Choosing between Vilnius and Trakai?

Both offer unforgettable hot air balloon flights, but each suits a slightly different type of traveler and occasion.

Vilnius vs Trakai: Which Hot Air Balloon Flight Is Right for You

How to decide quickly

  • Choose Trakai if you:

    • Dream of flying over lakes and a medieval island castle – the classic Lithuanian photo.

    • Plan a proposal, anniversary or family trip and want a more intimate, nature‑centric setting.

  • Choose Vilnius if you:

    • Want to see one of Europe’s few capitals where balloon flights are allowed directly over the city.

    • Prefer a lively skyline mix of baroque towers, rivers, and modern districts.

Vilnius vs Trakai – Full Comparison

  • Scenery

    • Vilnius: UNESCO-listed Old Town, baroque church towers, Neris River and a vibrant mix of historic and modern skyline.

    • Trakai: Island Castle surrounded by lakes and forests – the classic postcard-perfect Lithuanian landscape.

  • Vibe

    • Vilnius: Urban and vibrant – ideal for city breaks and first-time visitors who want to discover Vilnius from above.

    • Trakai: Romantic and tranquil – perfect for proposals, anniversaries and relaxed family trips.

  • Best for

    • Vilnius: City explorers, photography lovers, people on a Vilnius city trip who want to see the capital from the sky.

    • Trakai: Couples, families, nature lovers and anyone seeking the fairy-tale castle-over-lakes bucket list experience.

  • Meeting point

    • Vilnius: Around Vilnius; the final launch site is chosen by the pilot on the day for the

Your Hot Air Balloon Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey with these three simple steps:

01

Book Online

Reserve your spot with ease through our convenient online booking system.

02

Rise & Float

Lift off and float gracefully through the skies, taking in breathtaking scenery.

03

Land Safely

Touch down safely, knowing you've experienced something truly extraordinary.

Preparation checklist (before your flight)

  • Book online and receive instant confirmation with your booking code and a link to manage your reservation in the customer portal.
  • 1–2 days before

    • Make sure you have the confirmation email or voucher code saved on your phone – you will need it when meeting the crew.

    • You don’t need to monitor the weather forecast – our weather specialists continuously monitor forecasts for your planned flight window. Remember, flights are weather‑dependent and may be rescheduled for safety.
  • 12 – 24 hours before

    • Share the exact meeting time, pickup details, and location.

    • Inform you immediately if any changes are needed due to the latest forecast.
  • On the day
    • Dress in comfortable, layered clothing and closed, flat shoes (sneakers or hiking boots). High heels and open‑toed shoes are not recommended for safety reasons.
    • Eat a light meal and avoid heavy alcohol before the flight so you feel comfortable during the 3–4 hour total experience (preparation, flight, post‑flight ceremony).

    • Keep your phone switched on and nearby so you can receive any last‑minute updates from the flight coordinator about meeting time or weather.
    • If weather conditions change unexpectedly, the pilot may adjust the meeting time or reschedule; safety is always the top priority.
  • At the meeting point

    • Listen carefully to the pilot’s safety briefing and follow instructions during inflation, flight and landing.

    • Ask any last‑minute questions about health, motion sickness or nerves – the crew is experienced and happy to help.

  • We contact you via WhatsApp first. If WhatsApp is not available, we will reach you by email, SMS, or phone call using the details provided in your booking.

  • Please double‑check that your phone number, WhatsApp, and email are correct when booking, and keep an eye on your inbox (including spam/junk folders) before the flight.

FAQs – Preparation & safety

  • How long does the experience take?

    • The flight itself is about 1 hour, but with preparation, briefing, inflation and post‑flight ceremony, expect around 3–4 hours in total.

  • Can children fly?

    • Yes, children are welcome; the recommendation is that they are at least 110 cm tall to see over the basket safely and minors under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Is it cold in the balloon?

    • It is usually similar to ground temperature or slightly warmer near the burner; wind chill is minimal because the balloon moves with the wind. Dressing in layers is still recommended.

  • Is hot air ballooning safe?

    • Hot air ballooning is considered one of the safest forms of aviation when operated by licensed, experienced pilots and under strict weather criteria. Smile Balloons uses modern equipment and highly experienced pilots.

Our Clients

Don’t just take our word for it

A group of people in a hot air balloon taking a picture of the sun setting over a lake.

Breathtaking Views

The hot air balloon ride offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning photographs of Trakai's natural beauty. The changing colors of the sky during sunrise or sunset create a magical atmosphere, adding to the enchantment of the experience.

A group of people enjoying ballooning in a hot air balloon.

Professional Pilots

Safety and comfort are our top priorities. Our experienced and certified pilots will guide your hot air balloon adventure with precision, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned adventurer, you're in capable hands.

A red hot air balloon gracefully soaring above a bustling city.

Year-Round Excitement

Imagine soaring through the sky, gently floating in a hot air balloon, and taking in the breathtaking views of the Trakai Castle and the surrounding bodies of water. The picturesque landscape of Trakai is even more stunning when seen from a bird's-eye view.

Why Choose Us?

Choose Smile Balloons for your hot air ballooning adventure and let us turn your dreams of soaring through the skies into an unforgettable reality. Choose from a variety of convenient flight times to suit your preferences and enjoy the skies on your terms.

Useful Resources

Plan Your Visit

For more about Trakai and upcoming events, visit the Trakai visit website. Plan your trip to the capital, gather insights, and create a memorable experience.

Travel Guide

Unlock a world of ideas and travel tips with the Vilnius Travel Guide. Get ready to explore the city, and discover the best ways to make the most of your journey.

Book Today

Don't miss the chance to reserve your hot air balloon adventure over Trakai. Witness the town's splendor from a unique perspective and create memories that will last a lifetime.