Plaza de Parejas
Plaza de Parejas in Aranjuez hosts a magical annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, offering stunning views of colorful balloons against the Royal Palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Annual balloon festival magic
Plaza de Parejas
Best Time
Annual balloon festival magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Plaza de Parejas in Aranjuez hosts a magical annual Hot Air Balloon Festival, offering stunning views of colorful balloons against the Royal Palace.
"The 'Night Glow' at Aranjuez's Balloon Festival is an unforgettable spectacle of light and color."
🎯 Book Festival Tickets Early
The Balloon Festival is a popular annual event. Secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during the festival. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hot Air Balloon Festival
Plaza de Parejas
Witness a breathtaking spectacle of colorful hot air balloons ascending into the sky, especially magical during the 'Night Glow'.
Night Glow Spectacle
Plaza de Parejas
Experience the enchanting 'Night Glow' where balloons illuminate the night sky, creating a surreal and romantic atmosphere.
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Royal Palace of Aranjuez Views
Plaza de Parejas
Enjoy stunning views of the majestic Royal Palace of Aranjuez as a backdrop to the balloon festival.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Balloon Festival
Location & Access to Plaza de Parejas
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Festival Tickets Early
The Balloon Festival is a popular annual event. Secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during the festival. Comfortable footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant colors of the balloons against the sky and palace.
⏰ Arrive Early for Launches
For the best viewing spots and to see the balloons inflate, aim to arrive before the scheduled launch times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Festival Tickets Early
The Balloon Festival is a popular annual event. Secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during the festival. Comfortable footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant colors of the balloons against the sky and palace.
⏰ Arrive Early for Launches
For the best viewing spots and to see the balloons inflate, aim to arrive before the scheduled launch times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular Aranjuez Balloon Festival held at Plaza de Parejas, praising the breathtaking sight of hot air balloons and the magical 'Night Glow' against the Royal Palace. While the event is a major draw, attendees should be prepared for large crowds and plan transportation and ticketing well in advance.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plaza de Parejas is located in Aranjuez, about an hour from Madrid. You can take a train from Atocha station to Aranjuez, which is a scenic and convenient option. Alternatively, driving is possible, but parking can be challenging during the balloon festival.
Yes, Aranjuez is well-connected by train from Madrid. Once in Aranjuez, Plaza de Parejas is a short walk or local bus ride from the train station, especially convenient for reaching the Royal Palace area.
Parking can be difficult, especially during the annual balloon festival. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport. There are some paid parking lots in Aranjuez, but they fill up quickly.
Absolutely! Aranjuez, with its Royal Palace and the Plaza de Parejas, offers a wonderful escape from the city. The balloon festival makes it an even more special day trip.
Plaza de Parejas is directly opposite the Royal Palace of Aranjuez, making it incredibly convenient to visit both attractions together.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plaza de Parejas itself is a public square and generally free to enter. However, if you plan to attend the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival held there, you will need to purchase tickets for the event.
While some sources mention free entry for the festival, it's crucial to check the official event details for the specific year you plan to visit, as pricing and ticketing can vary.
The festival typically takes place on the first weekend of October. Specific dates for 2025 are October 4th and 5th. Always confirm the exact dates for the year of your visit.
Launch times are usually around 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with the 'Night Glow' starting around 8:30 PM. These are approximate and can vary.
It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance, as the festival is very popular and can sell out. Check the official festival website for ticketing information.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from Plaza de Parejas itself, with the Royal Palace as a stunning backdrop. During the festival, any open area in the plaza offers great views of the balloons.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photographing the balloons and the palace. The 'Night Glow' is also a unique photographic opportunity.
Yes, arriving early for the morning launches allows you to capture the impressive process of balloons being inflated.
Drone usage is typically restricted in areas around historical sites and public events. It's best to check local regulations and event rules before flying a drone.
For the 'Night Glow,' use a tripod and a longer exposure time. A wider aperture and a higher ISO might be necessary, but be mindful of noise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Arrive early to give kids plenty of space to move around and see the balloons up close. Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking. Consider bringing a small blanket for the 'Night Glow' if you plan to sit on the ground.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography tips: Utilize the golden hours for stunning sunrise and sunset shots. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the balloons and the palace. For the 'Night Glow,' a tripod is essential for sharp, well-exposed images. Experiment with different settings to capture the magic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Annual Aranjuez Balloon Festival
Beyond the daytime launches, the festival's highlight is the 'Night Glow.' As dusk settles, the balloons are tethered to the ground and illuminated from within, creating a breathtaking display of light against the night sky, often with the Royal Palace of Aranjuez providing a majestic backdrop. This unique spectacle is a photographer's dream and a truly memorable experience for all attendees.
+1Planning your visit to the festival requires booking tickets in advance, as it's a highly anticipated event. Arriving early is recommended to secure good viewing spots and to witness the balloons being prepared for flight. Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll likely be standing and walking for extended periods.
Historical Significance of Plaza de Parejas
The square's name, 'Parejas,' is thought to refer to the 'pairs' of horses or riders that would have participated in jousting or parades held there. Musical compositions by artists like Gaetano Brunetti were even created for the 'Marchas y Galopes' (Marches and Gallops) performed during these events, highlighting the cultural significance of the plaza.
Today, while its historical uses have evolved, Plaza de Parejas remains a vital public space, most notably recognized for hosting the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival. This modern event revitalizes the square, drawing visitors to experience its beauty and historical ambiance, connecting past traditions with contemporary celebrations.
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