So Many Stalls, So Little Luggage Space…
But then comes the dilemma: What the heck should you actually buy?
We’ve been to more Christmas markets than we can count—Cologne, Nuremberg, Leipzig, Munich, Dresden—and almost always with international friends in tow. And every single time, they ask the same thing: “What’s actually original—and what’s just tourist junk?”
Honestly? It’s hard to tell. Some things are handcrafted by families in the Erzgebirge, and others were mass-produced on the other side of the planet. And when your suitcase is already bursting, you want souvenirs that are worth the space.
So here it is: our personal list of the 10 best souvenirs to buy at a German Christmas market.
The Best German Christmas Market Souvenirs
(Here’s what to look for and why we love them)
1. Weihnachtspyramide – Germany’s Magical Candle Carousel
If there’s one thing that makes every German living room feel like Christmas, it’s the Weihnachtspyramide. We grew up with one spinning quietly on the table—its soft wooden arms turning slowly in the candlelight, casting dancing shadows across the room. Pure magic.
These handcrafted wooden pyramids come in all shapes and sizes: from simple one-tier designs with angels or snowmen, to towering multi-level centerpieces that look like miniature villages. What makes them move? Heat from the candles rises, spins a little fan at the top, and sets the whole scene in motion. No batteries, no plugs—just old-fashioned wonder.
Where to buy it:
You’ll see them at almost every market—but the best quality ones are from stalls that specialize in Erzgebirge woodcraft.
⚠️ Fragile alert:
We’re not gonna lie—they’re not easy to bring home.
Candle tip: You’ll need special slim candles—easiest to find at DM, Rossmann, or even in German supermarkets during Advent. Stock up before you fly home.
Why it makes a great souvenir: This is one of those heirloom gifts that people pass down. It brings out that childlike wonder in adults and makes every December feel like a storybook.
2. Glühwein Mugs – A Souvenir You’ll Actually Use
Let’s be honest—for most Germans, the Glühwein mug isn’t a “souvenir.”
It’s just a cup. You grab it, sip from it, maybe forget it on a bench, and move on.
But then we started going to Christmas markets with friends from the US, UK, and Australia—and everything changed.
They weren’t just drinking Glühwein… they were hunting mugs.
Like, seriously hunting them.
That’s how we learned there’s an actual mug-collecting movement among international visitors. Some even plan entire market tours around collecting limited-edition cups. And if you’re in Munich and want the famous Nutcracker mug? Better get there early. They run out fast—people queue before the stalls even open.
Why it’s special:
How it works:
When you buy Glühwein, you pay a small Pfand (deposit)—usually €2–5—for the mug. You can return it to get your deposit back, or just skip the refund and take the mug home. Easy.
Travel tip:
Mugs are sturdy, but still breakable. You can wrap them in socks, stuff them inside shoes, or pack them between wool sweaters.
🎁 Why it makes a great souvenir:
It’s affordable, practical, and turns your cupboard into a tiny gallery of German Christmas memories. Plus, your mulled wine will always taste better out of a mug that’s earned.
👉Want creative ideas for showing off your Glühwein mug collection?
Check out these mug display ideas →
3. Räuchermännchen – The Little Guys Who Puff Christmas Spirit
If there’s one smell that instantly takes us back to childhood Advent evenings, it’s the scent of burning Tannenduft (fir-scented incense cones) wafting from a tiny wooden figure puffing out smoke like it’s just come in from the cold.
These are Räuchermännchen, or “smokers”—adorable wooden incense burners carved into figures like chimney sweeps, Santas, forest rangers, shepherds, gnomes, or even bakers holding tiny trays of Stollen. The incense goes inside the hollow body, and the smoke gently drifts from the mouth like they’ve just exhaled into the snowy air.
Why it’s special:
Where to buy it:
The best ones come from the Erzgebirge region. Look for hand-painted features, smooth joints, and a body that separates easily to place the incense. Avoid anything with glued-on parts that feel flimsy—those likely aren’t the real deal.
How to use them:
You’ll need to buy the small “Räucherkerzen” (incense cones). They’re everywhere during Advent—in markets, drugstores (DM, Müller, Rossmann), and supermarkets. We always grab a mix: pine, cinnamon, orange-clove, and even chocolate scent (yes, it’s a thing).
Travel tip: They’re usually small and sturdy, which makes them a dream souvenir to pack. Wrap the delicate parts (like hats or noses), and you’re good.
4. Nutcrackers – Stern Faces, Sweet Memories
Ah, the Nussknacker—the soldier standing at attention on every German mantelpiece in December. With his proud mustache, wide jaw, and that classic “don’t mess with me” stare, he’s more than just a decoration—he’s a piece of German folklore.
The original German nutcracker wasn’t just a pretty face either. These guys were made to actually crack nuts. You’d place a walnut in the open mouth, push down the lever, and voilà—nut cracked. Though these days, most are more decorative than functional (and a lot less likely to snap a tooth in the process).
Where to buy it:
You’ll find plenty of beautiful options at Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Munich, and Dresden.
Our tip:
If you want a real heirloom piece, be prepared to spend a bit more. The cheap knockoffs often look plasticky or have weird proportions. A good one will be sturdy, balanced, and beautifully painted with little details in the eyes, beard, and buttons.
Decorative vs. Functional:
Want to actually use it to crack nuts? Look for ones with a moving lever that opens the jaw. Most smaller ones these days are purely decorative (and trust us—your teeth will thank you).
Travel tip: Nutcrackers are solid wood and usually very packable. Just wrap the hat and beard area in soft clothing. The only risk? You’ll want to buy more than one.
5. Handmade Ornaments – Tiny Works of Christmas Art
You think you know Christmas decorations—until you’ve been to a German Christmas market. Then suddenly you’re standing in front of a stall filled with hand-blown glass, delicately carved wood, and intricate tin miniatures, and your first thought is:
“I need a bigger tree.”
Germany has a long tradition of handmade Christmas ornaments, especially from regions like Thuringia, Bavaria, and the Erzgebirge. At the markets, you’ll find entire stalls glowing with delicate baubles that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale.
Why it’s special:
Where to buy it:
Look for stalls that sell only ornaments (you’ll know them when you see them—there’s usually a soft white glow and lots of “oohs” from passersby). For the full-blown Christmas overload, visit Käthe Wohlfahrt—especially the flagship store in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is open year-round and feels like Santa’s attic exploded in the best possible way.
Travel tip: Glass ornaments are fragile—no surprise there. We’ve cracked a few, sadly. To pack safely:
6. Lebkuchen – Germany’s Spiced, Sweet Heartbeat
You haven’t truly experienced a German Christmas until your hands are cold, your Glühwein is warm, and you’re biting into a soft, spiced Lebkuchen.
These traditional gingerbread cookies are everywhere at Christmas markets—and for good reason. Their scent—honey, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, a hint of orange peel—drifts from stall to stall, pulling you in like some kind of festive spell.
Why it’s special:
Where to buy it:
The absolute best? Nuremberg. Full stop.
Nürnberger Lebkuchen are so iconic they’re protected by a PGI label (like Champagne in France). You’ll find stalls selling both pre-packed boxes and loose cookies you can mix and match.
🎁 Two types you’ll see:
Our tradition: We always buy a few tins—one to eat on the train ride home, one for gifting, and one for “emergencies” in January when we miss the market vibe. (Let’s be real, that last one rarely makes it to New Year’s.)
⚠️ Nut allergy warning:
Traditional Lebkuchen is often made with ground hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts instead of flour. So if you’ve got nut allergies, definitely check the label or ask the vendor. Many stalls will list allergens.
Travel tip:
Buy them in a decorative tin if you’re flying—they’ll survive your suitcase and make great gifts. Bonus: the tin becomes a keepsake once the cookies disappear.
🛍️ Insider tip: Go for the Nürnberger Elisenlebkuchen if you can. These are the highest quality—at least 25% nuts and no flour. Trust us, they taste like Christmas and luxury.
👉 Check out our complete guide on how to take your souvenirs home →
7. Wool Goods & Handknit Socks – The Coziest Gift You’ll Actually Use
There’s a special kind of happiness that comes from slipping into thick, hand-knit wool socks after a long, chilly stroll through a Christmas market. It’s not flashy. It’s not breakable. It’s just pure comfort.
While most visitors get distracted by ornaments and sweets, we always make time for the wool stalls—tucked between Glühwein vendors and nutcracker booths, usually draped in blankets and bobbled hats. You can smell the lanolin in the air before you even see them.
Why it’s special:
Our winter ritual: Every December, we each buy a fresh pair of thick knit socks. They’ve become our “first snow day” socks, and we swear they last longer than anything we’ve bought online.
8. Glühwein & German Liquors – Cozy Spirits in a Bottle
You know that moment when your hands are freezing, your nose is red, and suddenly someone hands you a steaming cup of Glühwein—and everything feels right again?
That’s the magic of mulled wine. And the good news is: you can take it home.At almost every Christmas market, you’ll find stalls selling bottled Glühwein, homemade schnapps, and even pre-packed spice blends so you can recreate the market vibe in your kitchen.
Why it’s special:
Where to buy it:
9. Paper Star Lanterns – Foldable Magic for Instant Christmas Atmosphere
You’ve seen them—glowing softly above the stalls, twinkling from wooden beams, or hanging in windows like celestial ornaments. These are the iconic paper star lanterns, and if we had to pick one souvenir that gives instant Christmas vibes at home, this would be it.
And the best part?
They fold flat.
They weigh next to nothing.
And they light up your home with that cozy, candlelit market magic—even in July (we won’t judge).
Travel tip:
These are one of the easiest souvenirs to pack. They collapse flat like a fan or accordion and slide right between your sweaters or notebooks. We always bring back at least one—we’ve got a small collection now, and each year we rotate which one we hang.
⚡Plug + Voltage tip:
Many stalls sell 220V cords with European plugs. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, you may need:
Or, skip the hassle and use a USB or battery-powered LED light—they’re safe for paper and easy to find online.
👉 Want help finding the right travel plug setup for your country?
Check our guide on German plugs and sockets
10. Zwetschgenmännla (Prune Men) – The Quirkiest Souvenir from Nuremberg
We admit—it’s not everyone’s first pick.
They’re a little odd, a little wobbly, and made of… dried fruit?
But trust us: once you meet a Zwetschgenmännla, you’ll never forget it.
These charming little figures—known affectionately as “prune men”—are a Nuremberg tradition dating back over 200 years. They’re handmade from dried prunes, figs, nuts, and wire, dressed in tiny felt outfits, and shaped into every personality you can imagine: chimney sweeps, bakers, musicians, teachers—even soccer players.
🧑🎄 Why it’s special:
💡 Where to buy it:
At the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, head to the center rows where most of the artisan stalls are located. You’ll spot entire booths dedicated to prune people—often with dozens lined up like a fruity little army.
Travel tip:
They’re fragile—but weirdly resilient. Pack them in a shoebox or tuck them into socks. Just don’t squish the arms or legs—they’re held together with wire and a bit of holiday magic.
⚠️ Not edible!
Seriously, don’t eat them. The fruit is decorative and preserved, not fresh. (Yes, someone asked once.)
👉 Planning a trip to Nuremberg Christmas Market?
Check out our ultimate guide to Nuremberg Christmas Market→
Final Thoughts: Make Room in Your Suitcase – These Souvenirs Are Worth It
German Christmas markets are full of twinkling lights, cinnamon smells, and festive cheer—but they’re also dangerously good for your luggage allowance. With so many beautiful things on offer, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with five Glühwein mugs and no space for socks.
Our advice? Go in with a few favorites in mind—maybe a Weihnachtspyramide for your windowsill or some Nürnberger Lebkuchen to gift (or secretly keep). But also leave space for surprise finds. A cozy pair of wool socks. A Prune Man who looks like your cousin. That unexpected star lantern you have to hang in the kitchen window.
So pack an extra tote bag, roll your sweaters tightly, and wrap your mugs in your new scarf. You’ll thank yourself when you’re sipping Glühwein from your Leipzig cup and watching your incense-smoking snowman puff little clouds of nostalgia into the air.
What’s Next?
Now that you know what to buy… here’s what you’ll want to read next:
👉 Where to Stay for the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt – So you’re walking distance from the magic
👉 When do German Christmas Markets open – Check out the dates
👉 FREE: Get Our Germany Christmas Planning Guide – Subscribe here and we’ll send you our market map, packing list, and insider tips straight to your inbox
