The Best Cologne, Germany Souvenirs To Bring Back Home

Cologne, Germany, is a city steeped in history and culture, and its vibrant energy is reflected in the array of souvenirs and gifts available for visitors to bring back home. Here is a carefully curated list of items that will evoke fond memories of your time in Cologne:

- Eau de Cologne: This fragrant city's namesake perfume, created in the 18th century, is a classic choice. Two renowned brands to look for are Kölnisch Wasser and Eau de Cologne by Farina.

- Kölsch Beer and Glasses: Kölsch, the local beer style, is a must-try. Consider purchasing a set of tall, cylindrical Kölsch glasses to savour the beer's effervescence.

- Cologne Cathedral Souvenirs: The Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany's most iconic landmarks, offers a range of themed souvenirs like miniature replicas, keychains, and postcards.

- Printen Cookies: These traditional gingerbread cookies from Aachen are a delicious treat and often come packaged in decorative tins.

- Carnival Masks: Cologne's vibrant Carnival celebrations are famous, and a traditional mask can be a unique memento of the festive spirit.

- Rhine River Memorabilia: The Rhine River plays a significant role in Cologne, and you can find miniature boats, scenic postcards, or artwork capturing its beauty.

- Cologne's Old Town Prints: The Altstadt, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, makes for timeless souvenirs in the form of prints or artwork.

- Chocolate Delights: Cologne is known for its chocolate creations, so indulge in chocolate bars or boxes featuring iconic landmarks crafted in chocolate letters.

- Traditional Pottery: Adorn your home with handcrafted ceramic items like mugs, plates, and vases adorned with intricate designs inspired by Cologne's heritage.

- Clothing and Accessories: T-shirts, hats, scarves, and bags emblazoned with the city's name, skyline, or symbols make for stylish and practical souvenirs.

- Books by Local Authors: Cologne's rich literary history is reflected in the works of local authors, offering meaningful souvenirs for book lovers.

- Christmas Ornaments: If you're visiting during the holidays, pick up ornaments featuring iconic landmarks or traditional German designs to adorn your tree for years to come.

- Local Art and Crafts: Explore Cologne's art galleries and craft markets to discover unique handmade items, including paintings, sculptures, jewellery, or textiles.

- Postcards: Lightweight and affordable, postcards are a classic way to share your travel experiences and capture the city's stunning views.

- Artisanal Liquors: Cologne boasts a variety of artisanal liqueurs and spirits, such as Korn or Kölsch-based liqueurs, offering a distinctive taste of the city to enjoy back home.

- Traditional German Toys: Nutcrackers, wooden figurines, and handcrafted dolls reflecting German folklore and cultural themes make charming souvenirs for collectors and children alike.

- Stationery: Cologne-themed notebooks, pens, or stationery sets adorned with the city's skyline or landmarks are both practical and stylish mementos.

- Magnets: These small souvenirs encapsulate the essence of Cologne, from its majestic skyline to its vibrant cultural scene.

Cologne Cathedral souvenirs

The Cologne Cathedral is one of the three tallest churches in the world and is the city's most famous and recognisable landmark. There are many souvenirs that you can buy to remember your visit to this magnificent building. Here are some ideas for Cologne Cathedral souvenirs:

Postcards and magnets

You can buy postcards or magnets with images of the cathedral from the gift shop in the basement of the Dom, or from the many souvenir shops in the immediate vicinity of the cathedral and the main train station.

Cologne Cathedral-themed waffles

Café Riese offers cathedral-shaped waffles (Domwaffel) that are popular among locals. Enjoy them fresh or take them home as a tasty treat for your friends.

Cologne Cathedral view

The Tourist Information Centre, located near the main train station and the Cologne Cathedral, offers a panoramic view of the cathedral's main portal from the window on the first floor. While admiring the view, you can also browse the KölnShop located on the same floor, which offers a variety of Cologne souvenirs, decorative items, and accessories.

Antique markets

Cologne is home to several famous antique markets, such as the Kölner Stadt Flohmarkt (University Market) and the Pferderennbahn Parkplatz. These markets offer a variety of treasures, including antique objects, works of art, and musical instruments. You might find unique souvenirs that showcase the beauty and history of the Cologne Cathedral.

Christmas market specialities

During the festive season in December, the Christmas markets in Cologne offer a wonderful opportunity to find imaginative and well-crafted souvenirs. You can purchase Christmas star lamps, which are traditionally hung in Cologners' windows, or explore the various stalls selling handmade crafts, Christmas sweets, and decorations.

Local artisanal liquors

Kabänes

Kabänes is a bitter herbal alcohol similar to Jägermeister that has been enjoyed by locals for over 60 years. It is said that after trying Kabänes, you will soon find yourself singing "Kabänes un ne Wodka, Polka, Polka, Polka" as in one of the city's popular Carnival songs.

Mexikölner

Mexikölner is a unique shot created by the young owners of "Kölschbar." It is a mix of tomato juice, chili, and pepper, inspired by the popular "Mexikaner" shot in Germany. Bring home a spicy memento from Cologne with this one-of-a-kind drink!

Kettenfett

Kettenfett, or "chain oil," might not sound like the most appetizing name for a drink, but it is a distinct liquorice shot that has gained a cult following in Cologne. According to its founders, people tend to either love it or hate it—there is nothing in between!

Schwesterherz

If you have a sister, Schwesterherz, a currant liquor from the brewery Gaffel, could be the perfect gift. "Schwesterherz" is a German expression of endearment, meaning "sister heart."

Flimm

Flimm is a fluorescent green and sweet-smelling shot that has become a staple in Cologne's pubs and bars since its appearance in 2008. Don't be put off by its unusual color—it goes down quite smoothly!

So, there you have it! These local artisanal liquors from Cologne are sure to provide a unique drinking experience and make for great souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.

Christmas ornaments

• Heinzels Wintermärchen Köln at Heumarkt and Alter Markt: This market has over 100 stalls and features a fun Glühwein mug tradition, with 12 different gnome-themed mugs to collect.
• Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral: This traditional market has a stunning backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral and offers a variety of artisan goods and foods.
• Nicholas' Village Christmas Market at Rudolphplatz: This market has a unique, German-style Santa's village theme with half-timbered houses and a tiny chapel. It's a great spot for families, with daily visits from Santa and free arts and crafts sessions for children.
• Harbour Christmas Market: Located along the Rhine River, this market has a nautical theme with white canopied stalls resembling sails and a bar shaped like a pirate ship.
• Stadtgarten Christmas Market: Located outside the city centre in a park in the Belgian quarter, this market offers a more local vibe with unique, less Christmas-y goods.
• The Angel's Christmas Market: The oldest market in Cologne, dating back to the 1970s, with a magical, rustic and traditional feel. It features simple wooden booths, trees hung with stars, and iconic angels that make an appearance in different forms each year.

In addition to the Christmas markets, you can also find Christmas ornaments and decorations in boutiques and shops throughout Cologne. Some popular items to bring back include:

• Cologne, Germany-themed Christmas ornaments, especially those featuring the Cologne Cathedral.
• Hand-painted candlesticks.
• Traditional German Christmas pyramids.
• Käthe Wohlfahrt wood and glass holiday ornaments.
• Koln Dom-shaped waffles from the Angel's Market.

Local food and drink

Cologne is known for its unique Kolsch beer, brewed in almost 30 varieties, including classic, light, and non-alcoholic, all with a slightly bitter aftertaste. The beer is brewed using low-temperature fermentation technology, which gives it the status of a lager beer. In 1997, it was recognised by the EU as a protected regional beer.

Cologne is also known for its own brand of Brauhaus cuisine, which isn't served elsewhere in the country. Dishes include Halve Hahn, or 'half a rooster', which is actually a rye roll served with butter, mustard, and a slab of Dutch cheese. Another local dish is Himmel un Ääd, or 'heaven and earth', where 'earth' refers to mashed potatoes and 'heaven' is a thick, chunky applesauce, served with slabs of black pudding and topped with fried onions.

Other local dishes include bratwurst, schnitzel, and pork knuckle (called Hämmche in Cologne, pickled and brined, and served with fried potatoes and hot mustard). For the largest schnitzel in the city, head to Bei Oma Kleinmann, a traditional Kölsch pub in the student quarter on Zülpicher Straße.

For those who don't drink alcohol, apfelschorle is a popular drink in Cologne and throughout Germany. It is apple juice mixed with carbonated mineral water, similar to non-alcoholic apple cider.

Traditional German toys

Wooden Toys

Germany is known for its high-quality wooden toys, often handcrafted with attention to detail. These toys are not only beautiful but also durable and make great collectibles. Look for wooden puzzles, pull-along animals, stacking toys, and more.

Steiff Toys

Steiff is a renowned German toy company known for its soft and cuddly stuffed animals. Their toys are famous for their "button in ear" trademark, and they offer a wide range of animals, from classic teddy bears to exotic creatures.

HABA Toys

HABA is another well-known German toy brand that creates high-quality, educational toys for children. Their products include wooden block sets, games, puzzles, and soft toys that promote creativity and learning.

Handcrafted Dolls

Cologne is home to many local artisans who create beautiful handcrafted dolls. Look for unique porcelain or cloth dolls, often dressed in traditional German outfits, which make wonderful collectibles or gifts.

Model Trains and Cars

Germany has a strong tradition of model trains and cars, with brands like Märklin and Fleischmann offering detailed replicas. These toys are not only fun to play with but also make great display pieces for collectors.

When shopping for traditional German toys in Cologne, explore the city's toy stores, Christmas markets, and antique shops. You're sure to find unique treasures that will delight both children and adults alike!

Frequently asked questions