Segway Private Tour – 2h – From Isla to Euralille

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Lille’s highlights without the fatigue of walking tour fatigue, a Segway private tour might be just what you need. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced MOBILBOARD Lille’s 2-hour adventure from Parc de la Citadelle to Euralille, and the impressions are generally positive. This tour offers a playful and efficient way to get a broad sense of Lille’s historic and modern landscapes, all while zipping along on a Segway.

What we love about this experience is the combination of sightseeing, easy-to-learn technology, and the private nature of the tour—meaning it’s all about your pace and interests. The route includes key landmarks like Notre-Dame de la Treille, the Old Bourse, and the Citadelle, giving you a comprehensive glimpse of Lille’s evolution from the 17th century to today. Plus, the fact that it’s private means no big groups or noisy crowds interfering with your experience.

That said, one consideration is the weather dependency; since it’s an outdoor activity, rain or poor weather could impact your plans unless rescheduling is possible. Also, the tour is most suited for those comfortable on two wheels and aged 12 and above, which might exclude younger children or those with serious inner ear issues.

This tour suits travelers who want a fun, efficient overview of Lille’s key sights, enjoy interactive experiences, and prefer a personalized approach over crowded group tours.

Key Points

• Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, allowing a tailored experience.
• Cultural and Modern Blend: The route covers everything from historic citadels to contemporary Euralille.
• Accessibility: Suitable for those 12+ with some physical coordination.
• Weather Sensitive: Activities are outdoors; poor weather might require rescheduling or could impact the experience.
• Value for Money: At $53, it’s a cost-effective way to cover a lot of ground in Lille.
• Good for Beginners: Short training makes it accessible even for first-time Segway riders.

A Complete Look at the Lille Segway Tour Experience

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at Péniche Archimède on Avenue Cuvier, close to the Champs de Mars. This location is convenient, especially for travelers staying near public transportation, making it easy to access without hassle. The initial meeting involves a brief training session with a Segway instructor, ensuring even newcomers feel confident before hitting the streets.

What the Tour Covers

The 2-hour itinerary is designed to showcase Lille’s most iconic sights and hidden gems. The route starts at the Parc de la Citadelle, an expansive green space originally built in the 17th century. Here, you’ll glide past the fortress walls, with the glazed counterscarps and historic defenses offering a fascinating glimpse of military architecture.

From there, the tour moves through the Old Town, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings tell stories of Lille’s past. The Notre-Dame de la Treille, with its impressive façade, is a highlight and offers a great photo opportunity. The tour also passes the Old Bourse, once a hub for commerce in the city, now a symbol of Lille’s vibrant history.

Midway, you’ll transition from the historic quarter to the modern Euralille district, a bustling hub of commerce and architecture from the 21st century. The contrast between old and new demonstrates Lille’s constant evolution—something travelers find especially interesting.

The Experience and Learning Curve

The training session at the start ensures you understand how to operate the Segway safely. Most visitors find it surprisingly intuitive, and the instructor provides tips specific to your skill level. Once comfortable, you’ll cruise along designated paths while absorbing the sights, with plenty of stops for photo ops and brief explanations.

Travelers have noted that the small group size and private setup create an intimate atmosphere, free from the noise and distraction of larger tours. One reviewer said, “A great way to see some of the beauty sights of Lille. I learned a lot about the city & covered a lot of ground,” which sums up the value of this experience.

The Pacing and Duration

The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to see significant sights without feeling rushed. You’ll cover a substantial distance, but the Segway makes it manageable even for those who aren’t seasoned riders. Expect around 10-15 minutes of initial training followed by about 1.5 hours of riding and sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $53, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Lille. Compared to traditional walking tours, it enables you to see more ground in less time and adds a bit of fun and novelty. For many, it’s a memorable way to kick off or conclude a day of sightseeing, especially in good weather.

Challenges and Limitations

One review mentioned poor communication and difficulty rescheduling due to illness, highlighting that customer service experiences can vary. The activity is not recommended for people with severe inner ear disorders, and participants should be comfortable on a Segway, which might require some initial adjustment. Plus, since the activity is outdoors, rain or bad weather can be a setback—though the provider does offer rescheduling or full refunds if weather cancels the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a fun, dynamic way to see Lille’s highlights. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy technology and interactive experiences, and for anyone wanting to maximize their sightseeing in a limited timeframe. Families with older children, couples, and solo explorers will all find value here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a brief training session, and most participants find the Segway easy to operate with guidance from the instructor.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Guests must be at least 12 years old, and those under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity is recommended, along with closed-toe shoes. Be prepared for weather conditions, as the tour is outdoors.

Can I cancel if the weather turns bad?
Yes, the tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How long is the training session?
The initial training takes about 10-15 minutes, enough to get comfortable with the Segway before heading out.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

This Segway private tour of Lille is an inventive way to explore both the ancient and modern sides of the city in just a couple of hours. It strikes a good balance between fun, sightseeing, and practical learning, making it a great choice for travelers wanting to see Lille efficiently while adding a bit of adventure.

If you’re comfortable with a bit of outdoor activity and eager for an engaging way to discover Lille’s key sites, this tour offers great value. For those seeking a relaxed, in-depth historical tour, traditional walking might suit better, but for a lively, memorable experience, the Segway route hits the spot.

Best suited for: adventurous travelers, first-time visitors, and those who prefer a personalized experience over crowded groups. It’s an especially good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a fun activity that leaves lasting memories.