What It’s Like to Ride a Zeppelin in Friedrichshafen (Cost, Tips & Full Experience)

Wondering what it’s like to ride a Zeppelin in Germany? In Friedrichshafen, the birthplace of the Zeppelin, you can take a scenic flight over Lake Constance in one of the world’s few remaining passenger airships. I took a 30-minute Zeppelin NT flight to see if this bucket-list experience was worth the price, and here’s exactly what to expect before, during, and after your flight.

About the Zeppelin NT Experience

Founded in 2001, Deutsche Zeppelin-Reederei operates Zeppelin NT passenger flights for enthusiasts.

Friedrichshafen is the historic home of Zeppelin aviation and remains the primary base for Zeppelin NT passenger flights, making it one of the best places in the world to experience this unique form of flight.

Unlike the historic Zeppelins of the early 20th century, the Zeppelin NT is a modern, helium-filled airship designed specifically for sightseeing and research flights.

Flight Length Options

Flights range in length from 20 minutes to two hours, but options vary by each take-off location.

Where the Flights Go

Flights are offered from Friedrichshafen on the Bodensee, Oberschleißheim near Munich, Bonn/Hangelar, Essen in the Ruhr area, and Bad Homburg near Frankfurt. Each region offers a different view from 300 meters up (that’s about 984 feet).

The area covered varies based on the length of the flight.

They also offer scenic flights over Munich, Cologne, Bonn, and Frankfurt.

What to Expect Before Boarding

I took my Zeppelin NT flight in 2017. While prices, routes, and flight options have changed over the years, the experience described below reflects my firsthand flight, and I’ve updated this guide with current planning information for 2026.

My husband and I took the 30-minute flight around the city of Friedrichshafen and the Bodensee. From the very moment you walk into the Zeppelin Hangar, it feels like a first-class experience.

Check-In and Safety Briefing

Passengers are required to check in an hour before the flight. During that time, you’re issued a special flight ticket and go through a simple safety briefing. Because we don’t speak German (fluently, anyhow), we received a special English language briefing separate from the other passengers.

Boarding the Zeppelin

Zeppelins aren’t quite the same as airplanes or helicopters. They don’t really “land” for boarding. In fact, when passengers go to board the Zeppelin, it’s hovering above the ground and always moving. For that reason, passengers need to pay attention, be aware, and follow the instructions of the Zeppelin flight crew. Passengers enter and exit the Zeppelin in pairs. As two people get off the airship, two more get on to maintain an equilibrium.

The In-Flight Experience

Takeoff and Flying Experience

Once you’re on board, it’s a whole new world. The Zeppelin “takes off” by simply turning the propeller on the side, and up and away you go. Once at cruising altitude, passengers don’t have to remain in their seats. You can walk around, look out windows, take photos, or strike up a conversation with the pilot.

Unlike flying in an airplane, the Zeppelin feels more like floating than flying. Where airplanes tend to be a bit rough, especially on takeoff and landing, the Zeppelin seems to simply, well, float. There is some noise, mostly from the side propellers, but it’s not terribly loud. During our flight, two of the windows could even be opened, making it easy to enjoy the fresh air and take unobstructed photos. We flew on a nice day and got to enjoy plenty of fresh air along with the beautiful, scenic view over Friedrichshafen and Lake Constance (the Bodensee). It is a pleasure ride in every sense of the word.

Before you know it, the flight is over. I’m still not sure when the Zeppelin turned back; the flight is that gentle. But it did turn back and we “landed” at the airport in Friedrichshafen. This isn’t the end of the adventure. Once back on solid ground, all passengers receive a personalized certificate signed by the pilot. There’s also a celebratory toast with sparkling wine. Even with the language barrier, everyone is still giddy from the experience of the flight, and the drink is a really nice, fitting end to the adventure.

What the Zeppelin Cabin Is Like

The gondola of the Zeppelin has seats for 12 to 14 passengers plus the pilot and a flight attendant. Every passenger has a window seat, so no one misses the views.

Our pilot was Katharine Board. At the time of our 2017 flight, she was the world’s only female Zeppelin pilot. Besides making the flight look effortless, the English pilot was also extremely friendly and informative. She answered every question passengers threw her way and posed for every photo. She even struck up a conversation with us when she heard we were “the English speakers” and shared stories of when she flew a blimp in the United States. It should be said that, like Board, all of the employees were extremely professional and friendly.

Views from the Zeppelin

The Zeppelin flies just high enough that you can still see the cars and the people down below. You float over the orange-tile roofs of the local community. I was able to pick out the Moleturm, an observation platform along the waterfront, and the dual onion-topped towers of the local church, Evangelischen Schlosskirchengemeinde Friedrichshafen. And as you fly over the lake, you can enjoy the picturesque view with the boats setting sail.

Unlike looking out the window of a commercial airplane, the Zeppelin feels like it moves in slow motion. It moves slowly enough that you have time to really take in the scenery. Instead of watching the landscape race by, you can linger over the shoreline, follow sailboats across Lake Constance, and appreciate just how peaceful the experience is.

How Much Does a Zeppelin Ride Cost?

Prices range depending on flight length. It’s also important to note that some routes are seasonal and can sell out quickly.

As of 2026, flights range from 240 € for 20 minutes to 1190 € for two hours. Prices depend on the departure location, flight duration, and route.

While the cost puts it firmly in the luxury experience category, there really isn’t another flight experience quite like it.

If you’re planning to fly during the busy summer travel season, it’s worth booking several weeks – or even months – ahead to secure your preferred date and flight length.

Is Riding a Zeppelin Worth It?

A flight in a Zeppelin is for many a bucket-list experience or a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Zeppelin NT realizes that and really makes the experience special.

Before this trip, I assumed flying was flying. After riding in a Zeppelin, I’d say that’s simply not true. The quiet, gentle pace and low altitude create an experience that’s completely different from an airplane or even a helicopter ride. If you’re looking for a memorable splurge in Germany, this is one I’d happily recommend.

As if that weren’t enough, the flight on the Zeppelin is everything you expect and more. It’s exciting, it’s fun, it’s thrilling. A ride in a Zeppelin is exactly what you expect and totally unexpected at the same time. And it’s worth a special trip to Friedrichshafen to visit the folks at Zeppelin NT. You won’t be disappointed.

Who This Experience Is Best For

Aviation fans and anyone who enjoys a unique transportation experience will undoubtedly enjoy this bucket-list experience. Photographers will also appreciate the unique views the flight offers. It also makes a great experience for couples celebrating a special occasion.

Tips for Taking a Zeppelin Flight in Friedrichshafen

• Book Early: Flights are limited to a small number of passengers, and popular summer departures often sell out well in advance.
• Choose a Clear Weather Day: If possible, plan ahead to ensure the best views.
• Bring a Camera: The windows provide excellent photography opportunities, and some even open during flight.
• Dress Comfortably: You’ll be standing and walking around the cabin, so comfortable shoes are helpful.

How to Get to Zeppelin NT Friedrichshafen

Arriving by Car

Free parking is available on-site at the Zeppelin Friedrichshafen location.

Arriving by Train

The company shares a large tarmac with the Friedrichshafen Airport, which also has a train stop. While it is possible to walk from the train station to Zeppelin NT, it’s a rather far distance, as you have to go around the perimeter of the tarmac. Buses are also available.

Where to Stay Nearby

Before our flight, we stayed at the nearby Holiday Inn Express Friedrichshafen and had a room that looked out onto Zeppelin NT, which was pretty neat.

Can You Visit Zeppelin NT Without Taking a Flight?

Even if you aren’t taking a flight in Friedrichshafen, you can visit the Hangar’s steakhouse and restaurant. It’s a modern and open area complete with a full bar. The restaurant has a great outdoor terrace that’s right on the runway. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink or a meal while watching the airship flights come and go. Not a bad way to start or end a day.

If you’re spending the day in Friedrichshafen, pair your flight with a visit to the Zeppelin Museum for a deeper look at the history of these iconic airships.

If you’re already planning a trip to Lake Constance, I wouldn’t hesitate to add a Zeppelin flight to your itinerary. It’s one of those rare travel experiences that’s every bit as memorable as you’d hope – and unlike anything else you’ll do in Germany.

FAQ About Riding a Zeppelin in Germany

Is riding in a Zeppelin safe?

Yes, riding in a Zeppelin is safe. Zeppelin NT uses non-flammable helium and three engines per aircraft.

How long is a Zeppelin ride?

Zeppelin NT flights range from 20 minutes to two hours.

Can you walk around during the flight?

Yes, once the Zeppelin reaches its cruising altitude, passengers are allowed to get up and walk around during the flight.

Is a Zeppelin ride worth the money?

For aviation enthusiasts or anyone looking for something unique and fun, riding in a Zeppelin is definitely a bucket-list experience. While not inexpensive, the ride is definitely worth it for those with the passion and interest.

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Zeppelin NT provided a discount for the flight. All opinions, as well as all photos, are my own.