Munich is the most populated city in the Bavarian region of Germany. Known as much for its neo-gothic city hall as for its beer halls, for the triumphant arch of the Victory Gate and the twin-domed towers of the Frauenkirche, Munich is an unmissable destination. The city offers unique souvenirs that are as authentic as they are memorable. Here is our guide for the best local gifts and keepsakes in Munich.
Hand-Painted Beer Steins: A Toast to Bavarian Tradition
Classic beer steins are traditional beer mugs crafted from porcelain or stoneware and hand-painted by local artisans. The mugs are typically topped with a pewter lid, a tradition dating back to the 14-16th centuries as a way to keep disease-carrying bugs out of the beverage, thus reducing the spread of the bubonic plague and other hygiene-related ailments. The thumb lever was created so people could enjoy drinking their beer with one hand while holding a pretzel or sausage in the other. Most mugs are decorated with hunting scenes, Bavarian folklore, and alpine vistas. THN Did You Know? Traditional steins hold an entire liter of beer!
Handmade Ornaments For Year-Round Holiday Cheer
Käthe Wohlfahrt is a traditional Christmas shop in the heart of Bavaria. Most of the ornaments and keepsakes are made in Germany with the most intentional craftsmanship. The shop’s Munich location is in the city center near Marienplatz. Shoppers can find Christmas decor all year long. No matter the season, stepping into Käthe Wohlfahrt is like stepping into a full-blown Alpine winter wonderland.
Traditional Bavarian Nutcrackers: Handcrafted Souvenirs With a Story
The Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) of Saxony are traditionally home to nutcrackers but Munich’s markets are bursting with these festive souvenirs. German folklore tells of nutcrackers guarding the home, offering protection and good luck. They are thought to protect families during the long winter months. In Munich, many nutcrackers are still made in wood and handpainted by artisans, dressed as Bavarian kings, alpine hunters, and toy soldiers.
Dallmayr Delicatessen: Munich’s Historic Home of Gourmet Luxury
Dallmayr Delicatessen is an institution in the heart of Munich with a history spanning more than 300 years. The delicatessen is right near Marienplatz in the city center. Its German culinary history is unparalleled as it was once a royal purveyor to the Bavarian court. Find the best fine foods, premium wines, exotic spices, and artisinal chocolates. The shop’s flagship coffee, Dallmayr Prodomo, was launched in 1964 and is roasted in-house. The turquoise and gold Dallmayr packaging is classy, quintessential, and recognizable worldwide. THN Travel Tip: Look for the Obatzda cheese spread, a traditional beer cheese mix.
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Lebkuchenherzen: Munich’s Sweet and Colorful Gingerbread Hearts
Travelers can spot rows and rows of colorful gingerbread hearts known as Lebkuchenherzen hanging from market stalls. The heart-shaped cookies are covered in icing with bold, bright colors and strung up with ribbons. German tradition is to offer this yummy heart garland to your sweetheart, friends, or family. The joyful treats are often worn or displayed before being eaten. This, along with other centuries-old Bavarian baking traditions, is a truly unique souvenir and way to tell someone you’ve been thinking of them. Nothing beats the comforting aroma of spiced gingerbread!
