The Spanish Riding School in the Hofburg is the oldest riding institution in the world where classical horsemanship with Lipizzaners is still practiced today. In the Baroque Winter Riding School you'll see precise dressage at the highest level, from the quadrille to the famous "Airs above the Ground" such as the levade, courbette and capriole.
Alongside festive gala performances, the Morning Exercise with music offers an authentic look at daily training. Guided tours of the riding school, the stands and the historic stables in the Stallburg round off the visit.
Tickets are limited and often sell out quickly, so if you want to be sure, book early. Thanks to its location in the middle of the Hofburg, the former imperial palace, a visit combines perfectly with the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments, Kohlmarkt or a walk to St. Stephen's Cathedral.
At the gala performances, riders and Lipizzaners demonstrate classical dressage up to the haute école, including movements from the "Airs above the Ground." The Morning Exercise is a look at training, with suppling exercises for the horses.
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. Allow about 60–90 minutes for performances, and another 45–60 minutes for a guided tour. The Morning Exercise is usually a little shorter than the gala.
Yes, there are different categories; prices and views vary by seat. If the best view of the arena matters to you, choose a higher category or book early.
The riding school is in the Hofburg near Michaelerplatz. The easiest way is the U3 to Herrengasse or the U1/U3 to Stephansplatz; from there it's a few minutes on foot. The Stallburg (stables) is opposite Michaelerplatz.
Some seats with low-barrier access are available (check availability beforehand). For children, the Morning Exercise or shorter formats work best; at the gala, please make sure they can sit quietly. There is no strict dress code; smart casual always works.
No additional photos available.
Places nearby, sorted by distance from Spanish Riding School.
Michaelerplatz 5, 1010 Vienna
Kohlmarkt 14, 1010 Vienna
Kohlmarkt, Vienna
Stallburggasse 2, 1010 Vienna
Heldenplatz, 1010 Vienna
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