Malocher-Tour Dortmund

Exploring Dortmund’s Industrial Heritage with the Malocher-Tour

If you’re considering a way to see Dortmund’s northern neighborhoods without the usual walking or driving, the Malocher-Tour offers a pretty engaging alternative. This roughly two-hour Segway tour takes you through some of the city’s most interesting sites, blending green spaces with industrial landmarks, all narrated by a friendly guide who makes history fun and accessible. It’s perfect if you want to get a feel for Dortmund’s mix of nature, history, and urban life without committing to a long day of sightseeing.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a relaxed pace with a lively, guided commentary. You’ll glide past parks, waterways, and old mining grounds, all while learning about Dortmund’s industrial roots. Plus, the small group size—max 8 travelers—keeps things intimate and personalized, which makes it easier to ask questions and soak in the sights comfortably.

One possible consideration, though, is the cost—at around $86.76 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see the city, especially since food and drinks aren’t included. Also, you need to be comfortable on a Segway and be at least 14 years old, so it’s not suited to very young children or those with mobility issues. That said, for those who enjoy active, guided experiences, this tour can be a real highlight.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative way to explore Dortmund’s north side—especially if you appreciate a mix of urban and industrial landscapes—this tour could be well worth your time. Keep reading for all the details!

Key Points

• Short and manageable: Two-hour tour with plenty of interesting sights.
• Small group setting: Max 8 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Includes live commentary: A driver-guide provides insights into Dortmund’s history and landmarks.
• Accessible via public transportation: Easy to reach starting point.
• Cost reflects quality: At roughly $86, you’re paying for a guided, interactive experience.
• Not for very young kids or those uncomfortable on a Segway: Minimum age is 14, and balance is needed.

What is the Malocher-Tour Dortmund?

This is a Segway-based sightseeing tour that explores Dortmund’s northern district, a lively area with parks, waterways, old mining sites, and the harbor. It’s designed to give visitors a compact, engaging overview of the city’s industrial past and present, all while zipping smoothly along on a Segway.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a great option for travelers who want to see a good chunk of Dortmund without a full day commitment. It’s suitable for most travelers over 14 who are comfortable on a Segway, with a maximum group size of 8, which keeps things cozy and flexible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Freistuhl 7 in Dortmund and begins around 11:00am. From there, it moves through a series of stops that combine green spaces with industrial sites.

Stop 1: Fredenbaumpark & Rudern Olympic Center

Your adventure starts in Fredenbaumpark, a large green space perfect for easing into the tour. The park’s peaceful atmosphere offers a contrast to the industrial sights ahead. It’s also home to the Olympic rowing center, which hints at Dortmund’s varied sporting culture.

Crossing the Dortmund-Ems-Canal & Emscher River

Next, you’ll glide along the Dortmund-Ems-Canal, a crucial waterway for Dortmund’s industrial history. The canal’s calm waters and scenic views give you a break from urban sights while providing context about Dortmund’s waterways’ importance.

Deusenberg & Coking Plant Hansa

The tour then moves toward Deusenberg, an area with historical industrial significance. You’ll see the Hansa coking plant, a reminder of Dortmund’s coal and steel days. While you won’t be close enough to tour these facilities, the guide will share stories about their roles in shaping the city.

Huckarde & the Harbor

Huckarde is an old mining district, and here, you’ll get a sense of Dortmund’s mining heritage. The harbor area offers a glimpse into the city’s shipping and logistics history—perfect for photo opportunities and understanding Dortmund’s industrial backbone.

Artistic & Cultural Stops

Wrapping up the tour, you’ll visit the Künstlerhaus, an art gallery, and the Dortmunder “U”, a former brewery turned cultural center. These spots highlight Dortmund’s creative rebirth and cultural scene now that the city’s industrial era has passed.

Entry to Kunsthaus & Final Return

The tour also includes free entrance to the Kunsthaus, giving a brief chance to enjoy some local art, rounding out a well-balanced look at Dortmund’s past and present.

What to Expect on the Tour

You’ll be equipped with headsets, ensuring clear narration from your guide, who is both knowledgeable and friendly. The group is small, so you’ll feel comfortable asking questions or stopping for photos.

Most travelers report feeling safe and well-informed throughout. The live commentary adds a layer of storytelling that makes the sights more meaningful. Several reviews mention how fun and educational the experience is, with one reviewer noting, “It was a lot of fun and we will definitely book another tour.”

About the Cost and Value

At $86.76 per person, including a driver-guide and headsets, the tour offers good value considering the personalized aspect and the unique experience of riding a Segway through diverse urban and industrial sites. Remember, food and drinks are extra, but the tour itself is quite comprehensive.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, guests find it “very interesting” with a “nice guide,” and a second reviewer from 2019 happily mentions, “It was extremely interesting and a lot of fun again,” especially highlighting the different perspective on Dortmund’s Nordstadt. The small sample suggests a consistently positive experience, especially for those new to the city or looking for a lively, active way to explore.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity combined with sightseeing. If you’re comfortable on a Segway and interested in industrial history, parks, and urban waterways, you’ll find this a fulfilling experience. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a guided experience to get insider stories and context.

However, it’s not suitable for very young children or those who prefer traditional walking tours. And, if you’re on a strict budget, consider whether the price matches your travel plans, as food and drinks are not included.

Final Thoughts

The Malocher-Tour in Dortmund offers a compact, engaging way to understand the city’s industrial roots while enjoying the freedom of a guided Segway ride. Its highlights are the mix of green parks, waterways, and historic industrial sites, all narrated with enthusiasm and insight. The small-group setting ensures a personal touch, and the live commentary enhances the learning experience.

It’s a solid choice if you want a bit of adventure, some history, and a different perspective on Dortmund’s familiar sights. While it might not be the cheapest option out there, the combination of unique access, fun mode of transport, and knowledgeable guide makes it worthwhile for most active visitors.

Who this tour is best for:

• Curious travelers eager for an interactive, guided overview of Dortmund’s North
• Those comfortable on a Segway looking for a fun way to explore
• Visitors interested in industrial history and urban landscapes
• Small groups or solo travelers who appreciate personalized attention
• Anyone wanting a short, memorable tour that combines nature, history, and culture

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age for participation is 14 years old, so younger kids wouldn’t be able to join. It’s designed for those comfortable riding a Segway, which requires some balance.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable sightseeing option without taking up your whole day.

What’s included in the price?
You get a driver/guide, headsets for clear narration, and live commentary. Entry to some stops like the Kunsthaus is included, but food and drinks are not.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it convenient to reach without a car.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, creating a more intimate and flexible experience.

Do I need to be experienced on a Segway?
While prior experience isn’t mandatory, you should feel comfortable balancing on a Segway. The guide will give instructions, but confidence on the device helps.

If you’re after an active, insightful way to explore Dortmund’s north side, the Malocher-Tour offers a lively blend of history, culture, and fun on wheels. Just remember to wear comfortable clothing and be ready for an engaging ride that gives you a new appreciation for this city’s industrial past.