The Panoptikum stands on Spielbudenplatz, the square in front of the Reeperbahn theatres, and it is billed as Germany’s oldest wax museum. It is an old-fashioned attraction in the best sense, a place where wax figures of modern celebrities, historical figures and politicians stand in carefully staged rooms, and where the building itself is part of the atmosphere. Visitors move through the rooms at their own pace, find figures to pose with and then, if they dare, step into the Chamber of Horrors. The ticket sold here includes a live guide in English or German and an audio guide, and the museum carries a very good rating from more than two hundred reviews. It is a good wet-weather stop, an easy family outing and a pleasant contrast with the district outside, which is better known for its clubs than for its quiet museums.
What to expect
The museum is on several rooms, with figures arranged by theme, and the pace is entirely up to you. Some figures are modern celebrities from music, sport and film, while others come from history and politics, so you will recognise some faces at once and need the guide for others.
The Chamber of Horrors is a darker section that may frighten very young children, so look at it before you take little ones in. Check the ticket page for the inclusions, because the ticket here combines a live guide in English or German with an audio guide, and group sizes or times may apply.
Opening and timing
The museum opens at ten in the morning every day, closing in the evening on most days and later on Saturdays. Visits usually take an hour or two depending on how many photographs you take. Mid-morning and early afternoon are quieter than the late afternoon, when school groups and families arrive. Because the museum sits inside the nightlife district, it is also pleasant in the early evening as a warm-up before a meal or a show on the Reeperbahn.
Making the most of it
Panoptikum combines well with the Reeperbahn walking tour, a harbour cruise from the nearby Landungsbrücken or a musical at one of the theatres in the district. Combination tickets with other attractions are available, including the Hamburg Dungeon and the Elbphilharmonie tour, so if you are building a full day around the harbour it is worth checking those bundles.
The museum is a short walk from the St. Pauli U-Bahn and Reeperbahn S-Bahn stations, and the surrounding streets have plenty of cafés and snack stands. It suits families, groups of friends and anyone who enjoys the slightly kitsch glamour of an old waxworks.
What to expect
The experience
A self-paced walk through rooms of wax figures, with a live guide in English or German and an audio guide included.
Best time
Mid-morning or early afternoon, before the school groups and families arrive.
How long
One to two hours, depending on how many photographs you take.
Tips
Look at the Chamber of Horrors before taking young children in, and check the ticket inclusions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and groups who enjoy an old-fashioned waxworks with a slightly spooky corner.
- Families
- Good for school-age children, but the Chamber of Horrors may be too much for the very young.
- Couples
- A quirky wet-weather stop before dinner on the Reeperbahn.
- Pair with
- The Reeperbahn walking tour, a harbour cruise or a musical in the district.
- Time needed
- Allow two hours including the walk from the station.
Good questions
Where is the Panoptikum?+
It is at Spielbudenplatz 3 in St. Pauli, next to the Reeperbahn. The nearest stations are St. Pauli on the U3 and Reeperbahn on the S-Bahn.
What is the oldest wax museum claim?+
The Panoptikum is billed as Germany’s oldest wax museum, with figures of celebrities, historical figures and politicians.
Is the Chamber of Horrors suitable for children?+
It is a darker area that may frighten small children. Take a look first and decide.
What does the ticket include?+
The ticket sold here includes a live guide in English or German and an audio guide. Check the ticket page for details.
Can I combine it with other attractions?+
Yes, combination tickets with the Hamburg Dungeon, boat tours and the Elbphilharmonie tour are available.
