Located in the heart of Vienna, the Hofburg Palace is one of the city's most striking historical attractions. Once a residence of the renowned Habsburg dynasty, the palace ranks among Europe's most spectacular royal buildings and is a popular conference venue today. As the grand imperial winter residence of the Habsburg family, the Hofburg Conference Center has the distinction of being Europe's first address.
The palace covers 182,000 square feet and includes 35 rooms that can cater for events from 50 up to 4,900 people. The center piece of the palace is the striking imperial state rooms, which are equipped with state-of-the-art conference amenities. The entire Hofburg complex contains a wealth of significant historical attractions, including St. Augustine's Church, the Hofburg Imperial Apartments, the Natural History Museum, the Austrian National Library and the Spanish Riding School. The offices of the Austrian Federal President are also located within these grounds.
Vienna's Spanish Riding School holds an important place in Austrian cultural history and is the oldest riding school in the world. The popular school has hosted the High School of Classical Horsemanship for over 460 years. It is most famous for its Lipizzaner stallions, a cross between Spanish, Arabian and Berber horses, which bring horse enthusiasts to the school from across the world.
The Spanish Riding School's public performances take place in the Hofburg Winter Riding School, which was opened in 1735 at the request of Habsburg Emperor Charles VI. The performances play to international audiences in Vienna, and the school's leading horses and riders have toured the world. Today, the school is dedicated to the traditional breeding of Lipizzaners and the rearing of prime stallions, as well as preserving the High School of Classical Horsemanship.
The Imperial Treasury called Schatzkammer, holds some of the world's most valuable treasures and is definitely worth stopping by when visiting Vienna and Hofburg. You should also pay a visit to the historically authentic apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and Elisabeth at the Sisi Museum, and admire the magnificent porcelain, glass and silverware used at the Hapsburg dining table. You can also explore the many different facets of the royal family’s fascinating lives.
After a day of exploring the fascinating history of this beautiful city, head back to the stylish Radisson Blu Style Hotel in Vienna, located mere minutes from the Hofburg Palace and a number of other grand attractions. Enjoy a delicious local dining experience at the Sapori Restaurant and round off your evening with a signature drink in the contemporary environment at H12 Bar.