Skip to main content
Pauli Museum

Things To Do In Pauli Museum

Top 10 things to do in Pauli Museum

1. Guided Tour of Permanent Exhibition

Join an engaging guided tour through the permanent exhibition at Pauli Museum, located in the heart of Hamburg's bustling Pauli district. The tour provides a deep dive into the history, culture, and spirit of the area. Throughout the approximately 60-minute journey, visitors will encounter various artifacts and multimedia displays that tell the story of Pauli's past, from its early days as a small fishing village to its present status as an urban hotspot known for its nightlife and music scene. Participants will learn about the evolution of the district, its significance during the industrial revolution, the impact of World War II, and the rebirth of Pauli as a hub for alternative lifestyles and counter-culture. The knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights and anecdotes, making history come alive.

2. Interactive Workshop: Pirate Legends of Pauli

Step into the swashbuckling shoes of a pirate with the Pauli Museum's interactive workshop, 'Pirate Legends of Pauli.' This activity is perfect for families and children, providing a hands-on experience that explores the district's historic connection to piracy and privateering. Over the course of 90 minutes, participants will learn about the notorious pirates who once roamed the North Sea, hear tales of their daring exploits, and understand how these figures influenced the spirit of Pauli. The workshop also includes a crafting session, where visitors can create their own pirate flags and treasure maps, adding a personalized touch to the experience. This workshop not only educates but also ignites the imagination, giving a taste of adventure that's deeply rooted in the local lore.

3. Pauli After Dark: Adults-Only Night Tour

Experience the intriguing and lesser-known nocturnal side of Pauli in the 'Pauli After Dark' tour, an adults-only activity that delves into the district's vibrant nightlife and red-light history. This 1.5-hour guided night tour leads visitors through the neon-lit streets, where they'll learn about the area's transformation from a working-class neighborhood to the epicenter of Hamburg's entertainment and red-light district. The experienced guides will share stories of legendary bars, nightclubs, and theaters, as well as tales of the colorful characters who shaped Pauli's unique character. The tour also discusses the ongoing challenges and changes in the district due to gentrification and urban development. This activity offers a candid look at the complexities and dualities of one of Hamburg's most famous quarters after sunset.

4. Pauli Music Experience

The Pauli Music Experience is an immersive journey into the musical heritage of one of Hamburg's most artistic neighborhoods. Lasting 2 hours, this activity celebrates Pauli's vibrant music scene, showcasing its influence on the world through genres like rock, punk, and electronic music. Visitors will explore the sites where iconic bands played, learn about the local artists who rose to fame, and understand how the district's music has shaped cultural movements. The experience includes exclusive audiovisual materials, such as vintage posters, album covers, and recordings, to provide an authentic soundtrack for the tour. Whether you're a die-hard music enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Pauli Music Experience offers a memorable exploration into the sounds that have become synonymous with this dynamic district.

5. Street Art and Graffiti Tour

Venture into the open-air galleries of Pauli with the Street Art and Graffiti Tour that highlights the district's thriving urban art scene. Over the span of 90 minutes, participants will weave through backstreets and alleys adorned with colorful murals and thought-provoking graffiti. The tour explains the cultural and political significance of street art in Pauli, introducing the works of renowned local and international artists who have left their mark on the urban canvas. Attendees will gain insight into the techniques and messages behind the artworks, as well as the ongoing dialogue between street art and the community. This tour is an eye-opening experience that challenges perceptions of public art and celebrates the creativity that pulses through Pauli's streets.

6. Heritage and Memory: WWII in Pauli

The 'Heritage and Memory' tour is a thought-provoking exploration of Pauli during World War II. This 2-hour guided walk takes visitors to key historical sites, revealing the district's strategic importance during the war and its subsequent devastation from air raids. Lecture stops include bunkers, memorials, and reconstructed buildings, where tales of resilience, loss, and recovery are shared. Key themes include the impact of totalitarianism on daily life, resistance movements within the district, and the post-war reconstruction efforts that reshaped Pauli's urban landscape. This poignant tour serves as a somber reminder of the past, offering lessons on peace and reconciliation, while paying tribute to those who suffered during the conflict.

7. Culinary Tour: Tastes of Pauli

Savor the flavors of Pauli in the 'Culinary Tour: Tastes of Pauli,' which takes epicureans and curious foodies on a gastronomic adventure. Lasting approximately 3 hours, this activity provides an opportunity to taste a selection of local delicacies and international cuisine that reflects the district's multicultural heritage. Visitors will visit specialty food shops, bustling markets, and beloved eateries, sampling an array of dishes from classic German fare to innovative fusion creations. Along the way, participants will hear stories about the neighborhood's culinary evolution and the influence of maritime trade on its food culture. Whether indulging in a freshly baked Franzbrötchen or a hearty Fischbrötchen, this tour pleases the palate while offering insight into Pauli's diverse gastronomic landscape.

8. Pauli Nightlife Pub Crawl

Dive into the electric atmosphere of Pauli's nightlife with the Pauli Nightlife Pub Crawl. This exhilarating 4-hour tour escorts partygoers to some of the trendiest bars and clubs in the district, making stops at iconic venues and hidden gems alike. Participants will experience firsthand the infectious energy that defines the area's after-dark scene, enjoying an evening filled with live music, signature cocktails, and dance floors bustling with locals and visitors. Guided by a nightlife expert, the pub crawl not only promises a fantastic night out but also offers intriguing commentary about the significance of each stop on the tour, including stories about famous musicians and DJs who contributed to Pauli's legendary status as a nightlife destination.

9. Architectural Tour: The Face of Pauli

Discover the architectural wonders of Pauli with 'The Face of Pauli' tour. Spanning 2.5 hours, this activity invites visitors to appreciate the varying styles that decorate the district's skyline. From classic brick buildings that hark back to the Hanseatic era to contemporary structures that represent the cutting-edge of design, the tour examines architectural accomplishments across the centuries. Guided by an expert in urban planning and history, the group will explore key edifices, including renovated warehouses, modern residential complexes, and iconic theaters, each telling a chapter of Pauli's development. Participants will end the tour with a newfound understanding of the district's structural and aesthetic diversity, which mirrors the patchwork nature of its evolution.

10. Sailor's Tales: Maritime History Tour

Embark on a nautical journey through time with the 'Sailor's Tales: Maritime History Tour' of Pauli. This 90-minute guided experience sheds light on the district's long-standing connection with the sea. Visitors will explore historic docks, shipyards, and maritime landmarks, learning about the sailors, merchants, and dockworkers who shaped the culture and economy of the area. The tour includes tales of high-seas adventure, the evolution of shipbuilding technology, and the international trade networks that passed through Hamburg's port. By understanding Pauli's naval history, attendees will gain a greater appreciation for its strategic importance and the maritime traditions that continue to influence the district's character.

Pauli Museum
Historical Places (48)
Museums (38)
Zoos (5)
Gardens (8)
Lakes (1)

Other Places to Visit in Hamburg

View all Places to Visit in Hamburg

Explore Places to Visit Near Pauli Museum by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Pauli Museum