Segway City Tours Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a way to see Amsterdam’s top sights while enjoying a fun and slightly adventurous ride, the Segway City Tours Amsterdam might just be your ticket. For around $115 per person, this 2-hour guided experience whisks you through some of the city’s most photogenic neighborhoods like Jordaan, Chinatown, and Dam Square. Along the way, you’ll pass famous landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House, and the iconic Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), all while mastering the easy-to-operate self-balancing Segway.

What we love most about this tour is how accessible it is, even for complete beginners. The full instructions and helmets are included, making it an ideal activity for those new to Segways. Plus, the small group size—generally capped at eight travelers—ensures you get personalized attention from your guide and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or take photos.

That said, a few considerations are worth noting. Some reviews mention that the guides’ knowledge can vary, and the experience is more about the ride than in-depth city commentary. Also, riding through busy streets, especially during rush hour, can be a challenge if you’re not comfortable with traffic. Still, if you’re seeking a lively, fast-paced overview of the city with a twist of fun, this tour fits the bill well.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, want to cover a lot of ground quickly, and appreciate a dash of adrenaline. It’s especially popular among first-time visitors eager to get a snapshot of Amsterdam’s highlights while feeling the wind in their hair.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: Full instruction ensures even first-time Segway riders can enjoy the ride.
• Compact overview: Perfect for those with limited time wanting a quick yet comprehensive city tour.
• Photo opportunities: Stops along Amstel River, Museum Square, and iconic bridges make for great pictures.
• Small-group experience: Personal attention from guides and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Potential for uneven guide knowledge: Some reviews mention guides who are not as informed as expected.
• Weather conditions matter: Tours operate in almost all weather, but rain or cold can impact comfort.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setup: Easy, Safe, and Fun

One of the best things about the Segway tour is how beginner-friendly it is. The initial instruction session is thorough, and most riders pick up operating the self-balancing Segway quickly. As one reviewer put it, “The full instruction included makes it suitable for complete beginners,” which is a relief if you’re nervous about balancing on a two-wheeled device. Helmets are provided, and most travelers wear flat, closed-toe shoes—high heels are a no-go, obviously.

The Ride: Gliding Past Amsterdam’s Landmarks

Starting at Bilderdijkpark, the group quickly gets comfortable with their Segways before hitting the streets. The two-hour tour is timed well to cover a lot of ground comfortably. You’ll pass Jordaan, once a working-class neighborhood now packed with boutique shops and cafés, and Chinatown, with its lively atmosphere and colorful signage.

The route takes in Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam, bustling with street performers and historic buildings. From there, your guide will lead you past the Rijksmuseum, giving a taste of the city’s artistic heritage, and then onto the Magere Brug, a picturesque drawbridge over the Amstel River. As you glide along the canal-lined streets, you’ll have plenty of chances to stop, hop off, and capture photos of the iconic Rembrandt House or the scenic Museum Square.

Authentic City Views and Personal Stories

While the primary focus is on the ride itself, some guides sprinkle in interesting tidbits about the city’s history and culture. However, reviews like “The information about the city was not a priority” suggest that the commentary can vary depending on the guide. Nevertheless, most travelers appreciate the opportunity to see major sights from a unique vantage point, especially as you cruise along bicycle paths and narrow streets.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

A few reviews highlight issues like guides not being very informed or the difficulty of navigating busy traffic. For instance, one traveler noted that “the guide didn’t really know anything about the town,” which might be frustrating if you’re eager for detailed insights. Also, riding in Amsterdam means sharing space with bicycles and cars, so being comfortable with traffic and attentive riding is essential.

Weather is another consideration. The tour generally operates in all conditions, but rain or cold can diminish the experience. Notably, some guests mentioned being soaked despite rain ponchos, and riding in bad weather could impact both safety and enjoyment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a quick, fun way to see multiple neighborhoods and landmarks in a short amount of time. Families with older children (16+) and groups looking for a lively experience will find it particularly appealing. It’s also a good option if you want a different perspective—gliding past canals and bridges beats walking or bus rides for excitement.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start Point: Bilderdijkpark

Meet at this quiet spot, a good launching pad for your adventure. The initial instruction ensures everyone is comfortable before hitting the streets. Expect to spend a few minutes getting familiar with the Segway, especially if you’re new to it.

Jordaan Neighborhood

One of Amsterdam’s most charming areas, Jordaan is full of narrow streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. The tour guides often stop here to let you take photos of the historic canal houses. We loved the way the guides point out small details, like hidden courtyards or local art galleries.

Chinatown

Bright signage and bustling markets make Chinatown a lively part of the tour. Riding here offers a vibrant contrast to the quieter Jordaan. The street life and colorful architecture make for memorable photos.

Dam Square

The city’s central hub, filled with historic buildings and street performers. From here, you can get a real sense of the city’s energy. Some reviews note that this section is a bit crowded, so patience and attentiveness are key.

Rijksmuseum and Museum Square

Passing by the iconic museum captures the essence of Amsterdam’s cultural scene. The grand architecture and green lawns make a perfect backdrop for photos.

Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge)

Arguably one of the most picturesque spots in the city, the Magere Brug is great for quick stops. You’re able to get close enough for some scenic shots along the river.

The End Point

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, giving you a full 2 hours of riding and sightseeing. Some guests mention that the tour could be longer, but the timing keeps things lively without fatigue.

Value and Practical Tips

Price and What’s Included

At $114.70 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of sights covered and the novelty of riding a Segway. All equipment, helmets, and instruction are included, so there are no hidden costs.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to around 8 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly atmosphere. Smaller groups mean more personalized guidance, which can be especially helpful for nervous first-timers or those who want to ask questions.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour goes on almost all weather, dress appropriately—rain gear or warm clothes are advisable if conditions look bleak. The reviews show that rain can dampen the experience, but the fun of dashing through Amsterdam’s streets often outweighs the discomfort.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a first-time visitor to Amsterdam looking for a quick, exciting overview of the city, this Segway tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and are comfortable navigating busy streets. The small-group size and friendly guides add to its appeal, making it a relaxed yet lively experience.

However, if you’re after detailed historical commentary or a more leisurely pace, you might find the focus on the ride itself a bit limited. Also, those with medical conditions or pregnant travelers should consider safety advice before booking.

This is a great way to combine sightseeing with fun, offering a unique perspective on Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods, charming bridges, and iconic landmarks—all from the seat of a Segway.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the full instruction included makes it accessible for first-timers. Most people pick up the Segway quickly after a few minutes of practice.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, which balances seeing many sights with keeping the ride comfortable.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House, Dam Square, Jordaan, Chinatown, and cross the Magere Brug, among others.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, all necessary equipment, including helmets, is included in the price.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Dutch?
Absolutely. The tour is conducted in English, and guides are usually friendly and communicative.

Is it suitable for children?
The minimum age is 16, so older teens and adults will enjoy this activity.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe flat shoes are required, and dress according to the weather. Rain gear is recommended if rain is forecast.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in almost all weather, but rain or cold can make riding less comfortable. You may want to consider canceling if conditions are severe.

In sum, Segway City Tours Amsterdam offers a lively, efficient, and memorable way to see Amsterdam’s highlights. It balances fun with practicality, making it a popular choice for travelers eager to experience the city from a fresh perspective.