Private Crime Tour of Hamburg

Discover Hamburg’s shadowy side with this private crime tour led by a former police officer. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll explore iconic crime scenes and hear gripping stories from the city’s darkest moments.

What makes this tour stand out is the unique perspective offered by a guide who’s been on the inside of police investigations, giving you firsthand insights into Hamburg’s infamous criminal cases. We especially love how intimate the experience is—being a private tour means tailored attention and the chance to ask all your burning questions. That said, if you’re expecting a leisurely sightseeing stroll, keep in mind that this tour focuses sharply on dark tales and gritty details, which might not suit everyone’s taste.

This adventure is best suited for curious travelers with an interest in true crime, urban history, or those wanting a different, more authentic glimpse into Hamburg’s complex past. It’s a great choice if you’re after a mix of storytelling, history, and local color, all delivered in a private setting.

Key Points

• Expert Guide: Led by a former police officer who shares insider knowledge.
• Dark Stories: Focuses on infamous serial killers and criminal cases unique to Hamburg.
• Authentic Insights: Witness crime scenes and learn about police investigation work firsthand.
• Flexible Timing: Tours run between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with specific options available in the afternoon.
• Cultural Context: Stops include historically significant sites like Hafenstraße and the red-light district.
• Relaxed Ending: Concludes with a visit to a neighborhood bar for a drink, adding a casual local touch.

An In-Depth Look at the Hamburg Crime Tour

What to Expect During the Tour

This private crime tour takes roughly 2.5 hours, giving you an engaging and detailed glimpse into Hamburg’s criminal history. Beginning in front of the Davidwache police station in St. Pauli, your guide—a former police officer—will lead you through some of the city’s most notorious crime scenes and tell stories that are often only whispered about among locals.

The experience is designed to be intimate, with just your private group, allowing for a more personal exchange. The guide not only recounts stories but also shares investigative insights and takes you to locations you might not stumble across on your own.

Exploring Notorious Cases

One of the highlights is learning about Fritz Honka, a serial killer who murdered prostitutes and disposed of their bodies in his apartment. The guide will detail how Honka was eventually caught thanks to a seemingly minor event—an arrest that uncovered the gruesome truth. Reviewers often mention how engaging and detailed these stories are, with one noting that their guide, Robert, used photographs to vividly illustrate the cases.

Another gripping story involves Werner Pinzner, a contract killer operating in the red-light district. The guide explains how Pinzner’s murders were tied to his clients, mostly pimps, and uncovers the darker underbelly of Hamburg’s nightlife.

Crime Scene Visits and Local History

You’ll visit former occupied houses in Hafenstraße, which became symbols of resistance against authority. These sites provide context for Hamburg’s turbulent past, beyond just the dark stories—they reflect social struggles and the city’s resilience.

Throughout the tour, you will see spectacular crime scenes and hear about police procedures, giving you an appreciation for the challenges law enforcement faces in such a vibrant city. The guide often shares anecdotes about police questioning and investigations, adding a layer of authenticity that books or documentaries can’t match.

The End of the Tour: Local Flavour

After all the storytelling, the tour concludes at a neighborhood bar, where you can unwind with a drink, share thoughts about what you’ve learned, and soak in the local atmosphere. The inclusion of a drink is a nice touch, making the experience feel less like a lecture and more like a social, immersive encounter.

Value and Practicality

Pricing and Duration

At 2.5 hours, the tour offers good value considering the depth of stories and insider knowledge you gain. The price includes the crime tour itself plus one drink at the bar. It’s a flexible experience—you can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans shift.

Group Size and Guide

Because this is a private group, you avoid the crowds and get a tailored experience. The guide, Robert, has received praise for his engaging storytelling and ability to answer questions thoroughly, making the tour both educational and entertaining.

Timing and Language

Tours are available daily between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with the XL tour only after 3:00 PM to align with the opening of the Ritze bar. The tour is conducted in German, with a limited English surcharge of €45, so non-German speakers should plan accordingly or prepare for some translation.

Accessibility and Additional Details

While the tour involves visiting crime scenes and historic sites, keep in mind that transport is not included, so you should be comfortable walking between stops. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient to continue exploring Hamburg afterward.

Authentic Experiences According to Reviews

Two reviews highlight the authenticity and engaging nature of the tour. One traveler described it as “really interesting and exciting,” praising guide Robert for his storytelling and the chance to visit places they wouldn’t normally venture into. Another review mentioned that Robert’s use of photos and local insights made the stories come alive, creating an immersive experience that went beyond surface-level history.

These personal accounts underscore that this tour is more than just a list of facts—it’s a chance to see Hamburg through the lens of its darker stories, with a knowledgeable guide who makes the past tangible.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This crime tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, true crime fans, and those interested in Hamburg’s lesser-known stories. If you’re seeking a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the city’s criminal past, this is a compelling choice. It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy local storytelling and want a break from typical sightseeing.

However, if you prefer light or purely scenic tours, or if you’re traveling with young children, this might feel a bit intense or niche. The focus on crime scenes and stories may not appeal to everyone, especially those sensitive to darker themes.

The Sum Up

The Private Crime Tour of Hamburg offers a unique perspective on the city’s past, led by a guide who’s been on the inside of police investigations. It’s a well-paced, engaging experience that combines storytelling, crime scene visits, and cultural context—all wrapped up in a private setting, which allows for a personalized experience.

The inclusion of a drink at a neighborhood bar provides a relaxed ending, making it feel more like an authentic local adventure. The tour’s value is particularly high considering the depth of insights, the private group setting, and the exclusive access to stories. It’s an excellent pick for curious travelers eager to go beyond typical sightseeing and explore Hamburg’s darker, more mysterious side.

If you’re a fan of true crime, urban history, or simply want a different way to discover Hamburg, this tour will likely be an unforgettable highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the crime exploration itself and one drink at a neighborhood bar. It starts at the Davidwache police station and ends back at the same point.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering a detailed, engaging experience.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making it ideal for personalized storytelling and questions.

What language is the tour conducted in?
It is primarily conducted in German, with an optional English surcharge of €45, subject to availability.

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation between sites is not included, so be prepared to walk or arrange your own transport if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This private crime tour of Hamburg offers a compelling mix of storytelling, history, and local color, perfect for travelers looking for an authentic and memorable experience that uncovers the city’s darker stories.