Hamburg: Original Kiez Tour in German with Eddy Kante

If you’re considering a walk through Hamburg’s famous St. Pauli district, a tour led by Eddy Kante might just pique your interest. Known for his colorful past—being Udo Lindenberg’s bodyguard and a former biker club member—Eddy offers a uniquely personal glimpse into the neighborhood’s soul. While I haven’t done the tour myself, reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what’s on offer.

What really stands out are two key aspects: First, the chance to hear inside stories directly from Eddy, who’s lived through the heyday of St. Pauli’s rough-and-tumble scenes. Second, the visit to Olivia Jones Bar feels like a fun, laid-back way to wrap up the experience, giving you a taste of local nightlife. On the flip side, a possible drawback is the size of the group, which some found too large, especially in indoor areas. That might mean less intimacy and more noise.

This tour seems best suited for those curious about Hamburg’s edgier side—history buffs, fans of authentic storytelling, or anyone eager to see a neighborhood with deep roots in counterculture. If you’re after a mix of gritty stories and lively atmosphere, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Authentic insights from someone who lived the scene
• Focused on St. Pauli’s history, culture, and evolution
• Includes a visit to Olivia Jones Bar for a local drink
• Tours last around 100 minutes with flexible starting times
• German-language guide; suitable for German speakers
• Group size may vary, and some reviews cite it as large

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

When you sign up for the Original Kiez Tour with Eddy Kante, you’re signing up for more than just a walk through Hamburg’s most notorious neighborhood. You’re getting a story-rich, behind-the-scenes look at St. Pauli, packed with personal anecdotes and historical tidbits. The tour lasts about 100 minutes, making it a manageable introduction to the district.

The Starting Point and Tour Flow

The meeting point varies depending on your booking, but the tour ends back at the start, making logistics straightforward. Upon beginning, Eddy shares how he first arrived in St. Pauli—and why he stayed. Being born in Hagen, Eddy’s connection to the neighborhood is deep, rooted in decades of experience.

Learning about Hamburg’s Biker and Rock Scenes

Much of the tour revolves around Eddy’s personal history. He was part of Germany’s biker scene and a member of a notorious biker club, which adds a layer of authenticity to his stories. He offers insights into biker gangs, explaining what it takes to become a member and what life was like in those circles.

The Neighborhood’s Transformation

Eddy describes how St. Pauli has changed over the decades, from its rougher past to a more tourist-friendly area. His stories help you understand the neighborhood’s evolution—what’s still the same, and what’s different now.

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Visiting the Iconic Café Keese

A highlight of the tour is standing outside Café Keese, Udo Lindenberg’s starting point for his stardom. Eddy recounts Udo’s early days and shares what it was like for him to work as Udo’s bodyguard. It’s a peek into Hamburg’s music scene, seen through the eyes of someone who was there.

Insider Access and Personal Stories

What makes this experience stand out is Eddy’s personal biography, “In meinem Herzen kocht das Blut,” which translates to “Blood boils within my heart.” This bestseller recounts his life and helps shed light on his transformation. Hearing him talk about his past and how he has finally broken free from it adds depth to the tour.

The Olivia Jones Bar

To cap off the experience, you visit Olivia Jones Bar, a lively spot known for its inclusive vibe. It’s a relaxed setting where you’ll enjoy a complimentary liqueur, giving you a taste of local nightlife culture. Just keep in mind, additional drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

The Practicalities

Pricing for this tour is around $37 per person, which we find is quite reasonable given the personal stories and insider knowledge. The tour is offered in German, so it’s best suited for German speakers or those comfortable with the language.

While the duration is just over an hour, it’s enough to get a solid feel for the neighborhood without feeling rushed. It’s a good way to combine an overview with some memorable stories.

Group Size and Review Snapshots

One common critique from reviewers is that the group can get quite large. One traveler mentioned, “Leider war die Gruppe zu groß, speziell für den Indoorbereich,” indicating that a bigger crowd can reduce intimacy—something to keep in mind if you prefer smaller, more personal tours.

The Value of the Tour

At $37, this experience offers a lot of value for those interested in authentic, story-driven tours. You’re not just walking around; you’re listening to stories that bring the neighborhood to life. Eddy’s firsthand experience adds credibility and color, making it more than just a sightseeing walk.

However, the language barrier might be a consideration for non-German speakers, and the group size could impact your comfort. Still, if you’re up for a genuine, lively peek into St. Pauli’s past and present, this tour is worth considering.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, music lovers, or anyone interested in counterculture scenes. It’s also great for those who appreciate personal stories and enjoy hearing from someone who’s been part of the neighborhood’s story. If you’re after a more intimate setting, you might want to check the group size beforehand.

For travelers who want a broad overview of Hamburg’s nightlife and neighborhoods, this offers a different perspective—more personal and edgy than a typical city walk.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-German speakers?
It’s conducted in German, so unless you’re fluent, it might be challenging to follow along. If you’re not comfortable with the language, look for tours in English or with multilingual guides.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 100 minutes, making it a quick but engaging way to explore St. Pauli.

What’s included in the price?
You get a walking tour of St. Pauli and a liqueur at Olivia Jones Bar. Additional drinks aren’t included, so plan to buy your own if you want more.

What is the meeting point?
The start point can vary depending on your booking, but the tour concludes back at the meeting location, simplifying planning.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves walking through neighborhoods and possibly some uneven surfaces.

Is it family-friendly?
While the tour is more adult-oriented, especially given the content and setting, there’s no specific mention of restrictions for children. Keep in mind the mature themes that might be discussed.

What’s the main focus of the tour?
It’s centered around Eddy Kante’s personal experiences—from his biker days to his role in the music scene—and the neighborhood’s cultural changes.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers the tour and one drink at Olivia Jones Bar. Anything else, like extra drinks, is at your own expense.

Would I enjoy this tour if I don’t speak German?
Probably not, as it’s conducted in German. If language is a barrier, look for tours offered in your preferred language.

Final Thoughts

Walking through St. Pauli with Eddy Kante is more than just a sightseeing stroll—it’s an authentic peek into a neighborhood shaped by music, biker gangs, and counterculture. His personal stories give the tour a depth that typical guided walks often lack, making it a compelling option for those interested in knowing what really goes on behind the scenes.

While the large group size and language might be considerations, the overall experience offers a unique, insider perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to connect with Hamburg’s rebellious spirit and enjoy lively, engaging storytelling.

If you’re curious about Hamburg’s edgier neighborhoods and eager to hear stories straight from someone who’s been part of it all, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

Remember, the best tours are those that match your interests. If this kind of local, personal story appeals to you, it’s worth giving a shot.

You can check availability for your dates here: