What to Buy at German Christmas Markets (Authentic Gift & Souvenir Ideas)
I absolutely LOVE Christmas. And after spending an entire month strolling through various German Christmas markets, I think I am somewhat of an expert!
Christmas markets are definitely a magical part of the holiday season, with their festive decorations, handmade gifts, and twinkling lights.
Shopping in the markets is an awesome way to learn more about German culture, have some fun, and bring home some gorgeous keepsakes.
In this guide, weโll share the best tips to help you shop like a pro and make the most of your Christmas market experience!
What to Buy at German Christmas Markets
Last year, our family spent an entire month visiting Christmas Markets in Germany.
With about 30 markets under our belt, you can rest assured that we know what we are talking about when it comes to shopping!
I definitely had to keep my spending in check as there were sooooo many gorgeous things to buy.
To make our list a little easier to navigate, we have grouped our best souvenirs and gifts into categories.
Christmas Decor & Ornaments
The items listed in this category are by far, the most popular items that you will come across in every German Christmas Market. They are also our faves!
Christmas Pyramids
Christmas Pyramids have been the iconic symbol of German Christmas Markets since before Christmas Trees were a thing!
These pyramid-shaped structures have multiple tiers, and feature festive figures like nativity scenes, angels, or winter scenes.
What’s unique about these pyramids is the propeller at the top, which spins when candles placed at the base are lit.
The heat from the candles causes the tiers to rotate, creating a beautiful, moving display.
These gorgeous pyramids come in a variety of sizes and are often cherished as both decorations and family keepsakes.
Christmas Lighted Arches
Lighted Christmas arches, or “Schwibbogen,” are one of my favourite things to look at when visiting the German Christmas markets.
And I was determined to find the perfect one to take home with me!
These beautiful wooden arches can be simple with just candles on an arch, or more intricate, with festive scenes, such as nativity displays, winter landscapes, or traditional German village life.
The arches are lit by small electric candles or bulbs, with the more expensive versions having moving parts and figures.
Originally from the Erzgebirge region, they were once a symbol of hope during the dark winter months.
Today, they are used by many German families as window decorations during the holiday season.
๐ก Pro Tip: Just be aware, that if you purchase a lighted arch, be sure that you will be able to plug it in when you get back home! Since electrical outlets are different in Germany, you will need a converter.
Nutcrackers
Nutcrackers are another iconic German Christmas decoration.
Traditionally carved from wood, these figures are usually depicted as soldiers, kings, or other Christmassy characters.
While originally designed to crack nuts, today they are mainly decorative, coming in a range of sizes and designs.
Nutcrackers hold a special place in German folklore, believed to bring good luck and protection to the home.
While we have several nutcrackers in our home during the holidays, we always seem to be on the lookout for a new one to add to the collection!
Be sure to look for the ones that are handcrafted in Germany.
Christmas Stars
Christmas stars, or “Herrnhuter Sterne,” are something that definitely caught my eye during our most recent trip to Germany.
These stars, often made from paper or plastic, are typically brightly coloured and come in a variety of sizes.
The design features multiple points, creating a gorgeous, 3D star shape that is lit from within.
Traditionally, the stars are hung in windows or above doorways. In fact, we saw many stars hanging in homes, especially in smaller German towns.
Originating from the Moravian Church in the 1800s, these decorations symbolize the Star of Bethlehem and have become a festive symbol of the Advent season in Germany.
While most markets, even the smaller ones, will sell the stars, we purchase ours in Dresden.
Wooden Christmas Trees
Wooden Christmas trees are something that I have always associated with Germany.
These small wooden trees come in two pieces that fit together like a puzzle. They also come with tiny wooden ornaments that can be hung on hooks on the tree.
When we spent Christmas in Germany last year, we purchased a couple of these trees for the kids to keep in their rooms at our rental.
They were perfect! And they packed up nice and small to take home at the end of the season.
Wooden Smokers
Wooden smokers, or “Rรคuchermรคnnchen,” are quirky little figures that are typically crafted from wood.
They usually depict everyday characters like shepherds, miners, or even festive figures like Santa Claus.
What makes them unique is their functionโthey are designed to burn incense.
The smoke escapes through the mouth of the figure, creating the effect of the character “smoking” a pipe.
Smokers come in a variety of sizes and styles and are often handmade and hand-painted.
The one that we purchased is actually a mushroom house, where the smoke comes out of the chimney!
Wooden Ornaments
Wooden ornaments definitely take me back to my childhood and make me think of Christmas in Germany.
I just love the rustic and traditional look that they bring to any Christmas tree.
And I must admit, I have curated quite a collection for my own tree, as well as purchasing some for the kids to start their collections.
These ornaments are typically handmade and can feature anything from Santa to stars, angels, snowflakes, or nativity scenes.
Wooden ornaments are lightweight and durable, making them a perfect gift or souvenir to bring home.
Glass Ornaments
Glass ornaments are a classic and elegant decoration, commonly sold at German Christmas markets.
These delicate ornaments are hand-blown by skilled artisans and come in a wide variety of shapes and colours.
Originating from the glassblowing traditions of regions like Thuringia, these ornaments have been used to decorate Christmas trees for centuries.
I love the fact that you can find so many modern themes, like food or cars, alongside the more traditional snowmen and Santas.
Of course, these ornaments never come cheap! Just look for the ones that are made in Germany!
Snow Globes
Who doesn’t love a snow globe?
These classic symbols of Christmas are pretty easy to find in almost any market, and always put a smile on my face.
Snow globes typically feature detailed winter scenes, like snow-covered villages or famous landmarks, or fun Christmas characters like Santa and his reindeer.
When you shake the snow globe, the “snow” gently falls inside. Some snow globes even play music.
I just find them to be a magical part of Christmas.
Wooden Toys
Wooden toys are definitely a traditional find at German Christmas markets.
Popular wooden toys include trains, animals, puzzles, and pull-along figures, many of which are designed to encourage imaginative play.
While I love the toys that are left in their natural finish, you will also find many that are painted with bright, non-toxic colours.
The toys make great gifts for the kids in your life, or, great decor pieces as well!
Scented Wreaths
I have to admit, the kids and I had a minor obsession with the scented wreaths we came across in the markets.
Typically made from a combination of dried fruits, spices, pinecones, and evergreen branches, they give off this incredibly festive aroma that we were just drawn to.
Common scents include cinnamon, cloves, and citrus.
And it’s not just wreaths that you will find. My favourites were the table decorations, where the kids loved the ornaments and wall decor.
You just know that these items will fill your home with a warm, holiday fragrance.
Candles
What can I say? Christmas and candles go together like peanut butter and jelly… or in Germany, like Linzen and Spรคtzle! ๐๐
The candles that you find in the German Christmas Markets are often handcrafted and come in various forms, from simple tapers to intricate designs shaped like Christmas trees and angels.
Beeswax candles are especially popular. The ones that we found at Wagnerโs Honighaus in Frankfurt were absolutely incredible. They smelled delicious too!
Scented candles infused with fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla are also pretty popular in the markets.
Candle Holders
We came across some absolutely gorgeous candle holders while visiting the markets.
While the holders came in a variety of sizes and designs, most were made to hold tealights.
From simple and elegant metal or wooden styles to more intricate hand-painted glass pieces, you are sure to find one that suits your style.
Clothing & Linens
Woollen Hats & Mitts
Full disclosure, I am not one to shop for clothing in a Christmas Market.
But when my Mom forgot to bring a warm hat along on our trip, we were kind of forced to look around.
We discovered that woollen hats, mitts and scarves are easy to find in most markets, which makes sense.
These handmade accessories are usually crafted from high-quality wool, providing excellent warmth and comfort.
You will also find a variety of colours, patterns, and styles, making the items both functional and stylish.
My Mom found her handmade hat in a small stall in Esslingen. This made us quite happy to support a small business.
Sheepskin Items
Sheepskin items are luxurious and warm products commonly found in the Medieval sections of German Christmas markets.
These items include a range of products, such as slippers, gloves, hats, and even full sheepskin rugs.
Known for their soft texture and excellent insulation, sheepskin products are perfect for keeping warm during the colder months.
The natural wool lining provides comfort and breathability, making them not only cozy but also durable.
Christmas Linens
While I may not shop for clothing in the markets, Christmas linens were an entirely different story!
Linens, including tablecloths, placemats, napkins, and runners, often feature holiday designs like snowflakes, reindeer, Christmas trees, or in my case, GNOMES!
Many are embroidered with intricate patterns, adding that special little touch of elegance to holiday dining and home decor.
And with so many sizes, styles, and colours available, you may have a hard time choosing a favourite!
We found the nicest selection of linens in the Leipzig Christmas Market.
Ceramics & Pottery
Christmas Market Mugs
Christmas market mugs are one of the easiest and most inexpensive souvenirs to bring home from Germany.
Each market that you visit, will have collectible mugs that are used to serve warm drinks like Glรผhwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
Not only that, but every market will have its own unique design, featuring the marketโs name, year, and festive imagery such as Christmas trees, stars, or local landmarks.
Some markets even offered several designs to choose from, as well as specialty mugs for kids!
The mugs come in different shapes, sizes, and colours, making them a fun item to collect year after year.
Porcelain Christmas Houses
Porcelain Christmas houses are difficult for me to resist!
These miniature houses are beautifully crafted from porcelain and often designed to resemble traditional German homes, churches, or village shops.
Most of the houses can be lit from within with a small candle or light, creating a gorgeous holiday display.
Many people (myself included) build entire Christmas village scenes with these houses, which come in various designs and sizes.
Just a heads up, the handcrafted ones are pretty pricey! While you can find them in many markets, some of the nicest ones we found were in Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s Reiterlesmarkt.
Food & Drink
Lebkuchen Hearts
Lebkuchen hearts are another iconic symbol of German Christmas Markets.
These heart-shaped gingerbread cookies are decorated with colourful icing and festive messages like “Frohe Weihnachten” (Merry Christmas), or “Ich Liebe Dich” (I love You).
While they are edible, they are often hung as ornaments or used as festive decor during the holiday season.
Honey
Honey was not something I thought would be popular in German Christmas Markets, but it was!
You can find a variety of honey types, including wildflower, forest, and acacia, each with its own distinct flavour and aroma.
Some stalls also offer specialty honey infused with spices like cinnamon or herbs for a festive twist.
Frankfurt’s Christmas Market even had its own Honighaus (honey house) which sold everything from pure honey to candies, chocolates and liquors made from honey.
We spent a good amount of time sampling and purchasing a bunch of stuff in that Honighaus!
Seasonings
Seasonings are an awesome find at German Christmas markets.
While not really common, they often feature local and traditional spice blends perfect for holiday cooking.
I think we only came across spice stalls in two or three markets. The largest was in the Augustusmarkt in Dresden which sold spice mix packs.
Popular options include blends for mulled wine (Glรผhwein), gingerbread (Lebkuchen), or festive roasts, with combinations of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and star anise.
Youโll also find specialty seasonings like herb mixes for soups or meats, as well as spiced salts and pepper blends.
Flavoured Liquors
Christmas Markets are a great place to find and try locally made alcohol like schnapps and flavoured liquors.
As a popular gift item, the markets offer a range of unique and festive options.
These liquors are often infused with local fruits, herbs, or spices, resulting in flavours like cherry, plum, apple, or even Christmas spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
My favourite was the honey-infused Eierlikรถr that I found in Frankfurt.
John really liked the pistachio-flavoured liquor that we found in a little shop in the Esslingen Christmas Market.
Specialty Regional Products
Quetschemรคnnchen
Quetschemรคnnchen are quirky traditional figurines made from dried plums.
While we did see them in a few markets, they are particularly popular in Frankfurt.
These little figures are usually shaped to resemble characters like chimney sweeps, musicians, or even Santa.
Their bodies are crafted from prunes, with additional details made from nuts, wood, or other natural materials.
Just a heads up, they are only decorative and not meant to be eaten.
Quetschemรคnnchen are traditionally given to someone you fancy. As the story goes, if they keep it, it is a sign that they fancy you as well!
Artisanal Jewellery
Our youngest daughter loves crystals and unique jewellery made from them.
So while artisanal jewellery is not my thing, she is constantly looking for beautiful and unique pieces everywhere we go.
And she definitely scored some awesome pieces including silver earrings shaped like anatomical hearts. Yup. That’s our girl!
We found all sorts of jewellery in the markets. From necklaces and bracelets to rings, pendants and broaches, the items were all handcrafted and unique.
Blue & Grey Pottery
Blue and grey pottery is something that you will see in many Christmas Markets in Germany.
This traditional handmade pottery features beautiful blue designs hand-painted on a grey background. The pattern is usually some kind of floral design.
The pottery includes items like mugs, plates, bowls, jugs, and other decorative pieces.
Handmade Soaps & Body Products
Handmade soaps and body products are another popular gift at German Christmas markets.
These products are made from high-quality, organic ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, and essential oils.
You can find soaps in a variety of scents, including lavender, rosemary, and festive spices like cinnamon or orange.
Many stalls also offer body lotions, bath bombs, and lip balms, that are gentle on the skin and make thoughtful and luxurious gifts.
Tips for Shopping at German Christmas Markets
Here are some of our top tips for shopping in the German Christmas Markets. Be sure to visit our blog post for even more tips on what to look out for while visiting the markets.
Bring Cash
One of our biggest recommendations when visiting the Christmas Markets, is to bring cash.
While more and more vendors are accepting credit and debit cards, many still prefer cash, especially at smaller stalls.
ATMs can be hard to find in crowded areas, and you donโt want to waste time hunting one down.
Bringing smaller bills and coins is also helpful, as vendors often appreciate exact change for quicker transactions.
And lastly, be sure to have coins with you for visits to the restrooms.
Shop Early for the Best Selection
If you’re looking for the best selection at a German Christmas market, it’s smart to shop early in the season.
Popular items like handmade ornaments, unique gifts, and specialty items can sell out quickly, especially in the final days leading up to Christmas.
Not only are the markets less busy early in the season, but you’ll have a better chance of finding those special, one-of-a-kind items before theyโre gone.
Shop Later for the Best Deals
If you’re hoping to snag some deals, shopping towards the end of the market season can work to your advantage.
As vendors look to clear out stock, they might offer discounts on items like decorations, gifts, or handmade items.
While you may not have the full selection, if you’re flexible you can often find some great bargains.
We scored a great deal on our Lighted Christmas Arch by waiting until the last day of the market to purchase it.
Look for Authentic Items
When you are shopping at German Christmas markets, it’s important to look for authentic, handcrafted items.
While many vendors sell high-quality, handmade products, others will sell similar products that are mass-produced.
It’s a good idea to know how to recognize the difference.
To spot authentic pieces, look for signs of handcrafting, like small imperfections or unique details. Don’t be afraid to ask vendors about the origin of their products.
On the other hand, mass-produced items often have a uniform, factory-made look, with identical designs and finishes.
Look for the stickers that tell you where the items were produced. You will be shocked at just how many ‘nice’ ornaments were not even produced in Germany.
For instance, we were excited to shop in Rothenburg’s iconic Kรคthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store. But while browsing through the ornaments, I noticed that many of the ones that I was looking at, were made in China!
I would rather spend my Euros supporting a small business.
Bring A Reusable Bag
Bringing a reusable bag to a German Christmas market is a smart idea.
With all the beautiful gifts and decorations youโre likely to buy, a sturdy bag will make carrying your purchases much easier.
Many vendors donโt provide bags, and if they do, theyโre often small or made of paper.
A reusable bag is not only practical but also environmentally friendly, cutting down on plastic waste.
Plus, itโs a great way to keep your hands free for browsing, snacking, or holding a warm mug of Glรผhwein while you shop!
Keep in Mind How You Are Going to Get the Item Home!
While shopping at a German Christmas market might be a lot of fun, itโs important to think about how youโre going to get your purchases home, especially if youโre travelling.
Some items, like delicate glass ornaments or large wooden decorations like the Lighted Christmas Arch that we purchased, can be fragile or bulky.
We actually had to find a box to carefully pack up that huge, but delicate arch, and take it on the plane as a carry-on item. And we weren’t even done travelling yet!
If an item is too large to fit in your luggage, you can always ask the vendor if they offer shipping services.
At the end of the day, just being mindful of what you can realistically bring home will save you from last-minute stress and help keep your souvenirs in one piece.
Final Thoughts
Well, that’s a wrap on shopping in the German Christmas Markets!
Whether you’re looking for handcrafted ornaments, cozy woollen hats, or gorgeous Christmas decorations, you will definitely find something special for everyone on your list.
Hopefully, this post has helped you to pick up a couple of valuable tips on what to buy, and what to avoid.
Pin This Post for Later!
Related Posts:
- Ultimate Guide to the Stuttgart Christmas Market
- Guide to the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market
- Guide to the Best Frankfurt Christmas Markets
- Is the Offenbach Christmas Market Worth Visiting?
- Guide to the Erfurt Christmas Market
- Guide to the Best Munich Christmas Markets
- Complete Guide to the Weimar Christmas Market
- Ultimate Guide to the Leipzig Christmas Market
- 50+ Best German Christmas Market Foods You Need to Try (with FREE Checklist)
- 23 Best Christmas Market Tips for the Perfect Visit
- Ultimate Guide to the Esslingen Christmas Markets
- What to Buy at German Christmas Markets (Authentic Gift & Souvenir Ideas)
- Ultimate Guide to the Best Potsdam Christmas Markets
- Ultimate Guide to the Reutlingen Christmas Market
- Ultimate Guide to the Best Dresden Christmas Markets
- Ultimate Guide to the Ludwigsburg Christmas Market
- Ultimate Guide to the Heidelberg Christmas Market
- Ultimate Guide to the Nuremberg Christmas Market
