlikör has a much thicker texture.

Although Eierlikör is sold in German supermarkets throughout the year, this deliciously creamy beverage is typically served during Easter and Christmas.

German Christmas Market Foods - Bottle of Wagners Eierlikör

In fact, you will find Eierlikör served at most Christmas markets.

And not just wonderful to drink, Eierlikör can also be drizzled on homemade cakes custards and tortes. Sound delicious?

Frankfurt Christmas Market - Eierpunsch

You can find Eierlikör sold at most German supermarkets.


11. Jägermeister

Jägermeister is a type of liquor that is only made in Germany.

Categorized as a “digestif,” the drink is made with citrus fruits, as well as a plethora of herbs (56 to be exact), roots, seeds, bark, and spices.

Bottle of Jagermeister with full shot glasses

Best consumed ice cold, Jägermeister’s complex flavour profile is brought out by icy temperatures.

In fact, the company advises that -18 C (or -.4 F) is the absolute perfect temperature to enjoy a shot. Brrrr!!

Jägermeister can be purchased at almost all German grocery stores and makes for a great German souvenir for those with discerning tastes.


12. German Beer

Unless you have been living under a rock, you are aware of the fact that Germany is known for its beer.

Having said that, no trip to this wonderful country is complete without at least sampling what is on offer.

If, after spending some time in a Biergarten, you decide that German beer has now become your favourite, there are several options for bringing some home.

Two steins of German Beer

The easiest way is to pack a few cans in your suitcase.

Your other option is to order the beer online and have it shipped right to your home.

A quick Google search will let you know which companies will ship internationally, and which are already available as imports at your local liquor store.


13. German Whisky

Although most people know about the popularity of German beer, did you know that Germany is also one of the top Scotch producers in the world?

Depending on which region you visit, you will find many different whiskey producers, each with individual tastes, barrels, and ingredients.

If you are wondering which to try first, distilled in Paderborn, the Westfalian 2012 6YO Single Malt was recently awarded the Worldwide Whiskey Trophy in 2020.

German Souvenirs - German Whiskey in two crystal glasses

Just like the other spirits we have listed, Whiskey makes for an awesome souvenir.

Found in many grocery stores across the country, it’s pretty easy to find, and relatively easy to take home with you.


14. German Schnapps

Schnapps is a popular digestif in Germany.

Essentially a strong alcoholic drink, flavoured with fruit or herbs and spices, Schnapps is made by mixing ingredients with a neutral spirit.

With many famous brands to choose from, it may come down to flavour variety when making your choice.

Flavours like peach, apple, plum, peppermint and cinnamon are easily the most popular. My favourite is definitely the peach!

German Souvenirs - Two glasses of plum Schnapps

Schnapps can be bought at any grocery store in Germany, but it is usually better to go to the local liquor store for the biggest variety.


15. Eiswein

Second, only to Canada, Germany is one of the largest producers of Eiswein (ice wine) in the world.

The combination of warm summer growing periods, the right amount of precipitation, and excellent soil conditions, followed by consistent cold weather in late fall, make up the perfect conditions to produce this sweet dessert wine.

German Souvenirs - Eiswine in a small glass surrounded by green grapes and a barrel

Although many types of alcohol can be found in most German supermarkets, Eiswein is a little harder to come by.

Only available in small quantities, you will need to go to the local liquor store to purchase this delicious wine.


Best Souvenirs from Germany for Kids

Considering we are a family travel blog, we would be remiss not to mention the most popular and best souvenirs for kids.

While some of the items are just plain cute, others can be geared toward a child’s interests, hobbies, or collections.

16. Wooden Toys for Kids

Germany is known the world over, for making some of the best handcrafted wooden toys. In fact, their reputation for quality and workmanship is indisputable.

The Saxony region of Germany is home to more than 100 toy workshops and manufacturers.

This is where you will find many of Germany’s traditional handcrafted wooden toys, produced by skilled craftsmen.

Munich Christmas Market - Wooden toys

Using centuries-old techniques, Germany’s wooden toymakers are able to produce these timeless classics for families to enjoy and pass down to future generations.

I had many of these types of toys in Germany, so seeing them in the shops always brings back some wonderful memories.


17. German Books for Kids

You can find some really great children’s books about Germany.

From interesting facts to fairy tales and everything in between, books are easy to pack but can get a little heavy.

I was thrilled to come across some Äffle & Pferdle books in my travels. This was my favourite cartoon in Germany as a kid!

Things-to-Do-in-Stuttgart-Pferdle-und-Affle-Books

We have even purchased kids’ books for adults who were learning German. In fact, Hubby has several of the Harry Potter books in German!


18. Germany Puzzle

Puzzles are a great way to keep kids busy.

Whether it’s a picture of your favourite German landmark, a gorgeous landscape scene, or even a mosaic of your favourite German foods, puzzles bring joy to people of all ages.

And what better way to reminisce, than to spend time as a family working on a puzzle featuring a special place in Germany!


19. Magnets

Our kids would tell you that magnets are hands-down the best travel souvenirs out there.

Magnets are easy to find, come in a ton of different styles and colours, are relatively inexpensive, and are easy to find in EVERY gift shop across the country.

Stuttgart-City-Crest

The kids always ask for a magnet when we explore a new place. They are easy to pack in your bags, and just as easy to display once you get home.


20. Keychains

Keychains are probably one of the most popular items on our list of the best German souvenirs to take home.

They may seem old-school, but they are lightweight, easy to find, pretty inexpensive, and take up very little space in your suitcase.

Kids can use them for their house keys, attach them to backpacks, hang them in their room, or just add them to a growing collection!

Hubby actually uses a couple of his keychains for various keys we have in the house to make them easier to find.


21. Pins, Patches or Stickers

Another item we consider to be a great souvenir is a pin, patch, or sticker.

Small, inexpensive and easy to pack, these small items are often collected by kids and adults alike.

German Souvenirs - Stickers from Stuttgart

Choose a generic German flag, or maybe find something specific to the part of the country you visited.

I found some great ones that I embellish my laptop with (It helps distinguish it when going through airport security!).


22. Pressed Coins

Pressed coins are small, inexpensive collector items that make great souvenirs.

Our kids have books filled with pressed coins from all over the world that are perfect reminders of all their adventures.

Pressed coin machines will either use actual Euros or ‘slugs’ to create this one-of-a-kind souvenir.

These pressed coin machines can usually be found at tourist attractions, in a popular square (we found one in Römerberg – Frankfurt’s main square), and even inside some hotels.

Souvenirs-From-Canada-Open-Penny-Passport

A quick online search will give you the location, how many machines, and even the designs that can be found at each spot.

And don’t forget to grab the handy collector books to store all the coins in!


Best Decorative German Souvenirs

When it comes to the best German souvenirs, some people prefer decorative items that will remind them of their travel adventures.

Trinkets that will be placed around the home, or used on a daily basis, are often a favourite for travellers.

23. German Flag

What better to remember your trip to our beautiful country, than by purchasing a German flag to take home?

Germany-Souvenirs-German-Flag

It really is an awesome keepsake whether you prefer a small patch to stick on your suitcase, a small desktop flag, or a flag large enough to fly from a flagpole.

We have one that comes out every couple of years for the World Cup and Euro Cup games.


24. Hummel figures

Extremely popular in the 1960s and 1970s, Hummel figurines have lost some of their charm as the younger generations are no longer interested in such collectables.

For the older generation, they definitely bring about a sense of nostalgia.

Hummel figurines are based on the works of a local nun, Maria Innocentia Hummel, who was a 20th-century artist.

German Souvenirs - Hummel Figurines

The figurines are crafted by hand from porcelain and then painted.

All Hummel figurines depict children in pastel colours with rosy cheeks.

Authentic German Hummel figurines range from just over $100 for simple figurines, to well over $1,000 for larger and more intricate pieces.

In fact, there is a store near the Neuschwanstein Castle that carries an entire selection. The one in the window that we saw was HUGE and going for 4000 Euros!


25. German Tablecloth

Over the years, German tablecloths have become a popular gift idea. These everyday items are useful, easy to find, and easy to carry home.

German Souvenirs - German checkered tablecloth with two pretzels on table

The most popular varieties of tablecloths are designed for either Easter or Christmas and help to make your table look more festive.

Holiday, spring, or summer themes are also quite popular among Germans.


26. Ampelmännchen

Easily one of Berlin’s most recognizable symbols, the Ampelmännchen can be found all over the city.

Created by traffic psychologist, Karl Peglau, the red and green Ampelmännchen figures are the symbols shown on pedestrian signals in Berlin.

Berlin Ampelmannchen

The popularity of these iconic traffic characters exploded after the fall of the Wall.

In fact, they were so in demand, that several Ampelmänn stores were opened across the city.

There you can find any number of products carrying the symbols, including t-shirts, keychains, housewares, notebooks, and more.

We found one very near to the city centre that carried every trinket imaginable!

These cute symbols of Berlin definitely make a very unique German souvenir.


27. Berliner Bär

Another popular symbol of Berlin, which translates nicely into a variety of wonderful souvenirs, is the Berliner Bär or Berlin Bear.

You can find clothing, jewelry, housewares and many other treasures ‘bearing’ this beloved symbol.

In 2001, Klaus and Eva Herlitz created the Buddy Bear project in Berlin.

The idea was to bring the vibrancy of artistic expression to urban spaces around the city.

Daughter with Berlin Bear

Originally, 350 life-sized bear sculptures were created, each hand-painted and unique.

The bears are mostly posed with their arms up, as a symbol of kindness and optimism.

The bear was chosen to represent Berlin, as it can be found on the city’s coat of arms.

Today, Buddy Bears are posted at iconic locations all throughout Berlin. 


28. Feuerzangenbowle Set

A Feuerzangenbowle Set would make an awesome German souvenir for the wine-lover on your list.

Designed to hold traditional German mulled wine, this set would definitely be a conversation piece.

Feuerzangenbowle is a hot alcoholic beverage which is very similar to Glühwein.

The drink is usually served during the cold months before Christmas or on New Year’s Eve.

German Christmas Market Foods - Feuerzangenbowle set on fire
Feuerzangenbowle being served at the Dresden Christmas Market

Feuerzangenbowle consists mostly of the same ingredients as Glühwein.

However, many regions like to add their own unique twists with additions like different types of liquors or even black tea.

The way the Feuerzangenbowle set works, is it holds the mulled wine under a cone of sugar.

The sugar is doused with a little rum and set on fire. As the sugar caramelizes and melts, it drips into the mulled wine, making it sweeter and more flavorful over time.


29. Beer Steins

One of my absolute favourite souvenir from Germany is my beer stein.

While not the most practical or easy gift to transport home, it has become one of my most cherished items.

The beer stein dates back to the 14th Century when the bubonic plague spread throughout Europe.

In order to help protect people from the spread of disease, laws were put in place that required food and drink containers to be covered.

German-Souvenirs-Beer-Stein

Today, beer steins have become a highly recognizable symbol of German and Bavarian culture.

Made of stoneware, glass, porcelain, pewter or silver, beer steins are often decorated with Renaissance designs or depict cities or places in Germany.

Beer steins are still found on some restaurant tables around the country. They have also become a desirable collector’s item for locals as well as tourists.

Relatively easy to find in souvenir shops all over the country, beer steins range in price and quality.

For the most authentic purchase, your best bet is to head over to a bierhalle (beer hall). You will surely find some amazing steins in paces like the Munich Hofbrauhaus.


30. Starbucks You Are Here Mugs

One of my absolute favourite travel souvenirs is Starbucks mugs.

This is pretty much the only thing I bring back on my travels that is just for me.

Germany-Souvenirs-Starbucks-Mugs

In Germany, as in most of Europe, you will find the ‘You Are Here’ series of Starbucks mugs. Each country as well as many of the major cities will have one.

These are great souvenirs to have as you can reminisce about your fabulous German adventure while sipping your morning coffee!


31. Cuckoo Clocks

Originally from the Black Forest region of southern Germany, Cuckoo Clocks are one of the most exceptional German souvenirs you can buy.

Having remained largely unchanged for the last 300 years, these exquisite timepieces are worth their steep price tag.

German Souvenirs - Cuckoo Clock

Cuckoo Clocks can vary in style and quality, but their themes usually feature animals, hunting scenes, or family gatherings.

And of course, the clocks all come equipped with the iconic “cuckoo” call.

Many of the shops where Cuckoo Clocks are sold are family-run. The skills needed by these master clockmakers have been passed down from generation to generation.

German-Souvenirs-Life-size-Cuckoo-Clock

Cuckoo Clocks have incredible levels of artistry and are pretty delicate.

If you decide to buy one, most shops will arrange for them to be shipped to your home in special packaging to keep them safe.


32. Piece of the Berlin Wall

Another unique souvenir that you may want to take home from Germany is a piece of the Berlin Wall.

For someone who is a history buff, this might be a really cool keepsake of your visit to Germany.

Unfortunately, you have to be careful that what you are buying, is in fact authentic.

Street vendors and even some souvenir shops have been known to carry chunks of rock that they pass off as parts of the wall.

Berlin-The-iconic-Kiss-mural-at-the-East-Side-Gallery

If you would like a real piece of the Berlin Wall, be sure to look for a piece that is being sold with a real certificate of authenticity.

Pieces of the Berlin Wall can range in price from $10 to hundreds of dollars.


33. Car-Related Memorabilia

Another thing that Germany is known for, is its cars.

With several car manufacturers calling Germany home, you should definitely look into visiting their associated museums if you are a car aficionado.

German-Souvenirs-Mercedes-souvenir

We visited both the Porsche and Mercedes museums during our visit to Stuttgart, and their gift shops were top-notch!

You could buy everything from model cars to clothing, key chains, stickers, books, housewares, and you name it.

Car-branded items will definitely make wonderful souvenirs from Germany if you love cars.

German-Souvenirs-Model-car

The merchandise was a little on the pricier side, but easy to pack and carry. Our older son definitely appreciated all his gifts!


Best Christmas-Related Souvenirs from Germany

Many of North America’s Christmas traditions owe their history to German roots.

Things like advent calendars, Christmas Markets, and even our Christmas trees can be traced back to Germany.

Is-Dresden-Worth-Visiting-Striezelmarkt-Entrance-at-night

Suffice it to say, no one does Christmas quite like Germany!

With that being said, you should consider purchasing a few Christmas-related souvenirs to take home with you.

34. Christmas Lighted Arches

Lighted Christmas arches, or “Schwibbogen,” are one of my favourite souvenirs to look at when visiting the German Christmas markets.

And I was determined to find the perfect one to bring home!

Lighted Christmas Arch from Stuttgart
This is the one I purchased. The Pyramid in the centre spins too!

These wooden arches come in a variety of styles. Some are simple with just candles, while others are more detailed with festive scenes like nativity displays, winter settings, or traditional German villages.

They’re lit with small electric candles or bulbs. The more expensive ones often have moving parts and figures.

German Christmas Market Souvenirs - Basic Lighted Christmas Arch

These arches originally come from the Erzgebirge region and were once a symbol of hope during the dark winter months.

Today, many German families use them as window decorations during the holidays.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re buying a lighted arch, make sure it will work when you get home. Electrical outlets in Germany are different, so you may need a converter.


35. Christmas Ornaments

One of the easiest Christmas-related souvenirs you can find are ornaments.

From unique hand-made wooden ornaments to glass baubles, pewter and even a few kitschy items, ornaments can often be found year-round at various attractions.

Of course, for serious shoppers, heading to Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Village is a definite must!

Stuttgart Christmas Market - Wooden ornaments

Located just off Rothenburg’s Market Square, this Christmas shop offers a huge variety of Christmas decorations and tree ornaments.

At Käthe Wohlfahrt’s Christmas Village, you will also find a large variety of hand-carved nutcrackers, nativity scenes, music boxes, table decorations, candle holders and other Christmas-related decorations.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber - Kathe Wohlfahrt Store - Inside

Ornaments are small enough to carry, and depending on what you choose, can be pretty inexpensive, making them the perfect souvenir to take home.


36. German Nutcracker

Nutcrackers have long since been equated to Christmas in Germany. No longer used to crack nuts, today they are whimsical wooden decor pieces.

According to German legend, nutcrackers are a symbol of power and strength.

They are believed to keep watch over the family, exposing their strong teeth to ward off any evil spirits.

German Christmas Market Souvenirs - Nutcrackers

Nutcrackers can be found in shops all over Germany, as well as in all the Christmas Markets.

With many styles, colours and themes to choose from, a festive Nutcracker can be a great gift item or souvenir.


37. Wooden Christmas Pyramid

A Weihnachtspyramide is a traditional German decoration dating back to the 16th century.

Typically made from wood, these handcrafted pyramids are thought to be early versions of a Christmas Tree.

A Weihnachtspyramide is made up of a pyramid-shaped outer frame, decorated with small candle holders.

The pyramid also has a central carousel with a rotor on top similar to a fan.

Heidelberg Christmas Market - Christmas Pyramid in Universitätsplatz

The carousel is usually decorated with nativity scenes, Christmas villages or even forest scenes with animals.

Some are quite simple in design, whereas others can actually be quite intricate.

How does a Weihnachtspyramide work? When the candles are lit, they heat the air.

As the hot air rises, it causes the propeller to spin, making the display carousel turn.

German Christmas Market Souvenirs - Christmas Pyramid

A Weihnachtspyramide can be one of the most popular Christmas-themed German souvenirs to take home.

You may want to carry them with you on the plane however (or have them shipped home), as they are delicate and not something you want to be thrown around in your suitcase.


Best Souvenirs From Germany That You Can Wear

One of the most popular things you can buy in Germany to take home, are items you can wear.

Whether it’s a German designer that you can’t get anywhere else or Germany-branded items with the colours of the flag, they make wonderful gifts for family and friends.


38. Birkenstocks

Started in 1744 as a way to promote bodily health through good footwear, the Birkenstock brand was started by Johann Adam Birkenstock.

Today, Birkenstock is one of the leading sandal manufacturers in Europe and a fine example of German craftsmanship.

German Souvenirs - Pink Birkenstock shoes
My Mom’s Birkenstocks that she wears inside the house

Although Birkenstocks often bear the brunt of socks and sandals-related jokes, no one can deny that the cork sandals are extremely comfortable.

And nowadays, they come in a variety of styles and colours, giving you plenty of options to choose from.

Birkenstocks are widely available at almost every shoe retailer throughout Germany. They would also make a thoughtful gift!


39. Cologne

If your travels in Germany take you to Cologne (Köln), then you should definitely consider purchasing a bottle of the iconic Kölnisch Wasser 4711.

Dating back to the 18th Century, this Eau de Cologne is widely known and triggers a sense of nostalgia for anyone raised in Germany.

Every female member of my family had a few bottles stashed around the house.

Germany-Souvenirs-4711-Kolnisch-Wasser

In fact, many used it not just as a cologne, but for aroma-therapeutic purposes, as it was advertised as a tonic to “refresh and calm the nerves”.

Kölnisch Wasser has a precise combination of ingredients and essential oils that work together to create the perfume’s unmistakable scent.

Although it is a closely guarded secret, the main ingredients include bergamot, lemon, orange, neroli, petitgrain, lavender, and rosemary.


40. Soccer Shirts or Ball Caps

Germany loves their Fussball (soccer). So purchasing either branded or replica shirts, jerseys, or ball caps can be the perfect souvenir idea, especially if you are visiting during a World Cup year!

We had a blast getting dressed up during our visit to Munich in 2018!

German-Souvenirs-German-colours

In fact, during the World Cup, you will find a ton of fun fan clothing, funky hats, fake mustaches, and jewellery that you can wear to cheer on the German team!


41. Germany Tee Shirt

Great to wear at any time of the year, t-shirts, whether long-sleeved or short, make one of the most inexpensive and best souvenirs to bring home.

Choose Germany-branded gear, the name of a place you visited, or something funny or cute, the possibilities are endless!


42. Lederhosen or Dirndle

If you have ever seen or been to an Oktoberfest celebration, chances are you have noticed people dressed in traditional Bavarian wear known as “Tracht.”

In fact, nowadays it has become quite popular for men to don Lederhosen and women to wear a Dirndl to any beer fests in Germany!

If you are unfamiliar with the outfits, a Dirndl is made up of a blouse and bodice, paired with a skirt and apron.

Lederhosen are traditionally worn with a white shirt and an alpine felt hat.

German Souvenirs - Lederhosen and Dirndl

So if you are planning to celebrate Munich’s Oktoberfest, be sure to suit up and you will fit right in!

And don’t worry – the outfits are sold all over Germany, especially during Oktoberfest!

Trachten comes in a variety of styles and price ranges. You can pick up a decent dirndl costume for 50-100 euros, or you can pay up to 500 euros for a high-quality, custom-made dress.


43. Unique Jewellery

Jewellery is another option on our list of the best souvenirs from Germany.

It’s something you can wear for years to come and will bring back fond memories of your travels.

Germany-Souvenirs-Pandora-Charms

Maybe a charm depicting a landmark you visited, or a pendant with a German flag.

In my case, I chose a pretzel for my Pandora Bracelet, as I usually eat my body weight in pretzels every time we visit!

There are so many amazing options to choose from that will suit every taste.


What Product is Germany Famous for?

Germany is definitely a country filled with indulgences. Beer, bread, bratwurst, cheese and chocolate are just a few of the incredible things you need to try when visiting this culturally rich country.

Family-in-Munich

As a result, some of these items definitely hit the mark when looking for the best German souvenirs to take home with you.

Of course, anything related to Christmas Markets and festivals, castles and cars are also popular items and products.


What is a Typical German Gift?

When most people think of German gifts or souvenirs, beer steins, Christmas ornaments or Pyramids, Cuckoo Clocks and Nutcrackers are typically what come to mind.

These coveted items can vary in style and quality, but their designs really haven’t changed much in the last 300 years.

Nowadays, there are many more options available. Depending on whether you are shopping for yourself, for kids, or for family and friends, a more typical German gift may be the perfect solution.


Where to Buy the Best Souvenirs from Germany

The best souvenirs from Germany can actually be found and purchased all over the country!

Since we love to support local businesses as much as possible, we recommend buying your souvenirs directly from the artisans, local producers, or small-scale retailers that you come across in your travels.

German-Souvenirs-German-dolls

With that being said, there are also many other places you can source your German keepsakes.

Shopping online from department stores, boutiques, or even retailers like Amazon may be an option if your suitcase is already busting at the seams!

We have also provided links to some of the best German souvenirs online, just to make it a little easier if you decide to go this route.


What to Bring Back from Germany – FAQs

Kids having fun in the chocolate shop
What is a popular Christmas gift in Germany?

A Cuckoo Clock is one of the most traditional German Christmas gifts. And the best place to purchase one would be from the Black Forest in the South of Germany. There, the craftsmanship cannot be beaten.

What is the most bought product in Germany?

In 2021, clothing ranked as the top product bought online in Germany. In fact, clothing generated a whopping 19.27 billion euros in revenue.

What is gift etiquette in Germany?

Germans usually open gifts as soon as they receive them. This may not apply to Christmas gifts, only to other gifts given throughout the year. If gifting flowers, the bouquet should be unwrapped prior to giving them to the recipient, and the number of flowers given should always be an odd number.

What designer brands are cheaper in Germany?

Some of the most popular brands cheaper in Europe include Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Saint Laurent, Gucci, Givenchy, Balmain, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Hermès, Lanvin, Chloé, and Céline.

Can I use my Canadian debit card in Germany?

Yes. You can use your Canadian debit card at foreign ATMs that display the same symbol. Both VISA and Mastercard also have ATM locators that let you find the cash machines closest to your location.

What Souvenir Should I Buy from Germany – Final Thoughts

There are so many incredible things to see and do in Germany.

So when your visit comes to an end, we hope that our awesome list of the best souvenirs from Germany will help you to decide what gifts should be coming home with you.


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