The best destinations for horseracing around the world

Whether it's the Melbourne Cup or the Kentucky Derby, the world has plenty of great horseracing to offer. Photo / Getty Images

Horseracing is one of the oldest sports in the world and its basic premise has remained virtually unchanged since the earliest of times. Whether it's the thrill of watching exceptional equine champions compete for glory, the rush as your horse bags a win, the fashion on parade or the chance to spot a celebrity, there are a lot of reasons to head to a racetrack on your next holiday.

To celebrate Auckland Cup Week, with the help of Booking.com we've put together some great destinations highly endorsed for horseracing by their guests.

Get a pair of binoculars, check the dress code and get ready for an unforgettable experience at some of the world's premier racetrack destinations.

Lexington, Kentucky, USA

Lexington, Kentucky, is home to two horseracing tracks and an array of horse farms. Photo / Supplied

Highly endorsed for horseracing by Booking.com travellers, the city of Lexington is home to two tracks and an array of horse farms. Considered to be "The Horse Capital of the World" this beautiful destination is not only ideal for nature and horse lovers, but also for bourbon and art fans.

Popular among travellers who endorsed Lexington for horseracing, the Staybridge Suites Lexington is only a 15-minute drive from Kentucky Horse Park and 7km away from the Keeneland Race Course. It's also located just over an hour drives away from famous Churchill Downs racetrack, home to the annual Kentucky Derby.

Newmarket, UK

Newmarket is home to two horseracing tracks, more than fifty training stables and about 3000 racehorses. Known as the United Kingdom's largest racehorse breeding location, travellers can enjoy a tour of one of Newmarket's popular racecourses or the National Stud, the showcase of the thoroughbred breed.

Newmarket is home to two horseracing tracks. Photo / Supplied

Set amid rose gardens, the peaceful Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa offers modern bedrooms, an indoor pool and spa facilities.

Meydan Racecourse, Dubai, UAE

Meydan Racecouse is home to a horseracing museum and the longest grandstand in the world - reaching over a mile in length. Travellers can enjoy the luxurious racing facilities and even watch the horse races while enjoying world-class cuisine and unparalleled views from the restaurant of the Meydan Hotel.

Meydan race club in Dubai. Photo / 123RF

The Meydan Hotel is the world's first five-star trackside hotel, designed in the shape of a wave in motion with a luminous green glass façade. It features luxurious rooms and suites with a private balcony overlooking the Meydan Racecourse.

Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne, Australia

The Flemington Racecourse is part of the Australian National Heritage List and home to the Melbourne Cup since 1861. This famous venue hosts various entertainment events throughout the year, including the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

The Flemington Racecourse has hosted the Melbourne Cup since 1861. Photo / Getty Images

Situated only 800 metres away from Flemington Racecourse, the Boutique Stays - Ascot Retreat is a stylish self-catering accommodation overlooking Maribyrnong River.

Saratoga Springs, New York, USA

The picturesque city of Saratoga is best known for its racecourse, which is one of the oldest in the United States - often considered to be one of the oldest sporting venue of any kind in the country. Apart from the exciting racing, this 150-year-old track also offers walking tours, breakfast at the track and tours of the stable area.

Saratoga Race Course is one of the oldest horse racetracks in the United States. Photo / Supplied

Situated less than 2 km away from Saratoga Racetrack, The Inn at Saratoga features elegantly decorated rooms, a restaurant and complementary bikes for exploring the scenic area.

Doncaster, UK

Mainly endorsed by Booking.com travellers for horseracing, the English market town of Doncaster is also famous for its architecture. Home to one of the world's oldest classic races, The St Leger Stakes, Doncaster has more than 50,000 visitors every year who come to enjoy the action.

Doncater race course. Photo / 123RF

The Red Lion is a charming hotel only 2.4 km from Doncaster Racecourse, featuring modern rooms, a restaurant and an on-site bar.