A hot-air balloon in the heart of Paris

Thought you'd seen it all? And yet Paris can still surprise you. For example, have you ever thought of climbing aboard a giant hot-air balloon in the heart of the capital? We bet you haven't.

And yet it's an experience that's been around for a long time. Since 1999, in the heart of the Parc André Citroën in Paris's 15th arrondissement, the Ballon de Paris has been inviting you to take to the skies over the City of Light. Weather permitting, you'll rise to an altitude of almost 150 metres - half the height of the Eiffel Tower! The view is breathtaking, and with good reason: it's the third-highest vantage point in Paris.

• To be read
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• Tips for the week of April 22 - 28, 2024 in Paris: free or inexpensive outings

But this giant balloon, which seats 30 people, isn't just there to unveil this unparalleled panorama. It is also a tool for measuring air quality in Paris and raising awareness of the dangers of pollution. It is also theworld's least polluting aircraft.

But the Ballon de Paris is weather-dependent. For safety reasons, flights can be cancelled without notice. So if you're up for the experience, don't forget to call 01 44 26 20 00 on the day of your visit to make sure you'll be able to take off.