St. Pauli, Harbour & Beatles – Hamburg’s Alternative Side

Hamburg is a city of contrasts—where grand architecture meets gritty backstreets, where a rich maritime history blends with a rebellious counterculture, and where a small band from Liverpool played before taking over the world. If you want to go beyond the typical sights, this tour will take you into the heart of Hamburg’s most vibrant district: St. Pauli.

For centuries, Hamburg’s harbor has been a gateway to the world, bringing sailors, merchants, and immigrants who shaped the city’s unique character. St. Pauli, once home to dockworkers, became famous for its wild nightlife, underground music scene, and the legendary Reeperbahn—Hamburg’s “Sinful Mile.” It was here that The Beatles performed some of their earliest gigs, honing their sound before achieving worldwide fame. But St. Pauli is more than just entertainment—its history is one of activism, resistance, and a strong community spirit that continues today.

Starting near the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg’s modern architectural gem, we’ll take in stunning views before heading to the lively waterfront - Landungsbrücken. After a short ferry ride (ticket required), we explore the Old Elbtunnel, a 100-year-old engineering marvel, and the historic Fischmarkt. Entering St. Pauli, we step into the Reeperbahn, home to cabarets, music clubs, and Hamburg’s red-light district. The we see the famous Davidwache Police Station and clubs where The Beatles performed. The tour ends at Beatles-Platz.