We’ll add to this list as we receive more recommendations. Would you like to share a favorite? We’d love to hear about it.

You can also check out our food guides here so you’ll know what to eat and drink in Germany. Guten Appetit!

Bamberg

• Cafe Marle – Delicious cakes and coffee! I had the most amazing chocolate torte here.

Berlin

• Grand Cafe – St Germain – This is a beautiful French restaurant with delicious food & excellent service. Reservations are needed.

Cologne

• Lommerzheim – Traditional Kolsch bar just out of Cologne centre. Friendly staff and customers. Limited menu but can really recommend the roast beef and pork cutlets. They only do reservations for groups of four or more but soon get you seated even when busy. They even take drinks out of there is a queue outside.

Freiburg

• Markethalle – We loved the variety – our kids enjoyed some familiar pasta dishes from the Italian food stall, my husband grabbed some currywurst and beer, and I got some schnitzel, though I was very tempted by the Asian, South Asian and Persian offerings! I think its a great way to have lunch with a group who all have a taste for something different, and its also a neat way to see how Germany has become home to lots of people from lots of different cultures.

• Oscar Wilde’s Irish Pub & Whiskey Bar – Great if you want a break from German food!

• SAMS Café – Great cafe by the church. Light breakfast, great chocochinos!

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

• Cafe Bar Berge – Great little cafe all homemade German food. Wonderful drinks and good lunch options along with sweets.

• Gasthof Zum Rassen – Our favorite town! We ate here twice! No reservations needed. Delicious!

Heidelberg

• Löwennrau – Authentic German food.

• Moe’s Roadhouse – It’s a fun experience to eat at an “American” restaurant in Germany and see their take on it. We have had great burgers, ribs and milkshakes there. The theme is half 50’s diner and half steakhouse.

Lindau

• Kunst Cafe – Really cute, may be busy, but it is easy to wait for a seat.

• Restaurant Akropolis – Another one if you are sick of German food. Kinda basic menu, but the wine and service was great! I would go back for drinks!

• Eilguthalle – I went just for drinks but I would go back for food w/ a reservation. It is very cool, tons of old cars inside it. I went in winter, but summer it looks way better to go.

Mannheim

• Hühner Fred – It’s a food truck chain found in many towns. It’s simple and straightforward, selling chicken quarters, halves, or whole. Ribs and porknuckle. All cooked and ready to eat. All very reasonably priced.

Munich

• Augustiner-Keller – Amazing food and atmosphere. Loved all of the outside seating!
  
  
• Münchner Stubn – We ate here twice! The food was delicious
  
  
• Löwennräu Keller – Delicious food, great atmosphere.
  
  
• Isabella Glutenfrei Patisserie – Eating gluten-free in Germany is tricky! Menus are labeled with food additives and preservatives, but allergen information is hard to come by. Isabella GF Patisserie not only offered a full menu of gluten-free food, free from risk of cross-contamination, they also served up some of the most delicious gluten-free pastries I have ever eaten anywhere in the world! I’m still thinking about the spinach quiche!
  
  
• Augustiner Klosterwirt (under Frauenkirche) – Fun atmosphere and the food and service were excellent. The sauerbraten, pork knuckle, and sausages special were all amazing!
  
  
• Backspielhaus (by Nymphenburg Palace) –Perfect for a cheap eat before or after the palace.
  
  
• Schiller Bräu – If you have a long layover with a train in Munich and want a nicer meal, go here.
  
  
• Helin Döner – If you are by the train station and want some decent Döner, go here. Not the best, but it is good for a quick stop on the way.
  
  
• Maelu – Cafe by the Residenz, really cute and aesthetic.
  
  
• Dallmayr – Dallmayr in Munich is renowned for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, reflecting its long history and upscale reputation. The café, part of the Dallmayr delicatessen, features a refined interior with classic furnishings, rich woodwork, and tasteful décor, creating a luxurious yet welcoming environment.T he menu at Dallmayr offers a variety of high-quality options. You can enjoy expertly brewed coffee and a selection of teas, accompanied by exquisite pastries, cakes, and delicate confectioneries. They also serve a range of gourmet breakfast items and light lunch dishes, including sandwiches and salads. The emphasis is on premium ingredients and exceptional service, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refined dining experience in Munich.
  
  
• Münchner Stubn – If you have a long layover with a train in Munich and want a nicer meal, go here.
  
  
• Arkedas Kepab – We saw lots of locals lined up for this spot near our hostel, and we were in the mood for something quick and delicious and this was exactly that! It was some of the best street food that we had, and after a long day of sightseeing, we grabbed our Döner Sandwiches, found some benches in a nearby park, and enjoyed a relaxing evening with the locals in the park and playground!
  
  
• Tantris – Special occasion restaurant. Very high end with incredible food, superb service and unbelievable wine list. Reservations, tasting menu.

Nüremberg

• Zum Gulden Stern – Coziest restaurant with excellent food! The Nuremberg sausage is amazing here! We made a reservation but it wasn’t needed.

Reutlingen

• Cafe Sommer – It offers a cozy and charming atmosphere with a blend of modern and traditional design elements. The café features a relaxed setting with comfortable seating, warm lighting, and a friendly ambiance, making it a great spot for both casual meet-ups and more intimate gatherings. The menu at Cafe Sommer typically includes a range of options such as freshly brewed coffee, a selection of teas, and homemade cakes and pastries. They often offer breakfast items like croissants, sandwiches, and muesli, as well as light lunch options. The focus is on quality ingredients and a pleasant, laid-back dining experience.
  
  
• Sale e Pane – Sale e Pane in Reutlingen offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with a focus on simplicity and comfort. The interior is characterized by warm, rustic decor, including wooden tables and a friendly ambiance that makes it a pleasant place for casual dining. The menu at Sale e Pane features a selection of Italian-inspired dishes, emphasizing fresh and high-quality ingredients. You can enjoy a variety of antipasti, pizzas, and pasta dishes, along with a range of traditional Italian bread and pastries. The emphasis is on authentic flavors and a relaxed dining experience, making it a great spot for enjoying delicious Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting.
  
  
• Barfüßer Hausbrauerei Reutlingen – Barfüßer Hausbrauerei in Reutlingen combines a lively, rustic atmosphere with a traditional brewery feel. The interior features wooden tables and benches, a visible brewing setup, and a warm, inviting ambiance that encourages a relaxed and social dining experience. The menu at Barfüßer Hausbrauerei emphasizes hearty, classic German fare. You’ll find a variety of traditional dishes such as sausages, schnitzels, and hearty stews, all complemented by house-brewed beers. The brewery offers a range of its own crafted beers, including lagers and ales, brewed on-site. The focus is on pairing robust flavors with their unique beer selections, making it a popular spot for enjoying authentic local cuisine and brews.

Schönau Odenwald

• Zum alten Kaiser – Oldest authentic German cooking.

Triberg

• Lilie Garten-Cafe – Black forest cake and Jager schnitzel! No reservations needed.
  
  
• Daheim Pub – Inside the indoor camping hostel. Great place to relax with some drinks. Very modern. No reservations needed.

Tübingen

• Fischer’s Neckarmüller – Fischer’s Neckarmüller in Tübingen is known for its charming and traditional beer garden atmosphere. The setting is warm and inviting, with a rustic yet comfortable interior, featuring wooden furniture and traditional German decor. The outdoor beer garden is particularly popular, offering a relaxed environment with scenic views of the Neckar River. The menu at Fischer’s Neckarmüller features a range of hearty, traditional German dishes. You can enjoy classics such as sausages, schnitzels, and regional specialties, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. They also serve a selection of house-brewed beers and local wines, creating a comprehensive and enjoyable dining experience that highlights the flavors of the region.

The post Where to Eat in Germany: Restaurant Recommendations appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

We’ve included a variety of hearty favorites, sweet treats, and inexpensive grocery store bites. At one time or another we’ve enjoyed every item on this list. Since many are admittedly indulgent, we’ve also included some healthier options to keep in mind.

Grilled German Sausages

Sausages are a traditional staple of German cuisine. Sure, they can be main meals especially if accompanied by sides, but they also make for delicious, filling, and expensive snacks as well.

You can easily find to-go sausages in food trucks all over Germany. Here are some of the most popular varieties:

• Bratwurst: grilled pork sausage often enjoyed in a roll with mustard or even sauerkraut
• Currywurst: sliced pork sausage topped with a curry spiced ketchup sauce that’s especially popular in Berlin
• Weisswurst: a white sausage originating from Bavaria and made of minced veal with a blend of bacon (you’re not likely to find this at many food trucks, though)
• Bockwurst: savory, smoked sausage typically made from veal and pork

Kartoffelpuffer (German Potato Pancakes)

Kartoffelpuffer or German potato pancakes make for a great snack, side or appetizer. These pancakes made from grated potatoes, onions, and eggs and are fried till crispy and golden. They’re typically served with apple sauce, sour cream or herbed crème fraîche.

Depending on where you are in Germany you’ll also see them called Reibekuchen and Reiberdatschi. You’ll find Kartoffelpuffer at festivals, Christmas markets, food trucks, and sometimes as side dish at restaurants.

Brezeln (Soft Pretzels)

German pretzels are the best snacks for on the go! These doughy treats are usually sprinkled with coarse salt and sometimes you’ll find them covered in cheese or sliced, filled with butter or other spreads or enjoyed with a side of mustard. You can also find pretzels with sweet toppings. Some pretzels are on the small size, while others are quite large and are more like a meal than a snack.

Quarkbällchen (German Quark Balls)

Quarkbällchen, or German quark balls, are fried pastry balls made with quark cheese. They have a fluffy interior and are typically dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

You won’t find these as easily all over Germany, so when you do find them at a fair or bakery, make sure to try them. The may look like a simple doughnut hole but they’re so much better, especially when freshly made.

You can also try making them at home following our recipe here!

Zwiebelkuchen (Savory Onion Cake)

If you’re looking for a filling savory snack, try Zwiebelkuchen. It features a rich, quiche-like filling of caramelized onions, bacon, cream, and spices, and is baked in a savory pastry crust. 

There are other variations as well that are less like a pie and more like a German version of a pizza (my favorite kind). If you’re interested in learning how to make this version at home, check out our recipe here.

Belegtes Brötchen (Sandwiches)

These delicious sandwiches are made with a variety of Brötchen (rolls), pretzels or croissants, and are filled with sliced cold cuts, cheese, butter or spreads, and veggies. You’ll find an assortment at nearly every bakery and often in grocery stores. They make for a tasty snack or lunch.

Kartoffelsalat (Potato Salad)

Kartoffelsalat is a classic side dish. It’s typically made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing. Though the main ingredients are usually the same, there are two main variations: the Northern and the Southern versions.

In Northern Germany, Kartoffelsalat is served chilled and the sliced waxy potatoes are dressed with mayonnaise and herbs. In Southern Germany, on the other hand, it’s served warm (or at least room temperature) and the potatoes are dressed with whole-grain sweet mustard and vinegar-based dressing. This is the one you’ll find served in Oktoberfest-style German restaurants.

Bratkartoffeln (German Fried Potatoes)

Another hearty comfort food is Bratkartoffeln. This twist on fries is made by pan-frying thinly sliced or cubed potatoes with onions, peppers, bacon, and various seasonings until crispy. It’s also sometimes served with an herbed garlic sauce. 

Bratkartoffeln is a popular food truck and festival staple, and sometimes a side dish at traditional German restaurants. But don’t worry, if you’d rather go for traditional French fries to get your potato fix, you won’t have any trouble finding that ubiquitous snack.

Käsekuchen (German Cheesecake)

Cheesecake is a popular German dessert but it’s a bit different from the American-style cheesecake. That’s because Käsekuchen (or German Cheesecake) is not made with cream cheese but instead with quark, a fresh, creamy, unaged cheese with a texture similar to thick Greek yogurt.

German cheesecake is a beloved Kaffee und Kuchen treat found in cafes and bakeries all over Germany. You’ll find plain and flavored cheesecake. It’s often served with a side of fresh whipped cream.

It’s quite easy to make authentic German cheesecake at home, even if you can’t find quark at your local grocery store. Learn how to make Käsekuchen from scratch following our recipe here.

If cheesecake isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other cakes you can find in bakeries and cafes that make for delicious snacks like Zwetschgenkuchen (German plum cake), Mohnkuchen (German poppyseed cake), Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest chocolate cherry cake), Bienenstich (Bee sting cake) – and many more varieties of cream cakes, nut cakes, marzipan cakes, fruit-flavored cakes, chocolate cakes, and more.

Spaghettieis

German Spaghettieis (“spaghetti” ice cream) is a popular ice cream dessert that resembles a plate of spaghetti. The spaghetti is made by pressing vanilla ice cream through a special press to create thin, spaghetti-like strands that cover a mound of whipped cream. It’s then topped with strawberry sauce to mimic tomato sauce and white chocolate shavings, which resemble parmesan cheese. It’s delicious!

Ritter Sport Chocolate

Ritter Sport is one of Germany’s most beloved chocolate brands. Known for their distinct square-shaped bars, the brand has a ton of different flavors and fillings, all made with high-quality cocoa.

We recommend getting a box of their mini chocolates with assorted flavors to try them all! They have everything from classics like milk and dark chocolate, to more special fillings like cornflakes, yogurt, and marzipan. You’ll also find vegan bars and special holiday flavors.

Milka Chocolate

Speaking of delicious German chocolates, Milka is another must-try brand. These popular chocolate bars are known for their extra creamy and milky texture. Just like Ritter Sport, they have a ton of classic and fun flavors. This variety pack comes with fillings like strawberry, Oreo, caramel, yogurt, cherry, and more.

Milka also offers other chocolate-related treats like cookies, cupcakes, biscuits, and mini cakes that are a bit harder to find in the United States.

While Ritter Sport and Milka are popular brands, there are many others worth trying. Find the chocolate aisle in any grocery store and you’ll find a wide selection to choose from!

Haribo Gummy Bears

Haribo Gummy Bears are a beloved sweet treat worldwide and there’s no better place to get them than Germany, where it famously originated from. These iconic, cute bears are known for their chewy texture and fruity flavors. You can find them in all German grocery stores, making them an easy and convenient snack for any time of the day.

Ferrero Hanuta Wafers

If you’re a fan of hazelnuts, then you have to try this one! Ferrero Hanuta wafers are a German biscuit that features a delicious combination of creamy hazelnut filling sandwiched between two crispy, golden-brown wafers. Packaged in convenient individual portions, they’re perfect for an indulgent snack that’s just the right amount of sweet. You’ll find them at nearly any grocery store in Germany.

Knoppers

Knoppers is another great sweet treat for hazelnut and chocolate lovers. This popular German chocolate snack combines layers of creamy milk hazelnut filling with crispy wafers and a topping of milk chocolate. You’ll find these at grocery stores all over Germany.

Fritt Chewy Candy

Fritt Chewy Candy is a popular German candy known for its sweet and fruity flavors, wrapped in colorful, chewy pieces. These bite-sized candies come in a variety of flavors, offering a delightful burst of sweetness with every chew. Some popular flavors include strawberry, raspberry, and cherry.

Leibniz Butter Biscuit Cookies

Bahlsen Leibniz Butter Biscuit Cookies are a classic snack known for their rich and buttery flavor. These golden-brown, rectangular biscuits have a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch, making them an ideal snack pairing with your cup of tea or coffee. Or splash out and try the milk or dark chocolate covered variety. My favorites are the mini cookies – so good!

Paprika Potato Chips

When it comes to potato chips, paprika is one of the most popular flavors in Germany. The zesty and smoky paprika seasoning offers a fun twist on the classic potato chip. They’re crunchy, satisfying, and addicting. We enjoy this brand when craving paprika chips.

Pretzels & Pretzel Sticks

Pretzels and pretzel sticks are a classic snack option. These crispy, golden-brown sticks are usually seasoned with sea salt and pair really well with any dips or spreads of your choosing.

Erdnussflips (Peanut Puffs)

Erdnussflips are a well-liked German snack known for their light and airy texture. These puffed corn snacks are shaped like peanuts and have a slight peanut and salty flavor. Of course, if you’re craving the peanut flavor but don’t want puffs, you can always grab a bag of peanuts at any grocery store. Peanut butter has become more common, too.

Where to Buy German Snacks?

The best places to look for quick, easy, and delicious snacks to go while traveling in Germany are the grocery store, bakeries, and food trucks.

What About Regional Specialties?

Yes! There are so many sweet and savory regional treats to enjoy all over Germany, such as a Schneeball in Rothenburg or a Fischbrötchen or Franzbrötchen in Hamburg. If you’re wondering what the must-try local snack is for where you find yourself in Germany, ask at your hotel, the Tourist Information office, cafe or restaurant.

What About Healthier Snacks?

When you don’t want to splurge on a mid-day snack – financially or calorically – there are many healthier options to choose from.

We often pop into a Rewe or Edeka grocery store for fruit (whole or cut up in to-go containers), yogurt, nuts, protein bars, veggies, prepared salads, sandwiches or sushi, sliced cold cuts and cheese, bottled juice or smoothies.

The post Popular German Snacks to Try While Traveling in Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

The holiday season in Germany is truly one of the best. There’s so much to love! Twinkling lights, beautiful decorations, bustling Christmas markets, spending time with family and friends, and of course, delicious Christmas food and desserts. 

Whether you’re spending the festive season in Germany or you’re simply interested in learning about German food culture, this article is for you.

In this guide we give you the best German Christmas highlights – from cultural traditions to popular dishes, favorite desserts, sweets, and drinks to famous Christmas markets. And even some German Christmas recipes you can prepare at home!

How Germans Celebrate Christmas

The first thing you should know are the 3 dates when Germany celebrates Christmas. Yes, 3 days! Like in the US and many other countries, Christmastime begins on December 24th. But unlike in the US, celebrations go on until December 26th.

Christmas Eve is typically a busy day, with some Germans working a half-day and shops being open until noon if December 24 falls on a work day. Everyone is preparing for the evening’s big celebration.

Traditionally, the German Christmas tree isn’t set up or decorated until Christmas Eve. My German parents told me that’s how it was when they were kids – the adults would decorate the tree and then there’d be a big reveal for the kids on Christmas Eve. But nowadays, each family has their own traditions and many set up and decorate their tree before Christmas Eve.

Speaking of traditions, even though many people from all over the world celebrate Christmas as a Christian holiday, many German families don’t necessarily celebrate it as such since Germany isn’t especially religious. But religious Germans often go to a midnight mass or an evening church service on the evening of the 24th.

As the sun sets, the Christmas festivities typically begin with a simple traditional dinner — for many that’s sausages and potato salad. Yes, that’s a traditional Christmas Eve dinner!

Why? Because there’s so much going on on Christmas Eve and it’s an easy dinner to make. That’s what my German mom served when I lived with them and celebrated my first Christmas in Germany. She made the best potato salad – northern German style (omg, so good).

Of course, not everyone serves this meal on Christmas Eve. When Aaron and I spent Christmas with a good friend of ours and his family, his mom served an amazing 3-course dinner. But sausages and potato salad is still pretty common and beloved by lots of people.

After the evening meal, everyone gathers around the tree to open up Christmas presents with family. Yes, presents are opened on Christmas Eve, not Christmas Day! That’s how we did it in my immediate US family so that didn’t seem out of the ordinary when I moved to Germany.

I love it because it’s so gemütlich (cozy) to hang out together, after stuffing yourself with delicious sausages and potato salad, opening presents with Christmas tree lights twinkling, maybe a fire crackling, and Christmas music playing in the background.

Christmas Day is usually spent with extended family, enjoying a more formal meal (my German family made goose), perhaps taking a long walk, and wishing each other a Frohe Weihnachten or Fröhliche Weihnachten (Merry Christmas.)

December 26 or the Third Day of Christmas (der dritte Weihnachtstag) is like Boxing Day in the UK, a more relaxed and laid back day to spend time with friends or family.

Christmas Markets & Decorations

Although those are the official days for celebrating Christmas, one could say that the Christmas season actually begins much earlier. Advent begins on the 4th Sunday before Christmas and it’s also usually when Christmas markets begin opening.

If you’re thinking about visiting a Christmas market, be sure to check out our guide to the Stuttgart Christmas market, one of the best in Germany! You’ll also want to take a look at our guide to 23 of the best Christmas markets in Germany.

Also in early December, kids celebrate St. Nicholas Day by leaving their shoes or boots by the front door and waking up them filled with small gifts and treats on December 6th. If you’re interested in learning more about this fun tradition, read our guide here on how to celebrate Saint Nicholas Day like a German.

Another important part of German Christmas traditions are decorations. The Advent wreath is a staple in many German homes. The wreaths, which are usually placed on the dining table or living room coffee table, have four large candles and decorations like pinecones, leaves or berries.

Advent calendars – whether homemade or store-bought (and filled with delicious German chocolate) -are also a fun way to mark the start of the season and countdown to Christmas.

Christmas pyramids are another fun decoration. You’ve probably seen them – wooden pyramids with candles at the bottom of the pyramid and when you light them up, the smoke spins the fan at the top. Not only are these beloved decorations in German homes, you’ll often find huge pyramids at Christmas markets!

And of course, aside from Christmas trees, wreaths, and pyramids, you’ll also find that some homes put up nativity scenes. As you can tell, Christmas time in Germany is rich with traditions.

There’s no way to summarize them all since everyone celebrates it differently but if you want more in-depth information on German traditions read our full article here!

German Christmas Market Food

Now on to one of the best parts of Christmas in Germany – German Christmas market food!

Christmas markets are filled with stalls selling all kinds of traditional German snacks, hot drinks, savory dishes, delectable desserts, and even international classics. Here are some of the best Christmas market foods you must try!

Kartoffelpuffer mit Apfelmus or fried potato pancakes with applesauce is a popular German food you’ll find in most markets. Very similar in taste to hashbrowns but crispier!

They’re usually served with applesauce but you can pair it with a range of sweet or savory sauces. Another variant of this is Bratkartoffeln, thinly sliced potatoes fried with garlic and bacon. A healthier version of these fried snacks are sautéed Champignons – whole roasted mushrooms served with garlic sauce (one of my favorites)!

You can’t talk about traditional German food without mentioning sausages. As you wander through the Christmas market stalls, you’ll easily find people eating different varieties like Bratwurst and Currywurst. You’ll also sometimes find stall selling other types of grilled or smoked meat or even fish.

Lebkuchen is a beloved Christmas staple! German Lebkuchen cookies are similar to gingerbread cookies in the US but not as sweet. They’re made with festive spices like cinnamon, cloves, anise, cardamom, and more and are often either covered in chocolate or glazed with sugar. Sometimes they’re topped with almonds.

There are a few different kinds of Lebkuchen and one is even made without flour (Elisenlebkuchen). If you want to try your hand at making Lebkuchen cookies at home, you can try our recipe here!

When you walk through a Christmas market, you won’t be able to resist the delicious smell of Gebrannte Mandeln or roasted almonds coated in crunchy cinnamon sugar. They’re also easy to make at home following our simple recipe.

One of the most common desserts associated with Christmas is Stollen. It’s a yummy buttery bread (some call it a cake or a tea cake) with nuts, raisins, and sometimes marzipan topped with powdered sugar. Our recipe shows you how to make a homemade version you’ll love.

Speaking of marzipan, that’s another Christmas classic. It’s basically ground almonds turned into a thick, moldable paste that’s covered in chocolate or formed into various cute holiday shapes.

The most popular drink to enjoy when visiting a Christmas market is without a doubt Glühwein or mulled red wine. It’s the perfect hot drink to sip on to stay warm and cozy on a cold night out!

Glühwein is served in a cute commemorative mug that’s unique to each market. If you don’t return the deposit you paid, you can actually keep it as a souvenir! At one time I had an extensive Christmas market mug collection featuring mugs from all over Germany.

If you’re not a fan of alcoholic drinks, you can always get Heiße Schokolade (hot chocolate) or Kinderpunsch, which is a hot fruit juice and tea drink.

Glühwein is the perfect drink to serve at parties or for cozy nights in. Learn how to make Gluhwein at home using our easy recipe.

German Christmas Eve Meal

As previously mentioned, the Christmas Eve meal is often made up of simple dishes since the day is quite busy and the main dinner is enjoyed on Christmas Day.

A popular Christmas Eve meal is the classic Kartoffelsalat mit Würstchen or potato salad with sausages because it’s a lighter meal that’s easy to prepare. Every family has their own favorite version of preparing potato salad and can tell you why theirs is the most authentic potato salad!

Of course, though it’s a popular choice, not all families eat this meal and might have other favorite dishes.

Some German families might also create a Bunter Teller (literally translated at “colorful plate”). Basically, it’s an assortment of Christmas cookies, chocolates, and candy that families arrange on a plate for other family member or guests. Colorful decorative plates used to be sold just for this purpose, and some families reused them each year.

Christmas Day Dinner

A German classic Christmas Day dinner is usually much more of a special occasion, calling for a more elaborate dinner enjoyed by family and guests.

The traditional main dish is Christmas goose or roast goose (that’s what my German mom made for us). But other popular main courses are roasted duck, turkey, wild boar, venison, pork Schnitzel or even Maultaschen.

Those are commonly accompanied with traditional sides like potato dumplings or red cabbage. Other popular side dishes include bread dumplings, Spätzle, salad, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes.

Of course, there are a lot of vegetarians and vegans in Germany, so not everyone loads their Christmas plate with heavy meat dishes! These days you’ll find a wide variety of modern family favorites, as well as the nostalgic classics.

The post Christmas in Germany: Food & Traditions appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

About German Food

There’s a lot to love about German food. Traditional favorites are filling, hearty, and comforting. And then there’s modern food, which is much more diverse than you imagine!

Not only does each region of Germany have their own take on different dishes, their cuisine is also influenced by old traditions and immigrants who have planted their roots in the country.

While traveling in Germany, one of the best ways to learn about each region is to try their food. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes or modern favorites, you’re guaranteed to find something you like, no matter what kind of traveler you are.

There are plenty of street food options, light side dishes, salads, sweet desserts, and of course drinks – both alcoholic and non – that go with every meal. And don’t worry if you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or have other eating preferences or restrictions. These days it’s pretty easy to eat however you want while traveling in Germany.

Traditional German Cuisine Vs. Modern Cuisine

If you want to sample traditional German dishes, Germany is (obviously!) the best place to do that. Get ready to eat well because there’s SO much to enjoy in Germany!

This article gives you a good overview of classic German food to try while traveling. BUT there’s so much more to German cuisine than what’s listed here. I don’t want you to think that all you’ll find in Germany is heavy meat and potato dishes with red cabbage – because that couldn’t be further from the truth.

To explore German food while traveling, I highly recommend eating at:

• a traditional German restaurant
• a beer garden
• a food truck (Imbiss)
• mom and pop Döner shop
• a bakery
• a cafe/coffee shop
• an ice cream shop (Eisdiele)

I also recommend trying things like:

• pizza at an Italian restaurant
• a big German salad
• a vegetarian or vegan restaurant
• a Turkish, Ethiopian, Greek, Indian, Chinese or Thai restaurant (etc)
• an Irish pub
• a German take-away place
• the German version of a US fast food restaurant
• maybe even a Mexican or Tex-mex restaurant (warning: it might not be exactly what you’re expecting so go in with an open mind)

Regional Differences in German Food

Different regions have their own specialties and preferences. For example, the northern parts of Germany are known to incorporate more seafood in their dishes due to their proximity to the Baltic Sea (like the delicious shrimp sandwich I had and fish and chips Aaron had in Hamburg in the photo below). For side dishes, potatoes are the most popular choice.

In southern Germany, on the other hand, you’ll find a preference for Knödel (potato or bread dumplings) and Spätzle as side dishes.

Each region also has their own variations of different food like potato salad and even drinks like beer and sometimes wine. Desserts vary around the country, too.

A Note About German Breakfast

Germans know how to breakfast! Many hotels offer breakfast and it’s usually a good deal even if not included in the room price.

Some hotels we’ve stayed at have had amazing buffets full of breads, Brötchen, cold cuts, cheese, sweet and savory spreads, fruit, yogurt, veggies, hard boiled eggs, and more. Others had fewer options but were delicious and filling none the less.

What you won’t find at typical German hotels? Pancakes, maple syrup, bacon, waffles, French toast, omelets, scrambled eggs, etc.

You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast at cafes and restaurants. In the photos below you can see a Tübingen hotel breakfast (on the left) and a Hamburg cafe breakfast (on the right).

When we stay in AirBnBs, we often just pick up some basics at the grocery store (yogurt, fruit, Müseli, eggs, etc) and make a quick breakfast before heading out for the day.

Grocery Stores In Germany

We used to eat every meal in restaurants while traveling. These days, however, we frequent German grocery stores and buy fresh fruit, nuts, granola bars, drinks, veggies, salads, yogurt, chocolate, bread, cold cuts, cheese, and other items for a quick breakfast, an easy lunch on the go, and healthier snacks.

If we’re staying in AirBnB’s we also usually make 1 or 2 easy dinners at the apartment, just so I can enjoy making a few of my favorite homemade dishes.

Picking up items at grocery stores during our trips keeps costs down, helps us eat healthier, and doesn’t take as much time as sitting down in a restaurant for every meal. Plus, it’s fun to see what’s in grocery stores in other countries and a great way to “live like a local” while traveling.

Ok, are you getting hungry?

Keep reading to learn about the delicious food, desserts, and drinks you can try in Germany!

1. German Bread & Brötchen

Bread is a staple in Germany. Stop at any bakery (and some grocery stores) and you’ll find all kinds of bread and Brötchen baked fresh daily.

Brötchen (“little breads”) are small bread rolls. They’re enjoyed during breakfast or brunch and are often used for sandwiches (I used to take one to school every day when I was in high school). Calling them “rolls” just doesn’t do them justice because they’re not like the rolls we typically eat in the US. If you eat bread, you’ve got to try a Brötchen!

Bread is such an integral part of Germany that the evening meal is called Abendbrot (“evening bread”). With all the different types of German bread and Brötchen available, it’s hard to imagine going back to plain white bread!

If you want to try making Brötchen at home, start with my easy Quarkbrötchen with Raisins recipe!

2. German Soft Pretzels (Brezeln)

German pretzels are the best! While you’ll find them at bakeries and some grocery stores, you’re also likely to find pretzel stands selling plain soft pretzels, as well as pretzels sliced and filled with butter or other spreads. So good! They’re the perfect snack for on the go.

3. Döner Kebab

Döner were brought to Germany by Turkish immigrants and have evolved into one of Germany’s favorite comfort foods. You can easily spot stands in any city selling them at very affordable prices. Döner used to be found at mom and pop type restaurants and food trucks but now there are also Döner chains throughout Germany, as well as modern fusion Döner shops that provide new takes on this beloved favorite.

Döner are not only delicious, they’re the perfect quick lunch or dinner. You’ll often have the choice between traditional lamb filling, chicken or falafel. They’re typically filled with lettuce and/or red cabbage, onions, tomatoes, and a creamy tzatziki and/or spicy sauce. If you’d like yours “zum Mitnehmen” (to go), they’ll wrap it in foil so it stays nice and hot.

German Sausage (Wurst)

Instead of saving the Wurst for last, let’s look at them first. Germany is known for its many varieties of sausage. Let’s take a look at the most famous ones that you will frequently find at German restaurants and food trucks. While you can order a satisfying and filling sausage meal with sides at restaurants, you can also easily pick up a sausage to go from a food truck, often with a side of fries.

4. Bratwurst

We’ll start with the most popular Wurst – Bratwurst! In old German, brat translates to “finely chopped meat,” but nowadays it is often linked to the word braten, which means “to roast or pan fry.” The recipe for this grilled sausage dates back to 1313.

Bratwurst is a popular type of sausage and for good reason: it’s delicious and ubiquitous! You’ll find it in restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Go to any market or festival and you’re sure to smell Bratwurst.

Bratwurst is typically made with pork and served with a plain white Brötchen or a slice of bread. Mustard is an optional topping.

5. Currywurst

Currywurst is a tasty dish that consists of steamed or fried pork sausage, usually sliced into bite-sized chunks, and topped or seasoned with curry spiced ketchup called Currygewürzketchup. While you’ll find this dish all over Germany, it’s especially popular in Berlin.

6. Weisswurst

Another popular dish in the sausage department is Weisswurst, which literally translates to “white sausage.” Made from minced veal with a blend of bacon, this white sausage is traditionally seasoned with cardamom, ginger, lemon, mace, onions and parsley.

The sausage casings used for this are made from pork intestines or skin. Take note that this kind of sausage is very perishable as it is only boiled and not preserved or smoked. It is typically made early in the morning and supposed to be eaten before lunch time.

7. Blutwurst

Another traditional German food worth mentioning is Blutwurst or “blood sausage.” This sausage is made with pork combined with animal blood, fat, and various seasonings, such as allspice, marjoram and thyme. Known for its firm consistency, it is usually served warmed or fried with either sauerkraut or mashed potato on the side.

8. Schnitzel

Schnitzel is one of Germany’s traditional meat dishes that you shouldn’t miss. Wiener Schnitzel (Viennese Schnitzle) is a thin slice of veal that is breaded and pan-fried. It is also known as one of Austria’s national dishes. These days you’ll also find Wiener Schnitzel made from pork or chicken.

The traditional Austrian version of this dish that is popular all over Germany is served with lemon and sometimes parsley. While this traditional Schnitzel is a classic, you can also try other famous versions of Schnitzel like Jägerschnitzel (topped with mushroom sauce) or Zigeunerschnitzel (topped with bell pepper sauce). Schnitzel is often served with french fries.

9. Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten (beef or pork pot roast or “sour roast”) is definitely one of the best German dishes for meat lovers. Sauerbraten is usually accompanied by gravy, potatoes, delicious dumplings or Spätzle.

10. Fischbrötchen & Krabbenbrötchen (Fish or Shrimp Rolls)

If you want a taste of traditional food from Northern Germany, a Fischbrötchen is a must-try. It’s essentially a sandwich of fried or fresh fish in a Brötchen, typically topped with horseradish or remoulade, onion, pickles, lemon, and lettuce.

You can also get one with shrimp or prawns. The shrimp roll you see in the photo above was one I picked up at Hamburg’s Fischmarkt one Sunday morning and it was hands-down the BEST I’ve ever had!

11. Spätzle & Käsespätzle

Spätzle is a pasta side dish most popular in southern Germany. The soft egg noodles are typically served with stews or meat dishes that are heavy on sauce. Traditionally, Spätzle are made fresh by hand by shaving dough into a pot of boiling water, but you can find ready-made Spätzle in grocery stores.

Käsespätzle is a popular main dish. It’s made by topping Spätzle with layers of cheese, cream, and onion, which is why it’s often called German macaroni and cheese. It’s rich but absolutely delicious.

12. Zwiebelkuchen (Savory Onion “Cake”)

If you’re looking for a German alternative to heavier meat dishes, Zwiebelkuchen is for you. It’s best described as a savory onion cake, but don’t be put off by the odd combination of words! There are several variations of this classic so you’ll find some that look like a quiche, some that look more like a tart, and some that resemble a pizza (my favorite). Zwibelkuchen often includes bacon (Speck in German) but some do not.

It’s also pretty easy to make at home and you’ll find that you probably have most, if not all, of the ingredients already in your kitchen. Follow this recipe on my international food blog to make Zwiebelkuchen at home!

13. Kartoffelpuffer (Potato Pancakes)

Kartoffelpuffer are the German version of potato pancakes that are served as a side dish, snack or even an appetizer. Simple and delicious, they’re often served with either applesauce, herbed crème fraîche or sour cream.

You’ll find Kartoffelpuffer in some restaurants, at food trucks, Christmas markets and other festivals and celebrations. In some parts of Germany they’re called Reibekuchen. If you like potatoes, you’ll love Kartoffelpuffer.

14. Königsberger Klopse

If you love comfort food, Königsberger Klopse is definitely a must-try. This famous German food consists of meatballs made from finely minced pork, veal or beef, served in creamy white sauce seasoned with capers, and served with boiled potatoes.

15. Kartoffelklösse & Knödel

Kartoffelklösse are German potato dumplings made from peeled potatoes that are ground up with flour or wheat to form the dumplings. There’s also a similar side dish called Knödel (bread dumplings), which are made from bread. They’re often served alongside meat dishes with rich gravy and used in place of mashed potatoes.

16. Potato Salad (Kartoffelsalat)

Just like a lot of US Americans, Germans love potato salad. There are many variations of potato salad recipes around the world, but in Germany, there are two main kinds: the Northern German potato salad and the Southern German potato salad.

The Northern version is served chilled and the sliced waxy potatoes are dressed with mayonnaise and herbs. The Southern version, on the other hand, is served warm and the potatoes are dressed with whole-grain sweet mustard and vinegar-based dressing. This is often served in Oktoberfest-style German restaurants.

Everyone has their favorite way to make potato salad in Germany, so don’t be surprised to see many variations!

17. Bratkartoffeln

Bratkartoffeln (fried potatoes) consist of thinly sliced potatoes fried in fat such, butter or vegetable oil. Some common additional ingredients are Spek (a type of thick bacon), onion or peppers. A fun breakfast version is mixing in scrambled eggs, onion, and Spek to make Bauernomlette or a farmer’s omelette. Bratkartoffeln are sometimes served with an herbed garlic sauce.

18. Rotkohl (Red Cabbage)

Germans love to eat red cabbage as a side dish. German red cabbage – or Rotkhol – is a popular side dish that has a unique sweet and sour flavor. It is the perfect side dish for a roast dinner with either Spätzle or Kartoffelkloesse.

19. Spargel (Asparagus)

German white asparagus is another popular side dish, especially during the spring asparagus season. It can be prepared in all ways you would prepare regular green asparagus, but expect the flavor to be milder with a little bitterness. Spargelzeit (asparagus season) is only a short time in the spring so if you’re in Germany during another part of the year you might not see as much white Spargel. We were in Germany once during Spargelzeit and literally everything had asparagus in it!

20. Salat (Salad)

Yes, you can find salad in Germany! Not everything is full of meat and sausage. Ha! We often order salads in restaurants but also get them to go from grocery stores or take-out places for a quick and healthy lunch. As you see below, corn sometimes appears on German salads!

German Desserts

Germany is known for plentiful and delectable desserts. Here are some favorites that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. You can also learn how to make some of these desserts at home by clicking on the links to my international baking other website.

21. Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)

The traditional German Black Forest Cake – Schwarzwälderkirschtorte – is popular both locally and internationally. The recipe originated in Germany’s Black Forest region and is comprised of a chocolate sponge cake soaked in a syrup flavored with Kirsch alcohol. Cherries and whipped cream are used as toppings. This cake is light and not heavy like US cakes with buttercream. I’ve had versions that are light on Kirsch flavor…and others that were quite boozy!

22. Apfelstrudel (Apple Strudel)

Apple Strudel is another mouthwatering German dessert that is usually served with either vanilla ice cream, whipped cream or vanilla sauce. Originally from Austria, Apple Strudel has a flaky crust and tender apple slice filling. Click here for my Easy Apple Strudel Recipe so you can make it at home!

23. Rote Grütze (Red Berry “Pudding”)

Rote Grütze is another fruity dessert that originated from Northern Germany and Denmark. It’s comprised of fresh or frozen red berries heated with red fruit juice, sugar, and corn starch to form a delicious red berry “pudding.” Just like Apple Strudel, this dessert can be served with vanilla ice cream, vanilla sauce or whipped cream.

This is one of the first desserts I tried when I first arrived in Germany as a teen, and it’s one of my favorites to this day. I often make it at my AirBnB when I’m traveling in Germany. I make it the way it was served to me so many years ago – a little warm with fresh, cold cream. So good!

24. Spaghettieis (Spaghetti Ice Cream)

Spaghettieis is a fun dessert that’s delicious during the summer. There is no actual spaghetti involved, it’s just made to look like a plate of spaghetti!

The “noodles” are made of vanilla ice cream, the “tomato sauce” is fresh strawberry sauce, and the “parmesan cheese” is either made from white chocolate or coconut. What makes it so refreshing is the whipped cream hidden under the ice cream noodles. You’ll find Spaghettieis in ice cream shops all over Germany. It’s delicous!

This is another German dessert you can make home, and one that is sure to be a talking point! Read our recipe here to find out the best way to prepare it.

25. Ice Cream (Eis)

Germany has delicious ice cream! You can buy fancy ice cream “sundaes” at the plentiful ice cream shops all over Germany or pick up a scoop or two to go. You might even come across some flavors you’ve never tried before. Definitely try both at least once while in Germany!

26. Käsekuchen (German Cheesecake)

Many countries have their own version of cheesecake and Germany’s is called Käsekuchen. One of the most classic German cheesecakes is made with Quark, a fresh, creamy, un-aged cheese with a texture similar to Greek yogurt. The taste and texture is a little different than the typical US American cheesecake and you might even find mandarin oranges or raisins in German cheesecake. It’s often served with a side of whipped cream.

German cheesecake is another dessert that’s easy to make at home (even if you can’t find Quark). Learn how to make Käsekuchen from scratch here!

27. Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake)

Bee Sting Cake is another traditional dessert made of two thin layers of yeast cake with a vanilla cream filling and a crunchy, buttery topping made of honey and almonds. This is one of my all-time favorite German cakes.

You can also make it at home! If you’re looking for a German dessert that looks impressive but is actually very easy to make, read here for my step-by-step recipe. 

28. German Pastries

You can’t talk about German desserts without talking about their delicious pastries. Fruity, glazed, vanilla, Quark filled, topped with nuts or Streusel – there are so many types of pastries to satisfy every sweet tooth craving you have.

You’ll find them bakeries, cafes, coffee shops, and some grocery stores all over Germany, making pastries the best treats for breakfast with coffee or tea, a midday snack, and of course dessert!

Click here for a full guide of the best pastries to eat in Germany.

29. Schokolade (German Chocolate)

Can’t leave out one of Germany’s national treasures – chocolate! Look in any grocery store and you’ll find a wide selection of chocolate bars in every flavor you can imagine. Milka, Ritter Sport, and Kinderschokolade are three popular brands. If you’re visiting the Stuttgart area you can actually visit the Ritter Sport factory! I picked up several of the bars below at their factory shop.

30. Bier (German Beer)

Our list of popular German foods is not complete without beer, as it is a major part of German culture. What makes German beer special is the fact that it is brewed according to “purity order,” which is known locally as Reinheitsgebot. The said order involves regulations that only permit hops, malt and water as ingredients. You’ll find a wide variety of beer to try in Germany. Every region has its specialty, and every beer has a special glass.

31. Glühwein (German Mulled Wine)

Glühwein (mulled wine) is a German staple during the holiday season. This hot drink made from red wine simmered with cinnamon, star aniseed, cloves, and other spices. It’s the perfect way to warm up during Germany’s cold winters – that’s why it’s a must-have in all German Christmas Markets!

If you’re not going to be in Germany in December, don’t worry! You can follow our recipe here to make your own Glühwein at home.

32 & 33. Radler & Cola Bier

Radler is a popular summer drink made with a mix of beer and German Limonade, a fizzy non-alcoholic lemon soda. A traditional Radler consists of 50% beer and is typically mixed with lemon-flavored soda but you can also use other flavors like grapefruit, lime, orange or lemon-lime. For an alternative to fruit soda, you can also find Cola Bier, which is…yep, beer mixed with cola.

This is another delicious German treat that you can make at home. Keep reading here to learn all the variations you can make of this refreshing summer drink!

34. Apfelschorle (Apple Spritzer)

Apfelschorle (apple spritzer) is a popular drink in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. It’s made of carbonated or sparkling mineral water and apple juice. The balance between the sweetness of pure apple juice and the freshness of sparkling water is so satisfying. It also goes well with a lot of German food, which is why you’ll find it on the menu of many restaurants. You can also buy it bottled next to Coke, Sprite, and the like. Apfelschorle is super refreshing on a hot summer day!

35. Eiskaffee (German Iced Coffee)

Eiskaffee or German ice cream coffee is a delicious take on iced coffee. It’s basically strong coffee poured over scoops of vanilla ice cream and topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. This is a super simple but yummy treat that will cool you during hot summer days! You can find it in ice cream shops (it’s Aaron’s favorite). And sometimes you can find a more US style iced coffee at coffee shops and even Autobahn rest areas!

When we’re not in Germany, we like to make Eiskaffee at home. Click here for our easy Eiskaffee recipe!

The post Top 35 German Foods To Try in Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

I’m the food photographer (Cate here, by the way) in our family and love snapping photos of what we eat while traveling so we can remember those tasty moments later.

But while I enjoy spending an hour getting a shot just right when I’m at home working on my international food blog, I want my photo-taking to be as quick, easy, and unobtrusive as possible while traveling.

My goal isn’t so much to have the most spectacularly beautiful photos but rather to simply have a memory of the delicious dishes, desserts, and snacks we enjoy. My goal is to balance documenting our meals with staying in the moment.

Many times, I take photos to jog my memory about our trip. The photo of me holding a cup of fresh watermelon in Freiburg (scroll down a bit to see it) isn’t super noteworthy but it does immediately spark my memory of how incredibly hot it was that day and how refreshing that cold watermelon was!

My opinion is that it’s just as important to enjoy your food as it is to get a photo of it. Seeing that photo months or years later will evoke your memory of eating it – so it’s important to pair a good photo with actually enjoying the dish and the people you’re with!

I’m not a professional or expert by any means, but I’ve learned a few things along the way. Here are 10 tips for taking better food photos while traveling.

1. Use the Right Camera and Gear

You might be surprised to learn you don’t need a large, fancy camera to take good quality pictures! In fact, unless you’re photographing for publication, most of today’s cell phones have enough technology in the camera to take impressive images.

Even though I have a 35mm camera, I often use my iPhone for food photos while traveling. It’s quick and easy to pull it out of my bag or pocket, unobtrusive when we’re in a restaurant, and takes great photos.

When we travel, I make sure my phone has a case and a PopSocket. I LOVE the PopSocket because it makes holding my phone while taking photos so much easier and prevents me from dropping it. Plus, they last for years.

We also bring at least one portable battery charger so we can charge out phones throughout the day. When we’re traveling, our phones never stay charged all day so a battery charger is a life-saver!

Something I’ve thought about experimenting with are these little pop-on cell phone lenses. If you want to get creative with your phone, give them a try!

I do bring my 35mm camera but only use it for food photos where I have more time and space to do a little photo shoot – which is not often while we’re traveling. I’m not an expert photographer so I bring minimal gear – a case, a detachable wrist strap, and extra batteries.

2. Practice Before You Go

Before you head out on your trip, get to know your camera and practice.

Having a good understanding of your camera and how it works is so helpful, especially if you’re using a new camera, have upgraded to something more complex than you’re used to or want to improve the quality of your photos. That way, you can easily take beautiful food photos without stress while still enjoying your meal.

A few years ago I brought my brand new 35mm camera on our trip to Germany. I was so excited to use it but neither of us had much time to practice using it. The result? Finding out later that we’d inadvertently changed a setting, resulting in weird looking photos! Don’t make the same mistake!

You can find loads of free tutorials for your phone or camera online that get into how to use the manual settings on your camera or make simple adjustments on your phone. Take a few hours to watch and learn them, and then practice snapping a couple photos each time you sit down to eat at home or while out and about.

That way, by the time you’re in Germany you’ll know exactly what kind of food photos you want to take and how to take them.

3. Get Close – and Back Up

Having a range of fields for your photos can make a big difference. Try getting a close-up shot of what’s on the plate, as well as what’s around it to really give the viewer the full experience of the dish. If every image tells a story, aim to give as much context as possible.

Imagine an image of a piece of German Kuchen (cake). It might look great on its own but what if your image included the table setting and a food market in the background or your smiling travel companion? You’ve taken it from a piece of cake that could be anywhere to really telling the story of where it was eaten.

I like to take close-up photos so I can see the texture and details, as well as photos that include some cultural or geographical context.

If you’ve practiced taking food photos ahead of your trip, you’ll be able to snap a few different shots quickly and easily.

4. Use Natural Light as Often as Possible

Even if you have no training in photography, using natural light is one of the easiest things you can do to make sure you’re getting a good quality picture. Inside a restaurant, try sitting near a window where light is coming in. Having shadows and contrast due to natural light is what brings your image to life.

Need to add a bit more light to your picture? A simple piece of white paper can reflect incoming light to illuminate your setting. You can easily keep one folded in your day bag.

You can also adjust the settings on your camera to allow for more light. This is where my camera does do a little better than my phone – it’s amazing how I can still get good photos in low light when using my camera. Another good reason to get to know your camera before your trip. Practicing ahead of time will enable you to get better low-light photos.

And if your food photo is on the darker side? Don’t worry about it! You’ll still have a memory of your meal, and that’s what’s important.

5. Take a Photo of Where You Eat (Not Just What You Eat)

Don’t forget to document the restaurant (or bar, cafe, ice cream shop, Imbiss) where you eat! It’s so easy to forget the name of that cute little cafe (or even the city) where you had the most amazing cup of hot chocolate…but if you snap a photo of the restaurant before or after your meal, you’ll always remember. This comes in very handy when sharing recommendations with friends later!

(That seriously amazing cup of hot chocolate in the photo above is from Tee & Süsses in Bad Wimpfen, by the way.)

6. Take More Than 1 Photo (But Don’t Take Too Many)

One of the best things about digital cameras is that you can take several shots in order to get one you like. So don’t hesitate to take several in order to get 1 or 2 you like. That said, don’t take too many or it’ll be a pain to sort through them later. If possible, review your shots shortly after taking them so you can flag your favorite(s) and delete the rest.

7. Be Respectful

Whether you’re in your hometown or miles away, it’s always important to respect the people around you. This means other diners, the people preparing your food or fellow shoppers in a marketplace.

While you can take photos nearly everywhere in Germany, keep strangers and kids out of the photo (in public places just keep them in the background). It’s a good idea to ask permission to take photos of vendors and their products. Stores, bakeries, butcher shops and the like may have rules against taking photos in their shop. Some might not mind. If in doubt, just ask.

8. Add Visual and Cultural Interest

If you’ve just picked up a pastry from a bakery, take a photo of it on the bag it came in. Snap a photo of the receipt so you can remember how much it cost. Show both sides of chocolate-covered cookies. Show the inside of a delicious treat (even if it’s melting, like my Spaghettieis in the photo above).

9. Add a Human Element

Make your food photos more interesting by taking a shot with a travel companion in them. For those who don’t want to be photographed while eating, including a hand reaching for a cup of coffee, holding a pastry or a fork full of food can add interest to the photo. Even photographing something with a bite taken out of it adds a human touch.

10. Edit Your Photos During or After Your Trip

I use Lightroom to sort and edit my photos so the final product looks just a bit better. I adjust the white balance, lighten things up a bit, and crop as needed. It’s amazing how much a few simple edits can improve a photo!

I like Lightroom but here are many photo editing options. If I’m planning to share a photo on social media, I’ll edit the photo on my phone (using the Lightroom app). If not, I’ll wait until I’m back home.

BONUS: Where to Get Different Types of Food Photographs

In addition to photos of your restaurant meals, bakery snacks, and coffees, how can you get more unique and varied images that also highlight interesting aspects of your trip? Here are a few ideas for expanding your food photography:

Farms. Yes, really! This is an especially good idea if you’re where a specific type of produce or product is well known. A tea plantation, banana field or where a certain type of cheese is made are some examples. Don’t just stick to the farmland itself but try to shoot multiple parts of the process and the people involved. Often times farms advertise tours but if not, reach out to some and see what is possible.

Street Food. One of the easiest types of food to photograph is street food. It’s not meant to be particularly “fancy” looking and you can easily take pictures in public. Not only will you get the food in the picture but also a good sense of place when photographing the whole scene.

Indoor or Outdoor Markets. Markets provide a wide range of photographic experiences (like the Markthalle in Stuttgart). You may want to go early in the morning or near closing to avoid huge crowds unless you are aiming to get these types of pictures.

Food Festivals. Thanks to so many food lovers, food festivals are ubiquitous. They’re also a good way to find a wide range of foods that can be photographed. Make your way around, choose the items you’d like and set up your own mini-photo shoot at a table!

Restaurants and Cafes. It might be obvious, but if you had a great meal at a restaurant or cafe, why not reach out and ask if you could come back at an off-peak time to take some more photographs?

Factories/Production Sites. A good example of this might be if you are visiting a chocolate factory or coffee roastery. These will give you not only an end product to photograph but a full story.

One Last Tip…

Just have fun! The photos above aren’t great photos and they likely won’t mean anything to anyone but me and Aaron.

That’s ok! When I see these photos I think of how much I savored those chocolate bars after returning from a trip to Germany, how thrilled we were to find an iced Americano to go at a gas station rest stop during a heat wave, and the happiness I felt during our first breakfast in Magdeburg (right) because I was finally able to show Aaron around the city where I once lived, and the cold Bitburger beer we enjoyed at our AirBnB on our last night in Stuttgart.

Those memories and feelings are what matter most!

The post 10 Simple Tips for Taking Great Food Photos While Traveling in Germany appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

It’s tough because everywhere you turn, there are just so many tantalizing  options. You could spend you’re entire visit to Germany just eating dessert and still never try all of them!

Fortunately, I got to know a lot of Germany’s awesome desserts during the years I lived there. Here’s are 10 traditional German desserts and sweets I recommend trying on your next trip to Germany.

10 Must-Try German Desserts and Sweets

1. Bienenstich (Bee Sting Cake)

If you like honey and almonds, you’ll love Bienenstich “Bee Sting Cake”! There are four layers in this cake:

1. Sweet yeast cake
2. Vanilla cream
3. Second layer of cake,
4. Crunchy, honey-flavored, caramelized sliced almonds

OMG – so good! The yeast cake with the creamy center combined with the crunchy topping? Out of this world.

When I was studying in Stuttgart years ago I walked past a little corner bakery every day on my way to the university. More often than not I’d stop and pick up a slice of Bienenstich cake (oh to be 19 again with the ability to eat cake every day).  I still eat German Bee Sting Cake whenever I’m in Germany but these days I also make it at home.  

Don’t want to make Bienenstich from scratch? No problem, you can order the Kathi Bee Sting Cake mix! All you do is add the butter, water, and heavy whipping cream, and then bake it. Click here to check it out!

2. Rote Grütze (Red Berry “Pudding”)

Are you a fan of berries? If so, you’ll love this traditional northern German dessert. 

Rote Grütze is basically a warm “pudding” made from raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and red currants, and then topped with cold fresh cream (my favorite), vanilla sauce, whipped cream or ice cream.

I tried Rote Grütze for the first time when I visited a friend in Hamburg after moving to Germany in high school and it’s still one of my all-time favorite desserts. I make it all the time in summer. And if you have any left over, Rote Grütze is delicious on cheesecake, mixed into yogurt or made into popsicles. 

If you’re visiting northern Germany you may find Rote Grütze on the menu at a restaurant or cafe but if you don’t, you can pick up a jar at nearly any German grocery store. Just heat it up on the stove or in the microwave (or eat it at room temperature), and then top with cream, vanilla sauce or ice cream.  It’s the perfect AirBnB dessert! (The photo above is the Rote Grütze and fresh cream I bought while in Hamburg a few years ago.) 

3. German Chocolate Bars

Who doesn’t think chocolate when they think of Germany?

You could spend your entire visit to Germany just sampling chocolate after chocolate after chocolate!

Confession: I spent five weeks in Germany just before getting married and brought an extra bag with me just for chocolate! It’s true! I filled an entire bag with Milka chocolate bars to give away to our wedding guests. Back then you could’t get Milka in the US so the German chocolate made a unique addition to our gift bags.

Two of the most popular brands of chocolate are Milka and Ritter Sport. You may already be familiar with them, as you can find both in the US these days. Germany, however, offers a much better selection for a much better price. They even have seasonal flavors! For the best selection, visit a department store (such as Kaufhof, Karstadt or Hertie) or one of the larger grocery stores.

My favorites?

For Milka I’d say it’s Sahne Creme, Diam, Joghurt, and Caramel.

For Ritter Sport it’s Hazelnut, Espresso, Cocoa Mousse, and Cornflakes.

When I visit Germany I almost never eat chocolate (when I live there, that’s a different story). Instead, I bring my favorite chocolate bars home with me so that when I’m in Germany I can allocate my dessert calories to things I can’t bring home (cake, pastries, ice cream…). And then I get to enjoy delicious German chocolates for a few weeks after I return home!

Another kind of chocolate I always buy in Germany is called Schoghetten. I like that their chocolate comes in little individual square pieces, so it’s easy to just eat one or two squares at a time. I like the Hazelnut and the Yogurt-Strawberry the best.

Unfortunately, they no longer make my favorite flavor: coffee. It was SO good. The bottom layer was chocolate, the top layer was a creamy white chocolate with coffee bean flakes – kinda like this Straciatella but with coffee beans instead of chocolate chips.

I was heartbroken when they discontinued this flavor. Schoghetten – bring it back, please!

In the US, you can find a few Schoghetten flavors at Aldi, hazelnut for one.

Oh, one more chocolate to try is Kinderschokolade! Yep, “kids chocolate.” Kinderschokolade always touted their chocolate as having “an extra portion of milk” in the creamy filling. I don’t eat this as often as I used to but I still enjoy a bar once in a while. That creamy milky center…yum. And I like the chocolate sticks are small and individually wrapped so that I have built in portion control.

I’m now thinking I need to do a separate post just on chocolate because I could list at least 10 types of chocolate to try.

If you’re craving German chocolate right now, check out my article on where to find German food online. You can have delicious German chocolate delivered to your door. 

4. Fruit and Quark Pastries  

If you’re looking for a quick sweet breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up that you can eat on your way to your next activity, pop into any bakery for a fruit and quark pastry! Raspberry, cherry, peach…they’re all so good. The pastry in the photo above was ah-mazing…flaky sweet pastry, thick quark, raspberries, and almonds. The quark really balances out the sweetness from the fruit and glaze. So good! 

With bakeries on every corner in Germany, it’s super easy to find a pastry to suit your tastes, even if fruit and quark isn’t your thing. In many bakeries you’ll find regional specialties, like Franzbrötchen in Hamburg.

5. Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake)

Probably the most popular German cake in the US, I recommend giving authentic Black Forest Cake in Germany a try.

While the main ingredients are the same with both the German and US versions – layers of chocolate cake, cherries, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings – the German version typically has far more Kirsch liqueur in it.

Like, a lot more!

I once had a slice of German Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) in a little cafe in the Black Forest when I was teaching in Freiburg and, wow, I don’t think I could have eaten two pieces of that cake (and that’s not something I say very often).

If you like boozy cakes, definitely give Black Forest Cake a try while in Germany!

6. Käsekuchen (German Cheesecake)

German cheesecake is different from cheesecake in the US. Traditional German cheesecake is made with quark instead of cream cheese. Never heard of quark? It looks like thick Greek yogurt but is actually a fresh non-aged cheese.  

Quark is super easy to find at any grocery store in Germany, and it’s inexpensive. Not so in the US (not yet, anyway)! When I make German cheesecake at home, I either make homemade quark or I use pureed cottage cheese or Greek yogurt.

The crust on a traditional German cheesecake is different, too. Instead of a cookie or graham cracker crust, which you’ll find in most cheesecakes in the US, German cheesecakes have a sweet short-crust. Or no crust at all!

While you can find dense little squares of Käsekuchen (cheesecake) in bakeries, I prefer to order it in cafes, where you’re more likely to get a taller, fluffier wedge of cake, typically served with a mound of fresh whipped cream, usually on the side of the cheesecake, rather than on top. German cheesecake is often plain but you may also find it with cherries, raisins or Mandarin oranges mixed in.

7. Dampfnudeln mit Vanillesauce

photo credit

When I was in high school I lived with a German family near Hamburg for a year. Over spring break, my host mom took me to visit relatives in southern Germany. On our day trip to Munich we stopped at the Hofbräuhaus and my host mom ordered Dampfnudel mit Vanillesauce l because she said I had to try this traditional Bavarian dessert while in Munich.

I advise you to try one, too!

Dampfnudel is a steamed yeast dumpling smothered in vanilla sauce. Whether you eat yours with a beer at the Hofbräuhaus or elsewhere in up to you!

8. Spaghettieis

photo credit

Spaghetti ice cream! Can you imagine? Spaghettieis is a must-try dessert in Germany. Nearly every sit-down ice cream shop will have Spaghettieis the menu.

The best ones make Spaghettieis fresh just before serving (the lesser ones pull one a pre-made one of the freezer). Spaghettieis is basically vanilla ice cream that been worked through a potato ricer so it looks like spaghetti noodles. Strawberry “spaghetti” sauce is poured over the ice cream noodles and is then topped with flecks of white chocolate “parmesan cheese.”

Kids love Spaghettieis…and so do adults visiting Germany!

9. Eiskaffee (German Iced Coffee) 

photo credit

If you’re heading to an ice cream shop but Spaghettieis isn’t your thing, try a refreshing, invigorating Eiskaffee.

Germany’s take on iced coffee is a little more decadent than what you’ll find in the US. It’s a glass of cold coffee (which will be strong and delicious) poured over a couple scoops of vanilla ice cream and then topped with a thick layer of fresh whipped cream.

Summer is so much better with German Eiskaffee!

10. Zwetchenkuchen (Plum cake)

When I think of German cake, I think of Zwetchenkuchen – fresh plum cake!

The funny thing is that I don’t like fresh plums at all but I love Zwetchenkuchen. Especially with a large dollop of fresh whipped cream and a cup of strong coffee.

Perfect for afternoon of traditional German Kaffee und Kuchen!

You can usually find slices of Zwetchenkuchen (also called Pflaumenkuchen) in bakeries all over Germany, especially during plum season. If you’re invited to Kaffee und Kuchen at someone’s home, don’t be surprised if Zwetchenkuchen is served. It’s an easy and popular cake to make in Germany.

Is Your Mouth Watering Yet?

Which traditional German dessert do you want to try? If you’ve been to Germany, what was your favorite  dessert or sweet treat?

The post 10 Must-Try German Desserts & Sweets appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Want to create a great gift basket full of German goodies for the holidays?

Miss authentic German food and sweet treats and are wondering where to buy some?

You’re in the right place! This guide shows you where to buy the best German sweet and savory favorites and even suggests several types of gourmet gift baskets you can easily create that will satisfy every German food craving.

If you’ve ever lived or traveled in Germany, one of the things you probably miss the most is the amazing food. I sure do – that’s one reason I make so many German desserts and German bread and Brötchen at home!

But there are certain German food items you just can’t make from scratch at home – or are just easier to purchase. And if you don’t have an authentic German grocery store near you, it can be difficult to know where to find your German favorites.

Over the years I’ve been back in the US, I’ve hunted for my favorite sweet and savory German foods. I don’t have a German shop near me but I have found some things here and there at Whole Foods, Wegmans, World Market, Aldi, and Trader Joe’s — things like cherries for Black Forest Cake, delicious Bratwurst when we’re craving a Wurst plate, German mustard, and Christmas cookies and chocolates.

And we are fortunate to have an amazing local German bakery offering yummy Brötchen, bread, and pastries (though I mostly make my own at home these days).

But there are still so many things I can’t find in my local area. That’s when I turn to Amazon. It’s like having my own German store at my fingertips. It’s a great place to find plenty of German foods and products online for the whole family. The prices are reasonable, delivery is quick, and there’s no membership fee (unless you use Prime, of course).

Aaron and I order so much from Amazon these days, so it’s super convenient for us to order the German items that we can’t find where we live. I was surprised by how many German products there are on Amazon, such as bread, salad dressing, German candy and chocolate, paprika flavored potato chips, advent calendars, and lots of other German items.

You can even buy some perishable foods like fresh pretzels (or a mix to make your own), cheese, and German sausage to create a custom German gift.

I decided to create a list of German food online to make it easy for both me and you to find what you’re looking for.

I also put together some German food gift basket ideas because how fun would it be to receive an authentic gift from Germany for a birthday, anniversary, Mother’s or Father’s Day or other holiday? I mean, who wouldn’t enjoy a little taste of Deutschland?

You could also order what you need for an Oktoberfest party (be sure to check out our guide to traditional Oktoberfest outfits!), a Germany-inspired birthday party or even a German beer tasting party?

As the German saying goes…Guten Appetit! 

German Food Gift Basket Ideas:

#1 – Kaffee und Kuchen (Coffee and Cake) 

 
For the perfect Kaffeepause! You’ll feel like you’re in a cozy cafe in small town Germany.

• Jakobs Coffee
• Red Berry Fruit Tea
• Chocolate Covered Marble Cake
• Black Forest Liquor Cake

#2 – German Cake Mix Sampler 

Perfect for German cake lovers! 

• Black Forest Cake Mix
• German Cheesecake Mix
• Cherry Streusel Cake Mix
• Bee Sting Cake Mix

#3 – Traditional German Dinner 

For the perfect Abendessen!

• Red Cabbage
• Spätzle Mix
• Salad Dressing Mix
• Rouladen Mix
• Schnitzle Mix

#4 – German Condiments Sampler 

Perfect for Wurst lovers!

• Thommy Delikatess-Senf (Mustard)
• Bavarian Mustard
• Extra Hot Mustard
• Curry Ketchup
• Frites Sauce

#5 – German Chocolate Sampler 

Perfect for chocolate lovers! 

• Duplo Crisp Sticks
• Schogetten Variety Pack
• Lübeck  Marzipan Box 
• Strawberry Yogeretta
• Mini Ritter Sport Variety Box 

#6 – Best German Snacks

Perfect for satisfying your munchies, German style! 

• Paprika Chips
• Erdnussflips 
• Hanutta Wafers
• Knoppers
• Chocolate Butterkekse 

The post Where to Buy German Food Online in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Sometimes you’ve got a few more hours until dinner and just need a quick snack to keep you going.

And sometimes you just want to try something new!

Germany has an abundance of delicious street food options to choose from for lunch, dinner or a mid-day snack. You’ll find both sweet and savory delights, warm and cold German snacks, traditional German dishes and new takes on old favorites – all at an affordable price.

Where Can I Find the Best German Street Food?

Food carts (called an Imbiss or Schnellimbiss) abound in Germany and are great places to pick up a tasty lunch or snack. While technically not street food per se, bakeries are another good place to look, especially if you also want a sweet treat, sandwich or a cup of coffee or tea. Festivals, Christmas markets, and weekly farmer’s markets are also great places to look. They’re also perfect for finding traditional German food.

When I lived in Germany I ate street food all the time. It was just so easy to pick up a Bratwurst or pop into a bakery for a Brötchen sandwich or pastry while on the go. Street food is some of the best German food around! 

Germany is a very green country and most places serve food on biodegradable or even edible plates and use environmentally-friendly utensils. But you can be even more green by packing your own flatware and straws. This awesome set includes flatware, chopsticks, two straws, and a sleek carrying case! 

Ok, now onto the German street food you must try when in Germany!  

1. Bratkartoffeln (Fried Potatoes) 

Most German festivals and markets will have at least one stand featuring a giant cast iron skillet full of Bratkartoffeln – fried potatoes. They are SO good! Typically fried with onions and sometimes Spek (a type of bacon), Bratkartofflen make a delicious and filling meal.

My favorite is when the potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. You can usually add ketchup or order them with a side of garlic sauce or quark (yum). Some stands also offer fried whole mushrooms, which are also delicious. I’m definitely eating both when I go to Germany this summer! 

2. Currywurst

At times it can be tricky to track down traditional foods in the major cities of Germany, where “local” cuisine is often hidden behind modern multiculturalism, kebab shops, and the fast food favourite of Currywurst.

Currywurst is a fusion dish, of sorts, where it takes the humble steamed Bratwurst, and fries it, before serving it, cut into pieces, with a tomato sauce laced with curry. And while it traditionally comes with a quick topping of ketchup with a curry powder sprinkled on top, many shops these days fuse their own curry sauce using variations of other flavours and spices.

As a street food, it is then served on a disposable paper plate, with a plastic fork to eat on the go. To make a meal of it, add some fries on the side.

Currywurst is no doubt a quintessential street food in Germany, where its origins in Berlin started at a humble Schnellimbiss (snack stand), where a lady named Herta Heuwer created the recipe from ketchup and curry powder she had sourced from British soldiers in Germany at the time. And now, 70 plus years later, many consider it to be one of the country’s national dishes. 

From Allan at It’s Sometime Sunny in Bangor

3. Bratwurst with Sauerkraut, Mustard and Curry Sauce

Living in South Africa often makes me crave the different local European cuisines so I’m very pleased that once in a while we can indulge in a real German Bratwurst with Sauerkraut. We add some mustard and Curry Sauce. The combination of the sausage, sauerkraut and sauces make the perfect blend of spicy, sweet and sour flavors to fill you up for a hearty lunch or a late afternoon snack, many times enjoyed together with a nice German beer.

A Bratwurst is made out of beef, veal or more commonly pork. The origin of the Bratwurst is debated between the people of Thüringen and those of Franconia, 2 different regions in Germany. Both claim to have invented the bratwurst.

In Thüringen, the oldest evidence of the bratwurst is from 1404; in Franconia, the oldest record is from 1313. The city of Nuremberg, located in Franconia, is still an internationally renowned centre for the production of different types of sausages.

The version in the picture is a Bratwurst served on a roll with Sauerkraut and fried onion. It is left up to the customer to add the preferred sauces.

Essen Sie Lecker!

From Jessy at PlanetPilgrams

4. Glühwein

Glühwein is a quintessential winter drink in Germany with thousands of visitors flocking to the Christmas Markets every year to drink Glühwein, eat sausages, and shop for local handicrafts!

Glühwein (also known as mulled wine elsewhere in Europe) is a spiced red wine that is served hot during the long, cold winter months. The warming cup of Glühwein is tastily spiced with a variety of flavours such as orange, cinnamon, star anise, cloves and sometimes vanilla – although each cup you try is likely to taste slightly different depending on the makers personal recipe.

While Glühwein can be served as a non-alcoholic drink, it’s usually alcoholic and is a great thing to lift your spirits during dark winter days. You can even add a shot of rum or brandy to liven it up even more!

The name Glühwein – literally translating as glow wine – comes from the old tradition of heading the wine with red hot irons that needed to glow in order to create the delicious, warming drink in years gone by.

You can find Glühwein at every Christmas Market in Germany (usually served in kitsch glass Christmas mugs), in pre-prepared bottles in the supermarket, or make your own at home!

From Chrysoula from TravelPassionate

5. Spätzle

Spätzle is a common German street food found at festivals and markets throughout the year in southern Germany.

A well-known Swabian dish, it is made from flour, eggs and salt. The soft noodle-dough like dish is dropped into a boiling pot for a few minutes, taken out and served in a variety of ways. One of the most common ways is to add cheese for Käsespätzle or to add onions. Kasespätzle is a popular dish for kids and can usually be seen as an item on kids’ menus.

The history of Spätzle is a fascinating one, as it is a deep-rooted part of Swabian culture. A brief glimpse into its historical context shows the popularity of Spätzle in Germany as knights and Swabians referenced it in a number of poems and songs.

Spätzle has traditionally been made using hands. Today a variety of tools are available including Spätzle presses and slicers, making the creation of the popular weave like noodle very easy.

Spätzle is a typical dish at outdoor Easter and Christmas markets as well as large festivals such as the beer festivals in Munich and Stuttgart.

From Diana at The Elusive Family

6. Döner Kebab

Döner Kebab, although originated from Turkey, has made its way across the Eurasia continent to Germany in the mid-1900s. Unlike the kebabs I’ve had in Turkey, the Döner in Germany are a heavenly hybrid of East and West. In addition to the savory meats and salads that’s added to the pita bread, the German twist includes a number of sauces that amplifies the flavor of this delicious treat.

This meal is not only delightful, but also points to the millions of Turkish people that reside in the country.

It is in fact a beautiful symbol of sociocultural unification.

Having visited Germany twice, this is one of the first foods I’d get when I’m in any major city. They aren’t just a good bite during a walk in Berlin, but also a great snack after a night out in Hamburg. Since it is so common in the country, almost every other street corner would have a Döner shop awaiting your order. Imagine yourself at a much-better tasting Subway-simply look through the menu and decide on the kind of meat (or veg) you’d like, tell the clerk the toppings and sauces you’d like to include, then sit back and relax!

From Daisy at Beyond my Border

7. Leberkäse

Leberkäse is literally translated from German as “liver cheese” and, surprisingly enough, is not made nor of liver neither of cheese. This confusing name is derived from the word “Laib” which means loaf or body, not liver.

In some regions, Leberkäse is also called Fleischkäse and it is essentially a meatloaf. The meat part consists of finely grounded beef or/and pork, bacon, onions and spices. Then this pate-like paste is baked as a loaf in a bread pan till the crust is crispy. The texture of the meat is really fine, like a hot dog, and it tastes like spicy sausage.

As a street food, a super thick piece of Leberkäse is usually served in a crispy bun cut in half.

It can be served hot on a bread roll and seasoned with mustard. Or cold in a sandwich, usually seasoned with pickled cucumbers.

This dish was invented in Bavaria and is popular everywhere in Germany, so I believe it’s a must try!

From Inna from the Executive Thrillseeker

8. Fischbrötchen

If you are looking for fast food in Northern Germany, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything better than a traditional Fischbrötchen.

In essence, a Fischbrötchen is simply a fish sandwich. However, due to Northern Germany’s close proximity to both, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, it is also an important part of local culture.

The sandwich is made of a simple wheat bun, onions, pickles, a dressing (often horseradish or remoulade), and, of course, fish. Travelers are usually spoilt for choice, as varieties available are, for example, prawns, salmon, and most commonly, herring. Bismarck herring and soused herring are the most popular options.

You can find Fischbrötchen all over Northern Germany, but especially in the Hanseatic city of Hamburg. The best place to grab one is without a doubt at the harbor (Landundsbrücken) where several vendors sell their goods day and night.

You can either pick one up on-the-go or sit down in a restaurant by the water and enjoy a cozy meal with a great view!

From Jacky at Nomad Epicureans

9. Pretzels

If you think of Germany, you must think of pretzels and beer.

Pretzels are the one thing you can get in every grocery store, bakery, festival, and even gas station. Children know, before they even go to the fest, that a pretzel is in their future. It is a given.

For lunch you can have a pretzel sandwich with various toppings. Some like it with butter, others with salami. My favorite is ham and cheese heated up to make it nice and gooey. Germany = pretzels.

Do not leave without having at least one…per day!

From Corinne at Reflections en Route

10. Schneeball

I first discovered the delicious Schneeball when I was on a trip to Füssen in Bavaria to visit the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. I was walking along the cobbled streets and in front of a German bakery there were lots of these strange pastry balls, in lots of different colours. They looked delicious and intriguing, so I absolutely had to try one! I bought a chocolate flavoured Schneeball and I was not disappointed.

The Schneeball is a pastry made from shortcrust pastry and is popular in the area of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. It’s name comes from the round, ball shape. It’s traditional decoration is with white sugar, but you can now find them with all of different flavours and decorations. They taste quite crunchy when you first bite, and the flavour comes from the sugar or sauce that’s added throughout, so in my case, chocolate.

Actually, these were once considered quite a special food and only served on special occasions such as weddings. But, not anymore, you can find them on street bakeries, cafes and more. They’re the perfect snack to have when sightseeing, and I think they’re wonderful during the Christmas season.

From Cazzy at Dream Big, Travel Far

The post Best German Street Food appeared first on My Germany Vacation.