5 souvenirs from Germany  Memories to Take Home

“What a wonderful trip that was!” Every souvenir tells a story, evoking memories of happy days on the road. Germany offers an array of unique keepsakes. Here are five that definitely deserve a place in your suitcase!

Green, Crunchy, Healthy – The Spreewald Gherkin

Anyone travelling to the Spreewald is sure to come across its legendary gherkin. This picturesque region of meadows and wetlands in southeastern Brandenburg is a paradise for lovers of all things sweet and tangy. Because this is where you can buy the Spreewald gherkin – once celebrated by poet Theodor Fontane – hand-picked from the region’s rich, fertile soil, pickled in herb and spice-infused brine, and packed with natural goodness. Since 1999, an EU seal of quality has ensured that at least 70 percent of jarred and canned gherkins come directly from the Spreewald and are processed locally. Why not pack up a few jars of this crunchy snack – grown here for over 150 years – and set off on the Gherkin Cycle Path. You might even catch a glimpse of cucumbers growing in the fields as you take in the countryside along this 250-km trail.

A Sweet Treat – Lübeck Marzipan

Whether or not Lübeck’s most famous sons, Thomas and Heinrich Mann, indulged in the city’s beloved marzipan remains a mystery – but they certainly had every opportunity to do so. Since the early 19th century, Lübeck has proudly held the title of Marzipan City. This delicacy, made from ground almonds and sugar, was first recorded in Lübeck’s guild rolls in 1530. Today, Lübeck Marzipan is protected by an EU designation of origin, guaranteeing that it can only come from Lübeck or the neighbouring towns of Bad Schwartau and Stockelsdorf. The city’s confectioners even uphold a strict tradition of their own: their product must contain at least 70 percent pure marzipan paste and no more than 30 percent sugar. Visitors looking to surprise friends at home with a sweet treat are spoiled for choice by the endless marzipan creations produced by Lübeck’s master confectioners.

Berlin’s Icon in Red and Green – The East German Ampelmännchen

Traffic lights control the flow of traffic – they’ re functional and practical. But sometimes, they can be charming too, as the East German Ampelmännchen prove. This sturdy little figure, with stubby nose and jaunty hat, was created by East Berlin traffic psychologist Karl Peglau and first appeared at the intersection of Friedrichstrasse and Unter den Linden in 1969. After reunification, plans to phase out the beloved character sparked public outcry – and the Ampelmännchen was saved. Today, Peglau’s endearing red “Stoppi” and green “Galoppo” still guide pedestrians safely across the street, but they’ve also become a symbol of Berlin, popping up in shops across the city. From mugs and keychains to gummy bears, T-shirts, and towels, visitors have no shortage of Ampelmännchen mementos to take home.

Eau de Cologne: The Cathedral City’s Signature Scent

In the early 18th century, Johann Maria Farina of Piedmont created a fragrance from a refreshing blend of lemon, orange and bergamot oils. Named after his adopted home, Eau de Cologne went on to enjoy international fame. As with many successful products, imitators soon emerged. One of the most notable was Wilhelm Mühlens, who in the early 19th century launched his own scent, cleverly branding it Original Eau de Cologne 4711 after the number assigned to his building on Glockengasse by the French occupying forces in 1794. From this address, the now-iconic scent and distinctive bottle began their legendary journey. Today, this beloved classic continues to be sold alongside a range of fresh, modern interpretations of Eau de Cologne.

Birdsong on the Hour – The Black Forest Cuckoo Clock

The Black Forest is a top holiday destination with its scenic valleys, rolling hills and delicious regional cuisine – and, of course, its iconic cuckoo clocks, which rank high on the souvenir scale. In this remote region, many goods had to be crafted by hand. Wood was abundant, while clocks made of metal remained the speciality of skilled guilds. This is why, since the mid-18th century, artisans have been carving intricate wooden timepieces equipped with pendulums. But why the hourly cuckoo? Its call, modelled on the native bird, was relatively easy to replicate with the tools of the time. While traditional Black Forest clocks are known for their lavishly detailed carvings, today they also come in sleek, minimalist designs – perfect for bringing a touch of tradition to the more modern, Bauhaus-inspired home.

August 2025