St. Pauli Unforgotten Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour

Exploring Hamburg’s Reeperbahn: A Dive into the District’s Hidden Past

If you’re curious about the stories behind Hamburg’s most famous entertainment district, the St. Pauli Unforgotten – Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour offers a compelling look at the area’s lesser-known treasures. This guided walk, hosted by the team behind the XXL St. Pauli Museum, promises a blend of history, nostalgia, and quirky discoveries that go beyond the usual tourist spots.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on rare relics and memorabilia—think original signs, historic artifacts, and personal stories from decades past. Second, the unique stops, such as the site of the old ESSO gas station and memorabilia of legendary figures like The Beatles and Domenica. Last, the inclusion of a visit to the Erotic Art Museum and a souvenir drink, which add a little extra to the experience.

One possible consideration? The tour is conducted in German, so non-German speakers might find it less accessible unless they understand the language or have a translator. Plus, it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues due to the walking nature and certain access limitations. For travelers who love authentic, offbeat stories and historical quirks, this walk delivers a genuine feel of St. Pauli’s colorful past.

This experience is perfect for those interested in cultural history, music legends, and the iconic entertainment scene of Hamburg, especially if you enjoy walking tours that reveal the district’s underground and nostalgic sides.

Key Points

Rich local stories: Learn the lesser-known history behind the Reeperbahn’s famous landmarks.
Unique memorabilia: See original signs and artifacts connected to legendary figures and past establishments.
Authentic experience: Guided by the creators of the XXL-Sankt Pauli Museum, ensuring insider insights and personal stories.
Cultural insights: Visit significant sites like the “Trichter” entertainment palace and the Erotic Art Museum.
Value for money: At $41, includes a drink and entry to the Erotic Art Museum—making it a well-rounded cultural package.
Language consideration: Tour conducted in German, so plan accordingly if that’s not your language.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the St. Pauli Unforgotten Tour

Starting Point: The Arcotel Onyx and the Charm of the “Hot Mile”

The tour kicks off right at the Arcotel Onyx, a stylish hotel that sits at the doorstep of the legendary Reeperbahn. This starting point is more than just a convenient location; it’s a nod to the district’s glamorous 1920s nightlife, once characterized by the “Trichter” entertainment palace. From here, guides share captivating tales about the district’s transformation from a lively entertainment hub to its current reputation.

Many reviewers mention the initial drinks — a can of Bloody Water, spring water from a can, sets a playful tone. It’s appreciated as a small but thoughtful gesture that adds an authentic, almost nostalgic touch. The guides, like Ekkehart Opitz himself, bring a passion that makes the history feel alive.

Exploring the District’s Hidden Relics

The tour is designed to take you through lesser-known corners of St. Pauli. For example, one highlight is the original sign of the “Kiez-Tanke” gas station, a site long gone but preserved in stories and photos. You’ll hear about the station’s role as a neighborhood fixture and its connection to the district’s vibrant, sometimes gritty past.

Another memorable stop is the rare memorabilia from The Beatles, who played a pivotal role in shaping the reputation of the Reeperbahn in the 1960s. The guides share insights about those early days, which many visitors find fascinating, especially if they’re fans of music history. One review mentions how the guides “show curiosities and memorabilia that tell the eventful history of St. Pauli”, making the experience feel like uncovering a secret treasure trove.

Highlights: From Vintage Advertising to Legendary Figures

A standout feature of this tour is the visit to the Zwick, home to Paul McCartney’s left-handed Höfner bass. Seeing such a personal relic offers a direct link to the legendary band’s Hamburg days. Other collectibles include original Erwin Ross advertising motifs from the 1970s, giving a glimpse into the district’s nightlife and commercial history.

The tour also takes you on the trail of the old ESSO gas station, which once served as a neighborhood landmark. While the actual station no longer exists, the stories and visual cues help you picture the lively scene of those days.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Artistic Side of Reeperbahn: The Erotic Art Museum

The final stop is the Erotic Art Museum, which offers a more provocative perspective on the district’s reputation. Here, you can see the works of Erwin Ross, affectionately called the “Rubens of the Reeperbahn.” His art, including the design of the entrance to “Zur Ritze”, a popular cult pub, exemplifies the district’s blend of art, sex, and entertainment.

Visitors praise this part of the tour for its thought-provoking pieces and the chance to explore the district’s more controversial side in a respectful, artistic context. Included in the ticket, this visit provides a satisfying finale to a journey through the district’s more hidden layers.

Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

At $41, the price covers the guided tour, a liquid refreshment at the start, and admission to the Erotic Art Museum. Reviewers note the value here, especially since the tour also features several rare relics and stories not easily found elsewhere.

Additional drinks outside of the included refreshment are not covered, so travelers who want to toast at the end or during the walk should factor that into their budget.

Accessibility, Language, and Booking Details

The tour is conducted in German, which is something to consider if you’re not fluent. It’s not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, babies under 1, or anyone over 95, mainly due to the walking nature and access limitations.

Booking is flexible, with pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk option for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the engaging storytelling and the authentic atmosphere created by the guides. Comments like “The stories about the gas station and memorabilia really brought history to life” underline how well the tour blends visual artifacts with storytelling.

Some mention that the group size feels intimate enough for questions and personalized insights, while others appreciate the balanced pacing that allows enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided walk will appeal most to history buffs, music enthusiasts, and curious travelers wanting a deeper understanding of the Reeperbahn beyond its nightlife image. It’s ideal if you enjoy nostalgia, authentic memorabilia, and stories of legendary figures.

If you’re looking for an interactive, story-rich experience that reveals hidden facets of St. Pauli, this tour offers a meaningful, well-curated way to explore the district’s past. However, those seeking a lively party atmosphere or guided in English might want to consider other options.

Final Words

The St. Pauli Unforgotten – Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour successfully combines history, art, and authentic stories into a compact, engaging experience. It’s a walk that uncovers the district’s lesser-known treasures—perfect for travelers who enjoy peeling back layers of a place’s character.

At a reasonable price, with meaningful memorabilia and insightful guides, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Hamburg exploration, especially if you appreciate uncovering the stories behind a district’s iconic reputation. Whether you’re a music fan, history lover, or just curious about what makes St. Pauli tick, this tour offers a genuine, memorable glimpse into the district’s soul.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-German speakers?
The tour is conducted in German, so understanding the stories might be a challenge unless you have translation support or understand the language.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided walk, a can of Bloody Water (spring water from a can), and admission to the Erotic Art Museum.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 10 years old, babies under 1, wheelchair users, or people over 95 due to walking and access limitations.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the tour covers multiple stops, including museum visits, making it a leisurely walk rather than a quick jaunt.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, primarily because of the walking involved and potential access issues at certain sites.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Come with an interest in local history, some basic German, and a camera to capture the memorabilia and colorful spots along the way.

Would this tour be good for music fans?
Absolutely. The stories about The Beatles and other musical legends give it a special appeal for music lovers keen to see the memorabilia and learn about Hamburg’s role in their careers.

You can check availability for your dates here: