Vilnius is a city that rewards travelers with its charming Old Town, picturesque suburbs, and fascinating Jewish heritage sites. What better way to explore this Baltic gem than with a private driver service that offers flexibility, comfort, and insider knowledge? Whether you’re floating above the city in a hot-air balloon or taking a personalized tour through its historic neighborhoods, these private services turn a standard trip into a memorable experience. We particularly love the hot air balloon adventures for their breathtaking views—imagine drifting over Vilnius or Trakai, soaking in the scenery while sipping Champagne, as you can see in options like Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Vilnius or Trakai.
With tailored sightseeing, hassle-free transfers, and expert guides, these private driver options make it easy to explore at your own pace. If you’re looking for a seamless way to see Lithuania’s highlights or just want to elevate your experience, these services have you covered.
Quick Overview
This list includes a mix of scenic hot air balloon rides over Vilnius and Trakai, suburban balloon explorations, city sightseeing tours, and even private transfers to Riga with sightseeing stops. Each option provides a different way to experience Lithuania’s beauty, from aerial views to cultural deep-dives. Explore the options below to find your ideal way to discover Vilnius and beyond.
1. Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Vilnius or Trakai
For around $203, this hot air balloon experience over Vilnius or Trakai offers a stunning 1-hour flight with transfer included, making it a fantastic way to see the city from a unique perspective. The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, after which you’ll meet your pilot and hop into the balloon basket. The flight itself is smooth and gentle, lasting about an hour, providing panoramic views of Vilnius’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and the scenic countryside surrounding Trakai.
What makes this tour stand out is the quality of the experience: a passionate crew, an experienced pilot, and a luxurious Champagne toast after landing. Several reviewers mention how peaceful and awe-inspiring drifting through the air is, with comments like “everyone should try this at least once in a lifetime.” The landings are gentle, and the crew packs away the balloon efficiently, ensuring safety and comfort. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine adventure with stunning photography opportunities and a taste of luxury.
Bottom Line: An exceptional experience for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, offering superb views and superb service.
2. Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Trakai or Vilnius
A close runner-up is the Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Trakai, which also costs just over $200. This flight emphasizes views of Trakai’s famous island castle and the lakeside scenery, a sight not visible from the ground. The tour includes hotel pickup, detailed safety instructions, and a flight lasting roughly 45-60 minutes.
During the flight, you’ll see Lake Galve’s islands and shoreline, which are stunning from above, especially when the early morning or late afternoon light hits the water. The highlight is the Champagne toast upon landing—a tradition that adds a festive touch to the adventure. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the pilots and the calm, relaxing atmosphere of the flight, even when the wind isn’t perfect.
This experience suits travelers seeking a unique aerial perspective of Trakai’s iconic castle and natural beauty. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a stress-free way to elevate your trip.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for romantic couples or families wanting a memorable aerial tour of Lithuania’s scenic treasures.
3. From Vilnius: Suburbs Hot Air Balloon Ride w/ Hotel Transfer
For those interested in exploring Vilnius’s outskirts, this suburban hot air balloon ride offers a peaceful 1-hour flight combined with hotel transfer, all for about four hours of total experience. The tour departs from Vilnius County, and the pickup is included, making it very convenient.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on the natural surroundings of Vilnius—you’ll fly over fields, forests, and small villages, gaining a deeper appreciation for Lithuania’s rural charm. The pilot’s experience, combined with the family-owned business’s reputation, ensures a safe and friendly atmosphere. Reviews emphasize beautiful views and the professionalism of the crew.
This is perfect for travelers who want to see more than just city sights, and are curious about Lithuania’s countryside from above. The route depends on the wind, so flexibility is key.
Bottom Line: A relaxing option for those who want a quieter, more rural perspective of Vilnius’s landscape.
4. Vilnius: Hot Air Balloon Ride with Hotel Transfer
This hot air balloon experience combines the thrill of flying with the comfort of door-to-door service. It offers about 2 hours of total experience, including a flight over Vilnius if weather permits, and a Champagne celebration afterward. The pickup from your hotel makes it especially convenient.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to fly over Vilnius’s Old Town—a rare opportunity, as the city’s historic architecture makes for fantastic aerial photos. The pilot’s expertise and the smooth logistics have garnered praise in reviews. It’s well suited for travelers who want a luxurious, seamless experience with plenty of time to enjoy the city’s skyline from above. The only caveat is that weather conditions can affect whether you fly over the city or the outskirts.
Bottom Line: A superb choice for those who value comfort and want to combine sightseeing with a champagne toast in style.
5. From Vilnius: Private Transfer to Riga with Sightseeing
For a hassle-free journey between two Baltic capitals, this private transfer to Riga is ideal. The 7-8 hour trip includes stops at Rundale Palace and Bauska Castle, allowing you to stretch your legs and enjoy Lithuania’s and Latvia’s scenery. The driver is a professional with local insight, making the long drive informative and comfortable.
This option suits travelers with flexible schedules who want to combine transportation with sightseeing without the rigidity of bus tours. The reviews mention beautiful landscapes and a friendly, knowledgeable driver, which make the journey as enjoyable as the stops. It’s a great way to see more than just Vilnius in a day, especially if you’re headed to Riga afterward.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting to combine private transfer with sightseeing stops en route to Riga.
6. Vilnius: Jewish Heritage Sites Private Tour with Transfer
This Jewish heritage tour offers a deeply personal and informative journey into Vilnius’s Jewish history. Over six hours, you’ll visit synagogues, cemeteries, and the former ghetto, with tickets to the Jewish Culture Center included. It’s led by guides like Cyrus, who bring the history to life with sensitivity and depth.
The tour is suited for travelers interested in cultural history and authentic stories. Reviewers highlight how the guide’s empathy and knowledge make the experience meaningful—one mentions how Cyrus “covered everything I wanted to see and was extremely considerate.” It’s a profound way to understand a significant part of Vilnius’s identity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts or those interested in Lithuania’s Jewish community and its resilience.
How to Choose the Best Private Driver Service in Vilnius
When selecting a private driver service, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. If you want a luxurious adventure with scenic views, a hot air balloon flight might be perfect. For a cultural deep dive, the Jewish heritage tour offers meaningful insights. The Riga transfer with sightseeing is best if you’re combining Lithuania with Latvia.
Check the weather forecast, especially if you’re booking a balloon ride, and book early during peak season (May-September). Keep in mind that some tours are best suited for those comfortable with a flexible schedule or who want a seamless, all-in-one experience.
Final Thoughts
Vilnius offers a wide range of private driver experiences—from aerial flights offering stunning views to deep cultural explorations. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the hot air balloon tours stand out for their breathtaking vistas and luxurious touches. Meanwhile, cultural and heritage tours provide meaningful insights into Lithuania’s rich history.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want the easiest, most comfortable way to see the sights, these private services are well worth considering. Book early, especially the balloon rides, to ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences.