Once upon a time, a mysterious stranger came to the town of Hamelin. He played a tune on his pipe, and the story that followed would make this little town on the Weser famous around the world.
More than 700 years later, the legend of the Pied Piper is still everywhere in Hamelin – in its historic streets, on its buildings, in museums and on its stages.
According to the legend, in 1284 a mysterious piper freed Hamelin from a plague of rats. When the townspeople refused to pay the promised reward, he returned with his flute and led 130 children away from the town.
The Brothers Grimm later recorded the story as The Children of Hamelin. Today, the Pied Piper is an integral part of Hamelin’s identity – and the legend has even been recognised as part of Germany’s Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2014.
Follow the story through the old town and discover the buildings that have become witnesses to the legend, including the Pied Piper’s House (Rattenfängerhaus), the Leisthaus and the historic Hochzeitshaus.
One of the most memorable ways to discover Hamelin is on a guided tour with the Pied Piper himself. Follow him through the narrow streets of the historic old town, accompanied by the sound of his flute, and hear the story of 1284 brought to life.
Themed walking tours offer other ways to explore Hamelin’s history, architecture and legends.
Experience the Legend Live
During the summer season, the Pied Piper story takes centre stage.
From mid-May to mid-September, the free open-air Pied Piper performance takes place on Sundays at noon, with around 70 performers recreating the legendary events of 1284.
On summer Wednesdays, the free musical RATS offers a lively and humorous take on the legend, combining music ranging from waltz and marches to ballads and rap.
And every day, the historic Hochzeitshaus brings the story to life in miniature: the Pied Piper mechanical figurine show takes place several times a day.
Located in two magnificent Renaissance buildings in the heart of the old town, Museum Hameln takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history – from prehistoric settlements to the present day.
The museum’s special focus is the Pied Piper legend, with an extensive collection of objects and artistic interpretations. Its highlight is the Mechanical Pied Piper Theatre, which tells the story with light and sound effects.
Temporary exhibitions, a museum café and a shop complete the experience.
Hamelin is also a wonderful base for discovering the surrounding Weser Uplands.
From April to October, boats operated by Flotte Weser depart from the riverside promenade for cruises along the Weser. Choose a short round trip or a longer journey to places such as Bodenwerder, Rinteln or Höxter – and enjoy the landscape from the water.
Hamelin combines one of Germany’s most famous legends with magnificent architecture, museums, live performances and the beautiful landscape of the Weser.
Follow the Pied Piper, explore the old town and discover the story that has captivated visitors for centuries.
