Guide — Horse riding Venice beach
Beach horse rides on the Lido di Venezia
The Lido beach is one of the very few Italian coastlines where you can still ride along the shore. Sunrise gallops, sunset walks, views over the lagoon and the historic Murazzi seawall: this guide gathers everything you need to know before booking a ride with Circolo Ippico Venezia Lido — best season, municipal regulations, what to wear.
When to go: sunrise or sunset
The most beautiful light is the low one. At sunrise the beach is empty, the sea flat and the horses fresh: this is the moment for long gallops along the shore. At sunset the sand is still warm, the Murazzi turn orange and the ride ends with a view over the lagoon that alone is worth the trip. Our rides fit both windows, by reservation.
When riding on the beach is allowed
The City of Venice allows horses on the Lido beach outside the bathing season and, during the season, in dedicated early-morning and evening time slots. From October to April the beach is essentially always open; from May to September we run in the windows agreed with the City. Exact dates and times are confirmed at booking — the regulation is updated each season.
The route: from the Murazzi to the breakwater
From our stables on via Cristoforo Colombo the beach is a few minutes' walk. The classic route runs south along the Murazzi on the firm sand of the shore, down to the San Nicolò breakwater. About three hours in total, alternating walk, trot and — for autonomous riders — long gallops on the wet sand. For first-timers we offer a shorter ride at the walk only, led by the instructor.
Who it's for
Walk-only rides are open to everyone from 7 years up, including absolute beginners: the instructor leads the group and each horse is matched to the rider's level. Rides with trot and canter require autonomy in the saddle, assessed in a preliminary arena lesson. Our beach horses are picked from our experienced group, used to the sea, the noise and passers-by.
What to bring and what to wear
Long, close-fitting trousers and closed shoes with a low heel (no running sneakers, no flip-flops). In winter, technical layers and gloves; in summer, a T-shirt and a cap under the helmet — we provide the certified helmet. Sunscreen even in winter: the light off the sea reflects a lot. A small shoulder bag for a camera is fine, but no bulky backpacks.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is a beach ride?
- Standard rides last two to three hours, including horse preparation. On request we organise shorter rides (one hour, walk only) for beginners and children.
- Do I need riding experience for a beach ride?
- No for walk-only rides led by the instructor. Yes for rides with canter, which require being able to manage the horse independently. We assess your level in a preliminary lesson in our covered arena.
- Can I ride all year round?
- Yes, but during the bathing season (May–September) rides only run in the time slots authorised by the City, usually at sunrise and after sunset. From October to April the beach is almost always available.
- How much does a horse ride in Venice cost?
- Price depends on duration and number of riders. For up-to-date rates and to book, write or call us: we confirm price and availability the same day.
Book your ride
Beach rides are organised by reservation, often on short notice. Send us your preferred day and time slot: we'll suggest the ride that best fits your level.
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