Horse racing has always understood theatre: the silks, the champagne, the sovereigns in the Royal Box – it is sport dressed for spectacle. But beyond the track itself, there exists another contest entirely: who does a day at the races best?

From the floodlit futurism of Dubai to the top-hatted precision of Royal Ascot, from Churchill Downs’ bourbon-soaked bravado to the skyline swagger of Melbourne and the Parisian polish of Longchamp, the world’s great meetings have evolved into hospitality masterclasses.

For those who prefer their racing with serious altitude – private bridges, Michelin-starred menus, paddock access and panoramic terraces – Racing Breaks curates access to the inner sanctum. These aren’t tickets; they’re vantage points. At the very biggest fixtures on the calendar, vantage point is everything.

Dubai

Looking for the best hospitality at the best racecourses? It doesn’t get more glamorous than the bright lights of Dubai. For the ultimate luxury experience, guests can enjoy Meydan’s racing from the exclusive and secluded Royal Enclosure area. This area is highly sought after for all the big fixtures, especially the Dubai World Cup at the end of March.

Arrive in style via private chauffeur and cross the prestigious Royal Enclosure Bridge, setting the tone for an exceptional day at Meydan Racecourse. Inside, enjoy a contemporary Majlis-style dining experience curated by ZUMA, the globally acclaimed Japanese restaurant celebrated for its modern interpretation of traditional izakaya cuisine, exceptional flavours, and award-winning service. Indulge in premium beverages and personalised service throughout the day, before taking your seat overlooking the finish line and racetrack, offering unrivalled views of the racing action.

From first arrival to final performance, the Royal Enclosure by ZUMA delivers an unforgettable Dubai World Cup experience defined by elegance, excellence, and prestige.

Royal Ascot

The most prestigious racecourse in England does not fall short when it comes to hospitality. In fact, few sporting venues in the world are a match for Royal Ascot. The racecourse offers an exceptional range of luxury experiences that blend world-class racing with fine dining, fashion, and tradition.

If you’re looking to elevate your day at the races, here’s a guide to the very best hospitality Royal Ascot has to offer. The Parade Ring Restaurant offers exquisite fine dining, located adjacent to the Royal Box. With two private viewing balconies, you can watch the horses in the Parade Ring from one and have a spectacular view of the racetrack from the other.

The chef in residence is nine-Michelin-starred Simon Rogan who offers a five-course menu of seasonal flair. Guests can choose a table for between 2-12 people and enjoy a complimentary bar throughout the day including Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne and cocktails.

There is a selection of fine wines paired by Ascot’s official sommelier for each course and a selection of liqueurs to follow. Priced from £2,760 per person, this isn’t for the faint hearted.

Kentucky

Kentucky is the spiritual home of American horse racing, and nowhere is that heritage more alive than at its world-famous racecourse on Derby Day.

For the ultimate hospitality experience, settle into the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club, one of Churchill Downs’ most exclusive and immersive hospitality experiences. Located directly in the heart of the action, near the paddock and just steps from the finish line, this club gives guests unparalleled access to both the social buzz and the athletic thrill of race day.

Unlike general admission or standard grandstand seating, the Paddock Club offers exclusive access to the Paddock area, where horses and jockeys prepare just before races as well as spectacular trackside views, including vantage points right near the finish line.

Whether you’re a racing devotee, a bourbon lover, or simply someone who loves legendary American sporting traditions, the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club is the experience that makes Derby Day unforgettable.

Melbourne

The Melbourne Cup isn’t just a horse race – it’s a national event. Known as “the race that stops a nation,” Melbourne Cup Day blends elite sport, fashion, food, and celebration like nowhere else in the world. For those looking to elevate the experience, Melbourne Cup hospitality offers a front-row seat to the action with world-class dining, premium drinks, and an unparalleled atmosphere.

Held at the iconic Flemington Racecourse, the Melbourne Cup attracts global attention every November. Hospitality here caters to every style, from refined fine dining to lively trackside celebrations, all set against the backdrop of one of racing’s most famous finishing straights.

Whether you’re entertaining clients, celebrating with friends, or ticking off a bucket-list event, hospitality packages at Flemington ensure you experience Cup Day at its very best.

The Skyline Lounge offers an exceptional blend of luxury, atmosphere, and race-day excitement high above the crowd. Perched in the coveted Hill Stand at Flemington Racecourse, the Skyline Lounge is where style meets spectacle. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping panoramas of the racetrack, the iconic Winning Post, and the Melbourne skyline, all from a reserved and elevated vantage point.

Unlike traditional seated dining, the Skyline Lounge has been reimagined as a vibrant cocktail-style hospitality space, perfect for guests looking to socialise, mingle, and soak up the atmosphere throughout the day. Guests can expect an all-day grazing menu, unlimited beer and wine and live entertainment between races.

Paris

Few race days in the world rival the glamour, prestige, and international appeal of the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. Held each October at ParisLongchamp Racecourse, the Arc is Europe’s most celebrated flat race, drawing the world’s best horses, owners, and racing fans to the heart of Paris. For those seeking an elevated experience, Prix de l’Arc hospitality offers a perfect blend of elite racing, French gastronomy, and Parisian sophistication.

The Panorama Restaurant combines the best of gastronomy, comfort, and viewing pleasure at one of the world’s greatest sporting occasions. Unlike standard race-day tickets, this hospitality experience puts you high above the track with limitless views.

You will enjoy a curated menu prepared by renowned chefs and served with fine wines, champagne and soft drinks included. The edge-to-edge views from the restaurant’s panoramic windows let you soak in the atmosphere as you dine in style.

With a wraparound balcony you'll have uninterrupted views of the racing to the front, and the Parade Ring to the rear. There is simply no better way to enjoy the Arc.

Racing Breaks offers hotel, transfer and ticket inclusive packages to race days in the UK and around the world. For more information, head to racingbreaks.com