St. Pauli Unforgotten Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour

Uncover the Hidden Treasures of St. Pauli on the Reeperbahn Tour

The St. Pauli Unforgotten: Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour offers a unique glimpse into the district’s lesser-known treasures. Priced at $41 per person and lasting 1.5 hours, this guided walk explores rare finds, historic memorabilia, and fascinating stories scattered throughout the lively Reeperbahn area. The tour departs from the Arcotel Onyx, situated right at the entrance to the district’s most famous street, making it a convenient starting point for those wanting an intimate, deep dive into St. Pauli’s past.

Led by the creators of the XXL-Sankt Pauli Museum, the tour combines nostalgia, local curiosity, and cultural insights. It’s perfect for visitors who appreciate uncovering hidden relics and want to explore the district beyond its well-trodden nightlife scene. A highlight is the visit to the Erotic Art Museum, where guests can view works by Erwin Ross, known as the “Rubens of the Reeperbahn.” The tour also includes drinks and snacks, adding a relaxed touch to this compact but engaging experience.

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Key Points

• Duration: 1.5 hours guided walk, starting from Arcotel Onyx
• Pricing: $41 per person, includes admission to the Erotic Art Museum
• Highlights: Rare memorabilia like Paul McCartney’s Höfner bass, original 1970s advertising motifs, and the old ESSO gas station sign
• Visit the Erotic Art Museum and see works by Erwin Ross
• Includes a liquid refreshment and snacks during the tour
• Focus on uncovering historic relics and stories from St. Pauli’s colorful past

Starting Point at the Arcotel Onyx and the Historic Trichter

The tour begins at the Arcotel Onyx, located at the entrance to the party mile of the Reeperbahn. This elegant hotel setting nods to the district’s 1920s nightlife era, setting a stylish tone for the walk ahead. From here, the guide introduces the district’s early days as a world-famous entertainment zone, giving context for the relics you’ll encounter.

The meeting point makes this tour very accessible, situated right at the hotel bar. The tour’s pace allows for informal conversation and easy exploration, making it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.

Discovering the Legendary “Kiez-Tanke” Gas Station Sign

One of the first stops is the original sign of the long-gone “Kiez-Tanke” gas station. This relic offers a glimpse into St. Pauli’s commercial past, with a sign that has endured as a nostalgic marker of the district’s history. Though the gas station itself no longer exists, this sign remains a visual reminder of the area’s lively, evolving character.

Guests appreciate how the guide shares stories about the gas station’s role in local life, making the relic a tangible connection to St. Pauli’s past. This stop exemplifies the tour’s focus on rare relics and stories that aren’t part of the usual tourist trail.

Exploring Memorabilia of The Beatles, Freddy Quinn, and Domenica

A significant highlight is the collection of original memorabilia from iconic figures associated with the district. The tour showcases items connected to The Beatles, who spent formative years performing in the area, as well as Freddy Quinn and Germany’s most famous prostitute, Domenica.

These artifacts help tell the story of St. Pauli’s reputation as an entertainment hub, blending music history and local legends. The guide provides concise, engaging explanations, making each relic meaningful without overwhelming.

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The Old ESSO Gas Station and Its Significance

Visiting the old ESSO gas station, the tour reveals a fascinating relic linked to the district’s commercial and transportation history. While the station no longer functions as a fuel stop, the original sign and site evoke the district’s evolving landscape.

This stop offers a visual connection to St. Pauli’s development over the decades. It also serves as a reminder of how the district balances historic charm with modern urban life.

The Highlight: Paul McCartney’s Left-Handed Höfner Bass in Zwick

A genuine musical treasure is Paul McCartney’s Höfner bass, which is displayed at the Zwick. This relic provides a personal touch to the Beatles’ story in Hamburg and the Reeperbahn. The guide explains how McCartney’s left-handed bass became an iconic symbol of his early career.

This piece appeals especially to music fans or those interested in the district’s role in launching legendary acts. Its presence adds a musical dimension to the tour’s collection of relics.

Visiting the Works of Erwin Ross at the Erotic Art Museum

The tour’s grand finale is at the Erotic Art Museum, where visitors see works by Erwin Ross. Known as the “Rubens of the Reeperbahn,” Ross also designed the famous entrance to the cult pub “Zur Ritze”.

The museum visit provides an artistic counterpoint to the relics seen earlier, showcasing bolder, more provocative pieces. The inclusion of admission in the tour price makes this a seamless experience, and the relaxing setting allows for reflection on the district’s more daring side.

Included Refreshments and the Tour’s Pacing

Participants receive one can of Bloody Water—spring water from a can—and a liquid refreshment at the start. Snacks are also offered during the tour, making it easy to stay energized. The overall pace is moderate, allowing time to absorb stories and view relics comfortably.

The 1.5-hour duration suits those seeking a focused yet informative glimpse into St. Pauli’s relics without feeling rushed. The guided format in German ensures authentic narration and storytelling.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for children under 10, wheelchair users, babies under 1 year, or people over 95. It departs from the hotel bar at Arcotel Onyx, with availability allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The “reserve now, pay later” option provides flexible planning.

While the experience is rich in history and curiosity, it emphasizes walking through the district—so comfortable footwear is recommended. The tour’s focus on relics and memorabilia makes it an ideal choice for history buffs and those interested in local lore.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others in Hamburg?

Compared to other Hamburg experiences, this tour offers a specialized focus on relics of the Reeperbahn, including rare memorabilia and artifacts connected to the district’s legendary figures. Its small group size and guided storytelling create an intimate atmosphere.

The inclusion of the Erotic Art Museum visit distinguishes it, providing an artistic and cultural dimension that complements the historical elements. The cost is reasonable considering the admission and refreshments included.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Experience?

This tour suits history enthusiasts, music fans, and anyone curious about St. Pauli’s hidden past. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy learning through stories and visual relics. Not recommended for very young children, wheelchair users, or those expecting a fast-paced or physically demanding experience.

Final Thoughts on the Reeperbahn Relics Tour

The St. Pauli Unforgotten: Relics of the Reeperbahn Tour provides a thoughtful, curated look into the district’s lesser-known treasures. Its focus on rare relics, memorabilia, and art makes it a meaningful addition to any Hamburg itinerary. The inclusion of museum visits and refreshments enhances the experience without feeling commercial.

While it’s a short, focused tour, it delivers plenty of stories and visual highlights that appeal to curious travelers wanting a deeper understanding of St. Pauli. It’s especially suitable for those interested in music history, local legends, and historic relics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours, providing a manageable and engaging experience.

What is the price and what does it include?
The tour costs $41 per person and includes admission to the Erotic Art Museum, one can of Bloody Water, and refreshments at the start.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the hotel bar at Arcotel Onyx, located at the entrance to the Reeperbahn.

What relics will I see?
Highlights include Paul McCartney’s Höfner bass, original 1970s advertising motifs, the Kiez-Tanke gas station sign, and memorabilia related to The Beatles, Freddy Quinn, and Domenica.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is not suitable for children under 10 or for wheelchair users and babies under 1 year.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, each participant receives a can of Bloody Water and snacks during the tour.

Is there a language requirement?
The tour is conducted in German, making it ideal for German-speaking visitors.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What makes this tour different from other Hamburg experiences?
Its focus on rare relics, memorabilia, and the connection to the Erotic Art Museum offers a distinct perspective on St. Pauli’s past, appealing to curiosity and history lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby