A New Chapter for Vienna
The Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection, which opened in May 2024 after a substantial €45 million investment, has quickly become a standout fixture on the Viennese hotel scene. Occupying a historic building from 1727—a former military riding school under Emperor Franz Joseph I—the property successfully merges its rich, multi-layered past with contemporary design. As the first Autograph Collection property in Austria, the hotel operates on a scale befitting its heritage, offering 342 guest rooms and significant public facilities. The design, executed by Goddard Littlefair, implements a clear aesthetic that references equestrian tradition and an idyllic natural setting, achieving an elegant yet modern atmosphere. Guest accommodations are noted for their comfort and luxury, including well-appointed bathrooms featuring products from the local Saint Charles pharmacy.
MICE Excellence and Culinary Offerings
The hotel’s facilities are strongly oriented towards both leisure and high-end business. The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) offering is particularly robust, demonstrated by the property being named the Number 1 Top Meeting Hotel in Europe by Cvent just a year after its opening. The hotel features 13 distinct function rooms totaling over 1,200 m². These spaces—which include the impressive “Kaisergarten” hall and smaller rooms like “Harrach”—are highly functional and designed to host events from major conferences to bespoke receptions. The availability of Vienna’s largest private inner-city garden further enhances the venue’s appeal for large-scale and outdoor events.
The food and beverage program centers around Elstar – The Garden, the signature restaurant situated in the property’s extensive garden space. The restaurant is a key attraction for both guests and local residents, serving as a hub for both formal and relaxed dining. The bar, The Farrier, offers creative cocktails in the sophisticated setting of the former riding hall, while the Cameo take-away caters to guests requiring convenience. For recreation, the hotel provides a 450 m² wellness area complete with a pool.
Location and Strategic Importance
The Imperial Riding School is strategically situated in the Landstraße (Third District), a central area known for its balanced mix of residential character, cultural sites, and commercial activity. This location facilitates effortless access to the city’s major points of interest. Public transport provides short connection times to the historic First District and Vienna International Airport (VIE), while also being well-positioned near major road networks. The neighbourhood itself offers a quieter, more authentic Viennese experience compared to the immediate city centre, with some rooms affording views of the nearby Russian Orthodox Cathedral of St Nicholas.
This successful launch highlights Vienna’s continued dominance in business tourism. The city’s MICE market thrives on its advantageous geographic position in Europe, its world-class infrastructure, and a consistent reputation for security and high quality of life. The Imperial Riding School, with its blend of unique historical character, luxury amenities, and top-ranked event capabilities, is now a definitive asset supporting Vienna’s standing as a leading destination for international conferences and corporate travel. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability, evidenced by a significant investment in features like a 1,650 m² photovoltaic system, also aligns with modern corporate environmental priorities.
