Lisbon: Portuguese School of Equestrian Art Morning Training

Key Points

• Affordable entry fee of $9 per person provides access to a unique equestrian experience.
• Starts between 11am and 1pm, with options including a behind-the-scenes tour and a live training or exhibition.
• Includes access to the Henrique Calado Arena and the interpretative route at Nora Pateo.
• Located in the gardens of the National Palace of Queluz, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.
• Wheelchair accessible, though some areas like the cabin and south stall have stairs.
• Two reviews give it a perfect 5-star rating, praising the up-close experience and informative nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art in Lisbon

The Portuguese School of Equestrian Art offers an authentic glimpse into 18th-century Portuguese horsemanship in Lisbon. For just $9 per person, this tour provides a fascinating look at the traditional techniques and routines used by riders and Lusitano horses. The activity is designed to be a short but rich experience, valid for one day, with flexible start times based on availability.

This experience is ideal for those interested in equestrian history, cultural traditions, or simply wanting to see beautifully trained horses in action. Since it includes a behind-the-scenes look, visitors get a sense of the effort involved in preparing for high-level performances and galas. It’s a budget-friendly option that balances both educational insight and visual spectacle.

How the Tour Begins at Calçada da Ajuda

The tour starts at Calçada da Ajuda, near number 23, which is easy to find and accessible. The initial part of the visit involves a walk through the grounds where handlers and horses prepare for performances. Visitors observe riders in period costumes performing warm-up exercises that showcase the agility and grace of Lusitano horses.

The starting point ensures a smooth entry into the experience, with no need for additional tickets or transportation. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it convenient for those combining this tour with other Lisbon activities or sightseeing plans.

Behind-the-Scenes of Equestrian Preparations

Once on site, the focus is on seeing how riders and horses prepare for their routines. Riders dressed in authentic period costumes perform warm-up exercises that are both practical and visually striking. These exercises are key to maintaining the health and agility of the horses, which are carefully trained for performances that recreate the elegance of 18th-century Portuguese court traditions.

This behind-the-scenes look gives a rare opportunity to understand the level of detail and discipline involved in maintaining the Lusitano horse’s skills. The focus is on training, agility, and preparation, providing insight into the artistry that makes Portuguese equestrian shows so distinctive.

The Interpretative Route at Nora Pateo

Following the warm-up, visitors follow the interpretative route at Nora Pateo. This pathway offers explanations about the history, techniques, and significance of Portuguese equestrian art. Through signage or guided commentary, you learn about the cultural importance of these routines and the heritage of the Lusitano breed.

This part of the tour adds context, helping visitors appreciate the historical roots of what they are witnessing. It’s a chance to deepen understanding of how these routines have been preserved over centuries and remain a vital part of Portugal’s cultural identity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Live Training and Performances at Henrique Calado Arena

The highlight is attending a training session or exhibition at the Henrique Calado Arena. This arena hosts choreographed routines to music, where riders and horses perform intricate, synchronized movements. These routines recreate the atmosphere of 18th-century Portuguese court performances, with stage lighting enhancing the visual impact.

The sessions are scheduled between 11am and 1pm, with specific times for the training or exhibitions, especially on Wednesdays when the arena hosts exhibitions. Watching these performances up close offers a glimpse of the skill and coordination that make Lusitano horses famous worldwide.

The Experience of Watching Lusitano Horses in Action

The routines performed in the arena showcase elegant rhythms and precise movements that have been passed down through generations. Riders, dressed in period costumes, demonstrate the discipline and artistry that make Portuguese equestrian art unique. The choreography is set to music, adding a theatrical charm to the routines.

The arena’s lighting and stage design help evoke the atmosphere of 18th-century court performances, making it a visually engaging event. While the activity is brief, it leaves a memorable impression of Portugal’s equestrian heritage in its full splendor.

Accessibility and Practical Details

This tour is wheelchair accessible, although access to the cabin and south stall may be limited due to stairs. The activity is designed to be accessible, with the main areas suitable for most visitors. It’s best to check the schedule for specific times, especially if you want to see the exhibitions on Wednesdays.

The tour does not include transportation, food, drinks, or admission to the Queluz National Palace or Gardens. It focuses solely on the training and performance aspect at the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art.

Booking, Cancellation, and Tips for Visitors

The activity includes skip-the-ticket-line entry, streamlining the process. Since it is non-refundable, it’s advisable to confirm availability and start times in advance. The experience is suitable for a single day, with opening hours between 11am and 1pm.

Visitors should arrive at the meeting point on time, especially if they wish to see the Nora Pateo route or the training at the arena. No food or drinks are provided, so plan accordingly if you want to combine this experience with other sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Portuguese Equestrian Experience in Lisbon

This affordable and authentic activity offers a rare glimpse into Portugal’s equestrian traditions in a beautiful setting. The combination of behind-the-scenes access, interpretative routes, and live routines makes it more than just a show; it’s an educational experience rooted in history.

With only $9, it provides excellent value for visitors seeking a cultural highlight without extensive time or expense. It’s especially suitable for those interested in horse training, history, or Portuguese heritage. The positive reviews emphasize how engaging and informative the experience is, with visitors appreciating the close-up view of the horses and the well-organized schedule.

While it’s a short activity, it’s packed with visual, educational, and cultural insights that make it worth including in your Lisbon itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some areas like the cabin and south stall may have stairs, so it’s recommended to check specific access needs in advance.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers entry to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, access to the Henrique Calado Arena, and the interpretative route at Nora Pateo.

Are there specific times for the training or exhibition?
Yes, activities take place between 11am and 1pm, with specific sessions for the Nora Pateo visit, training, and exhibitions, particularly on Wednesdays.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor viewing is recommended. No food or drinks are included, so consider bringing water if you wish.

Can I combine this tour with other attractions?
Absolutely; it ends back at the starting point, making it easy to visit nearby sites like the Queluz National Palace or Gardens, which are not included in the ticket but nearby.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on training routines and the visual spectacle make it enjoyable for visitors of all ages interested in horses and history.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby