Taking in northern Italy from the air is an offbeat way to view this ancient and rugged region. Peer at the patchwork of wheat fields and vineyards, stone villages and towering mountains of Milan from 200 to 610 meters above the earth. Scan the horizon for the distant Alps, Lakes Como and Maggiore and the valleys of Lombardy.

Hot air balloon rides require complete surrender. With no navigational ability, you are at the whim of the day’s weather. Witness a sunrise or sunset, toast a loved one with a glass of prosecco and revel in a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on a hot air balloon ride in Milan.

Here's all you need to know about hot air balloon rides, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Milan.

What are the best hot air balloon rides in Milan?

Group hot air balloon rides

Leave the city behind and head into the countryside surrounding Milan for a hot air balloon thrill. Entrust yourself to the way the wind is blowing and to your guide’s expertise. Watch the sun rise or set over the hills and relish the shared experience of floating over the landscape of Lombardy or Piedmont.

Group tours make the trip in baskets that accommodate from 6 to 14 passengers, and you can book a morning or afternoon tour during the week or on weekends. Participate in all parts of the action, from inflating the giant nylon vessel to adding bursts of heat to the balloon to keep you aloft.

During the approximately 1-hour flight, you may see the towns of Cassano d’Adda, Pavia and Piacenza, the rivers Po and Adda and even the skyscrapers of Milan. What you will spy is entirely up to the wind. After you land, celebrate the invigorating flight with a toast of wine, prosecco or juice.

Romantic hot air balloon rides

What better way to celebrate love than a hot air balloon ride with only your partner? A romantic and private hot air balloon is ideal for occasions like anniversaries, engagements or just the fact that you are with the person you adore. Romantic hot air balloon rides serve a breakfast to savor during the flight.

Private hot air balloon rides

Whether it’s you and a loved one or a group of friends or family, a private hot air balloon ride is an activity that nearly everyone will delight in. Create a lasting memory that combines breathtaking scenery with adrenaline-pumping heights.

Children 8 and older will marvel at the science that makes the flight possible, and groups of friends or family will have a special moment to reminisce on for long after.

How much do hot air balloon rides cost?

Hot air balloon rides in Milan cost from around €200 per person to €275 per person for a group flight, depending on the day and time. Less-expensive flights take place in the morning on Monday through Friday.

Romantic hot air balloon rides cost from €745 per person. More expensive rides include a full bottle of prosecco to enjoy during the flight. Private rides cost up to €1250 per person, depending on group size.

What is included?

Group and private hot air balloon rides in Milan include a licensed pilot, transportation between the base and the launch/landing sites, insurance, a flight certificate and a toast with wine or juice. Some tours also serve charcuterie with your wine.

Romantic balloon rides provide breakfast during the flight. Some tours offer pickup and drop-off at Milan hotels for an extra fee.

What you will see during the 1-hour flight depends on the day’s weather. With starting and ending points that vary with the wind conditions, you may have views of historic villages, mountains, lakes and even over the borders into France and Italy. Tours celebrate the landing with a toast.

Where does it start?

Hot air balloons start in a variety of sites within an hour’s drive of Milan. Most tours leave from San Colombano al Lambro, Cremona or Stabio.

How long does it last?

Hot air balloon rides themselves last about 1 hour, but the entire outing lasts 3 to 4 hours. Plan on up to 2 hours round-trip for transportation to and from the launch site and up to 1 hour to prepare the balloon. Tours allow you to participate in readying the balloon, making the wait much more interesting.

When is the best time for a hot air balloon ride?

Hot air balloon rides can be great at any time of year, although the warmer weather of April through October can make the experience more enjoyable. Schedule a hot air balloon ride for sunrise or sunset to perfect your outing.

In case of bad weather that prevents your excursion, book a hot air balloon trip at the beginning of your vacation so you can reschedule.

Is it safe?

Hot air balloon rides in Milan are safe, but are not recommended for pregnant travelers or travelers with back problems. It's advised for travelers to have a moderate fitness level.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed on hot air balloon rides, but must be accompanied by an adult. Check with your tour provider for the minimum age restrictions.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Hot air balloon rides require good weather. If the weather is bad, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Milan?

Travel tips

Book your tour early, as hot air balloon flights sell out quickly.
Dress in layers to be prepared for varying temperatures.
Hot air balloon rides are not recommended for people with a fear of heights.
Keep in mind that flights may have to be rescheduled due to weather conditions.

Hot Air Balloon Rides in Milan