Likewise, St. Pauli's racy nightlife is a longstanding tradition. The world's oldest profession was first documented in the early days of the 13th century. Prostitution first became a problem for the powers that be around 1800, because of the rapid spread of venereal diseases. Today, the scent of the great wide world and a goodly portion of grubby sex attract roughly 30 million visitors a year. The amusement strip is only a short walk from the harbor with its magnificent backdrop.
Tourists usually start by taking a look at sailing and container ships.
They have the pleasantly spooky sensation of being caught in a real crime thriller. In addition to the respectable bowling clubs from the provinces, the Reeperbahn now attracts the hip young mixed-media crowd more than ever. This is where you'll find the clubs that everyone is talking about. After dancing the night away, these visitors generally leave St. Pauli in the early morning hours. The street is off-limits to female tourists.