Plan Your Visit to Panoptikum: Timings and Directions

Everything you need for a smooth visit to Germany's oldest wax museum.

Panoptikum Hamburg – Ticket Information

Purchase Options

Book your tickets right here in advance, then show your ticket at the ticket desk on arrival. You can enter at any time during opening hours on your booked date.

Types of Tickets

Your ticket includes the whole exhibition and the free audio guide in German and English. Group tickets are available for larger parties, and wheelchair users get free entry.

Pricing

Prices depend on the ticket type – you'll see the current price for your chosen date when you book here.

Panoptikum Hamburg – Visitor Guidelines

Photography: Selfies are explicitly encouraged – snap away with Taylor Swift, Udo Lindenberg and more than 120 other figures.

Hands off: Please don't touch the figures – they take up to two years to make.

Help on hand: The team at the ticket desk is happy to help with any questions during your visit.

Families: Pick up the free puzzle rallies at the ticket desk – the "Pauli P. Tour" for kids aged 6 to 12 and the "PanoptikumNews" for teens.

Visit the Panoptikum Wax Museum

Address

Panoptikum Wax Museum
Spielbudenplatz 3, 20359 Hamburg, Germany

The Panoptikum is right on Spielbudenplatz in St. Pauli, a square lined with theatres, clubs and music venues.

Closest landmarks:
Reeperbahn: Just steps away – Hamburg's famous entertainment mile.
Dancing Towers (Tanzende Türme): The iconic leaning high-rises at the eastern end of the Reeperbahn, a short walk away.
Hans-Albers-Platz: A lively St. Pauli square named after actor and singer Hans Albers, a few minutes' walk away.

Opening Hours at Panoptikum Hamburg

Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday and public holidays: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Closed: 24 December

Hours can change seasonally – check the date picker when booking. A visit usually takes 45 to 60 minutes.

Panoptikum Hamburg – Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings are usually the quietest. On Saturdays the museum stays open until 10 PM – perfect for combining your visit with an evening on the Reeperbahn.

Good to know before your visit to Panoptikum Hamburg
Facilities
Rules and Regulations
Accessibility
Dining
Store
Hotels
Other Nearby Attractions

Here's what to expect at the Panoptikum – from facilities and accessibility to places to eat, shop and stay nearby.

Panoptikum Hamburg: Plan Ahead

Book your tickets in advance to secure your visit – especially for Saturday evenings and school holidays, when St. Pauli is at its busiest.

Panoptikum Wax Museum in Hamburg

Highlights

Discover historical and contemporary wax figures featuring global and local celebrities. Enjoy a captivating collection that spans over a century of wax artistry. Explore the chilling Chamber of Horrors with re-created scenes of infamous events. Appreciate the evolution of wax craftsmanship from the 1960s to today. Access audio guides and interactive activities available in English and German.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Panoptikum Hamburg

Can I take photographs inside the Panoptikum?

Yes – selfies with the figures are explicitly encouraged.

Is the Panoptikum accessible for wheelchair users?

Large parts are barrier-free, but some areas can only be reached by stairs. Wheelchair users get free entry.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It's not required, but booking here in advance secures your visit. Show your ticket at the ticket desk on arrival – you can enter any time during opening hours on your booked date.

What are the Panoptikum's opening hours?

Monday to Friday and Sunday 10:00–20:00, Saturday 10:00–22:00. Public holidays 10:00–20:00. Closed on 24 December.

Where is the Panoptikum located?

At Spielbudenplatz 3, 20359 Hamburg, in St. Pauli right by the Reeperbahn.

How do I get to the Panoptikum using public transportation?

Take the U3 to St. Pauli – the museum is a few minutes' walk away. Reeperbahn S-Bahn station is also within walking distance.

Is there an audio guide?

Yes – a free audio guide in German and English is included with your visit.

Is the Panoptikum suitable for families with children?

Yes. Free puzzle rallies are available for children aged 6 to 12 and for teens. The spooky corner may be a bit much for very young children.