Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour

Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour: A Refreshing Spin Through the City’s Nature

If you’re looking to see Dortmund from a different angle—literally—you might want to consider the Green Side Segway Tour. Although I haven’t tried it myself, this two-hour adventure promises to be a fun way to explore the city’s natural spots while riding a Segway. What immediately catches your eye with this tour is how it combines urban nature with a relaxed, guided experience. Plus, the fact that it’s limited to small groups makes it feel personal and, hopefully, more engaging.

Two things we really like about this experience are the opportunity to enjoy Dortmund’s parks and reserves without the hassle of walking or driving, and the presence of a knowledgeable guide who can tell stories along the way. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is tailored for those with at least some previous experience on a Segway, which might make it less appealing if you’re a complete beginner. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want a unique way to see the city’s green spaces, and don’t mind a moderate physical component.

Key Points

• Ideal for outdoor lovers who want to see Dortmund’s parks and nature reserves.
• Requires a driving license and a minimum age of 15.
• Small group sizes ensure a more personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling component.
• Includes safety gear like helmets and audio headsets for clear communication.
• Duration is two hours, making it a concise but thorough outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour

We find that most city tours tend to focus on historical landmarks or major attractions, but this one offers a welcome change by emphasizing nature and local scenery. Starting at Bergmann Brauerei, the tour kicks off after a safety briefing, where you’ll be fitted with a helmet, safety vest, and an audio receiver. This initial step is vital because it sets the tone for a safe, comfortable ride and ensures you won’t miss out on the guide’s stories along the way.

The Route and Stops

The tour begins in Phoenix Park, a lush green space in the middle of the city. It’s an ideal starting point because it’s large enough to get comfortable on the Segway before heading out to the more detailed parts of the route. We loved the way the guide shares stories and interesting facts via the audio system—a real bonus when navigating busy or noisy areas.

Next, the journey takes you along to Romberg Park Botanical Garden, a spot that’s perfect for plant lovers and those who enjoy calm, beautifully maintained gardens. We’re told that the Schondelle stream is part of the experience, adding a peaceful water element to the tour. Passing by Dortmund Zoo offers an opportunity to catch a glimpse of local wildlife, and the route continues through Lücklemberg district, an area that combines neighborhood charm with natural beauty.

The highlight for many is crossing into the Bolmke Nature Reserve, a city-near area where you can disconnect from the bustling city streets. The reserve is a peaceful stretch of greenery, and riding through it offers a refreshing break from urban sightseeing. The tour concludes along the Emscher river, giving you a scenic view of Dortmund’s industrial past blending into nature.

What’s Included and Practicalities

This tour includes helmets and headsets—an important detail for safety and clear guide communication. It’s designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. The price of $93 per person offers good value for a guided experience that covers several key green areas in Dortmund.

Experience and Atmosphere

Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, with one reviewer from Australia praising a “fantastic guide and knowledgeable” storytelling. Participants with some Segway experience tend to find the tour a bit longer or more tiring, as one review notes, “for beginners the two-hour ride might be quite strenuous.” That’s worth considering if you’re new to Segways or prefer a shorter outing.

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Suitability and Considerations

This experience is best suited for those who are at least 15 years old, hold a valid driving license for a moped, and weigh between 45 and 118 kg. It’s not for children under 14 or anyone outside those weight and age limits. Also, the tour requires comfortable shoes and a basic level of physical comfort on a Segway.

While the tour may not be the most suitable for absolute beginners, those with some prior experience will likely find it a fun way to combine outdoor activity with local sights. The fact that it’s flexible—offering free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand—adds peace of mind for those unsure about their plans.

Price and Value

At $93, the tour isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but considering it includes a guided route through multiple scenic spots with safety gear and audio systems, it offers a pretty good value. It’s not just about the sightseeing—it’s about experiencing Dortmund’s green spaces in an active, engaging way. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities and trying new ways to explore, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Segway adventure is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a bit of physical activity and love discovering hidden or less-touristed parts of a city. It’s perfect if you’re keen on small group experiences and enjoy storytelling from knowledgeable guides. If you’re visiting Dortmund and want a break from traditional city tours, this is a refreshing option.

It might not be the best choice if you’re a total beginner on a Segway or traveling with very young children, given the age and weight restrictions. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding sightseeing experience, you could consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Dortmund Green Side Segway Tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s natural side, blending outdoor fun with insightful commentary. We loved how it provides a different perspective on Dortmund, beyond just its urban landmarks, by weaving in parks, botanical gardens, and nature reserves into a manageable, two-hour ride.

The knowledgeable guides stand out as a real asset, making it not just a sightseeing trip but an educational one as well. The small group setting helps create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere—a bonus for those who enjoy more intimate experiences.

While the tour does require some prior Segway experience and a certain level of physical comfort, it’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to combine outdoor activity with sightseeing in a lively, informative way. Whether you’re a green space lover or just looking for a different way to explore Dortmund, this tour can be both fun and memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is more suited to those with some experience on a Segway, as it lasts two hours and can be physically demanding. Beginners might find the length a bit tiring, so if you’re new, consider shorter, less intense options.

What are the age and weight requirements?
Participants must be at least 15 years old and hold a valid driving license for a moped. The weight range is between 45 kg (99 lbs) and 118 kg (260 lbs).

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, helmet, safety vest, and audio headsets for clear communication with the guide.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, making it a good half-day activity that’s not overly exhausting.

Where do the tours start?
You’ll meet at Bergmann Brauerei GmbH on Elias-Bahn-Weg 2, Dortmund. The meeting point is easy to find, and it’s a central spot for the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 14 and requires a certain physicality, so it’s better suited for teens and adults.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet and riding a Segway.

Are there any safety considerations?
Participants must wear helmets and safety vests. The guide will give a safety briefing before starting, so follow instructions carefully.

What if I’m not familiar with the area?
No worries—your guide is knowledgeable and shares stories and insights throughout the route, making sure you learn about Dortmund’s green spaces and local highlights.

Overall, if you’re after a lively, active way to see Dortmund’s parks and reserves with a friendly guide, this tour hits the right notes. Just be sure you’re comfortable on a Segway, and you’ll likely come away with a fun story and some great photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: