If you observe Budapest’s cityscape, you’ll likely spot a hot-air balloon adding a dash of red-and-white to the Pest skyline. This is BalloonFly, which takes visitors for a flight up to 150m above City Park, providing a stunning bird’s-eye view with landmarks like Széchenyi Baths, Vajdahunyad Castle and Heroes’ Square en route.
The Baseline
BalloonFly is located on Mimóza Hill, the very spot from where another hot-air balloon – the Balloon Captif piloted by French captain Louis Godard – took people for rides in 1896 during the millenary celebrations.
Take Off
The present-day attraction follows a set schedule and never leaves the hill, essentially operating as an open-air lift, just a lot prettier and heaps more fun. You can buy tickets online or on the spot, and then wait for your number to be called – there’s a board that shows you when you’re next, and a cafe to ease the wait. A maximum of 30 people fit into the basket at a time, and you’ll likely be asked to pay attention to weight distribution to avoid an off-kilter journey, so avoid this experience if you have a fear of heights. Once aboard, all you need to do is enjoy the ride and the views. The color and shape of the balloon – which you’ll spot elsewhere in City Park – are a nod to Pál Szinyei Merse’s famous 19th-century painting, Balloon, which is on display at the Hungarian National Gallery within the Royal Palace.
