Book Your Melbourne Balloon Flight
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Melbourne Balloon FlightA sunrise hot air balloon ride designed to deliver calm, wonder, and connection with Victoria’s largest, most vibrant city. Liberty Balloon Flights offers this flight only option to help create a more affordable flight experience over Melbourne, while still delivering all the magic!
Adults $515Book A FlightBalloon Flight
Melbourne -
Balloon Flight + BreakfastAn all-inclusive morning hot air balloon ride designed to deliver calm, wonder, and connection with Victoria’s largest, most vibrant city, followed by a sumptuous breakfast at the historic and beautiful Hotel Windsor.
Adults $567Book a flightBalloon Flight
with Breakfast
Awake Above Melbourne
Experience a Melbourne hot air balloon flight at sunrise, one of the only cities in the world where you can legally fly over a major CBD. Just minutes from the city centre, these balloon flights offer panoramic views of the Melbourne skyline, and Yarra River.
Your morning begins before first light with a meet and greet at the historic Hotel Windsor, where you’ll meet your pilot and crew before transferring to the launch site. Depending on the wind, flights may depart from locations such as Williamstown, Albert Park, or Moorabbin – each offering a different approach to the city.
Each flight lasts approximately one hour, depending on conditions, with the full experience running for around 3.5 to 4 hours. Flights operate year-round, weather permitting, with the main season running from November through to May when conditions are most consistent. Because every flight follows the wind, no two journeys are ever the same.
What’s Included In Your Flight
- Early morning meet & greet at the iconic Hotel Windsor
- Professional safety briefing by our experienced pilots
- Comfortable transfer to the launch site
- Approximately 1-hour flight at sunrise
- The whole experience from start to finish is 3.5 to 4 hours
- Post-flight breakfast (optional add-on)
- Artist designed fridge magnet as a commemorative gift
- Full support from our ground crew throughout the experience
Melbourne Hot Air Balloon Prices
Melbourne hot air balloon flights are priced from $515 per person for the flight-only package, or $567 per person including a post-flight breakfast. This includes the full sunrise experience – meet and greet, pilot-led safety briefing, transfers to the launch site, approximately one hour in the air over Melbourne, and dedicated ground crew support throughout.
The pricing reflects the complexity of operating balloon flights within controlled city airspace, the expertise of licensed commercial pilots, and the logistics required to deliver a safe, seamless experience.
Compared to other premium experiences in Melbourne such as helicopter flights or fine dining, a hot air balloon ride offers a longer, more immersive experience and a truly unique perspective of the city, making it one of the most memorable and worthwhile things to do in Melbourne.
City Skyline, River & Views
From above Melbourne, the views of the city set against green spaces, waterways, and open skies, becomes even more striking. The Yarra River curves through the city, connecting neighbourhoods, parklands, and the central skyline in one continuous flow. As the sun rises, the city shifts from stillness to movement, revealing a side of Melbourne few get to see.
Flying over a major city in a hot air balloon is rare.
In Melbourne, it’s something special. You’ll drift above streets, stadiums, and gardens, watching familiar landmarks from a completely different perspective. Parks and open spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria provide a softness to the cityscape, while iconic venues such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground add scale and recognition to the experience.
It’s this combination of city skyline, natural elements, and the sheer uniqueness of flying over a major capital that makes Melbourne one of the most distinctive ballooning locations in the world. For visitors and locals alike, a Melbourne balloon flight offers a rare way to experience the city – quiet, elevated, and completely unforgettable.
Arrival & Welcome
Your Melbourne City hot air balloon flight begins before dawn, when the air is at its calmest and most stable… ideal conditions for a smooth sunrise flight over the city.
Passengers meet approximately 1.5 hours before sunrise at the historic Hotel Windsor, a central and easy-to-access location in the heart of Melbourne. This early start is an essential part of the experience, allowing you to witness the full transition from night to first light as the city prepares to wake.
On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your pilot and ground crew, who will guide you through the check-in process. This is your opportunity to settle in, use the hotel facilities, and ask any questions before the flight begins. The atmosphere is relaxed but purposeful, as the team prepares for the morning ahead.
Before departure, your pilot will deliver a clear and informative safety briefing, covering everything you need to know… from take-off and landing positions to what you can expect during your time in the air. You’ll also gain a brief insight into the history and principles of hot air ballooning, helping you better understand the experience you’re about to enjoy.
From here, you’ll be transported to the launch site, ready to see the balloon come to life and begin your sunrise journey over Melbourne.
Journey to the Launch Site
Next, hop aboard our comfortable vehicles as we head out to the morning’s launch site, carefully selected by your pilot based on the wind and weather conditions. With years of experience and many locations to choose from, your pilot will find the most suitable launch site to ensure the best flight path.
When we arrive, you’ll see the balloon laid out, ready to come to life. Watching the envelope inflate and rise is a beautiful spectacle in itself – and if you’d like, you’re welcome to help with the setup. Alternatively, stand back and take in the starlit sky, knowing you’re among the first to witness the day unfold. A safety briefing is delivered here, so you’re completely prepared for launch, flight, and landing.
The Flight
As the first light of day breaks across the horizon, your balloon gently lifts off the ground. The sensation is smooth, almost surreal – there’s no feeling of motion or speed, just the peaceful glide of drifting with the wind.
You may float just above treetops and buildings, catching glimpses of the city waking up, or rise to heights of 2,000 feet or more, where the world below is filled with patterns and movement. Have your camera ready – this is a view you’ll never forget. Each flight is unique, guided by nature, and perfectly timed to showcase the city landscape in its best light. You can expect to be in the air for approximately 1 hour.
Landing & Pack-Up
Every landing is a little different, and that’s part of the adventure. In calm conditions, the basket may gently touch down upright; with a bit more breeze, the basket might tip on its side – both are completely normal and safe and often met with laughter.
Our ground crew will be there to meet you and assist with the pack-down. If you’re fit and up for it, you can help deflate the balloon, squishing the air out and rolling it up – it’s a fun and hands-on way to wrap up the flight.
Celebration Breakfast (If selected)
Back at Hotel Windsor, your morning continues with a delicious gourmet breakfast (if you have selected the flight with this option), where you can relax, unwind, and share your stories with fellow adventurers. It’s a wonderful way to end your journey – over good food, warm company, and the satisfaction of doing something truly special.
For many, this is more than a bucket-list moment. It’s a peaceful pause, a new perspective, and a memory to cherish forever.
Arrival & Welcome
Your Melbourne City hot air balloon flight begins before dawn, when the air is at its calmest and most stable… ideal conditions for a smooth sunrise flight over the city.
Passengers meet approximately 1.5 hours before sunrise at the historic Hotel Windsor, a central and easy-to-access location in the heart of Melbourne. This early start is an essential part of the experience, allowing you to witness the full transition from night to first light as the city prepares to wake.
On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your pilot and ground crew, who will guide you through the check-in process. This is your opportunity to settle in, use the hotel facilities, and ask any questions before the flight begins. The atmosphere is relaxed but purposeful, as the team prepares for the morning ahead.
Before departure, your pilot will deliver a clear and informative safety briefing, covering everything you need to know… from take-off and landing positions to what you can expect during your time in the air. You’ll also gain a brief insight into the history and principles of hot air ballooning, helping you better understand the experience you’re about to enjoy.
From here, you’ll be transported to the launch site, ready to see the balloon come to life and begin your sunrise journey over Melbourne.
Journey to the Launch Site
Next, hop aboard our comfortable vehicles as we head out to the morning’s launch site, carefully selected by your pilot based on the wind and weather conditions. With years of experience and many locations to choose from, your pilot will find the most suitable launch site to ensure the best flight path.
When we arrive, you’ll see the balloon laid out, ready to come to life. Watching the envelope inflate and rise is a beautiful spectacle in itself – and if you’d like, you’re welcome to help with the setup. Alternatively, stand back and take in the starlit sky, knowing you’re among the first to witness the day unfold. A safety briefing is delivered here, so you’re completely prepared for launch, flight, and landing.
The Flight
As the first light of day breaks across the horizon, your balloon gently lifts off the ground. The sensation is smooth, almost surreal – there’s no feeling of motion or speed, just the peaceful glide of drifting with the wind.
You may float just above treetops and buildings, catching glimpses of the city waking up, or rise to heights of 2,000 feet or more, where the world below is filled with patterns and movement. Have your camera ready – this is a view you’ll never forget. Each flight is unique, guided by nature, and perfectly timed to showcase the city landscape in its best light. You can expect to be in the air for approximately 1 hour.
Landing & Pack-Up
Every landing is a little different, and that’s part of the adventure. In calm conditions, the basket may gently touch down upright; with a bit more breeze, the basket might tip on its side – both are completely normal and safe and often met with laughter.
Our ground crew will be there to meet you and assist with the pack-down. If you’re fit and up for it, you can help deflate the balloon, squishing the air out and rolling it up – it’s a fun and hands-on way to wrap up the flight.
Celebration Breakfast (If selected)
Back at Hotel Windsor, your morning continues with a delicious gourmet breakfast (if you have selected the flight with this option), where you can relax, unwind, and share your stories with fellow adventurers. It’s a wonderful way to end your journey – over good food, warm company, and the satisfaction of doing something truly special.
For many, this is more than a bucket-list moment. It’s a peaceful pause, a new perspective, and a memory to cherish forever.
Gift Vouchers
Our flight experience gift vouchers are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, weddings – or simply to surprise someone special.
Each voucher can be used for any of our breathtaking flight options.
Vouchers are valid for 3 years and delivered instantly by email – perfect for both thoughtful and last-minute gifting.
- MELBOURNE BALLOON FLIGHT VOUCHER
Melbourne Gift Card to be given as a gift to loved ones and friends.
$515Buy NowMelbourne
Gift Voucher - Flexi BALLOON FLIGHT VOUCHER
Flexible gift voucher to be given as a gift to loved ones and friends.
$100Buy NowFlexi
Gift Voucher - Flexi BALLOON FLIGHT VOUCHER
Flexible gift voucher to be given as a gift to loved ones and friends.
$200Buy NowFlexi
Gift Voucher - Flexi BALLOON FLIGHT VOUCHER
Flexible gift voucher to be given as a gift to loved ones and friends.
$300Buy NowFlexi
Gift Voucher
Recommended Accommodation for
our Melbourne Flights
Meeting Location in Melbourne City
All passengers meet at the following location before departure.
Melbourne City Balloon Flight FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions about our Melbourne city hot air balloon flights.
View general FAQs
- 01
What time do Melbourne city balloon flights depart?
Melbourne city balloon flights take place just before sunrise, allowing you to experience the city as it wakes up. Meeting times typically range between 4:00am and 6:00am, depending on the season.
You will receive correspondence prior to your flight confirming your exact meeting time along with clear directions and a map pin.
- 02
Where do we meet for a Melbourne balloon flight?
Passengers meet at:
The Hotel Windsor
Address: 111 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Map Pin: Melbourne balloon flightsOur team will meet you here before transporting you to the launch site selected for the morning’s wind conditions.
- 03
Is parking available if I am self-driving?
We recommend Lansdowne Street, located between the Treasury Gardens and the Fitzroy Gardens.
It offers unlimited parking on the CBD side of the road at reasonable rates and is approximately a 5-minute walk from the meeting point.
- 04
What will we see during a Melbourne city balloon flight?
Melbourne is one of the few major cities in the world where hot air balloons regularly fly over the CBD. Depending on conditions, you may see:
- the Melbourne skyline
- the Yarra River
- Melbourne Park and the MCG
- the city’s famous parks and gardens
Watching the sunrise over Melbourne from a balloon is a truly memorable experience.
- 05
What is the ballooning season in Melbourne?
Hot air balloon flights over Melbourne operate year-round, weather permitting.
Ballooning is possible throughout the year, but the peak season typically runs from November to March, when Melbourne experiences warmer mornings and generally more stable flying conditions.
All flights are subject to safe weather conditions, and our team closely monitors forecasts to ensure every flight is conducted safely.
- 06
Is breakfast included and where do we meet for breakfast?
Breakfast is optional. After your flight, we return to Hotel Windsor where you can prebook to enjoy a celebratory breakfast or continue with your day.
- 07
Is Melbourne really one of the only cities in the world you can balloon over?
Hot air ballooning over a major city is incredibly rare and Melbourne is one of the few places in the world where it’s done legally, safely and regularly.
Melbourne is, by far, the largest city in the entire world where balloons can fly over. It is also the most technical flying location in the world. Many of the flights occur entirely within controlled airspace, taking off and landing in many of the city’s parks and sports ovals. Balloons also need to navigate the intricacies of three airports, two of which we land at regularly (Essendon and Moorabbin), and Port Phillip Bay to the south, which we need to avoid.
In most global cities, strict aviation controls and dense urban environments make ballooning over the city CBD impossible. Cities like Sydney, New York City, and London simply don’t allow it.
Melbourne stands apart.
Here, under carefully controlled conditions, you can take off before sunrise and drift across a major city as it comes to life. This is true free-flight ballooning, guided by the wind, not restricted to a fixed position or rural setting.
From above, the city reveals itself in a way few ever experience. The Yarra River winds through the skyline, while landmarks like the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria emerge in the soft light of dawn.
It’s this combination – true city flight, iconic scenery, and the rarity of ballooning over a truly global city – that makes Melbourne one of the most unique hot air ballooning destinations anywhere in the world.
- 08
Where can I find more ballooning information?
For more detailed answers about balloon flights, visit our main FAQs page or explore our blog for insights and stories about ballooning over Melbourne.
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