1. What to Buy in Germany
Looking for a great gift or souvenir from Germany? Here are 8 German gift ideas, both cliché and quintessential, all made in Germany. From shoes to toys, these quality German products will always be appreciated.
2. Cuckoo Clock
The cuckoo clock is THE signature gift from Germany. These pendulum-regulated clocks originated in the Black Forest and can be identified by their intricate wood carving and the cuckoo’s call on the hour.
You can spice this gift up by choosing a more contemporary model. The cuckoo clocks of today come in bold colors and modern designs, and some are even made out of stainless steel.
3. Birkenstock Shoes
What German product is more well-known than the oft-maligned Birkenstock? These sandals have been manufactured in Germany since 1774. With their contoured cork and rubber footbed, they conform to your feet, making them one of the most comfortable shoes on earth.
Moreover, “Birks” have become more trendy and come in fresh colors like plum, stone blue, passion flower, and iridescent silver. They have also expanded their traditional 2-strap style, now offering a variety of designs — some even forgoing the traditional sandal.
4. Steiff Toys
These lovely stuffed animals from Steiff not only put a smile on children’s faces but also on those of worldwide collectors. The Steiff Teddy Bear is made only out of the finest materials, such as actual felt, mohair, and alpaca. The real bears come with the authentic Steiff trademark, the original “button in ear” that keeps imitations at bay.
Fans of the toy should set aside time for a day trip to the factory in Giengen (about 90 miles west). Here, you can enjoy the interactive toy museum and observe the workshops where the plush toys are still created by hand. Finish your visit by shopping at the largest Steiff shop in the world.
5. Lederhosen & Dirndl
If you want to fit in at Oktoberfest, or get in touch with your Bavarian roots, it might be time to invest in tracht (traditional Alpine wear).
Lederhosen refers to the leather pants while Dirndl refers to the dress. They both come in a range of price points and qualities. Consequently, you can find something cheap and fun, or high-quality and long-lasting.
While tracht sections pop up in major department stores all over Germany during Oktoberfest, permanent stores are dotted around Bavaria.
6. Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Book
The Brothers Grimm Fairy Tales encompass classics such as Schneewittchen (Snow White), Aschenputtel (Cinderella), and Rotkäppchen (Little Red Riding Hood).
Consequently, giving this storybook to a child or the young at heart is always magical, evoking a sense of adventure and nostalgia for the enchanting landscapes of Germany.
7. Dr. Hauschka Skin Care
Give the gift of beauty and well-being with Dr. Hauschka’s natural skin care products from Germany. Following a holistic approach, they only use sustainable, organic ingredients, ensuring all products are free from preservatives. A personal favorite is their rose day cream.
8. Lebkuchen
These charming heart-shaped gingerbread cookies are ubiquitous at German festivals. Once primarily for Christmas, they can now be found all over Germany throughout the year.
Moreover, these are an inexpensive souvenir best for saving rather than eating. They often feature sweet sayings like “Ich liebe dich” (I love you) and are quite sturdy—perfect for packing.
9. Hummel Figurines
Designed based on drawings by the German nun, Maria Innocentia Hummel, every porcelain character is handcrafted. This meticulous process takes several weeks, making each figurine unique—certainly making them popular collectibles.
These figures gained popularity in the 1930s, particularly after World War II, as American soldiers stationed in West Germany sent these figurines home as gifts. There is even a Hummel Museum in Illinois, where you might recognize a figurine or two from your grandmother’s shelves.
10. Beer Stein
Traditionally called a stein in English, these beer mugs are made out of stoneware. Today’s mugs can be crafted from pewter, porcelain, or even crystal. With options for open-topped or hinged designs, they may be half or full liters. Therefore, they come in a variety of styles and serve as colorful and useful souvenirs.
