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Everything You Need to Know About St Pauli Hamburg, the Electric & Lively District in Germany

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Sex & Crime Tour in St. Pauli - Above 18 Only
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2 hr.
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Hamburg Complete Nightlife Reeperbahn & St. Pauli Tour
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2 hr. 30 min.
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Red & Blue Light Reeperbahn Guided Tour - Above 18 Only
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2 hr.
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Combo (Save 10%): Guided Tour of Elbphilharmonie + Sex & Crime Tour in St. Pauli
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St. Pauli Hamburg is a unique neighborhood renowned for its eclectic blend of culture, nightlife, and maritime heritage. It's famous for the iconic Reeperbahn, a bustling entertainment district, and its vibrant arts scene. 

Read on to know everything about St Pauli Hamburg, its history and more. 

St Pauli Hamburg in a Nutshell

Official Name: St Pauli and Reeperbahn

Location : St Pauli, Hamburg, Germany

Year of Establishment: Early 17th century

Best Time to Visit: Weekend evenings from May to September

UNESCO World Heritage Site: No

Number of visitors per year: Approx. 25 million

What is St Pauli Hamburg?

St. Pauli is a district in the city of Hamburg, Germany, known for its distinct character and vibrant atmosphere. Located on the banks of the Elbe River, St. Pauli has a rich maritime history, and its iconic symbol is the St. Pauli Piers, where ships have docked for centuries.

At the heart of St. Pauli lies the Reeperbahn, one of the world's most famous entertainment and nightlife streets. The Reeperbahn boasts a plethora of bars, clubs, theaters, and restaurants, making it a hub for entertainment and nightlife enthusiasts. It gained popularity in the 1960s as the epicenter of the Beatles' early career when they performed in the local clubs.

Why Visit St Pauli Hamburg? 

  • Vibrant Nightlife: The Reeperbahn is globally renowned for its nightlife, with an abundance of bars, clubs, and live music venues, ensuring an unforgettable evening out.
  • Cultural Icon: St. Pauli has a rich history, from its maritime heritage to its role in the Beatles' early career, making it a must-visit for history and music enthusiasts.
  • Eclectic Dining: The district offers diverse culinary experiences, from traditional German cuisine to international flavors, catering to all palates.
  • Artistic Hub: Explore the artistic side of St. Pauli with its numerous galleries, theaters, and street art, showcasing Hamburg's creative spirit.
  • Unique Shopping: Discover quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and local markets that add a distinctive shopping experience.
  • Scenic Views: Stroll along the picturesque St. Pauli Piers, offering stunning views of the Elbe River and the city's bustling harbor.

Plan Your Visit to St Pauli Hamburg

Location
Opening Hours

Address: St Pauli district, Hamburg, Germany

Find on Maps

St. Pauli is ideally situated in the heart of Hamburg, Germany, on the northern banks of the Elbe River. Its location offers easy access to the bustling Port of Hamburg and vibrant urban attractions.

Closest Landmark: Planten un Blomen

  • Timings: Tour schedules vary, while some have fixed times like 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM, others offer flexibility like 4:30 PM, 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 7:30 PM, 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM.
  • Last Admission: There’s no strict last entry rule, but arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to avoid delays.
  • Tour Durations: Tours range from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the chosen experience.
  • Best Time to Visit: June to August is peak season and can be costly, while December to May offers a more budget-friendly option with fewer tourists

History of St Pauli Hamburg

  • 17th Century Suburb: St. Pauli traces its origins to the early 17th century when it began as a suburban area called 'Hamburger Berg' outside Hamburg's city gates. Its name derived from a strategic hill chosen for artillery defense.
  • Industrial and Undesirable: Initially, businesses with undesirable attributes, such as those producing odors or noise, were relegated to 'Hamburger Berg.' Rope makers, known as 'Reepers' in Low German, were also located here due to space constraints in the city.
  • Evolution and Expansion: In the late 17th century, residential settlement was permitted in St. Pauli. Workhouses and hospitals were relocated here, with the area later being named after the 'St. Pauli' church. It became a hub for sailors seeking entertainment during their stays in Hamburg and Altona.
  • The "Sinful Mile": St. Pauli is famous for the Reeperbahn, its most renowned street, which owes its name to the ropewalk history. It has evolved into a vibrant district known for its diverse entertainment, from musicals and theaters to bars and clubs, as well as its prominent red-light district.
  • Social Issues and Conflicts: Over the years, St. Pauli has witnessed various social issues and conflicts, including notable incidents such as the Hafenstraße, Rote Flora, and Bambule, reflecting its dynamic and sometimes tumultuous history.

Infrastructure of St Pauli Hamburg

St. Pauli and the iconic Reeperbahn are equipped with a diverse range of infrastructure to cater to the needs and interests of both residents and visitors. This bustling district boasts a comprehensive transportation network, including the St. Pauli and Reeperbahn S-Bahn stations, ensuring easy access to the wider city of Hamburg. The area is dotted with numerous hotels, hostels, and accommodations to suit various budgets, making it convenient for tourists. Dining options are abundant, ranging from traditional German eateries to international cuisine, ensuring a culinary delight for every palate.

Cultural infrastructure thrives with theaters, galleries, and live music venues like the Operettenhaus and Schmidt's Tivoli, offering entertainment for all tastes. Additionally, a vibrant nightlife scene thrives, comprising bars, clubs, and pubs that keep the area lively well into the night. Amidst it all, St. Pauli maintains its maritime heritage, with the picturesque St. Pauli Piers providing a gateway to the Elbe River and the Port of Hamburg, offering visitors scenic views and maritime activities.

What’s in the St Pauli Hamburg Area?

  • Klubhaus St. Pauli: This six-story building on Reeperbahn is a dynamic hub, spanning 5,000 square meters. It houses music clubs, theaters, and offices, contributing to St. Pauli's vibrant cultural scene.
  • St. Pauli Bunker: A relic of World War II, this bunker was constructed in 1942 and has evolved into a symbol of creativity and urban culture. It's now being transformed into an interactive garden space, promoting urban gardening and community involvement.
  • Beatles Platz Square: Nestled in St. Pauli, this charming square pays homage to the Beatles, who made their mark in local clubs before achieving worldwide fame. It features a sculpture commemorating their legacy.
  • Landungsbrücken: Part of Hamburg's Northern Port, Landungsbrücken, located in St. Pauli, serves as a vital landing stage for boats and ferries. It's a bustling entry point to the city's maritime activities.
  • Reeperbahn: St. Pauli's most famous street, the Reeperbahn, is synonymous with nightlife. Hosting nightclubs, bars, restaurants, art galleries, cabarets, and theaters, it's an entertainment epicenter in the heart of the district.

All Your Questions About St Pauli Hamburg Answered

What is St. Pauli Hamburg?

St. Pauli Hamburg is a vibrant district in the city of Hamburg, Germany, renowned for its eclectic culture, nightlife, and maritime heritage.

Where is St. Pauli Hamburg?

St. Pauli is located in the heart of Hamburg, situated along the northern banks of the Elbe River.

What is St. Pauli Hamburg famous for?

St. Pauli Hamburg is famous for its iconic Reeperbahn, a lively entertainment district, as well as its rich maritime history, diverse nightlife, and artistic scene.

Why should I visit St. Pauli Hamburg?

You should visit St. Pauli Hamburg for its vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, diverse dining options, scenic views along the Elbe River, and its unique, welcoming atmosphere.

How do I book tickets to visit St Pauli Hamburg?

You can book tickets to St Pauli Hamburg online for a hassle-free trip.

How much does it cost to visit St Pauli Hamburg?

The ticket prices for St Pauli Hamburg tours start at €22.

When was St. Pauli Hamburg established?

St. Pauli's history dates back to the 17th century when it began as a suburban area outside Hamburg's city gates.

What's inside St. Pauli Hamburg?

St. Pauli Hamburg offers a mix of cultural venues, entertainment, dining, and historic landmarks, including theaters, clubs, restaurants, and the iconic St. Pauli Piers.

What are the St. Pauli Hamburg opening hours?

Opening hours in St. Pauli Hamburg vary depending on the establishment. Many nightlife venues stay open late, while museums and shops have their own schedules.

Why is St. Pauli Hamburg important?

St. Pauli Hamburg is important due to its historical significance, its role as a cultural and entertainment hub, and its contribution to Hamburg's identity and tourism.

Is it worth visiting St. Pauli Hamburg?

Yes, St. Pauli Hamburg is definitely worth visiting for its unique character, diverse offerings, and lively atmosphere, making it a memorable destination within Hamburg.