Spanish Riding School
Spanische Hofreitschule
A classical riding school in the Hofburg, carrying on a tradition of more than 450 years. White Lipizzaner horses perform advanced dressage in the Baroque Winter Riding Hall.
The Spanish Riding School was founded in 1565 and is the world's oldest classical riding school. It takes its name from the Spanish horse breed originally imported. The white Lipizzaner horses perform advanced movements, including the "airs above the ground", in the Winter Riding Hall, completed in 1735, with its crystal chandeliers and white columns. The school's tradition is listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Tickets for performances cost about 30 to 250 euros and should be booked in advance on the official website. On a tighter budget, you can watch the morning training session for about 18 euros or join a stable tour. Photography is not allowed in the performance hall.
Opening hours
Shows usually weekend mornings at 11:00; check the official website for training and tour times
Nearby sights
- Austrian National Library State Hall
- Café Central
- Albertina
- Graben & Kohlmarkt
- Imperial Crypt (Kapuzinergruft)
- Hotel Sacher & Original Sachertorte
- Vienna State Opera
- Kunsthistorisches Museum