37 Authentic Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs
What are the best Nuremberg Christmas market souvenirs you can bring home? Can you find authentic German products in Nuremberg at Christmas?
Having spent several days roaming the streets of Nuremberg in search of the best food and glühwein stalls, traditional German products, and unique gifts to bring home, I can attest to Nuremberg’s iconic Christmas markets being a treasure trove of authentic German souvenirs!
From the classic Lebkuchen and wooden nutcrackers to lesser-known regional specialties like Zwetschgenmännle (figurines made from prunes and dates) and handmade glass ornaments, these markets have it all.
In this post, I’ll share some of my top picks for souvenirs to bring home from the Nuremberg Christmas markets, as well as tips on how to spot authentic German products among the sea of mass-produced goods. So, grab a mug of glühwein and let’s get started!
P.S. – all photos in this post are my own, and you may very well see these exact products if you visit a Nuremberg Christmas market!
Authentic Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs For Your Home
1. Large Wooden Bowls and Utensils
Handcrafted by skilled artisans, these wooden bowls and utensils are a celebration of traditional German craftsmanship. They are not just functional, but also a rustic and timeless decorative piece for your kitchen!
Some of them also have small cutouts in different shapes (but this is only useful if you’re looking for a slotted spoon or something that will allow liquid to pass through). I personally liked the ones with roosters and stars cut from the middle!
2. Decorative Silver Plates
Intricately designed and often containing palpable impressions in the metal, these silver plates carry an aura of elegance and sophistication.
They make for a beautiful display item reflective of Germany’s rich culture. Some include images of roosters, horses, and other figurines that are symbolic of the city’s heritage.
3. Funny German Signs
These signs, displaying quirky German sayings, are a fun way to add a touch of German humor to your home decor. They make for great conversation starters and additions to frequented areas of your home including laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens!
4. Nuremberg Christmas Market Mugs
These mugs, often adorned with festive designs and the year’s market logo, serve as a warm reminder of the yuletide cheer in Nuremberg. You can get them practically everywhere at the markets, so do a walk around before buying since there are usually between 2-5 different kinds of mugs you can buy!
↪️ Pro Tip: In Nuremberg, when you order a mug of glühwein you’ll pay a deposit (usually about €5) for the mug on top of the €4-7 for the mulled wine. If you decide to keep your mug, then you don’t get your €5 deposit back.
Or, if you decide that you don’t like the mug enough to keep, you can bring it back to a stall selling mugs with the same design (doesn’t have to be the exact same stall as the one you bought it from) and get your €5 back!
It’s a great way of cutting down on single-use products for the markets and is a cheap and authentic German Christmas souvenir if you do decide to bring it home.
5. Decorative Tea Sets
When I say decorative, I mean they’re tiny and nobody will actually be able to drink tea out of these unless you have a child who you think would love it.
These tea sets, often hand-painted with intricate designs and delicately painted with elegant golds and silvers, make beautiful displays on kitchen mantles, kitchen window bump-outs, etc.
6. Hand-glazed Christmas Ornaments
I absolutely fell head over heels in love with the handpainted ornaments that Nuremberg markets had this year. If I had room in my carry-on, I would have stuffed half a dozen or so in my backpack!
But, despite me not getting one, you should! These hand-glazed ornaments are delicate pieces of art. They’re perfect for adding a unique touch to your Christmas tree and will remind you of some of the world’s most epic holiday markets whenever you pull them out.
7. Frameable Wooden Templates
These templates, usually depicting traditional festive scenes or wildlife patterns, are unique and artistic souvenirs to bring home from the markets. They are perfect for framing and can be hung on your wall as a striking piece of art!
However, I will admit that these would be a rather difficult item to get home in one piece due to being so delicate.
8. Table Coasters
Wooden coasters often featuring humorous German jokes and sayings are a practical yet fun souvenir. Easy to pack, non-fragile, and a great conversation starter for your coffee table, these are an easy “yes”!
9. Hard-Boiled Egg Holders
These whimsical and charming holders are a fun, traditional item typically found at the market. They’re perfect for Easter time or a unique breakfast table accessory.
I’m a boiled-egg lover myself so I actually debated picking up one of these, but I knew my husband would never let me live it down!
10. Lace Stitched Doily
Delicate and crafted with care, these doilies showcase the meticulous traditional German lacework. They make for an elegant and classy home accessory that can be used as a mat, centerpiece, or wall decoration.
11. Colorful Candles
Offering a warm glow and fragrant scent (though unscented ones are also available), these candles brighten up any room and create a cozy ambiance. These are often available in various festive shapes and designs.
12. Imprinted Wooden Rolling Pin
Ideal for baking enthusiasts, these rolling pins bear traditional patterns and shapes. They’re perfect for making ornate cookies or pastries and bring a piece of Germany into your kitchen!
I almost bought one for my aunt who’s a professional pastry chef, but the room in my bag was too limited.
13. Decorative Wooden Displays
From the intricate Nativity scenes to iconic German landscapes, these wooden displays are a beautiful souvenir to bring a piece of Nuremberg into your home!
They also have lights lining the inside of the displays, providing angelic glows that bring life to the intricate wooden carvings.
14. Paint Your Own Nutcracker
This interactive souvenir is a fun activity that allows you to customize your very own traditional German nutcracker. It’s a perfect keepsake or gift for those with kids, or for the art enthusiast in your group!
15. Santa’s Sleigh Christmas Calendar
This festive calendar, often meticulously designed in wood is easily one of the coolest Nuremberg Christmas market souvenirs on this list! It’s a super fun way of counting down to Christmas and makes the whole month fun for adults and kids.
I doubt it’s going to fit in any suitcase you bring, so you’re going to be better off ordering one from the seller directly once you get home!
16. Glass Nativity Scene Pieces
These delicate and beautifully crafted glass pieces depicting the Nativity are a perfect way to bring the magic and spirit of Christmas into your home!
Whether you already have a setup that you’d like to add some items to or you’re on the market for a whole new setup, you’ll find everything you need at the Christmas markets!
17. Pottery
Handcrafted pottery items, ranging from vases to decorative figurines and beautiful candle holders, make for wonderful Christmas gifts for family and friends!
I’d also recommend picking up some of the unique bowls and plates if you’re looking to swap out your current collection back at home.
18. Prune Men – one of the most unique Nuremberg Christmas market souvenirs
These figurines are made from dried prunes and dates, a traditional handicraft of the region. They’re often dressed in elaborate costumes and are a whimsical addition to any Christmas display. Don’t mistake, however, these souvenirs are not for eating!
19. Unique Wooden Containers
These exquisitely carved wooden containers, ironically shaped like logs, are not only perfect for storing small trinkets but also serve as captivating decorative pieces.
If you know someone with a log cabin or you enjoy more natural decor, these containers are a must-have from the markets!
20. Locally Made Wool Mittens
As temperatures drop, these cozy and warm wool mittens are a practical and stylish souvenir to take home. They’ll keep you warm during those chilly winter months and make for wonderful gifts, as well!
Plus, they’re often made from locally sourced wool and hand-knitted by skilled artisans in traditional German patterns making them even more authentic.
21. Wooden Wall Bottle Opener
These wooden bottle openers are meant to be screwed into your wall as a unique piece of decor. They’re great for kitchens that often host guests and make for a fun addition to any home bar!
Authentic Food and Beverage Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs
22. Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)
Lebkuchen is a traditional German baked treat, akin to gingerbread. Richly spiced and often sweetened with honey, this delectable delight is sure to please any sweet tooth!
Also, if you don’t want between one and three full almonds in the center of the cookie, there’s usually a booth before you reach the first market along Königstraße that sells ones without any whole nuts! I’m a mad gingerbread fan, so I was eating these left and right at the German Christmas markets.
Plus, you can get them in TSA-approved canisters like the ones above!
23. Bottle of Glühwein
Glühwein, or mulled wine, is a holiday classic that you’ll see people enjoying all over the streets of Nuremberg! Be mindful that they often add a shot of brandy to your mug, and it’s easy to have “one too many” (my walk back to my hotel was a fuzzier one than I intended!)
It really is truly delicious, however, so be sure to take a bottle home to enjoy the festive taste of the holidays with your friends and loved ones. It’s a great way to share a piece of your travels with them!
24. Kinder Punsch
This non-alcoholic punch is a favorite among kids and adults alike. The festive brew of fruit juices and spices makes for a warm, comforting drink that’s perfect for chilly winter evenings.
It’s typically a cider base, but some vendors have their own twist on the classic recipe. Just be sure to check the alcohol content on the back of the bottle before letting your kids take a swig!
25. Eier Punsch
Eier Punsch, an eggnog-like drink enjoyed in Germany, is a creamy, frothy blend of beaten egg yolks, sugar, white wine, and vanilla… it’s pretty much all my sister drank the entire time we were in Nuremberg!
It’s a must-try for eggnog lovers and a delicious alternative for those looking to shake up the typical red wine scene.
26. Roasted Nuts
Small bags of roasted nuts are a common sight at German Christmas markets. Whether they’re almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts (though almonds are by far the most popular ones you’ll see), these treats are often candied and spiced over an open firepit in a massive castiron pan, giving them a unique and delicious flavor.
They make for a great snack to munch on while shopping or a perfect gift for family and friends back home!
27. Vacuum-Sealed Meats
Sorry, that’s what they’re called… I wish it sounded more appetizing! Despite the unfortunate name, you can take a piece of German cuisine home with you.
From rich sausages to smoked hams and even large strips of top-quality brisket, these meats will make an exceptional addition to your home cooking in the weeks following your return home.
Plus, they’re vacuum-sealed and travel well, so you won’t have to worry about any spills or leaks in your luggage!
28. Chocolate-Dipped Confections
For the chocolate lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to pick up some chocolate-dipped sweets!
From fruits to biscuits and marshmallows, Germany is chock full of amazing sweet treats that are sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. I won’t blame you if none make it home though.
29. Fancy Vanilla Cookies
While Vanillekipferl is a staple at German Christmas markets, you might have a hard time finding these classic crescent-shaped cookies. These fancy ones are equally as delicious, however, and are lightly dusted with powdered sugar and have a delicate vanilla flavor!
Plus, if you pick up one of the unique rolling pins I mentioned above, you’ll be able to make these right at home!
30. Local Tea
I love picking up local teas because it allows me to indulge in a comforting cup of international flavors right from my living room.
With a delightful array of flavors to choose from, ranging from soothing herbal blends to timeless black teas, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
31. Lebkuchen Spices
Bring the unique flavors of Lebkuchen home with a pack of Lebkuchen spices! This mix usually includes cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice, and it’s perfect for baking your own batch of German gingerbread!
32. Glühwein Spices
If you’ve become a fan of Glühwein during your trip to Germany (and let’s be honest, it’s very hard not to), why not take home a pack of Glühwein spices?
You can recreate this festive drink at home, treating yourself to its warm, spicy goodness long after the Christmas season ends. Just be sure to pick up a good bottle of red (or white) wine to go with it!
33. Früchtebrot (German Fruit Bread)
Früchtebrot, a dense, sweet bread packed with dried fruits and nuts, is another delicious souvenir to take home from the Nuremberg Christmas market. It’s perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee, making for a hearty snack or a sweet, satisfying breakfast!
Cheap Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs
34. Unique Postcards
The German Christmas markets often offer an array of unique postcards that capture the essence of the festive season. These postcards feature beautiful illustrations or photographs of iconic market scenes, making them an affordable keepsake or a perfect way to share the Christmas market experience with loved ones back home.
They are definitely going to be a bit more expensive than the general postcard you might pick up from a local tourist shop, so just keep this in mind if you’re on a very tight budget.
35. Keychains
Keychains, available in countless designs, make a practical and lightweight souvenir to bring home from the Nuremberg Christmas markets.
Whether you choose a keychain decorated with a miniature Lebkuchen or some cute little owl like the one above, it will serve as a delightful reminder of your time at the Nuremberg Christmas market. Remember, not all souvenirs need to be big or expensive!
36. Locally Designed Bookmarks
For the book lover in you, locally designed bookmarks are a great find. These bookmarks often have stunning artwork, giving you a useful memento that also supports local artists.
They make for great gifts and are affordable and lightweight, all you’ll need is a safe place to ensure they won’t get folded during your travels.
37. Magnets
A popular and pocket-friendly souvenir, magnets featuring depictions of the Christmas market or Nuremberg landmarks are a wonderful way to bring a piece of the market back home.
These magnets are perfect for adding a touch of Christmas magic to your refrigerator or for gifting to friends and family! Not to mention, you can usually find them for under €5.
Nuremberg Christmas Market Dates 2025
The famous Christmas market opening ceremony takes place on November 28th at 5:30PM in the main market!
From then on, the Nuremberg Christmas Market opening times will be between 10:00AM to 9:00PM (local time) and will remain operating until Christmas Eve on December 24th. On this day, the market will only be open from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.
Christmas Eve will be the last day to enjoy the Christmas markets in Nuremberg as they do not continue after the holiday.
Tips for Picking Out Souvenirs at the German Christmas Markets
- Quality Over Quantity: It may be tempting to buy a variety of cheaper items, but cheap doesn’t typically mean authentic.
If you’re looking for the best Nuremberg Christmas market souvenirs, you’ll want to be mindful of where the item was produced and who it supports. - Consider the Practicality: Look for souvenirs that you will actually use or display in your home. This can be a beautiful piece of pottery, a locally made textile, or a unique piece of jewelry that you think you’d be likely to wear from time to time.
- Locally Crafted Items: Locally crafted items not only support the local economy but also tend to hold more cultural significance. This can often be found in crafts, local foods, and traditional German clothing.
- Packaging: Remember that some items, especially food, might have restrictions in terms of international travel. Ensure that food souvenirs are properly sealed and packaged for transport.
- Personal Interests: Choose souvenirs that align with your own interests. If you love cooking, pick up some local spices or recipes! If you prefer home décor, consider a handcrafted ornament or something for your kitchen or hallway decor.
- Early Shopping: Don’t wait until the last day of your visit to start shopping for souvenirs! The best items may sell out early, and you don’t want to be in a rush to find gifts and keepsakes.
- Research Ahead: Before visiting the market, do a bit of research on traditional German Christmas items so you have an idea of what you’re looking at and what you might want to bring back.
- It’s Okay to Leave Empty Handed: Not every souvenir needs to be purchased. If you don’t find something that speaks to you, it’s okay to not buy anything at all. Besides, the memories and experiences you gain are often the best souvenirs of all!
- Keep Track of Your Purchases: Keep a record of where you bought certain items, especially if they’re gifts. This can help if someone wants to know where to purchase something similar or if you want to re-purchase in the future.
- Respect the Price: Bargaining is not a common practice in German Christmas markets, and vendors take pride in their work. Unless an item is clearly overpriced, it’s best to respect the tagged price.
Attempting to haggle may be viewed as disrespectful to the artisan’s craftsmanship and effort.
FAQ
In this last section, I’ll be answering some popular questions about souvenir shopping at the Nuremberg Christmas markets including what you can find there, how much cash you’ll want to have on hand, and more!
What is the Best Thing to Buy in Nuremberg Germany?
One of the best things to buy in Nuremberg, Germany, especially during the Christmas Market season, is Lebkuchen.
This traditional German gingerbread has been produced in Nuremberg for centuries and is known for its rich flavor and soft texture, and it makes for the perfect snack (they’re also my personal favorite!)
You can buy them individually or in beautifully decorated tins that make for a great souvenir or gift.
Aside from Lebkuchen, Nuremberg is also famous for its advanced craftsmanship with wood, delicately painted ornaments, and small, unique finds, so you won’t be short on options when it comes to souvenir shopping.
What is Sold at the Nuremberg Christmas Market?
At the Nuremberg Christmas Market, you’ll find an extensive array of items, many of which have a distinct Bavarian touch.
This includes traditional German Christmas ornaments, intricately handcrafted nutcrackers, and incense smokers.
There’s also a wealth of edible delights including the infamous Nuremberg sausages (they’re miniature, and always come with three in a bun!), gingerbread cookies known as Lebkuchen, and glühwein.
You are also likely to come across beautiful hand-knitted wool items like mittens and hats, ceramic ware and pottery, and a variety of artwork. In terms of gifts, there are plenty of options, from jewelry to handmade soap, and from local liqueurs to unique Christmas décor.
Additionally, you also have the Sister Cities Market in Nuremberg which sells items from around the world, making it a great place to pick up more international souvenirs.
Where to Buy Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs?
Nuremberg Christmas Market souvenirs can be bought directly from the market itself, which is held in Nuremberg’s Main Market Square (Hauptmarkt).
This is the most authentic place to purchase souvenirs as you’ll have the opportunity to interact with the vendors and gain a bit of insight into the making of each piece.
Honestly, this was my favorite part of the markets as a whole! Just getting to chat with some vendors and asking them what their favorite pieces are make the markets so much more special in my opinion.
Additionally, some of the local shops surrounding the market often stock Christmas market merchandise during the holiday season.
It’s also worth noting that many online stores sell Nuremberg Christmas Market souvenirs, however, these might not be as authentic as those purchased at the market itself.
Can You Keep the Mugs at German Christmas Markets?
Yes, you can keep the mugs at German Christmas markets if you’re fine with not getting your deposit back!
When you buy your Glühwein, the price may sound steep coming in around 8 or 9 euros, but that’s because this price includes the cost of the mug.
If you return your mug, you’ll get between 2 and 5 euros back depending on the mug you got in the first place. But, if you don’t return the mug, that’s fine too!
You won’t get your deposit back, but I found my Nuremberg mug to be my favorite souvenir that I got from the markets!
What is Typically Sold at a Christmas Market in Germany?
German Christmas markets are famous for their unique holiday items, festive atmosphere, and delicious food and drinks.
Here, visitors can find a range of products including traditional Christmas decorations, handmade crafts such as wooden toys and glass ornaments, and intricately designed glass baubles.
Food is a big part of these markets as well, with stalls selling hearty German specialties like mini bratwurst sandwiches with sauerkraut and mustard, hearty pretzels, and sweet treats like Stollen (a German Christmas cake) and Lebkuchen!
Hot beverages range from the famous Glühwein and eierpunsch (or the non-alcoholic kinderpunsch) and hot chocolate.
Moreover, some markets also sell special advent calendars, wax candles, and unique clothing items like hand-knitted scarves and hats. Though the food was definitely my favorite!
Are Nuremberg Christmas Markets Worth It?
Absolutely, the Nuremberg Christmas Market is definitely worth visiting!
Not only does it offer a unique shopping experience with a vast array of souvenirs, crafts, and delectable food, but it also provides an authentic taste of Germany’s festive holiday traditions.
The atmosphere is a delight to soak in, with the scent of mulled wine, the glow of festive lights, and the sound of Christmas carols filling the air.
Moreover, the opportunity to interact with artisans and vendors adds a personal touch to every purchase, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re hoping to do all of your holiday shopping in one spot or you simply wish to try all the good food, it’s probably one of the top reasons to visit Germany!
How Long Does It Take To Go Through the Nuremberg Christmas Market?
Most people spend between 2-3 hours at the official Christkindlesmarkt, but my sister and I spent probably 4 hours roaming the stalls and going back for seconds and thirds on food and wine!
There’s a ton to see and if you’re someone who can easily spark up conversation with a vendor, then I’d plan at least 3 hours for the market.
How Far is Nuremberg Train Station from the Christmas Market?
It’s about 0.7 miles (1.2 kilometers) from the train station to the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, which takes about 17 minutes to walk.
We had rather large backpacks with us and it still only took us about 20 minutes to get to our hotel which was situated just a 5-minute walk from the market.
You can easily find taxis and rideshare options outside of the train station but they’re quite known for scamming incoming market tourists, so it’s best just to cross Bahnhofspl Street and make your way toward the city center.
What is Germany’s Most Magical Christmas Market?
Germany’s most magical Christmas market is believed to be the Rothenburg ob der Tauber Christmas Market.
Set in a medieval old town that seems to have sprung straight from a fairy tale, this market is famous for its enchanting atmosphere.
The cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses festooned with lights, and the (high probability of) snow-covered rooftops create a mesmerizing scene that is beyond compare.
Don’t get me wrong – I loved the Nuremberg Christkindlmarkt, but it doesn’t have the same charm as some of the smaller, medieval Bavarian towns.
Do German Christmas Markets Take Credit Cards?
While some of the German Christmas markets accept credit cards, particularly for more expensive purchases, you will certainly need to have cash on hand for the majority of your shopping.
Most of the stalls at these markets are small, family businesses that may not have credit card machines.
Moreover, most food and drink stands only accept cash as well, so it’s always a good idea to have some euros on hand when visiting the German Christmas markets. This actually goes for the Christmas markets across Strasbourg, Copenhagen, and even Tallinn as well!
Make sure to also bring small bills and coins for easier transactions, as larger denominations may be difficult for vendors.
Can I Buy Nuremberg Christmas Market Souvenirs Online?
It is possible to buy souvenirs from the Nuremberg Christmas markets online, although it may not be as comprehensive of a selection compared to what is offered at the physical market.
There are a few online stores that sell Nuremberg Christmas Market souvenirs, including traditional ornaments, handmade crafts, and even some of the edible delights like Lebkuchen, however you’ll need to speak with the particular vendor that you’re interested in doing some shopping from before leaving the city.
Not all Nuremberg souvenirs can be bought online, so if you see something that you really want, then it’s usually best to get it then and there.
If the item is too large to fit in your suitcase, you can speak with the vendor about possible shipping costs and if they have an online store where you can purchase their products, as well!
Now that you know what to buy at the Nuremberg Christmas markets and all of the possible Nuremberg Christmas market souvenirs that you can choose from, all that’s left is to plan your visit around the rest of the best European Christmas markets!
