Soar through the skies and take to the air—Melbourne Hot Air Ballooning!

Text by Chi Binghui | Compiled & Reported | Source: MOOK Editorial Team

Can’t fly like in Up? No worries—riding a giant hot air balloon is just as thrilling. One activity you absolutely must try in Melbourne is a hot air balloon ride. As you gently ascend with the airflow, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the endless cityscape, green spaces, and coastline, fulfilling your dream of flying along the way.

Head to the open grasslands near the mouth of the Yarra River in the nearby suburbs, where massive hot air balloons are lined up and ready for launch. After the gas burners ignite and fill the balloon with hot air, lifting the envelope skyward, the basket suddenly lifts off the ground and gradually ascends. The slowly drifting hot air balloon carries passengers as the ground grows farther away and sights shrink. Drifting over the winding Yarra River—the soul of the city—you pass over the vast waters of Port Phillip Bay and gaze down “low” from over a thousand meters above at the grid-like city center. Iconic landmarks such as the Eureka Tower (the world’s tallest residential building), the Victoria Arts Centre, Crown Casino, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and Parliament House glide beneath your feet, offering a rapid tour of Melbourne.

Melbourne is home to several hot air balloon operators, many of which are long-established businesses. Some partner with major hotels to offer ticket packages, and even provide shuttle services and hot air balloon flight certificates. All are equipped with skilled pilots who offer commentary and service throughout the flight. Balloon flights typically depart before sunrise when the air and wind conditions are stable, allowing for a serene view of the awakening city. Prices generally range from AUD 300 to 350 per adult.

The still-sleeping city makes the usually bustling streets eerily quiet. Riding the wind, skyscrapers give way to 19th-century Victorian-style cottages. Parks and woodlands such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Yarra Park, Queen Victoria Gardens, and Fitzroy Gardens serve as the city’s green lungs for Melburnians. Meanwhile, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the racetrack at Albert Park, and the arenas within Melbourne Park stand as iconic symbols of the city.

Only a few cities in the world are suitable for hot air ballooning, and Melbourne is among the best. It has repeatedly been named the “World’s Most Livable City.” With its harmonious blend of natural landscapes and modern architecture, exceptional environmental advantages, and the opportunity to take in the entire city from above, a hot air balloon journey becomes an unforgettable memory.

Global Ballooning:http://www.globalballooning.com.au

Balloon Flights Over Melbourne:http://www.balloonovermelbourne.com.au

Balloon Sunrise:http://www.hotairballooning.com.au