Dortmund isn’t just about football and beer; it’s a city packed with stories, green spaces, and innovative spirit. Its mix of industrial heritage, vibrant neighborhoods, and lush parks makes it an ideal place for unique tours. We especially like the Phoenix Lake Segway Tour for a fun, eco-friendly way to explore the city’s transformation from steelworks to green spaces, or the Dortmund: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local for a quick, well-rounded introduction with insider tips. Whatever your style, Dortmund offers a variety of experiences that reveal its past and present in lively, engaging ways.
If you want to see Dortmund’s industrial roots combined with modern charm, the Malocher Segway Tour is a standout, offering insights into mining history while zipping through the northern districts. For a more relaxed, nature-focused outing, the Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour leads you through parks and botanical gardens, perfect for lovers of city parks. And if you’re curious about Dortmund’s rise to wealth, the This is what made Dortmund rich to this day. Westenhellweg: Tour including a drink combines history, local stories, and a refreshment, making for a lively afternoon.
1. Dortmund Phoenix Lake Segway Tour
At number 1, the Dortmund Phoenix Lake Segway Tour combines a fun ride with a deep dive into Dortmund’s industrial past. For about $93 per person, you’re taken around Phoenix Park, Phoenix Lake, and along the Emscher River, all former steel production sites now transformed into green spaces. The 2-hour tour is guided by a local who shares stories about Dortmund’s evolution from a medieval trading city to a modern hub.
What makes this tour special is its mix of history and scenery, all experienced while riding a Segway—an activity that tends to make even history buffs smile. Tour participants appreciate the audio system that keeps narration clear, and the ride itself is accessible for most fitness levels. It’s perfect for travelers who want an active, engaging way to see the city and learn about its industrial rebirth.
Bottom line: This tour offers a lively, memorable introduction to Dortmund’s transformation, ideal for those who enjoy a bit of adventure along with cultural insights.
2. This is what made Dortmund rich to this day. Westenhellweg: Tour including a drink
At number 2, this Westenhellweg Tour takes you on a 1.5-hour journey through Dortmund’s commerce and craftsmanship. This tour is well-rated, offering a rich history lesson with a focus on why Dortmund became so wealthy, especially through trade and brewing. You’ll walk through streets with 1,000-year-old names, unraveling the mystery behind Dortmund’s nickname as the “beer city.”
What sets this experience apart is its blend of storytelling, local atmosphere, and a drink included—making it lively and social. Tour guide Lisa Marie’s explanations are clear and engaging, providing a good mix of education and entertainment. The tour’s compact length makes it suitable for those with limited time but who still want a meaningful taste of Dortmund’s economic history.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers and beer enthusiasts, this tour offers a delightful mix of storytelling, local flavor, and a refreshing drink.
3. Schwerte: Ruhr Area Segway Tour
Number 3 is the Schwerte: Ruhr Area Segway Tour. This 2-hour adventure explores the old railway repair works, the Kreinberg settlement, and the charm of Ruhr’s traditional half-timbered houses. The tour’s focus on culture and history, combined with a fun Segway experience, appeals to those interested in industrial heritage with a touch of local architecture.
Participants emphasize the enjoyment of seeing sights like the railway repair site while listening to stories from a guide. The route is designed to be both educational and entertaining, giving you a glimpse into Ruhr’s past and present. The Segway makes it easier to cover more ground than a walking tour, which is especially helpful in a city with diverse sights.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want to combine history, culture, and a bit of fun, all within a relaxed 2-hour window.
4. Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour
Number 4 is the Dortmund’s Green Side Segway Tour, which focuses on Dortmund’s lush parks and botanical gardens. Over 2 hours, you’ll glide through Phoenix Park, Romberg Park Botanical Garden, and Bolmke Nature Reserve, discovering the city’s natural beauty amid urban life.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on nature and sustainability. It’s perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic ride without losing sight of the city’s green initiatives. The audio narration highlights the historical places within these parks, combining leisure and education. Though rated slightly lower than others, the 4.5-star reviews show it’s a popular choice for those wanting a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for nature lovers and families seeking a scenic escape within the city, this tour offers a refreshing perspective on Dortmund.
5. Dortmund: Allotment Garden Tour
At number 5, the Dortmund Allotment Garden Tour explores the city’s unique green culture. Lasting around 2.5 hours, it takes you through the history of Dortmund’s allotment gardens, revealing how these patches of land became vital for urban dwellers seeking gardening respite.
This tour is especially appealing for those interested in urban gardening and local traditions. It includes stories about the development of these gardens and a break snack, adding a homely touch. The tour offers insights into how Dortmund’s residents have maintained their green spaces over decades, making it both educational and relaxing.
Bottom line: Ideal for gardening enthusiasts and those interested in local lifestyle, this tour provides a calm, informative walk through Dortmund’s green heritage.
6. Trinkhallen Tour Dortmund
Number 6 is the Trinkhallen Tour Dortmund, focusing on the city’s iconic street culture. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll visit booths, kiosks, and refreshment stands in the Unionviertel, experiencing Dortmund’s casual side. The tour also features street art and includes a tasting, making it a lively, sensory experience.
This tour is perfect for those interested in urban culture, local food, and street art. The itinerary includes stops at Café Erdmann and Westpark, ensuring a well-rounded glimpse into everyday Dortmund life. Reviews highlight how the tour combines history, food, and art in a relaxed setting—great for travelers wanting a less structured, more vibrant experience.
Bottom line: Best for foodies and street art fans, this tour highlights Dortmund’s informal, creative spirit.
7. Dortmund: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
Number 7 is the Dortmund: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour. This guided walk covers top sights and hidden gems, offering personal insights from a local guide. It’s ideal for first-timers who want an efficient overview of Dortmund’s main attractions, plus some tips on where to eat and drink.
The tour’s intimate size—up to 8 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of a local tasting adds flavor to the sightseeing. While the review score isn’t listed, the focus on local insights and sightseeing makes it a strong choice for those wanting a concise, friendly introduction.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want an authentic, insider’s look at Dortmund.
8. Malocher Segway Tour Dortmund
Number 8, the Malocher Segway Tour, centers on Dortmund’s mining heritage, panoramas, and harbor life. Over 2 hours, you’ll explore the northern districts, learning about working life in mining, as well as experiencing Dortmund’s natural and urban diversity.
The tour’s standout feature is its focus on industry and everyday worker stories, making it especially appealing to those interested in Dortmund’s industrial roots. The Segway ride adds a fun, accessible element, and the stories shared during the tour give a personal touch.
Bottom line: This tour suits those curious about Dortmund’s working-class history and who want a lively, story-rich experience with a bit of adventure.
9. What has made Dortmund rich to this day: Bike tour incl. drink
Finally, the Dortmund: 3-hour Bike Tour is a longer, engaging ride through the city’s wealth-building sites. For just $57, you’ll cycle past key landmarks and enjoy a drink, learning why Dortmund earned its nickname as the beer city.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to combine exercise with history. The 3-hour duration allows for a deeper look into Dortmund’s architectural treasures, industrial sites, and green spaces. Reviews mention how the bike route offers a well-rounded view, with insights into Dortmund’s wealth and attractiveness.
Bottom line: Ideal for cycling enthusiasts and history fans, this tour offers a comprehensive, healthy way to see Dortmund.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. If you love a fun, fast-paced introduction, the 2-hour walking tour or the Segway tours provide quick overviews with a twist. For those who want a more in-depth experience, the bike tour or the Allotment Garden Tour offer richer stories and local flavor.
Consider your budget—many tours cost between $57 and $93—and think about your preferred pace and interests. For active travelers, bike or Segway tours are great; for culture and history enthusiasts, walking or themed city tours fit better. Booking early can ensure your spot, especially in peak seasons.
Dortmund offers a wide range of tours that showcase its past, green spaces, and lively neighborhoods. Whether you want a quick overview or an immersive experience, there’s something for every traveler. For a memorable visit, pick your favorite, book ahead, and enjoy discovering Dortmund’s many layers.