Cocktails, guns, cavaliers an evening with the Peaky Blinders.

Introduction

If you’re after a night that blends a touch of gangster glamour with Hamburg’s vibrant nightlife, “Cocktails, Guns, Cavaliers: An Evening with the Peaky Blinders” might catch your eye. Although this tour isn’t a full-blown historical deep dive, it promises an intriguing mix of stylish bars, secretive smuggling stories, and a peek into the seedier side of St. Pauli’s past.

What we especially like about this experience is its unique theme—channeling the rugged charm of the Peaky Blinders, with a guide dressed in the style of the iconic gangsters. Plus, visiting a high-up cocktail bar and the Erotic Art Museum adds layers of sophistication and cheekiness. The only snag? The tour’s rather limited commentary and a somewhat confusing starting point might leave some feeling it’s more about the vibe than the history.

This experience could suit those looking for a fun, themed night out rather than an in-depth historical tour. It’s perfect for fans of Peaky Blinders, lovers of craft cocktails, or anyone curious about the rebellious side of Hamburg’s nightlife scene.

Good To Know

• Themed Experience: A stylish, Peaky Blinders-inspired evening blending history and nightlife.
• Unique Stops: Includes a visit to the Erotic Art Museum and a secretive smuggling cellar.
• Luxury Vibe: Cocktails in a bar 20 stories above Hamburg’s harbor set a chic tone.
• Dress Code: Smart casual attire is essential; no sneakers allowed for entry.
• Duration & Value: Two hours for $41 per person, offering a curated glimpse into Hamburg’s rebellious past.
• Review Insight: Some guests felt it was more of a private party than a traditional tour, highlighting its intimate vibe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Starting Point at the 20up Bar
The tour kicks off at the 20up Bar, situated on the 20th floor of a hotel overlooking Hamburg’s harbor. This high-altitude setting offers impressive views of the port, giving you a sense of urban grandeur. Expect to meet your guide here, dressed in Peaky Blinders style—think flat caps, waistcoats, and a dash of vintage flair. The guide, Ekkehart Opitz, aims to transport you into a world of 1920s gangsters, but some visitors, like the reviewer from Belgium, noted the experience felt more private than group-oriented, with the atmosphere leaning toward an exclusive, intimate affair.

Visit to the Smuggler’s Cellar
Descending into a cellar that once served as a hub for harbor smuggling, the tour takes a tangible step back in time. This hidden space is where crates stolen from the harbor allegedly once ended up—an evocative reminder of Hamburg’s gritty underbelly. The reviewer mentioned that the cellar felt authentic, with a sense of history lingering in the air, though it’s more about atmosphere than detailed storytelling.

Kalle Schwensen’s Dungeon & Neighborhood Secrets
Next, you’re taken to uncover where the neighborhood icon Kalle Schwensen’s dungeon is located. This adds a layer of local color and folklore, giving guests a glimpse into St. Pauli’s legendary figures. It’s a fun detour that broadens the experience beyond just cocktails and museums.

Champagne and the Erotic Art Museum
Finally, the tour culminates at the Erotic Art Museum. Here, guests enjoy a round of champagne while exploring provocative artworks that reflect Hamburg’s less innocent side. The museum’s collection hints at the city’s wicked past and its reputation as a place of both high and low culture. The review notes that some found this part particularly memorable, offering a blend of elegance and kink.

Practical Details and Atmosphere

Dress Code & Entry
Adhering to the smart casual dress code is non-negotiable for the bar visit—sneakers are a no-go. Guests often appreciate the chance to dress up, which enhances the overall feel. The guide’s vintage style helps set the tone, ensuring everyone’s on board with the theme.

Group Size & Atmosphere
The experience seems to attract a small, intimate crowd, with some reviews mentioning it felt more like a private tour. This can be a pro for those seeking a more personalized experience, but it might leave travelers expecting a larger group feeling slightly disappointed.

Duration & Cost
At just 2 hours for $41 per person, the tour offers good value if you’re after a curated, themed evening rather than a lengthy historical lecture. Drinks are not included, so expect to pay extra if you want cocktails or other beverages.

Timing & Accessibility
Starting times vary, so check availability when booking. The tour is conducted in German, and unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or under 17s.

Authentic Guest Perspectives & Insights

One reviewer from Belgium expressed that they expected more of a Peaky Blinders-style historical feel, noting that the streets and meeting places seemed a bit “strange” for a themed tour. The fact that the initial meeting was at a hotel bar rather than a dedicated historic site might have added to that sense of disconnect. Yet, others appreciated the exclusive vibe and enjoyed the contrast between high-up cocktails and underground cellar visits.

The intimate setting and the guide’s style appear to be the core strengths of this tour. It’s less about comprehensive history and more about creating a mood—something that might appeal or fall flat depending on your expectations.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour is a stylish, themed escape into Hamburg’s rebellious and provocative side. For those interested in the Peaky Blinders aesthetic paired with a night out in St. Pauli, it offers a memorable, if somewhat quirky, experience. The visit to the high-rise bar sets a glamorous tone, while the underground cellar and museum visits add a hint of grit and kink.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy immersive themes, don’t mind a small group or private feel, and are prepared to dress up for the occasion. It might not satisfy history buffs looking for detailed narratives but will appeal to those wanting a fun, atmospheric evening with intriguing local stories.

The price point is reasonable considering the curated stops and the unique venues involved. Keep in mind, drinks are extra, so budget accordingly if you wish to indulge. This tour provides a playful, stylish snapshot of Hamburg’s outlaw past, wrapped in a gangster-inspired package.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, the experience is not suitable for those under 17 years old, and it is designed for an adult audience due to the content and venues involved.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially since the timing varies and availability can fill up.

What should I wear?
Smart casual clothing is required—think neat, fashionable, and comfortable. Sneakers are not permitted for entry into the cocktail bar.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have the opportunity for a round of champagne at the museum, but additional beverages will cost extra.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is led by a live guide in German, so some content may be presented in its original language.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the venues and the walking involved.

In summary, if you love the idea of combining a touch of gangster glamour with Hamburg’s lively nightlife and are willing to embrace a more intimate, themed experience, this tour offers a distinctive way to spend an evening. It’s not a detailed historical exploration but a fun, atmospheric adventure with plenty of style—perfect for fans of the Peaky Blinders aesthetic and those curious about Hamburg’s shadowy corners.

You can check if your dates are available here: