Scenic flights in Tuscany: Balloon, helicopter & small plane

Q: Where do hot air balloon rides start in Tuscany?

Vor allem im Chianti und rund um San Gimignano, Siena und Florenz sowie im Val d’Orcia bei Pienza . Der genaue Startplatz hängt vom Wind am Flugtag ab.

Q: Are there helicopter tours over Florence and Chianti?

Ja, zum Beispiel bei Florence Helicopter ab dem Landeplatz Firenze Visarno oder bei Elicompany mit Basis in Grosseto und Flügen ab Florenz, Pisa und Siena.

Q: Is it possible to fly from Tuscany via Elba?

Ja, es gibt Panoramaflüge im Kleinflugzeug ab der Gegend um Grosseto, die über Castiglione della Pescaia und Punta Ala bis nach Elba führen.

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Whether in a hot air balloon over the vineyards of Chianti, by helicopter from Florence to Siena, or in a small plane along the coast to Elba: a scenic flight offers a perspective of Tuscany that you can never get from the ground. Here you will find the most important options, providers with sources, and booking tips.

Scenic flights in Tuscany – at a glance

Hot air balloon: especially about Chianti, San Gimignano, Siena and the Val d'Orcia; start usually early in the morning
Helicopter: Scenic flights from Florencee.g. via Chianti and Siena; also transfers between airports
Small aircraft: e.g. from the Maremma at Grosseto across the coast to Elba
Weather: All flights are weather dependent – please plan for an alternative date.

Hot air balloon ride over Tuscany

A hot air balloon ride is the most tranquil way to see Tuscany from above. Flights typically take off shortly after sunrise, when the wind is weakest; the wind determines the route. Many operators include breakfast after landing. According to the comparison website Freedome , hot air balloon rides in Tuscany start at around €270 per person (as of 2026).

Hot air balloon ride providers

Balloon in Tuscany: Based in Barberino Tavarnelle between Florence and Siena, according to its own statements since 1990; journeys via Chianti, San Gimignano, Siena and Florence, also barrier-free journeys.
Mongolfiere Italia: Balloon rides over Florence, Chianti, Siena and Lucca, as well as private rides over the Val d'Orcia.
Tuscany Ballooning: Another provider of hot air balloon rides in Tuscany.

You can also compare and book directly at GetYourGuide: hot air balloon rides from Florence and hot air balloon rides near Pienza in the Val d'Orcia . Read more about the landscape around Pienza in our Pienza city tour.

Helicopter sightseeing flight

The helicopter is the fastest option: in just a few minutes, Florence, the Chianti hills, and the towers of San Gimignano will be below you. The flights are more expensive than a hot air balloon ride, but the route can be planned more precisely.

Florence Helicopter: Panoramic flights from the Firenze Visarno helicopter landing site, including the Siena – Chianti – Florence route.
Elicompany: Based at Grosseto Airport, flights also depart from Florence, Pisa and Siena airports; in addition to transfers, tours such as a wine flight to San Gimignano are offered.

GetYourGuide offers an overview of bookable flights under " Sightseeing and helicopter flights in Tuscany" . Those who prefer to explore Chianti on foot can find suggestions under "Beautiful places in Chianti".

Flying over the coast and islands in a small plane

Scenic flight over Tuscany – Image courtesy of the copyright holder

A flight along the Maremma coast is particularly appealing. Freedome, for example, offers a roughly 1,5-hour scenic flight in a small plane from an airfield near Grosseto, flying over Castiglione della Pescaia and Punta Ala to the island of Elba (maximum 2 passengers). Those who prefer to see Elba from the water can find alternatives under boat tours in Tuscany.

For pilots: fly to Tuscany yourself

Those who fly themselves can find detailed information on fliegen-in-italien.de about airfields such as Lucca-Tassignano or Siena-Ampugnano, as well as about fees and registration requirements.

Tips for your sightseeing flight

Book early: During peak season and for sunrise trips, places are quickly booked.
Plan in a buffer day: Flights are cancelled in case of wind, rain or fog; reputable providers then offer an alternative date or refund.
Weight and health: Some providers have weight limits per person – ask beforehand.
Dress: It is cool in the balloon early in the morning; sturdy shoes are advisable for landing in the field.

Frequently asked questions about scenic flights in Tuscany

How much does a hot air balloon ride in Tuscany cost?

According to Freedome, hot air balloon rides in Tuscany start at around €270 per person (as of 2026). Private rides for two people are significantly more expensive.

Where do hot air balloon rides start in Tuscany?

Especially in Chianti and around San Gimignano, Siena and Florence, as well as in the Val d'Orcia near Pienza . The exact launch site depends on the wind on the day of the flight.

When do hot air balloon rides take place?

Usually early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, because the wind is calmest then. The trip is postponed in bad weather.

Are there helicopter tours over Florence and Chianti?

Yes, for example with Florence Helicopter from the Firenze Visarno landing site or with Elicompany based in Grosseto and flights from Florence, Pisa and Siena.