Please refer to your voucher for final information
Please arrive 15 minutes before the tour starts. No refunds will be issued for latecomers
The Spanish Riding School guided tour offers a deep dive into over 450 years of equestrian tradition. You'll explore the magnificent Baroque Winter Riding School, the Summer Riding School, and the historic stables. Discover the stunning architecture and intricate sculptures of the main arena, learning about the school's fascinating history and the training of its famous Lipizzan horses, a unique insight into classical horsemanship.
The school is named for the Spanish horses that formed the basis of the Lipizzan breed. These horses were renowned for their agility and strength, brought to Austria from Spain during the Habsburg monarchy. The name pays homage to this heritage and the classical Spanish style of riding, which greatly influenced the school's foundational training methods.
The guided tour of the Spanish Riding School typically lasts approximately one hour. During this time, visitors are taken through key areas such as the Winter Riding School, the Summer Riding School, and the historic stables, gaining insights into the architecture, history, and the daily life of the Lipizzan horses and their riders.
The Spanish Riding School is centrally located in Vienna, within the Hofburg Palace complex. You can easily reach it by public transport. Take the U-Bahn (U3 line) to Herrengasse station, which is a short walk away. Alternatively, take tram lines 1, 2, D, or 71 to the Burgring stop. Many central Vienna hotels are also within walking distance.
Yes, during the guided tour, visitors will visit the historic stables where the magnificent Lipizzan horses are housed. This allows for an up-close observation of these famous white stallions in their daily environment. While you won't see a performance during the tour, you'll learn about their breed, care, and the unique training they undergo.
Yes, the Spanish Riding School continues to be a vibrant and active institution in Vienna. It proudly upholds a centuries-old tradition of classical equitation, preserving and promoting the haute école of riding. It also maintains its role as a breeding center for the Lipizzan horses, ensuring the continuation of this unique heritage.
The Spanish Riding School guided tour covers several significant areas. You will explore the impressive Baroque Winter Riding School, which serves as the main performance arena. The tour also includes a visit to the Summer Riding School, used for training, and the historic stables, where you can see the Lipizzan horses in their stalls.
The Spanish Riding School holds immense historical significance as the world's oldest riding school, perpetuating classical dressage for over 450 years. Its Lipizzan horses are equally significant, bred specifically for this art form. The institution is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, embodying a unique living tradition of horsemanship.