Want to find out what goes on behind the scenes at the world's most famous equestrian venue? On this guided tour of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, we’ll explore the heart of an institution with over 450 years of history. You’re going to love it!
Tour Details
On the day of the tour, we’ll meet at the entrance to the Spanish Riding School, located in the Hofburg Palace, right in the heart of Vienna. Once everyone has arrived, we’ll begin the guided tour of the facilities.
Throughout the tour, you'll learn the story of how Emperor Ferdinand I introduced purebred Spanish horses to the Habsburg court in Austria. Years later, the crossbreeding of Spanish stallions with local mares and those from other European regions gave rise to the famous Lipizzaner breed.
First, we'll walk through the historic stables where these legendary white stallions rest and are cared for, learning about their daily routine and their close bond with the riders.
Next, we’ll enter the Winter Riding School. You’ll be impressed by the size and grandeur of this imposing 18th-century Baroque riding hall, the main venue for the famous imperial galas.
We’ll continue the tour at the Summer Riding School, where we’ll see the courtyard and outdoor facilities, a unique spot that houses the training arena surrounded by the palatial structure of the Hofburg.
Finally, we’ll wrap up the tour after a 1-hour-long visit.