The invention relates to a thermoelectric element, comprising a first thermoelectric layer and a second thermoelectric layer, wherein a p-n junction is formed when the layers are formed. In order to specify a generic thermoelectric element that is suitable for a series connection in a thermoelectric generator without cabling, according to the invention - a substrate comprises a first and second contact surface on a cold side and a third contact surface on a hot side of the substrate, - a temperature gradient (T1, T2) can be applied between the contact surfaces on the cold and hot side, - the first thermoelectric layer of the thermoelectric element is arranged on the substrate and connects a second contact surface to a third contact surface, and - the second thermoelectric layer of the thermoelectric element is arranged on the first thermoelectric layer, the p-n junction thereby being formed, and is connected to the first contact surface. The invention further relates to a method for producing such a thermoelectric element.