St. Pauli Unforgotten Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour

If you’re headed to Hamburg and want more than just a walk down the bustling Reeperbahn, this tour offers a fresh perspective. For $41 per person, you get a fascinating journey through St. Pauli’s lesser-known treasures, led by the creators of the XXL Sankt Pauli Museum. Starting at the stylish Arcotel Onyx, this approximately two-hour walking tour takes you into the district’s hidden corners, sharing stories, memorabilia, and some surprises along the way.

What we love about this experience is the blend of history, quirky relics, and personal stories. The tour’s focus on rarities like Paul McCartney’s bass and vintage advertising motifs gives it a distinctive edge. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and snacks makes it a relaxed, social outing. On the flip side, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility constraints, so plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, music fans, and anyone curious about the less-glamorous, more human side of the Reeperbahn. If you enjoy discovering the stories behind famous places, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Unique relics: Discover rare items like Paul McCartney’s left-handed Höfner bass and original advertising motifs.
• Authentic stories: Learn about the early days of the district, from the entertainment palace “Trichter” to legendary gas stations.
• Memorabilia and art: Visit the Erotic Art Museum and see works by Erwin Ross, the “Rubens of the Reeperbahn.”
• Inclusion & flexibility: Price includes a liquid refreshment and admission to the museum, with options to cancel with 24 hours’ notice.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or very young children.
• Historic ambiance: The tour begins in a setting that once hosted the lively “Trichter” and ends with a visit to a renowned erotic art collection.
• Local expertise: Led by the creators of the XXL Sankt Pauli Museum, ensuring an insider’s perspective.
• Value: At $41, it offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and fun for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Reeperbahn’s Hidden Corners: A Deep Dive

The Starting Point at Arcotel Onyx

Our journey begins in the fancy Arcotel Onyx, a perfect spot that echoes the glamour of the 1920s nightlife era. The tour kicks off with a non-alcoholic drink—a small but thoughtful gesture that sets a relaxed tone. As we sip, our guide (whose enthusiasm is contagious) shares stories about the “Trichter,” a legendary entertainment house from the 1920s that electrified the district’s nightlife.

This initial setting immediately immerses you in the glamorous yet gritty atmosphere that has defined St. Pauli for over a century. The story of the “Trichter” also offers a glimpse into how the district evolved from a lively entertainment hub to its current mix of music, adult venues, and historic relics.

The District’s Evolution and Relics

From the hotel, we set out on foot, walking along the party mile, but with a focus on lesser-known sights. One highlight is the original sign of the now-defunct “Kiez-Tanke” gas station—a relic that sparks curiosity about the district’s everyday life and commercial past. Our guide explains how this station once served countless locals and visitors alike, adding a nostalgic touch.

Next, we visit memorabilia connected to famous personalities such as The Beatles, Freddy Quinn, and Domenica—a legendary figure in the sex industry. The stories behind these items are a reminder of how St. Pauli became an international icon, not just for its nightlife but for its cultural mosaic.

The Erotic Art Museum and Its Significance

The tour’s finale is at the Erotic Art Museum, which might surprise those expecting only bars and clubs. Here, we see work by Erwin Ross, called the “Rubens of the Reeperbahn,” who also created the iconic entrance to “Zur Ritze.” The museum showcases a surprisingly artistic and historical collection that reflects the district’s openness and complexity.

Guests have praised this part of the tour for offering a different perspective on the district’s reputation. One reviewer noted, “The museum was an eye-opener, showing art that’s both provocative and thought-provoking,” highlighting how this visit adds depth to your understanding of St. Pauli.

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Rare Finds and Personal Stories

Throughout the walk, our guides share passionate anecdotes about the relics, from original advertising motifs from the 1970s to personal memorabilia. The discovery of Paul McCartney’s left-handed Höfner bass in the Zwick pub is a definite highlight for music fans, providing a tangible connection to the Beatles’ Hamburg days.

The tour also takes you on the trail of the old Esso gas station, a site that once played a significant role in local commerce. These stories add a layer of authenticity that you won’t get from guidebooks or generic city tours.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately two hours and is designed to be a comfortable walk through the district’s streets. It’s led in German, which might be a consideration for non-German speakers—though the stories and memorabilia speak for themselves.

You’ll be in a small group, allowing for interaction and questions. The price covers the admission to the Erotic Art Museum and a refreshing “Bloody Water” can of spring water, which adds a quirky touch.

Note that additional drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or a beverage. Also, due to the nature of some sites, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, or those with mobility issues.

Value for Money

At just $41, this tour offers a rich, multi-faceted exploration of St. Pauli. You’re not just walking through the district—you’re uncovering stories, seeing rare objects, and gaining insights into its less-polished, more authentic layers. The inclusion of museum admission and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make it a cost-effective way to deepen your Hamburg experience.

Who Would Benefit Most?

This tour is a great pick for travelers who prefer stories over stereotypes. It’s ideal if you’re interested in music history, local culture, or just want a different perspective on Hamburg’s famous district. If you enjoy discovering hidden relics and hearing about the personalities and events that shaped St. Pauli, this is your kind of experience.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children, have mobility limitations, or expect a fast-paced, high-energy nightlife tour, you might want to consider other options. But for an informative, relaxed walk that balances history and quirky finds, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-German speakers?
The tour is primarily conducted in German. If you don’t speak German, you might find it helpful to bring a translation app or look for a guided tour in your language, if available.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about two hours, offering plenty of time to explore and ask questions without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes admission to the Erotic Art Museum and a quirky “Bloody Water” spring water can for refreshment during the tour.

Are drinks or snacks available during the tour?
The tour includes a liquid refreshment at the start, but additional drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Can children join this tour?
It’s not suitable for children under 10 due to some mature content and the nature of the sites visited.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility constraints.

What are the meeting and ending points?
The meeting point is at the hotel bar of the Arcotel Onyx, and the tour ends back there, making it convenient for planning your day.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not suitable for very young children, teens with an interest in history or music may find the tour engaging, but parental discretion is advised due to adult themes.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a Beatles fan, or simply curious about Hamburg’s underground stories, this tour offers a distinctive way to explore St. Pauli. It’s a blend of nostalgia, culture, and quirks that will add depth and dimension to your visit, far beyond the usual guidebook highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: