Horse racing is a sport that has planted its roots on almost every continent on the planet throughout its rich history. This means that we are talking about an international sport, where many incredible horse racing tracks have been born throughout history that carry the sport’s heritage and traditions throughout the years.
We can all agree that horse racing isn’t just a sport – it’s a global culture. The best thing is that different corners of the world bring their own flavor to it. So, if you visit a track in England, you can expect something completely different in China or the United States.
So, if you’re planning your next horse racing trip, here are some of the places that are worth visiting.
Louisville, USA
We’ve shared our experience a bit, but one paragraph is not enough to capture the atmosphere at the Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs in Louisville should be the ultimate goal for every horse racing fan. After all, this is the birthplace of the Kentucky Derby, often called “the greatest two minutes in sports.” This track has been hosting the race since 1875 and every first Saturday in May, the air fills with energy that you can feel in your bones.
After the huge renovations Churchill Downs feels out of this world. Yes, it’s expensive, but well worth it.
You can take advantage of the horse racing betting promotions and get a huge signup bonus that will give you a head start.
Ascot Racecourse, England
If you are traveling to the UK, you must visit the Ascot Racecourse, which is one of the primary pillars of UK horse racing traditions. Ascot in Berkshire near London is where the magic never stops.
This racecourse is older than Churchill Downs, founded in 1711, and it has been the setting for royal patronage for more than 300 years. If you’re lucky or have some money to spare, you should attend the Royal Ascot meeting in June, which is the time when the Ascot Racecourse lights up.
Longchamp Racecourse, France
We move to France, because…why not? To the surprise of most people, France shares quite a long history with horse racing. Paris is already one of the most beautiful cities to visit, and if you pair it with elite horse racing at Longchamp, that vacation cannot go wrong.
This track sits in the Bois de Boulogne and hosts the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, which is one of the richest and most prestigious flat races in Europe.
The best place to visit the Longchamp Racecourse is in early October, where there are huge celebrations of the sport all wrapped in French culture. Something unique, but amazing to see.
Flemington Racecourse, Australia
Let’s go to Down Under (Australia), because here the horse racing culture is something nobody expects. They live and breathe for the Melbourne Cup at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.
This is another historic track that dates back to 1840 and famously known as the race that spots a nation. This means everyone tunes in to watch the race. The race recently got a huge increase in viewership, climbing to 2.3 million locked viewers in 2025.
So, what makes Flemington special? Well, it’s not about the race itself. It’s more about the overall atmosphere. After all, which event apart from the Kentucky Derby can host 120,000 screaming fans? Not many.
On top of that, Melbourne itself is a great city for food, culture, and art, so you’ll have plenty of things to do.
Meydan Racecourse, Dubai
When you think “luxury horse racing,” Dubai comes to mind fast. The Meydan Racecourse is a newer addition to the global racing calendar, opened in 2010, but it quickly made a name for itself, hosting the Dubai World Cup, the richest horse race in the world.
Picture this: a gleaming grandstand that looks like a futuristic palace, races in the heat of winter with top horses and trainers from around the globe, plus hotels, museums, and high-end restaurants built right into the complex. It’s a racing trip that definitely leans into the extravagance of travel, but that’s all part of the appeal.
Tokyo Racecourse, Japan
Traveling to Asia for horse racing is easier than you might think, and Tokyo Racecourse is a perfect example of why. Known for hosting some of Japan’s biggest races, including the Japan Cup and other Grade 1 stakes. This course is famous not just for high-quality racing, but for its incredible facilities and atmosphere.
This is one of the largest horse racing tracks in the world, and definitely something every horse racing fan should see.
The scale here is impressive. Add in the chance to explore Tokyo’s food, culture, and nightlife, and you get one of the most exciting travel combos a racing fan can experience.
So, did you book your tickets already? Which of these places is your first travel location?